Leonardo da Vinci might have said it himself “cycle to my home town and check out all my discoveries”. This flexible tour does just that, as you choose your challenge each day. Pedal through the quintessential Tuscan landscape of vineyards and olive groves to Pisa, with its world-renowned Leaning Tower, then to the charming town of Lucca, where you will ride up on the impressive walls of the city. Continue on country lanes to Vinci, Leonardo’s birth place, and visit two museums to gain insight into the life and mind of this genius. Finally, visit Florence “cradle of the Renaissance”. This is a miraculous discovery of Northern Tuscany.
Arrive at your hotel in the marvelous town of Siena, famous for its biannual “Palio” horse race, held in the most beautiful shell-shaped square in Europe: the Piazza del Campo. Don’t miss a visit to the Duomo, an architectural treasure, and numerous imposing medieval palaces. History comes alive as you meander through the narrow streets of this fantastically preserved jewel of Italy.
After breakfast start your ride to San Gimignano. Stop for a coffee in the perfectly preserved medieval hamlet of Monteriggioni and then continue cycling on the undulating hills of the Val d’Elsa.
Finally arrive in San Gimignano and breathe in the wonderful country air and take a stroll along the classic green rolling hills, marvelling at the breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside.
Challenge: 48.8 km; ascent 639 m; descent 765 m
Today you cycle through a patchwork of wheat fields and impressive villas to the ancient Etruscan city of Volterra, where you can explore its Alabaster artisan shops, the interesting Etruscan Museum and the Roman Theatre, superb palaces and alluring city walls.
Challenge: 36 km; ascent 922 m; descent 649 m
Today you can choose to cycle to Pontedera then take the train to Pisa OR opt for an optional extension of about 30 km from Pontedera to Pisa, cycling on the Arno riverbank bike path.
Arrive in Pisa and take a relaxing stroll through the narrow streets of this charming city. Promenade past the chapels and pastel houses lining the banks of the Arno River.
Challenge: 50.7 / 78.2 km; ascent 426 m; descent 938 m
Today’s ride is very scenic and nearly all flat. The route follows the Serchio River and after 25 kilometres, you reach the charming town of Lucca. You have ample time to visit the town and explore its splendid gardens, majestic bell tower and impressive Piazza Anfiteatro, a 2nd century Roman amphitheater. Don’t miss a ride along the tree-lined walls of its perimeter.
Challenge: 32.5 km; ascent 330 m; descent 320 m
Ride past Altopascio and the fascinating Padule of Fucecchio nature reserve, the largest inland wetlands of Europe. Marvel at the delightful all-encompassing greenness and perhaps you will spot some migratory birds enjoying a well-deserved rest on their way south. Feeling rejuvenated, you cycle on to Vinci, where the famous inventor/artists Leonardo da Vinci was born.
Challenge: 29 km; ascent 250/270 m; descent 250/270 m
Gain insight on the genius of Leonardo da Vinci as you explore his birthplace and two remarkable museums all about him. Admire his original designs and inventions. When you’re ready start the day’s ride to Florence for a night in the jewel of the Renaissance.
Challenge: 44 km; ascent 335 m; descent 355 m
After breakfast, start the ride to Greve in Chianti, a rustic market village and the capital of the Chianti wine-producing region. Along the way you can stop at Impruneta, a great place for a coffee break on the main square. Arrive in Greve and head over to Le Cantine di Greve where you can taste over 50 different Chianti wines.
Challenge: 32.9 km; ascent 615 m; descent 467 m
After breakfast, start the ride to the marvelous city of Siena, famous for its biannual “Palio” horse race, held in the most beautiful shell-shaped square in Europe: the Piazza del Campo.
Along the way stop for a visit of the picturesque town of Radda in Chianti then arrive in Siena. Do not miss a visit to the Cathedral, an architectural treasure, and numerous imposing medieval palaces. History comes alive as you meander through the narrow streets of this fantastically preserved jewel of Italy.
Challenge: 52.8 km; ascent 1000 m; descent 902 m
The trip and our services end after breakfast, unless you have booked a transfer to the airport or other supplementary services.
Available on request
Front and rear lights included
Padlock included
2 Bags, 1 phone holder and 1 odometer (available each 2 rental bikes) included
It is equipped with a tool bag with puncture repair kit included.
E-Summit Univega
GEO 6.0 - Univega
9 nights
3 & 4-star hotels or equivalent agriturismo
Breakfast included
Route notes, maps and App
Bike rental available
7-days a week service-hotline
Luggage transfer included
Siena or Florence train stations
GPS tracks available
Medical and luggage travel insurance
From Florence you can take either a direct train or bus to Siena. Please visit the website Trenitalia or Toscana Bus
From Pisa airport take the train to Empoli, then change the train in Empoli to reach Siena. For train connections, please visit the website Trenitalia