Italy  Bike Tour Reviews (page 24)

  • Apulia and Basilicata
    (5/5) raystrach July 31, 2017

    A Great Experience of the Real Italy

    · Apulia and Basilicata: Alberobello to Lecce

    We really enjoyed this trip taken before the start of the high season (mid april).
    It really is a great part of Italy with relatively few tourists and quiet roads. Apart from one day when we we battled quite a strong headwind, the touring was really great with many beautiful and/or interesting places to keep us occupied every day.

    We found plenty of great places to have lunch and dinner along the way and from time to time enjoyed the company of fellow travellers using the same tour company.

    A highlight of our visit to Italy.

    What was the date of your tour?
    April 2016
    How many tours have you completed?
    5
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • 5/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • Lake Garda
    (5/5) Sheba August 14, 2019

    Great trip

    · Lake Garda (Based in One Hotel)

    We had an amazing time on our Lake Garda trip. We were two people who have never done something like this before, but once we got the hang of things it was a dream. The first day (Trento) was tough because we got caught up with the spectacular scenery and forgot to take breaks and refuel. But the following days we got better at stopping at certain intervals to drink and eat.
    We also did not understand at first from our contact person what the signs look like. They are stickers on signposts, and looking out for those helped at more complex intersections. We did not use the written directions at all - we just brought with us two bike mounts, put our phones there, and followed along on the app. You just follow the pink line on the map, and most of the time the bike path is very clear and straightforward anyways.
    A final tip: we skipped Solferino and went to Sirmione for a day (we were based in Desenzano). Sirmione is a must-see for sure, so we were glad we did that. It is a very short ride (around 8-9 km).

    What was the date of your tour?
    July 2019
    How many tours have you completed?
    None
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • 5/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 4/5 Ease of navigation
    • 4/5 Tour documents
    • 4/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 4/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • Dolomites to Trieste
    (5/5) Marcie Bushnelll October 2, 2024

    So many amazing places, so little time . . .

    · Dolomites to Trieste via Lake Bled at the Foot of the Julian Alps

    Equipped with e-bikes, two panniers, one handlebar bag, a bike lock and a repair kit, we were ready to leave Toblach and head east. We had previously biked from Toblach to Lienz, so decided to take the train from San Candido to Lienz to save some mileage. The train in San Candido had steep narrow steps which we had to muscle the heavy e-bikes over, but in Lienz, the entry/departure is flat with the quais. From there is was a very pleasant ride to Oberdrauburg. Dinner at the Hotel Post was good (we were no longer on the dinner included plan) and bike storage was always in a covered area with outlets to charge the e-bikes (we carried the chargers in our panniers). The next morning we took a local bus (at the Oberdrauburg train/bus station) to the summit of the Gailberg Pass. From the bus window, I was glad we avoided the 7 km (4.2 miles) steep hairpin turn highway as it snaked it way to the summit. Arrived at Feistritz an der Gail at another Post Hotel where we enjoyed dinner and a good rest.
    The next day we entered Slovenia and were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the bike paths, signage and bike refreshment places along the path. Again we opted to take the train from Jesenice to Bled to avoid some steep ascents, BUT the Slovenian regional trains are a sight to behold. Heavily graffitied and "vintage," we were thankful a young German exchange student helped us muscle the two e-bikes into an empty compartment at the back of the three wagon train. We purchased tickets for the ebikes on board (believe me when I say the trains may be old, but the ticket collectors are there for every single kilometer to collect bike fees, etc). Easier to get the bikes off than on, so when we arrived at Bled Jezero, we were relieved.
    Cannot say enough good things about the Hotel Park and Bled. We opted for TWO nights and I would highly recommend consideration of same. Bled is just too beautiful to spend one short night. We reserved a wine tasting at a local restaurant (a ten minute walk from Hotel Park) and had reserved spots for the Vintgar Gorge the next morning. Easy to take the bikes to the entrance of Vintgar Gorge (again free parking). The 1 ½ hour hike in the Gorge is breath taking, but the 2 hour steep hike out (we didn't take a shuttle this time), was challenging.
    Plans change and the train transfer turned into local partner taking the bikes/panniers/handlebar bag on a bike trailer and giving us tickets to a regional bus with instructions to get off at another train station 1+ hours away. Fortunately the train conductor was on the bus and assured us which station it was (everybody got off). Another couple got off two stops before us and a local rep made sure we gave him our luggage at that point. We got off at Kanal ob Soci for our ride into Gradisca d'Isonzo. We were high above the canal and it's a very industrialized zone. Perhaps the least scenic of all the days so far. At one point there was a ! sign with steps!! What? Yes, just around the corner was a series of steps and ramps to ascend a steep part of the trail. Figured out walk assist and managed to get the bikes up and over. That was a surprise.
    There was some kind of HUGE market/celebration in progress with street blockages, tents, supply vans, etc. choking the streets of Gorizia. We counted ourselves lucky to have found our way out of this rather large metro area. Spent the night at Hotel Franz in Gradisca d'Isonzo and enjoyed a lovely meal at the hotel (seemed to be a local favorite).
    Last day from Gradisca d'Isonzo was along the Coast highway. Had read reviews about traffic and such, but the bike lane was wide and the drivers respectful of cyclists. As we neared Trieste, more cars would be parked in the bike lanes, but we managed without incident. Upon arrival at the Trieste Centrale train station, we returned our bikes to a nearby partner location, emptied our panniers/handlebar bag into our backpacks and walked to our hotel near Trieste's pedestrian zone. Such a lively place come 7 p.m. Dined in a terrace cafe, had gelato, did some shopping and called it a successful tour. Thank you, Biketours.com for a great experience.  SHOW MORE 

