From the Dolomites to Venice by Bike

Experience an unforgettable self-guided cycling journey from the Dolomites to Venice, travelling through the spectacular landscapes of South Tyrol and northern Italy. Your route takes you from the dramatic peaks and vineyards of the Dolomites southwards to the shores of Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, before continuing through some of the most fascinating cultural landscapes of the Veneto.

Along the way, discover Verona, the legendary city of Romeo and Juliet, and admire the architectural masterpieces of Andrea Palladio in Vicenza. The route then leads through the picturesque Euganean Hills, renowned for their vineyards, rolling landscapes and thermal springs, before reaching Padua, one of Italy’s great historic cities and a centre of art and culture.

The final stages take you along the elegant Brenta Riviera, famous for its magnificent Venetian villas, towards the Venetian Lagoon. Your cycling adventure ends in Venice, one of the world’s most extraordinary cities and the perfect finale to a journey combining Alpine scenery, Italian culture, gastronomy and cycling.

Highlights

• Spectacular Dolomite landscapes and South Tyrolean vineyards
• Cycling through the diverse scenery of northern Italy
• Panoramic views of Lake Garda from Passo San Giovanni
• Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet
• Vicenza and the architectural legacy of Andrea Palladio
• The vineyards and thermal landscapes of the Euganean Hills
• Historic Padua, a centre of Italian art and culture
• The elegant Brenta Riviera and its Venetian villas
• Arrival at the Venetian Lagoon and the timeless beauty of Venice
• A unique self-guided cycling holiday from the Alps to Venice

Day 1: Bolzano – Gateway Between the Alps and Italy

Arrive individually in Bolzano, the charming capital of South Tyrol, and enjoy your first overnight stay. Situated along the Isarco River, Bolzano has been a cultural crossroads between the Alpine world and the Mediterranean for centuries. Its historic centre combines colourful Tyrolean houses, Italian influences and a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal starting point for your cycling adventure through northern Italy.

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2: Bolzano – Trento

Your cycling journey begins along the Adige River cycle path, passing through orchards and the vineyards of South Tyrol’s famous Wine Route. You can choose between two route options: the flatter route follows the Adige almost entirely on dedicated cycle paths, while the more demanding variant takes you through the beautiful landscape around Lake Kaltern.

On the way to Trento, you pass through Salorno, the historic linguistic border between the German- and Italian-speaking parts of the region. If you prefer a shorter cycling day, several railway stations along the route offer the possibility of shortening the stage by train.

Cycling: approx. 65–70 km
Elevation gain: approx. +295 to +410 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Trento – Peschiera del Garda

Follow the Adige River southwards towards Rovereto, a town known for its modern and contemporary art museum. From here, the route continues towards Passo San Giovanni, where a short climb is rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view over Lake Garda and the picturesque town of Torbole.

Continue downhill towards Riva del Garda, one of the most attractive towns on the northern shore of the lake. Here you board a ferry for the scenic journey across Lake Garda to Peschiera del Garda in the south.

Cycling: approx. 50 km
Elevation gain: approx. +305 m / -430 m
Ferry: approx. 4.5 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Peschiera del Garda – Verona

Leaving Lake Garda behind, you cycle through the gently hilly countryside towards the Adige River. The river then guides you towards Verona, one of the most beautiful and historically important cities in the Veneto region.

Allow time to explore the city at your own pace. Highlights include the impressive Roman Arena, the Basilica of San Zeno and Juliet’s House, immortalised by Shakespeare’s famous love story.

Cycling: approx. 35 km
Elevation gain: approx. +255 m / -260 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Verona – Vicenza

Leave Verona behind and cycle through the picturesque countryside at the foot of the Lessini Mountains, surrounded by vineyards and historic villages. One of the highlights of the stage is Soave Castle, rising above the famous wine-growing region of the same name.

You can choose between two route options. The flatter route takes you towards the impressive castles associated with the legendary story of Romeo and Juliet in Montecchio Maggiore. The more challenging alternative crosses the scenic Berici Hills, rewarding you with beautiful views across the Veneto countryside.

Your destination is Vicenza, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its magnificent architecture. The city’s elegant palaces and public buildings were largely designed by Andrea Palladio, one of the most influential architects of the 16th century.

If you prefer to shorten today’s cycling distance, you can take the train from San Bonifacio.

