In this article, we want to offer a few tips for those planning to cycle in Tuscany. Whether you're going alone or with friends, there are certainly a few things that are useful to know before you embark on a bikepacking trip or simply a ride in a foreign country.

At Asimismo, we specialize in bespoke guided bike tours here in Tuscany, but we are often asked to prepare or assist couples or individuals with the planning of their bikepacking trip through the region. We love creating stunning routes that feature all the nicest spots and landmarks in the territory, and we also love seeing our clients happy after a long day in the saddle.

Choosing to bring your bike on holiday or deciding to take a trip that revolves around cycling can be really exciting and rewarding, but it can also be very stressful. It all depends on how well-trained you are, how prepared you are for the weather you will encounter, and how much you know about the area you will be visiting prior to the trip.

There are certainly some pieces of advice or tips we always like to share with our clients that can greatly improve the experience of cycling abroad.

Let’s start by saying that, despite not having an Alpine landscape, Tuscany is definitely not a flat region. If you are looking for history and old villages, you will certainly find them at the top of a hill or climb. Sometimes the shorter climbs can be the steepest ones. In this regard, it is fair to say that longer routes to reach the top of a hill or mountain are not necessarily the most challenging but perhaps the least steep. As in ultra-endurance cycling, it is often preferable to choose the longer route, and this should not be seen as a bad choice. Instead of the most direct route, which might hide some steep ramps and even more traffic, the longer route may be more enjoyable.

the old town of Certaldo at the top of the hill dominating the scene in the distance

Speaking of traffic, as a rule of thumb, avoiding any SP (strada provinciale) or SR (strada regionale) roads can be a great idea. These are definitely the fastest routes with speed limits of 70-90 km/h for cars, but they are not very bike-friendly. Choose “B roads” instead, staying away from people in a hurry and the usual rush hour chaos. Having said that, always keep your eyes peeled, especially on narrow segments or descents. Even if the road is supposed to be quiet, that doesn’t mean someone won’t drive fast, probably not expecting anyone in their way. Wearing a helmet and not riding in the middle of the road are things you should always remember.

If you visit in the summertime, we suggest riding in the morning rather than in the afternoon. The reason for this is that roads are usually quieter in the morning, and many shops in small villages close after 12:30 p.m. This is actually a good thing to remember, especially if your route takes you up into the mountains or to some place in the middle of the countryside. Additionally, temperatures tend to peak in the early afternoon around 2 p.m. At that time, you want to already be on your way back to where you’re staying or, even better, under a gazebo having lunch.

We just mentioned warm temperatures and the fact that some shops shut in the afternoon. In such cases, relying on water fountains along your route to fill up your bidons can be essential. In Tuscany, almost every village has one, usually located in the main square or near a church or cemetery. Don’t expect to find a sign explicitly saying “acqua potabile” (which means drinkable water); you can take it for granted that the water from these fountains comes from the public supply.

When you look for a bakery here in Tuscany, it’s not always labeled with the word “Panificio” like elsewhere in Italy. You can often find similar shops that sell pastries and make sandwiches under names like “Forno” or “Alimentari.” The "Alimentari," in particular, is the convenience store located in small villages that usually have a bit of everything for the few people living there. So, if you need a battery for your Wahoo sensor or your power meter, you might find it there too.

Whenever you see a sign saying “Private road,” do not ride through that point. It is always preferable to stay on public roads, which will keep you away from guard dogs or even a not-so-visible chain across the road that could cause a bad fall, especially after a descent. For that reason, it is safer to ride, especially off-road, with a guide next to you. They know the language and every single spot along the route. When we offer our guiding service or prepare an itinerary for those who want to explore Tuscany at their own pace, we always make sure that the route we propose is tested and safe under all circumstances.

“Always keep a dollar in your pocket.”

That’s exactly the case here in Tuscany. Traveling and relying only on a phone or a credit card can go terribly wrong. Here, you might still find shops that only accept cash payments. The old 20 euro bill in the back of your phone cover might come in very handy here during your rides for food stops. It is also worth remembering to check the calendar of national holidays in Italy. On these days, shops and restaurants may have irregular opening hours or you could even find them closed.

Checking or having an idea of bike shops along your route is always a great idea. Whether in Tuscany or somewhere else in the world, it’s handy to know where you can go or who to call in case of a mechanical problem. Having the support of a guide with you during your tour can also be beneficial in this regard. We, for instance, always bring an emergency aid kit and repair tools in case you need some bandages after a fall, or help with a sudden bike problem.

If you are planning to spend a few days in the same place, it is nice to find out which day the local market is held in that village. This is not only a great opportunity to experience traditional vibes and buy local products but also a chance to get closer to the local community and imagine yourself living there.

Italians may not be the best with foreign languages, but they are very friendly people. If you struggle to make yourself understood, remember that gestures work internationally, and we are very accustomed to that here.

We hope this article cleared up many doubts about traveling by bike in Tuscany. We really encourage you to visit our extraordinary region, which, even after many trips, will still surprise you with its beauty.

You can also find another article on this cycling diaries blog that explains why you should consider hiring a guide, or another one about why choosing Asimismo. We are always happy to help new customers with our knowledge and skills, whether for a single or multi-day guided tour or in the planning of your itinerary. Feel free to check our services section to see what we can offer you here in Tuscany.

Essential Tips for Cycling and Bikepacking Adventures in Tuscany

Why Consider Booking a Solo Cycling Vacation