    What was the date of your tour?
    September 2024
    How many tours have you completed?
    10+
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy, Slovenia, Austria
    • San Candido/Innichen is a short ride from Toblach and offers a picturesque pedestrian zone full of cafes, shops and historical buildings. (photo by Marcie Bushnelll)
    • Oberdrauburg Hotel serves a lovely dinner (the mixed salad option is actually a smorgasbord salad buffet...highly recommend). (photo by Marcie Bushnelll)
    • Late September means Oktoberfest throughout the German/Austrian area.  We happened to bike through a local festival complete with lovely  Fraulein in dirndls and an oompahpah band. (photo by Marcie Bushnelll)
    • OMG . . . Bled cream cake is wunderbar!  Don't leave Bled without trying it.  Slovenian Jasko beer also a must try. (photo by Marcie Bushnelll)
    • Bled, Slovenia is tourist central, but it's big enough to get away from the maddening crowds. (photo by Marcie Bushnelll)
    • Last day from Gradisca d'Isonzo into Trieste along the Coastal Route.  Bike lanes were generous and drivers respectful.  No issues at all. (photo by Marcie Bushnelll)
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 4/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 4/5 Route selection
  • Bike Paths of the Dolomites
    (5/5) Marcie B. October 8, 2024

    Dazzling Dolomites and so much more!

    · Bicycle Paths of the Dolomites (based in one hotel)

    An excellent introduction to the Sud Tirol region via out-and-back bicycle day tours. Returning to our beautiful nest at the Hotel Laurin every evening was exceptional and we enjoyed a feast for the senses every single dinner. We had a reserved table for our entire stay (breakfast buffet and gourmet multiple course dinners) and the reception and wait staff were friendly, efficient and very customer service oriented. We selected e-bikes and are glad we did (we are 80 and 79 years of age and love E-bikes)! The itinerary had slightly changed from the original program, but it was easy to adjust our expectations based on shuttle availability. The routes were well marked and the app's instructions were clear. We knew there wouldn't be a handlebar phone mount, so brought one. Also we upgraded our T-Mobile coverage for 5G coverage for the month we were abroad.
    We also appreciated the brand new pair of panniers and the handlebar bag (one per room).
    The only day we encountered an unpaved route was the Cortina d'Ampezzo former rail to trail route. The drop off shuttle pointed in the general direction of the bicycle path, but it took the SIX of us to figure out it wasn't immediately visible. We had to pedal past the bobsled shed/track and push the bikes up a relatively steep embankment to access the then well-marked and mostly packed gravel trail into Cortina.
    Fall weather can be fickle, but we biked every day in a different direction without issue. Raingear was indispensable on two of the five cycling days.
    The ride to Lago di Braies can involve some traffic the closer one gets, but cyclists don't have to pay for parking and it's well worth the long climb.
    All in all, we would rate this tour company, the hotel facilities and the quality of the instructions to all the bike destinations highly.

