Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-guided Paestum and The Cilento National Park Bike Tour
The Self-Guided Paestum and Cilento National Park Bike Tour takes you deep into the “Heart of the Cilento,” a region of Campania long celebrated as a paradise since ancient times. Known to the Romans as Campania Felix—the “Happy Land”—this area offers an unparalleled blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. South of Salerno lies Cilento, one of Italy’s largest national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where crystal-clear waters meet rocky coves and forested mountains.
Your journey begins in Paestum, home to some of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples. From here, you cycle quiet country roads through the Calore Valley, visiting medieval villages untouched by time. Highlights include tasting fresh mozzarella at a local buffalo farm, exploring St. Michael’s cave church, the ghost town of Roscigno Vecchia, and the medieval castle of Laurino.
The route then leads towards the coast, through the rolling hills of Ceraso to the ancient Greek site of Velia. Following the coastline of Monte Stella, you will pass charming fishing villages such as Acciaroli and Pioppi—famed for their role in the Mediterranean diet—before reaching San Marco di Castellabate. Here, you can explore Punta Licosa or climb to the medieval hilltop village of Castellabate for breathtaking sea views.
Throughout, the tour combines world-class archaeology, pristine landscapes, and authentic Italian hospitality. Far from the crowds of the Amalfi Coast, Cilento offers peaceful roads, varied cycling, and a warm welcome from its people, ensuring you leave with a deep appreciation for its timeless beauty and traditions.
Self-guided
casual hotels
Paestum
Paestum
easy to moderate
59 km / 37 mi
5
Min. 2, Max. 12
Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP)
Naples-Capodichino International Airport (NAP)
Highlights
Paestum’s Ancient Temples
Cycle right up to the awe-inspiring Greek temples of Paestum—some of the best-preserved in the world—and wander freely through this atmospheric archaeological site.
Authentic Cilento Villages
Experience the charm of southern Italy’s lesser-known villages like Castellabate and Acciaroli, where time seems to slow and traditions remain beautifully intact.
Coastal Riding with Sea Views
Pedal along the dramatic Cilento coastline, with panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, deserted coves, and the occasional dip in turquoise waters just off the roadside.
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 | Paestum | Hotel Villa Rita | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Felitto | Agriturismo Felitto | B, D | 66 km / 41 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Felitto | Agriturismo Felitto | B, D | 56 km / 35 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Ceraso | La Petrosa | B, D | 65 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | San Marco di Castellabate | La Magnolia | B | 57 km / 35 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Paestum | Hotel Villa Rita | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Paestum
Upon arrival at Paestum train station, you can take a short walk or taxi ride to your hotel, ideally located near the famous UNESCO-listed Greek temples. Your bicycles will be waiting at the hotel. If time permits, visit the archaeological site and museum to admire the ancient temples and the renowned Diver’s Tomb. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely ride to the beach for a refreshing dip in the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The day allows for easy acclimatisation to the surroundings. You can also opt for an additional night in Paestum for deeper exploration of the historical area and a longer warm-up ride. The tranquil setting, combined with rich history and beautiful natural surroundings, offers a perfect start to your journey through the Cilento region.
Day 2: Felitto
If you haven't already visited the archaeological site of Paestum yet, make sure to visit the Paestum temples and museums. After this, cycle east through the fertile plain, passing buffalo farms that produce the famous mozzarella. The route gradually ascends to Capaccio and continues to Trentinara, perched spectacularly on a cliff offering panoramic views.
After a break, you ride along peaceful country roads to the medieval villages of Monteforte Cilento and Magliano Vetere. A challenging climb to Magliano Nuovo rewards you with views over the Calore River canyon. Descend into the Calore Valley, passing Felitto’s historic center and a medieval bridge. Take a short walk to explore the gorge before continuing to your agriturismo. Enjoy a hearty dinner of local specialties, surrounded by peaceful countryside.
Elevation: +600m /-500m
Day 3: Felitto
Today offers several roundtrip options exploring the scenic Calore Valley. Choose to cycle to Castelcività and explore its impressive limestone caves, or visit Sant’Angelo a Fasanella to see the cave church of St. Michael. Another option is Roscigno Vecchia, a ghost village nicknamed "the Pompeii of the 20th century," where time has stood still.
