Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Self-Guided Around Lake Garda Bike Tour

Set off on an epic eight-day cycling adventure around the magical Lake Garda, Italy’s largest and most dazzling lake.

This self-guided tour is crafted for explorers who love scenic rides, charming lakeside towns and the freedom to chart their journey but with the comfort of seamless logistics.

Your ride begins in Bussolengo, nestled among vineyard clad hills near historic Verona, before meandering through riverside lanes and Mediterranean landscapes. Pedal into the romance of Verona, then bask in village life along the southern shore, where gelato shops and lakeside promenades invite lingering breaks. Each day offers fresh discoveries, from the bustling markets in Salò to peaceful, sun-kissed paths skirting olive groves and beaches.

Major thrills arrive as you board ferries, conquer the spectacular floating cycle path above Limone and lace your way north into the playground of climbers and water sports lovers. A cable car lifts you to the ridge line of Monte Baldo for one of a kind alpine views and a memorable downhill ride to the lake below.

Handpicked cycle routes keep the focus on easy pedaling and stunning scenery, with the option to boost your ride on a zippy E-bike. All you need is your spirit of adventure, a sense of wonder and maybe a craving for another scoop of Italian ice cream.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Bussolengo

Finish

Bussolengo

Level

moderate

Avg. Daily Distance

41 km / 25 mi

Cycling Days

6

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)

Fly-Out

Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)

Highlights

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Mesmerizing Lakeside Rides

Pedal through iconic villages, tranquil beaches, and lush vineyards as you trace the shores and vistas of Italy’s biggest lake.

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Alpine Adventure on Monte Baldo

A thrilling cable car ascent delivers you high onto Monte Baldo’s ridge, where panoramic mountain scenery sets the stage for a fun filled descent and Mediterranean treats below.

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Explore Verona

Visit Verona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its stunning architecture and vibrant history. Discover the romantic city streets that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, making Verona a highlight of both literature and culture on your journey.

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The Floating Cycle Path of Limone

Get your pulse racing on Europe’s most spectacular bike path above Limone, floating 50 meters above sparkling blue waters for unforgettable views and photos.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Bussolengo

Arrive individually at your hotel in Bussolengo, a peaceful town just 15 km (9mi) from Verona, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. Settle into your comfortable 4 star accommodation and take a moment to relax after your journey. The charming town offers a lovely introduction to the Lake Garda region.

Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant and get ready for your first day of cycling.

Meals: Breakfast
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Day 2: Bussolengo

Begin your cycling journey by following the course of the Adige River from Bussolengo towards the romantic city of Verona. Known as the city of Romeo and Juliet, Verona invites exploration with its rich history, elegant architecture, and vibrant cultural charm. As you cycle through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere filled with cafes, ancient monuments, and quaint piazzas.

Spend time visiting notable landmarks such as the Verona Arena, a stunning Roman amphitheater, and the famous Juliet’s Balcony. Take a break to savor a cappuccino or gelato in one of the many charming cafes that line the cobbled streets. The city’s blend of history and modern vitality creates a captivating experience.

After a fulfilling visit to Verona, cycle back over the picturesque hills of the southern Lake Garda region, passing through Sommacampagna with its vineyards and quiet country roads. This scenic return route offers a gentle challenge and beautiful views of the Venetian Pre-Alps as you wind your way back to Bussolengo.

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 40 km / 25 mi
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Day 3: Salo

On this stage, pedal your way toward the western shores of Lake Garda, reaching the lively town of Salò located in a beautiful bay. Your route passes close to Peschiera and includes enjoyable stops at vibrant lakeside towns such as Desenzano, Padenghe, and Moniga. These towns offer a blend of historic streets, local markets, and waterfront promenades perfect for a relaxed midday break.

Salò is renowned for its charming branching alleys and the famous Lungolago, a delightful lakeside promenade perfect for an afternoon stroll. Treat yourself to an authentic Italian gelato from the many gelaterias lining the lakefront, and soak in the serene atmosphere by the water’s edge. The gentle lake breeze and panoramic views make this a highlight of the tour.

As you explore Salò, visit the local shops or enjoy a lakeside meal, experiencing the town’s unique blend of traditional charm and lively activity. This longer cycling day is balanced by numerous opportunities to relax and savor the lakeside lifestyle.

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 55 km / 34 mi
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Day 4: Limone

Begin the day with a lovely ride along the water’s edge to the town of Gargnano, absorbing peaceful lake views and fragrant lemon groves along the way. From Gargnano, take a ferry ride across Lake Garda (included in the package) to Limone sul Garda, known for its famous lemon orchards and the delicate flavors of its local olive oil. Limone also boasts a reputation for the longevity of its inhabitants, adding an intriguing cultural touch to your visit.

After disembarking, continue cycling along what is considered one of Europe’s most spectacular bike paths. This newly constructed section floats mostly free above the lake, about 50 meters over the shimmering blue water below. The breathtaking views combined with the exhilaration of riding above the lake make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Spend time exploring Limone’s quaint streets, charming shops, and colorful harbor. The unique atmosphere of this lakeside town, with its mix of natural beauty and local culture, creates an unforgettable day on two wheels.

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 30 km / 19 mi
Accommodation: Garda Suite (4 Star)
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Day 5: Malcesine

Cycle past the stunning northernmost towns of Lake Garda—Riva del Garda and Torbole, both popular for their outdoor sports and active lifestyles. These towns offer scenic views, vibrant marinas, and lively town centers to explore as you make your way along the lake’s eastern shore.