    What was the date of your tour?
    September 2024
    How many tours have you completed?
    10+
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • Loading the bikes for the Cortina D'Ampezzo shuttle. (photo by Marcie B.)
    • Lovely stream side bicycle path out of San Candido to Sesto passed rural chalets with a winter stockpile of wood. (photo by Marcie B.)
    • This fabulous dessert from the Hotel Laurin was simply called "Disassembled Apple Strudel." (photo by Marcie B.)
    • Back home and still smiling from all the wonderful memories. (photo by Marcie B.)
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • Dolomites to Venice
    (5/5) Russ Gibfried November 7, 2022

    Great locations, trip pace and places to stay

    · Dolomites to Venice Along the Old Dolomites Railway Track

    Perfect way to see Bavaria, Tyrol, the Dolomites and into Venice. Old train tracks have been converted to bike trails, so you see towns and places that you would miss in a car. The mobile app keeps you on track. I'm convinced this is the best way to see a country and all my future trips will include a one week bike tour (if possible)

    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • Coffee stop at Lago di Dobbiaco leaving Toblach (Sud Tyrol) to Cortina (Dolomites) (photo by Russ Gibfried)
  • Florence to Rome
    (5/5) Ricard60 October 7, 2019

    Fantastic holiday

    · Florence to Rome: Bike through the Heart of Italy

    Our trip through Italy was wonderful. Our guides Florian and Nicki looked after us in everyway. Very informative and worked so hard to make our trip memorable. Every hotel was top quality. Every meal delicious and excellent guided tours around Florence, Rome, Assisi and Perusia. This was our first cycling holiday, we we're a bit wary, but we loved it and it won't be our last.

    What was the date of your tour?
    24 sep
    How many tours have you completed?
    0
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat easier
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 2/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • Bolzano – Verona – Venice
    (5/5) Frankie April 26, 2016

    Great trip

    · Bolzano – Verona – Venice

    The trip was a lot of fun and our guide was the best

    How many tours have you completed?
    5
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Families with teens, Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • Florence to Rome
    (5/5) bobe September 20, 2018

    Chilling in Italy

    · Florence to Rome

    Awesome time riding through the Tuscan and Umbrian countryside from Florence to Rome. Was all we expected and more with the added knowledge of having the 'Eurobike' crew on hand if we needed them (not that we did). Well organised, great equipment and excellent signage to ensure we didn't end up in France. Can't wait to do it all again farther down South.
    Rob, Elano, Maggie and Dave x

    What was the date of your tour?
    25/08/2018
    How many tours have you completed?
    1
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • 4/5 Value
    • 3/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 3/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 4/5 Tour documents
    • 4/5 Local tour company services
    • 4/5 Route selection
    • 4/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • Dolomites to Venice
    (5/5) Rob Russell July 9, 2023

    Fantastic bike trip - downhill all the way!

    · Dolomites to Venice Along the Old Dolomites Railway Track

    I did this trip with my daughter who had never been to Italy. The folks at ''Fun Active Tours" were exceptional. They let us have the bikes a day early, call our hotels to make sure we had two beds as some of the hotels thought 'double' ment one bed! They let my daughter ride with the luggage transfer guy in the middle of the tour as her U-?-What was sore ;). Hotels were great and the route was unbelievable. Frendly Italians and some of the best food we've ever had. Go for it!

    What was the date of your tour?
    June 2023
    How many tours have you completed?
    15
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy
    • Super helpful bike rental crew (photo by Rob Russell)
    • First day is on compacted dirt but the Dolomites are awesome! (photo by Rob Russell)
    • The old train grade was mostly paved and separated from traffic (photo by Rob Russell)
    • bike paths through towns are well marked and the phone app let us know when we went 'off route'! (photo by Rob Russell)
    • Many beautiful small villages on the route - perfect cappuccino stops! (photo by Rob Russell)
    • Oh, and don't forget the gelato! (photo by Rob Russell)
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • Dolomites to Trieste
    (5/5) Ron S September 30, 2019

    FINE RIDE

    · Dolomites to Trieste via Lake Bled at the Foot of the Julian Alps

    A wonderful way to experience the Dolomite and end up in a superb Italian town. (Trieste) There are many different parts of Italy to see, but this trip might be the epitome of experiencing the Dolomites. I have taken many trips with Bike Tours, but this one may have been the finest. Good hotels, a superb route, and exquisite scenery made this trip four star. Renting an electric bike might be a nice option for the last parts of the trip. So would a G.P.S. as the directions can be a little hazy. Getting to the start of the trip could be a little dicey for the traveler but public transportation prevails.. Do this trip..AND TAKE THE 2 DAY OPTION IN BLED

    What was the date of your tour?
    SEPTEMBER 2019
    How many tours have you completed?
    MANY
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Italy, Slovenia, Austria
    • 5/5 Value
    • 2/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 2/5 Ease of navigation
    • 3/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection