Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Lakes of Lombardy Bike Tour
This cycling journey takes you through an enchanting mix of gentle hills, sparkling lakes, and lush vineyards that reflect the beauty of northern Italy.
Starting from the peaceful shores of Lake Garda, you follow part of the scenic Ciclopista del Sole along the River Mincio or ride near the lake through the famous resort towns of Desenzano and Sirmione. The route continues past the stunning lakes of Iseo, Lecco, and Como, before ending at the picturesque Lake Maggiore.
Along the way, you’ll pass through elegant cities rich in art and history, such as Brescia, Bergamo, Varese, and Como, with a short and delightful section through Switzerland’s Canton Ticino.
In total, the itinerary includes seven beautiful lakes, each offering unique scenery and charm. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, historic architecture, and excellent Italian cuisine with local wines creates an unforgettable experience. Though there are a few moderate climbs, most of the route follows peaceful cycle paths and quiet backroads, with some sections of heavier traffic.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Peschiera del Garda
Ranco
easy to moderate
44 km / 27 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN)
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Highlights
Cycle Across Seven Stunning Lakes
Discover the beauty of Northern Italy as you ride through the scenic shores of Lake Garda, Iseo, Como, and Maggiore, each offering its own charm and breathtaking views.
Blend of Culture and Nature
Explore historic cities like Brescia, Bergamo, Varese, and Como, where rich art, architecture, and local traditions meet rolling hills, vineyards, and serene countryside.
Charming Villages and Scenic Trails
Pedal along peaceful backroads, through quaint villages, and beside crystal-clear lakes, creating unforgettable moments throughout your cycling journey.
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.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Peschiera del Garda | Palazzo Ai Capitani Hotel (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Brescia | Hotel Master (4-Star) | B | 58 km / 36 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Colombaro | Relais Franciacorta Hotel (4-Star) | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Bergamo | Hotel Palazzo Santo Spirito (4-Star) | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Garlate | Hotel Nuovo | B | 37 km / 23 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Como | Hotel Tre Re | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Ranco | Hotel Belvedere | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Peschiera del Garda
Arrive individually in the picturesque town of Peschiera del Garda, beautifully set on the shores of Lake Garda. Here stands the historic Fortress, surrounded by the gentle waters of the River Mincio, a true architectural treasure enclosed within a sixteenth-century pentagonal wall. Stroll through its charming lanes, admire the grand ramparts and striking gates, and soak in the timeless atmosphere of this lakeside gem.
Day 2: Brescia
Today you can choose between two beautiful cycling routes.
Option 1 (Approx. 63 km): Follow the longer, quieter, and slightly hilly path that runs along the scenic Mincio cycleway. The route passes through peaceful countryside and reaches San Martino della Battaglia, where a tall tower stands as a symbol of Italy’s wars of independence.
Option 2 (Approx. 53 km): Take the shorter route that stays closer to the lake, guiding you through the picturesque towns of Desenzano and Sirmione, one of the most beautiful spots on Lake Garda.
Your day ends in Brescia, a city full of Roman and medieval treasures, crowned by its ancient castle overlooking the town.
Short Route: Elevation gain +366 m, elevation loss -284 m. The route is approximately 97% paved and 3% unpaved.
Long Route: Elevation gain +541 m, elevation loss -459 m. Surface composition includes 98% paved and 2% unpaved sections.
Day 3: Colombaro
Enjoy a relaxing ride through the rolling hills of Franciacorta, a region celebrated for its world-class wines. The route takes you to Rodengo Saiano, where a peaceful Benedictine abbey still houses monks who maintain centuries-old traditions. Continue past the medieval castles of Passirano and Clusane before reaching the Sebino Nature Reserve, a protected area teeming with water birds and lush greenery.
The day ends at the serene shores of Lake Iseo, a perfect spot to unwind and take in the calm beauty of nature.
Elevation gain +293 m, elevation loss -224 m, with 84% paved and 16% unpaved terrain.
Day 4: Bergamo
Follow the Oglio River as it flows out from Lake Iseo and cycle through gentle countryside landscapes. Soon you’ll reach Grumello del Monte, a charming village known for its stone houses and peaceful ambiance. Cross a small bridge to arrive in Montello, where the beautifully preserved medieval old town is built entirely of stone.
Continue your journey to Bergamo, the sparkling gem of northern Italy. You’ll have plenty of time to explore both the elegant lower town and the picturesque upper town, which can be reached by a scenic funicular ride.
Elevation gain +364 m, elevation loss -317 m. The route consists of 89% paved paths and 11% unpaved portions.
Day 5: Garlate
Today’s route leads you toward the Lecco branch of the stunning Lake Como. Begin by cycling through Mapello, where you can visit the peaceful Sanctuary of the Madonna of Prada, a place deeply rooted in local spirituality. Continue to Sotto il Monte, the birthplace of Pope John XXIII, whose home has been transformed into a welcoming and free museum.