Cycling: approx. 70 km
Elevation gain: approx. +700 m / -715 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Vicenza – Padua Thermal District

Today’s route takes you out of Vicenza along the cycle path beside the Bacchiglione River. Along the way, you can admire Villa La Rotonda, one of Andrea Palladio’s most celebrated architectural masterpieces.

Continue through the peaceful Veneto countryside, passing the small village of Montegalda before heading towards the Euganean Hills. This attractive landscape of gentle hills, vineyards and historic villages is also home to Europe’s largest thermal spa district.

After your cycling stage, you can relax and enjoy the region’s famous thermal facilities. A small detour of approximately 10 km also offers the opportunity for a wine and olive oil tasting, which is included in the tour price.

Cycling: approx. 50 km
Elevation gain: approx. +220 m / -260 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Padua Thermal District – Mestre / Venice Mainland

Today’s cycling stage takes you towards Padua, following the scenic cycle path along the Battaglia Canal. Padua is one of Italy’s oldest university cities and home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its historic centre combines centuries of art, culture and architecture.

From Padua, continue along the Piovego Canal towards Stra, where you join the Brenta Canal. The route passes through the elegant countryside of the Venetian Riviera, lined with magnificent historic villas once built by the Venetian aristocracy. Highlights include Villa Pisani, Villa Malcontenta and Villa Widmann.

Continue along the waterways towards Mestre, located on the Venetian mainland and your final overnight destination.

Cycling: approx. 55 km
Elevation gain: approx. +195 m / -200 m
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Mestre / Venice Mainland

Your self-guided cycling journey from the Dolomites to Venice ends after breakfast.

If required, a private transfer back to Bolzano can be arranged when booking the tour.

Meals: Breakfast

From the Alps to the Venetian Lagoon

The final stages complete an extraordinary journey through northern Italy. From the historic university city of Padua, the route follows canals and the elegant Brenta Riviera, passing magnificent Venetian villas before reaching the gateway to Venice.

This self-guided cycling holiday combines Alpine landscapes, vineyards, Lake Garda, historic cities, Palladian architecture, thermal spas and the timeless atmosphere of the Venetian Lagoon.

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Cycling Information & Route Characteristics

Important: Bicycle Theft in Padua

Please take particular care with your bicycle when visiting Padua. There have been reports of bicycle theft in the city. We strongly recommend that you do not leave your bicycle unattended, even when it is securely locked.

Extra caution is advised around Padua railway station and the area near Chiesa degli Eremitani and the Scrovegni Chapel.

Route at a Glance

Difficulty: Medium-easy
Total distance: approx. 330 km
Shorter version: approx. 295 km
Terrain: approx. 90% paved, 10% unpaved
Train connections: Available between overnight locations on Days 2, 3, 4 and 5
Shortening stages by train: Possible on Days 2, 3, 5 and 7

A Cycling Holiday for Different Levels

This self-guided cycling holiday through northern Italy is suitable for both experienced cyclists and travellers who are new to multi-day cycling tours. The route is predominantly flat, with only a few short climbs, and follows dedicated cycle paths or quiet secondary roads for much of the journey.

Longer stages can be shortened conveniently by train, giving you greater flexibility during the tour. This makes the itinerary particularly appealing to cyclists who want to combine active travel with sightseeing without having to complete every kilometre by bike.

Some additional traffic can be expected when entering or leaving the larger towns and cities. Particular attention is recommended around Verona and Vicenza.

From the Alpine landscapes of South Tyrol through Lake Garda and the historic cities of Veneto to the Venetian Lagoon, the route offers an exceptional combination of cycling, Italian culture, vineyards, architecture and scenic landscapes.

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Important Information About the Tour

Possible Changes to the Itinerary

For organisational reasons, weather conditions, roadworks or instructions from local authorities, the itinerary may be modified before or during your cycling holiday. Temporary road closures or diversions may occur without prior notice. In such cases, please follow the local signs and instructions provided along the route.

Ferry from Lake Garda

The ferry crossing from Riva del Garda to Peschiera del Garda may be affected by adverse weather, strikes, technical problems, safety considerations or other unforeseen circumstances. The ferry operator may therefore delay, cancel or modify the service without prior notice.

If the scheduled ferry is cancelled, replaced by a smaller vessel or not operating, for example towards the end of the season, an alternative transfer will normally be arranged for Girolibero guests. Depending on the circumstances, this may be by minivan or bus with a bicycle trailer.