Your destination for the day is Malcesine, a picturesque town nestled at the foot of Monte Baldo. With its medieval castle and narrow alleys, Malcesine is a favorite for visitors seeking both history and natural beauty. There is an option to take a boat shortcut to Malcesine (ticket included), which can reduce cycling distance and provide another perspective of the lake.

Once in Malcesine, enjoy wandering through the town, visiting local cafés, or simply relaxing by the lake before preparing for tomorrow's alpine adventure. Screenshot 2025-08-26 at 12.34.38 AM.png

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 40 km / 25 mi
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Day 6: Garda

Today’s stage offers a dramatic change in scenery as you take a cable car (included) up Monte Baldo, nearly 1,700 meters above sea level. From the ridge, start your ride along a scenic mountain road with panoramic views across Lake Garda and the surrounding alpine landscape.

The descent brings you down to more Mediterranean style terrain as you cycle towards the lively town of Garda. This contrast between crisp mountain air and warm lakeside ambiance makes the day exciting and varied. Along the way, enjoy peaceful rural landscapes, olive groves, and charming villages.

Arriving in Garda, you are welcomed by vibrant streets, bustling markets, and a waterfront full of restaurants and shops, perfect for an end of day stroll or dinner by the lake. Screenshot 2025-08-26 at 12.35.28 AM.png

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 45 km / 28 mi
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Day 7: Bussolengo

On the tour’s final cycling day, journey along the lake’s eastern shore passing through the quaint towns of Bardolino and Lazise. Both towns are known for their beautiful lakefront promenades, historic centers, and culinary delights. Don’t miss the chance to take a break in one of the many waterfront restaurants to savor regional specialties.

After sampling the lively atmosphere of these lakeside gems, head inland through the rolling hills back to Bussolengo. The countryside offers peaceful roads and vineyard views as you complete your loop around Lake Garda.

Celebrate the completion of your cycling adventure with a farewell dinner or leisurely evening in Bussolengo, reflecting on the rich experiences gathered over the past week.

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 35 km / 22 mi
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Day 8: Departure

Today marks the end of your cycling tour with individual departure arrangements. Guests have the option to extend their stay in the Lake Garda region to further explore its scenic beauty, historic sites, and charming villages at a relaxed pace.

Whether continuing your travels or returning home, the memories of this breathtaking route and the vibrant culture of Lake Garda will provide lasting inspiration. Safe travels and arrivederci!

Meals: Breakfast

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Accommodation

Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

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Montresor Tower (4 Star)

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Rivalta Lifestyle Hotel (4 star)

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Garda Suite (4 Star)

Majestic Palace (4 Star)

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Boutique Hotel La Vittoria (4 Star)

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Single Supplement

From US $520

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $150



Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?

Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.


Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

Exclusions

Airport pickup

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Are e-bikes guaranteed if I choose the e-bike option?

E-bikes are available on many of our tours, but they are not guaranteed and remain subject to availability. Our local partners maintain a limited fleet, and certain frame sizes— especially for guests below 160 cm orabove 180 cm—may be limited.

We always do our best to secure your preferred bike type, but in some destinations availability is restricted. If your exact size is not available, we will inform you in advance and offer the best possible alternative.

To improve your chances of securing an e-bike, we recommend booking early and providing accurate height details.

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Top Bike or similar

hybrid

Included in your trip price

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KTM MACINA FUN 510 or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Arrival & Departure Details

This tour begins and ends at Bussolengo, a charming town nestled between the sparkling waters of Lake Garda and rolling vineyards, just 15 kilometers from the historic city of Verona.

The area is easily accessible by car via the A22 Brenner/Brennero motorway, or by train with options to Verona station.

The nearest airports international airport is the Verona Villafranca Airport, just 12 km (8mi) from Bussolengo, about 15–20 minutes by taxi or transfer. This is the most convenient option, though it mainly serves European and some seasonal international flights.

Taking a taxi from the Verona airport is the most convenient way to reach Bussolengo, although bus service operated by ATV Verona is also available from the airport.

Milan Malpensa (MXP) / Milan Linate (LIN) and Venice Marco Polo (VCE) are the other larger international hubs, about 2–2.5 hours away by train/car. Both offer long-haul, intercontinental flights.

Weather

The best time to enjoy cycling around Lake Garda is during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) months. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F), ideal for comfortable and scenic rides.

Spring brings blooming flowers and fresh greenery, adding vibrant colors to the stunning landscapes, while autumn offers cooler air and the golden hues of the vineyards and olive groves.

Summer (July and August) can be quite warm, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F), so cycling is best planned for early mornings or later afternoons to avoid the heat. The region enjoys many sunny days but occasional thunderstorms can occur, especially in the late summer.

Winter (November to March) is cooler and wetter, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15°C (41 to 59°F). While cycling remains possible, shorter daylight hours and more frequent rain make these months less ideal for the full experience.

For a perfect balance of weather, scenery, and outdoor activity, consider booking your trip in late spring or early autumn when Lake Garda shows its most enchanting and comfortable side.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Mixed

April

Best

May

Best

June

Best

July

Offseason

August

Offseason

September

Best

October

Good

November

Offseason

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Insurance

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Is proof of travel insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.

For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.

Before Your Tour

When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.

At the Start of the Tour

The setup experience varies by destination:

  • In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.


  • In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.


All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.

During the Tour

You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.

What to Expect

The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:

  • You start with the correct frame size

  • You can fine-tune your comfort easily

  • You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route


It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.

We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.

Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.

To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.

A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.

We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.

For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.

Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.

For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.

Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.

Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.

Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.

It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.

We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.

We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.

Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.

For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.

For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.

We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.

We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.

On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.

Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.

We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

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