For nature lovers, ride to Sacco beneath the cliffs of the Cervati Mountains and descend into the stunning Sammaro Canyon. You might also encounter otters in the Calore River. The day is filled with scenic rides through chestnut and beech woods, olive groves, and fragrant Mediterranean scrub. Return to your agriturismo for another evening of homemade cooking and regional wine, rounding off a fulfilling day of cultural and natural exploration.
Elevation: +/- 600 m
Day 4: Ceraso
Departing Felitto, cycle south through the forests towards the charming village of Laurino, where you can explore historic buildings and a medieval castle. The route continues through dense woods to reach the hamlet of Stio, followed by a climb to Gioi, known for its strategic hilltop location. Next, cycle to Moio della Civitella, where you can visit remnants of a pre-Greek fortified town.
Enjoy lunch with a panoramic view from the hilltop church. Continue to the larger town of Vallo della Lucania before cycling to Massascusa and then to the medieval village of Ceraso. The ride offers a blend of nature, history, and peaceful rural life. In the evening, enjoy a farm-fresh dinner at your agriturismo nestled in the rolling hills above the Alento plain. An extra night in Ceraso is recommended for further exploration.
Elevation: +600m /-750m
Day 5: San Marco di Castellabate
Today, head for the coast, cycling through rolling countryside and past archaeological treasures. Descend toward the ancient Greek city of Velia, where you can explore ruins, temples, and the notable "Porta Rosa." Then continue through the fertile Alento plain to Marina di Casalvelino, followed by the picturesque fishing villages of Pioppi and Acciaroli, once home to Ancel Keys and visited by Ernest Hemingway.
Pause for a beachside lunch or swim in the Mediterranean. Continue past Agnone and Ogliastra Marina to visit Punta Licosa’s scenic pine-covered peninsula. End your day in San Marco di Castellabate, a delightful seaside village. The coastal scenery and tranquil pace of this ride offer a refreshing contrast to the inland hills.
Elevation: +350m /-400m
Day 6: Paestum
Begin your final cycling day with an optional ride to Punta Licosa’s lighthouse if you missed it yesterday. Then ascend to Castellabate, a well-preserved medieval village with sweeping coastal views. After exploring its charming center, cycle to San Pietro and follow a quiet road to the stunning Bay of Trentova near Agropoli. Take a short scenic hike through Mediterranean vegetation above the sea. In Agropoli, visit the ancient acropolis, old town gates, and castle.
After a coffee break, continue to Paestum where you can relax at your hotel and enjoy an aperitivo with views of the Greek temples. Dinner is on your own this evening, offering the chance to sample more local cuisine.
Elevation: 500m /-550m
Day 7: Departure
Your cycling journey through the scenic Cilento region concludes after breakfast in Paestum. Depending on your travel plans, take time for a final visit to the temples or enjoy a relaxed morning stroll through the countryside before departure. Paestum is well connected by train for onward travel.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $270
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $170
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 and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or 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.
Bianchi E-OMNIA C TYPE or similar
Included in your trip price
FRW Perth or similar
Included in your trip price
GIANT Roam or similar
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins Paestum. It is served by Naples International Airport. From Naples, take a train that brings you directly to Paestum. For those coming from Rome or other major Italian cities, frequent high-speed trains run to Naples. Upon arrival at Paestum’s train station, a short walk or an optional transfer will bring you to the hotel.
Departure
Your tour concludes in Paestum. A short transfer can be arranged to take you to the local Paestum train station. From here, you can catch direct trains to either Salerno or Naples. Both cities are well-connected hubs, with Naples offering frequent high-speed trains to Rome and other major Italian cities, as well as international flights from Naples International Airport.
Weather
The best cycling conditions in Cilento are usually spring and late summer. April brings fresh, mild weather with blooming wildflowers and average daytime temperatures ranging from 15–20°C (59–68°F), perfect for peaceful rides along quiet coastal roads and through hilltop villages.
June is warmer, with long daylight hours and highs of around 26–30°C (78–86°F), ideal for early starts and post-ride swims. July and August are the hottest months, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), so rides are best timed for mornings, with afternoons reserved for beach breaks or shady trattorias. Coastal breezes offer some relief, and sea temperatures are perfect for swimming.
September marks a return to more comfortable temperatures (25–28°C / 77–82°F) and fewer tourists, making it a golden month for cycling with a lingering summer feel and abundant local produce.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Good
November
Mixed
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
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
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.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our 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.
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.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
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.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
