Self-Guided Venice to Pisa Bike Tour
This self-guided cycling tour from Venice to Pisa takes you on a memorable journey across Italy, linking lagoon landscapes, river plains, historic towns, and rolling Tuscan countryside. Starting near the Venetian Lagoon, the route follows quiet cycle paths and country roads through the Po Delta and Emilia-Romagna, known for their peaceful scenery and rich culinary traditions. As the tour progresses south, the landscape becomes gently hilly, revealing vineyards, olive groves, and Renaissance towns in Tuscany, before culminating at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. With mostly easy-to-moderate terrain, comfortable accommodations, and daily luggage transfers, this tour offers a perfect balance of cultural discovery, scenic riding, and relaxed Italian lifestyle.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Venice
Pisa
easy to moderate
49 km / 30 mi
10
Min. 2, Max. 12
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei) (PSA
Highlights

From Lagoon to Leaning Tower
Cycle coast to coast from Venice to Pisa, experiencing Italy’s changing landscapes along the way. Begin near the Venetian Lagoon and finish at the world-famous Leaning Tower in Piazza dei Miracoli. A true cross-Italy journey linking water, plains, hills, and historic cities.

Po Delta & Historic Towns
Ride through the peaceful Po Delta, known for its canals, wetlands, and birdlife. Discover charming towns like Comacchio and Ravenna with their rich history and art. Enjoy quiet cycle paths and authentic local culture in Emilia-Romagna.

Tuscan Landscapes & Culture
Pedal through rolling Tuscan hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves. Visit Renaissance towns such as Lucca and Vinci, birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. Savor regional cuisine, world-class wines, and breathtaking countryside views.
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 | Chioggia | Hotel Grand Italia (4 Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Po Delta | Agriturismo Forzello | B | 58 km / 36 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 3 | Comacchio | B&B Al Ponticello | B | 74 km / 46 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 4 | Ravenna | Palazzo Bezzi (4 Star) | B | 63 km / 39 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 5 | Faenza | Hotel Vittoria (4 Star) | B | 53 km / 33 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 6 | Ronta | Albergo La Rosa | B,D | 64 km / 40 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 7 | Florence | Hotel Silla | B | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 8 | Florence | Hotel Silla | B | cycling | |
| DAY 9 | Vinci | Agriturismo il Piastrino | B | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 10 | Luca | Hotel La Luna | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 11 | Pisa | Hotel La Luna | B | 31 km / 19 mi | cycling, cycling |
| DAY 12 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Chioggia
Arrive in Italy via Venice Marco Polo Airport, the most convenient gateway for the start of the tour. From the airport, travel by bus, taxi, or train via Venice Mestre to reach Chioggia, located at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, which is centrally located and within easy reach of the historic center.
Later in the day, you will receive a personalized bike fitting to ensure comfort throughout the journey. You will also be provided with detailed route notes, maps, and GPS tracks for your self-guided cycling tour.
The remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey. You may explore Chioggia’s charming canals, bridges, and lively local streets on foot. Enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere and perhaps sample fresh seafood at a local restaurant. This gentle introduction sets the tone for the cycling adventure ahead across northern and central Italy.

Day 2: Po Delta
After breakfast, you begin cycling along quiet lagoon roads toward the Po River Delta. The route is flat and easy, following levee roads through wetlands rich in birdlife. With minimal traffic and open landscapes, this is a relaxing introduction to the tour. You cycle approximately 55 km with very little elevation gain before arriving at your accommodation in the delta area.

Day 3: Comacchio
Today’s ride continues through the waterways and fishing villages of the delta. The terrain remains flat and scenic, making for effortless cycling on quiet roads and paths. After around 50 km, you arrive in Comacchio, a charming canal town often referred to as “Little Venice,” where you have time to explore the bridges and historic center.

Day 4: Ravenna
Leaving the lagoon behind, you cycle inland through the peaceful countryside of Emilia-Romagna. The route remains mostly flat and straightforward, covering about 60 km. You arrive in Ravenna in the afternoon, with time to visit its famous UNESCO-listed Byzantine mosaics or enjoy a relaxed evening in the old town.

