Pedal Ventures
Italy is a country that is as rich in history and culture as it is in natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for family-friendly cycling holidays. With its mild climate, picturesque landscapes, and well-maintained cycling routes, Italy offers a variety of cycling experiences that are fun, accessible, and enjoyable for all ages. Whether you’re cruising through the gentle hills of Tuscany, cycling along the serene shores of Lake Garda, or exploring charming coastal villages, Italy has something for every family to enjoy on two wheels.
Cycling together as a family is a wonderful way to explore the country, enjoy outdoor activities, and bond while discovering hidden gems and breathtaking views. The routes we’ve selected here are specifically chosen for families—easy to navigate, full of fascinating stops, and offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Route: Florence to Siena Distance: 70 km (with shorter options available) Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Tuscany is often thought of as the heart of Italy, and cycling through this picturesque region offers families the chance to explore its stunning countryside, medieval villages, and rolling vineyards. This route from Florence to Siena takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy, with gentle hills that are suitable for families of all ages.
There are plenty of opportunities to take breaks in the charming towns along the way, like San Gimignano, famous for its towers, or Panzano, known for its local food markets. The entire family can enjoy leisurely stops at local trattorias, where you can taste delicious Italian cuisine and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Families can also enjoy a visit to some of the region’s wineries, where child-friendly tours often include learning about the production of Tuscan wine and olive oil.
Why It’s Great for Families: Tuscany offers the perfect mix of outdoor cycling, historical landmarks, and family-friendly dining. The terrain is manageable for all ages, and the entire family will appreciate the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of Italy.
Route: Desenzano to Riva del Garda Distance: 50 km Difficulty: Easy
Lake Garda is one of the most family-friendly cycling destinations in Italy, offering easy paths along the shores of Italy’s largest lake. This route from Desenzano to Riva del Garda takes you through charming lakeside towns, vineyards, and orchards, making it a scenic and relaxing journey for all ages. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for younger cyclists, with plenty of rest stops and opportunities for ice cream or a quick swim in the lake.
The route also passes through the stunning town of Sirmione, where families can explore the famous Scaligero Castle and relax on the beautiful beaches. Lake Garda is also home to a number of family-friendly resorts and hotels, many of which offer child-friendly amenities, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities for kids.
Why It’s Great for Families: Lake Garda’s easy cycling routes, combined with the beautiful scenery and kid-friendly attractions, make it an ideal destination for families looking for a relaxed and enjoyable cycling holiday.
Route: Catania to Taormina Distance: 50 km Difficulty: Moderate
Sicily is an island full of history, culture, and natural beauty, and cycling here is an exciting way to explore it as a family. The route from Catania to Taormina takes you through ancient towns, scenic coastal roads, and lush landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the sights. The terrain is varied, with some gentle climbs, but overall it’s a manageable route for families who want to experience the beauty of Sicily by bike.
Along the way, families can visit the ancient Greek Theatre in Catania or explore the charming streets of Taormina. The route also offers stunning views of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, and the Mediterranean Sea. Sicily’s rich culinary heritage also ensures that you’ll enjoy delicious meals along the way, from fresh seafood to traditional pastries.
Why It’s Great for Families: Sicily offers a great balance of cultural exploration, outdoor adventure, and relaxing family-friendly activities. The island is known for its warm hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for travellers with children.
Route: Bari to Ostuni Distance: 60 km Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Puglia, located in the heel of Italy’s boot, offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for families who enjoy cycling through quiet countryside and charming towns. The route from Bari to Ostuni, known as the “White City,” takes you through rural landscapes dotted with ancient olive groves, vineyards, and traditional Trulli houses—conical-roofed structures that are unique to this region.
The terrain is mostly flat, making it an accessible route for families of all cycling abilities. Along the way, families can stop at picturesque towns such as Alberobello, where you can wander through the streets lined with Trulli houses, and Locorotondo, a hilltop village with stunning views. The region’s relaxed pace and slower way of life make it a peaceful destination for family cycling.
Why It’s Great for Families: Puglia offers an ideal mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and easy cycling routes. The region’s calm atmosphere and focus on local traditions make it an ideal place for families to enjoy cycling and discover a more authentic side of Italy.
Route: Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo Distance: 80 km (can be shortened for families) Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
For families looking for a bit more adventure, the Dolomites offer an unforgettable cycling experience surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. The route from Bolzano to Cortina d’Ampezzo takes you through Alpine valleys, past lush meadows, and through charming mountain villages. While the terrain can be more challenging in some areas, families can customise their route to fit their needs and abilities.
The Dolomites are known for their jaw-dropping beauty, and children will love the chance to spot local wildlife, visit alpine farms, or take a break at one of the many mountain huts for a hearty meal. Cortina d’Ampezzo, a popular ski resort, offers plenty of family-friendly activities in the summer, including scenic hikes and cable car rides with panoramic views.
Why It’s Great for Families: The Dolomites offer a thrilling adventure for families with older children or teenagers. The region’s natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities make it a perfect choice for families who want to experience Italy’s stunning alpine scenery.
Route: Levanto to La Spezia (Cinque Terre) Distance: 50 km Difficulty: Moderate
The Italian Riviera offers a unique cycling experience, with routes that weave through the stunning coastal villages of the Cinque Terre region. Starting in Levanto, this family-friendly route takes you along the Ligurian coast, passing through beautiful beaches, lush hillsides, and colourful towns.
The route is slightly hilly in places, but the stunning views and frequent opportunities for a swim or a snack break in the coastal villages make it a fun experience for the whole family. Families can explore the five villages of the Cinque Terre, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Why It’s Great for Families: The combination of coastal cycling, picturesque villages, and family-friendly stops makes the Cinque Terre an unforgettable destination for families looking for both adventure and relaxation.
Italy offers some of the best family-friendly cycling routes in Europe, with something to suit all ages and abilities. Whether you’re cycling through the charming hills of Tuscany, exploring the beaches of Lake Garda, or adventuring through the Dolomites, each region offers unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and plenty of opportunities for family fun. With well-maintained paths, breathtaking scenery, and a rich cultural heritage, Italy is the perfect place for families to embark on an unforgettable cycling holiday. Pack your bikes and get ready to explore Italy like never before—on two wheels!