Dietary Requirements

Please inform us of any dietary requirements when making your booking, including vegetarian or vegan diets, gluten intolerance, food allergies or other specific dietary needs. We will forward the information to the participating hotels.

However, we cannot guarantee that every dietary requirement can always be accommodated. In some areas, particularly when travelling through smaller towns, specific products such as gluten-free food may not be readily available. We therefore recommend carrying suitable snacks as a precaution.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend taking out suitable travel insurance covering tour cancellation, accidents, luggage loss or damage and repatriation costs.

Travel insurance is not included in the tour package.

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Departure Dates 2027

Saturday & Sunday: 27 March – 16 October 2027
Tuesday & Wednesday: 13 April – 29 September 2027

Special departure dates: Available for groups of at least 6 people.

Prices 2027

Season Supplements

Extra Nights – Bed & Breakfast

Bike Rental

Return Transfer – Mestre to Bolzano

With your own bike: €110 per person
Minimum 2 participants.

Available on Saturday and Sunday, and on Tuesdays from 20 April to 5 October 2027.

With your own bike included in the transfer: €110 per person
Minimum 2 participants.

Available on Saturday and Sunday, and on Tuesdays from 20 April to 5 October 2027.

What’s Included

Accommodation

• 7 nights’ accommodation in selected hotels

Meals

• 7 breakfasts
• Breakfast is generally continental. In some smaller Italian hotels, a traditional Italian breakfast may be served, typically including coffee or cappuccino with pastries, cake, croissants, toast and jam.

Luggage Transfer

• Daily luggage transfer from hotel to hotel, from the first to the last day of the standard tour
• Maximum 1 piece of luggage per person, up to 20 kg
• Luggage transfer is not included for additional nights before or after the standard tour
• Detailed information about luggage requirements, luggage labels and service times will be provided before departure

Tour Information & Travel Documents

Before departure, you will receive by email:

• Tour information and Final Tour Details in PDF format
• Hotel list
• Hotel vouchers for check-in
• Access to the tour app with maps, roadbook, points of interest and GPS tracks
• The app can also be used offline
• Ferry voucher for the Riva del Garda – Peschiera del Garda crossing
• Ice cream voucher
• Voucher for the included wine and olive oil tasting

Luggage labels will be available at your first hotel.

Assistance

• Emergency contact telephone numbers are provided in the Final Tour Details for assistance during the cycling holiday.

Transfers

• Ferry from Riva del Garda to Peschiera del Garda on Day 3, including bicycle transport

Additional Services Included

• One ice cream per person at one of Vicenza’s finest ice cream parlours
• Wine and olive oil tasting near the thermal district of Padua

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What’s Not Included

Travel

• Travel to and from the starting and finishing points

To Be Paid Locally

• Meals and drinks not mentioned under “What’s Included”
• Tourist taxes of approximately €18–22 per person, payable directly at hotel check-in or check-out. The amount varies according to hotel category, season and length of stay
• Mandatory registration for the Venice Ancient City Access Fee
• Tips

Bike Rental

• Girolibero bikes and accessories are available to rent
• You may also use your own bicycle, provided that it is in good working condition

Additional Services Not Included

• Single-room supplement
• Extra nights
• Return transfer from Mestre to Bolzano. Available on Saturdays, Sundays and selected Tuesdays
• Bike rental is not included for extra nights
• Everything not specifically mentioned under “What’s Included”

Extra Nights
Extra nights can be booked before or after the tour in Bolzano, Mestre or Venice. An additional night during the tour is also possible for Saturday departures only. Rental bikes are not included for extra nights.

• • Unrivaled Italian Freedom: Cycle at your own pace from the dramatic mountain backdrops of Bolzano, through the romantic streets of Verona, down to the historic canals of Venice while enjoying pre-booked hotels and seamless luggage transfers.
  • Tailored Route & Travel Support: Benefit from meticulously mapped navigation tracks, local support hotlines, and comfortable logistics designed for a stress-free cycling experience across Northern Italy.
  • Essential Travel Protection: It is advisable to take out an insurance policy against expenses arising from cancellation of the tour package, accidents, luggage (loss and damage), as well as a contract covering expenses in case of repatriation. Insurance policies are not included in the tour package.