Day 5: Faenza
After breakfast, you continue inland through traditional agricultural landscapes. The ride takes place on secondary roads with little traffic. Terrain is still gentle, though slight undulations begin to appear. You cycle about 55 km during the day. Villages, vineyards, and fields accompany you along the route. Arrival in Faenza is usually by mid-afternoon. The town is internationally known for its ceramic tradition. You may wish to visit the ceramic museum or stroll through the historic center. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your own pace. Overnight in Faenza.

Day 6: Ronta
Today’s route takes you into the Apennine Mountains, beginning with a ride through the picturesque medieval village of Brisighella. This is a great place to pause, explore the colorful streets, and stock up on snacks before tackling the climb ahead. If you prefer a more relaxed option, you may take the train over the mountain section instead of cycling. For those continuing by bike, the ascent into the Apennines begins gradually, with scenery shifting from open plains to dramatic mountain landscapes. As you gain elevation, remember to take in the changing views around you. Just before the most challenging stretch, a conveniently located train station offers the option to skip the steepest portion if needed. The day ends in Ronta, a peaceful mountain town known for its fresh alpine air. Dinner is included this evening, providing a well-earned reward after your efforts.

Day 7: Florence
The day begins with a gentle climb to Vetta le Croci, followed by an enjoyable descent to the historic hill town of Fiesole, where sweeping views open across Florence in the valley below. From here, you coast downhill into the heart of Florence by bike. The afternoon is free to explore this cradle of the Renaissance at your own pace—visit museums, stroll historic streets, or relax in a café.

Day 8: Florence
Spend your day discovering the timeless beauty of Florence and its many treasures. Climb Giotto’s Bell Tower for sweeping views over the city and the Duomo. Explore world-class art at the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia. Stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio for unique perspectives. Soak in the charm, history, and elegance at every turn.

Day 9: Vinci
After breakfast, set off from Florence and follow the scenic Arno River valley into the heart of the Tuscan countryside. The ride includes a steady climb over Mount Albano, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. From there, continue toward the charming town of Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. Here, you can visit the house where he was born and explore a museum featuring fascinating scale models of his inventive creations, making for a day rich in scenery, history, and inspiration.

Day 10: Luca
Today, climb the stairway to the historic Medici Villa di Cerreto Guidi for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside before continuing west toward Lucca, where you’ll spend the next two nights. Once a Roman settlement and later one of medieval Italy’s most prosperous city-states, Lucca still preserves its rich heritage. The town enchants visitors with its medieval streets, charming boutiques, and lively sidewalk cafés. Encircling it all is the impressive 17th-century city wall, beautifully intact and perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Day 11: Pisa
On your final day of cycling, ride toward Pisa and experience the thrill of arriving by bike at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa in the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli. The scenic route passes Lake Massaciuccoli, where composer Giacomo Puccini created many of his celebrated operas. After exploring Pisa’s historic streets and landmarks, return to Lucca for a relaxed evening passeggiata along its main pedestrian avenue or wander through its charming alleys and lively piazzas.

Day 12: Departure
After a generous buffet breakfast at the hotel, your cycling journey comes to a close as you prepare to continue your travels. It’s time to return to sightseeing and enjoy the destination at a relaxed pace. We hope the rides, landscapes, and discoveries have made this experience truly memorable. From scenic routes to cultural highlights, each day was designed to inspire and delight. Thank you for sharing the road with us throughout this adventure. Your enthusiasm and spirit made the journey special. As you move on to your next destination, we wish you wonderful memories ahead. Buon viaggio and safe travels!
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.