One of the day’s highlights is crossing the Adda River on a Leonardo da Vinci–inspired ferry pulled by a cable, a truly memorable experience. The final stretch takes you through lush green landscapes along the Adda cycle path before arriving in Garlate, a quiet lakeside town surrounded by natural beauty.
Elevation gain +272 m, elevation loss -328 m, including 78% paved and 22% unpaved surfaces.
Day 6: Como
Today’s ride is one of the most scenic as you pass by a series of small, sparkling lakes such as Annone, Pusiano, and Alserio. The route partly follows peaceful dirt paths, giving you a closer connection to nature. At Solzago, follow the picturesque Passeggiata Voltiana, named after Alessandro Volta, the great inventor who rests nearby.
The journey ends with an exciting descent through shady woodlands and along a charming road that leads straight into the center of Como. The day concludes on the shores of the beautiful Lake Como, surrounded by breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere
Elevation gain +488 m, elevation loss -479 m. The terrain is primarily 86% paved, with 14% unpaved areas.
Day 7: Ranco
Begin your last cycling day with a delightful ride along the sparkling shores of Lake Como, passing elegant villas such as the grand Villa Olmo on your way to the charming town of Cernobbio. From here, cross the border into Switzerland and enjoy the scenic surroundings before heading back into Italy toward the lively city of Varese.
Continue your journey along the peaceful bike path that circles Lake Varese, then ride beside the crystal-clear waters of Lake Monate, where you can stop for a refreshing swim if you wish. The route then leads to Ispra on the tranquil Lake Maggiore, and through the lush greenery of the Quassa cycle path, you finally arrive in Ranco. End your day by soaking in the breathtaking views of Lake Maggiore, a perfect finale to your unforgettable cycling adventure.
Elevation gain +770 m, elevation loss -771 m, with 95% paved and 5% unpaved trail conditions
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your memorable tour comes to an end. Take a moment to enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere by the lake before saying goodbye to this unforgettable journey through northern Italy’s most beautiful landscapes.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
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 $735
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $200
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.
Kalkhoff ENTICE Lite or similar
Included in your trip price
KALKHOFF IMAGE 1.B MOVE (400 Wh) or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival -
Your journey begins in the charming lakeside town of Peschiera del Garda, located on the southern shore of Lake Garda in northern Italy. Known for its historic fortress and serene waterfront views, it serves as the perfect starting point for your cycling adventure.
The nearest airport is Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), situated about 22 km away. Verona Airport is well connected to major Italian and European cities, offering both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can easily reach Peschiera del Garda by taxi or shuttle service in approximately 25–30 minutes.
If you’re arriving from other major airports, Milan Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio – 95 km) and Venice Marco Polo Airport (140 km) are also convenient options. Both cities have frequent train connections to Peschiera del Garda via the main railway line between Milan and Venice. The Peschiera del Garda railway station is centrally located and just a short walk or taxi ride from most hotels in town.
Travellers arriving by train will find regular high-speed and regional trains from Milan (1 hour 10 minutes), Verona (15–20 minutes), Venice (1 hour 30 minutes), and Bologna (2 hours). Taxis and local buses are available at the station to reach your accommodation with ease.
Departure
Your tour concludes in the tranquil lakeside village of Ranco, nestled along the southeastern shore of Lake Maggiore, one of northern Italy’s most beautiful and serene lakes. It’s a peaceful spot to relax after your journey, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic lake views.
The nearest airport to Ranco is Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), located approximately 35 km away, which is the most convenient option for departure. Malpensa offers excellent international connectivity with daily flights to Europe and worldwide destinations. You can reach the airport in about 45 minutes by taxi or a pre-booked transfer service.
Another option is Milan Linate Airport (LIN), around 90 km from Ranco, suitable for domestic and short-haul European flights. If you prefer to travel by train, the nearest railway station is Sesto Calende (about 10 km away). From there, regular trains operate to Milan Centrale, taking approximately one hour.
Taxis and private transfers are easily available from Ranco to both the airport and the train station. It’s recommended to pre-book your departure transfer, especially during weekends or holidays, when local transport may be limited.
Weather
The best time to cycle through Northern Italy’s lake region, from Lake Garda to Lake Maggiore, is May to September, when the weather is warm and days are long.
May and June have mild temperatures between 16 and 24°C, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery, making them perfect for peaceful rides through the countryside.
July and August are warmer, around 20 to 30°C, offering sunny days, festive lakeside towns, and a lively summer atmosphere.
September brings pleasant weather between 17 and 25°C, golden landscapes, and quieter routes ideal for relaxed cycling.
April and October are good shoulder months for cooler, calm rides, while November to March are off-season, with colder temperatures and limited local services.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Good
August
Mixed
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:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
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.
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.
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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