Palazzo Bezzi
Palazzo Bezzi is an elegant 4-star superior hotel located in the heart of Ravenna, just a short walk from the city’s famous UNESCO mosaics and historic landmarks. Housed in a refined, contemporary building, the hotel blends modern design with warm Italian hospitality, offering stylish rooms equipped with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy a panoramic terrace, a wellness area with sauna and Turkish bath, and a well-appointed fitness room. Its central location, comfortable ambiance, and attentive service make it an excellent base for exploring Ravenna’s art, culture, and Adriatic coastline.

Hotel Vittoria
Hotel Vittoria is an elegant 4-star hotel located in the historic center of Faenza, just steps from the main square and the city’s cultural landmarks. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the hotel combines classic Italian charm with modern comforts, offering refined rooms, a welcoming lounge area, and attentive service. Guests appreciate its central location, traditional décor, and peaceful courtyard atmosphere, making it an ideal base for exploring Faenza’s ceramics heritage, local cuisine, and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region.

Hotel Grand Italia
Hotel Grande Italia is a 4-star hotel in the heart of the historic centre of Chioggia, an ancient fishing town on the Venetian Lagoon in northern Italy. It occupies a beautifully restored early 20th-century Liberty-style building overlooking Piazzetta Vigo and enjoys a picturesque location facing the water and the ferry dock with direct service to Venice’s San Marco Square.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
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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
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Ninety One Hybrid Bike or similar
Included in your trip price

Caprine Tour or similar
Included in your trip price

Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 2 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival Your cycling holiday begins in the beautiful lagoon city of Venice, one of Italy’s most iconic destinations. Travelers typically arrive via Venice Marco Polo Airport, which offers excellent international and domestic connections. From the airport, it is easy to reach Venice or the nearby mainland by water taxi, shuttle, or public transport. Upon arrival, you will have time to settle into your accommodation, explore the canals and historic streets, and prepare for the journey ahead, including bike fitting and a tour briefing, ensuring a relaxed and well-organized start to your cycling adventure.
Departure The tour concludes in Pisa, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower and the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli. Departure is most convenient from Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei), located just a short distance from the city center and easily accessible by taxi or train. After breakfast, guests are free to depart at their leisure or extend their stay to further explore Tuscany, making for a smooth and flexible end to this memorable cross-Italy cycling experience.
Weather
The weather along the cycling route from Venice to Pisa follows a typical northern-to-central Italian climate pattern, with mild winters, warm springs, hot summers, and pleasant autumns. Winter months (December to February) are the coolest, with daytime temperatures generally ranging between 3–11°C (37–52°F). These months are characterized by shorter days, occasional fog in the plains, and cooler evenings, making them less suitable for cycling but attractive for quiet travel and sightseeing.
Spring (March to May) brings a steady improvement in conditions and is one of the best periods for cycling. In March, temperatures rise to around 7–15°C (45–59°F), while April and May offer comfortably warm days between 10–23°C (50–73°F). The countryside is green and blooming, daylight hours increase, and riding conditions are generally dry and pleasant, making this season ideal for leisurely cycling and cultural exploration.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest time of year. June is still comfortable for many cyclists, with temperatures around 18–28°C (64–82°F), but July and August can be hot, especially in Tuscany, reaching 21–32°C (70–90°F). During these peak summer months, cycling is best enjoyed in the early morning hours, with afternoons reserved for rest, sightseeing, or relaxation. Despite the heat, skies are mostly clear and rainfall is minimal.
Autumn (September to November) is another excellent season for this tour. September remains warm at 17–27°C (63–81°F), while October cools slightly to 12–20°C (54–68°F), offering crisp mornings and comfortable daytime riding. Vineyards and countryside landscapes take on autumn colors, and crowds begin to thin. November marks the transition into cooler conditions, with temperatures dropping to 7–14°C (45–57°F) and a higher chance of rain, signaling the gradual end of the cycling season.
Overall, the most favorable months for cycling from Venice to Pisa are April, May, September, and October, when temperatures are mild, landscapes are at their best, and riding conditions are comfortable throughout the journey.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Best
May
Best
June
Mixed
July
Offseason
August
Offseason
September
Best
October
Best
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.
Is proof of medical 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.
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.
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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