Northern Italy by bike: From Lake Garda to Venice
Cycling in Italy from Verona to Venice
Highlights
Verona, the city of love
Lake Garda and its spectacular views of the Pre-Alps
The region's rich cultural heritage
Gourmet Italian cuisine
Grada, Bassano del Grappa, Italian charm
Venice, a must-see
Northern Italy by bike, with its lakes, mountains and gentle way of life
From Verona, nicknamed the city of love, to Venice, the city on the water, this cycling itinerary takes you on a journey of discovery through northern Italy. You'll cycle along Lake Garda, through vineyards and charming Italian villages, all the way to St. Mark's Square in Venice.
Cycling in Northern Italy is the promise of an enriching adventure combining cultural discovery, varied landscapes and stimulating cycling challenges. The route passes through emblematic regions and offers, in this part of Northern Italy, an enriching experience for cycling enthusiasts of all levels.
All in all, the cycling experience in the upper boot is a perfect blend of challenge and pleasure. Although some sections have a few climbs, the entire route is designed to be accessible to all levels of cyclists. The carefully selected itineraries allow you to discover the diversity of Italy’s landscapes. Take advantage of the beautiful cycle paths along Lake Garda, and keep some gas in the tank to tame the great hilly roads towards Venice.
This cycling adventure is a unique opportunity to discover the natural and cultural treasures of northern Italy. First there’s Lake Garda, one of Europe’s largest Alpine lakes, and the charming villages of Grada and Bardolino on its shores. Then there’s Montagnana, a fortified town with a particularly well-preserved historic center that will delight lovers of history and culture. Not forgetting, of course, romantic Venice, Italy’s must-see destination! All the ingredients for a captivating cycling tour.
Cycling through Northern Italy also means discovering some of the country’s most typical landscapes. From the tranquil shores of Lake Garda to the lush green hills of the Veneto, passing through vineyards and olive groves, every pedal stroke reveals an inspiring variety of panoramic beauty. It’s easy to see why so many painters have found the vocation and motivation to capture it on canvas and take it home with them.
Ready for the dolce vita?
VERONA, LAKE GARDA LOOP 65km 500m
From downtown Verona, you pedal towards Lake Garda through vineyards and olive groves. The view of the lake is magnificent: a charming blue mirror in the middle of high mountains. With a surface area of 367km², Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake. Along the way, you can visit the villages of Garda and Bardolino before heading back to Verona: the city of love.
From VERONA to MONTAGNANA 62km
From Verona, head east along the Adige river. The route is flat and not very difficult. Beautiful cycle paths and small country roads accompany your pedal strokes. Two-thirds of the way along, the village of Mandorlato offers a tasty stop-off for nougat, a great local specialty.
At the end of the stage, the fortified town of Montagnana welcomes you to its well-preserved medieval village.
From MONTAGNANA to VICENZA 60km
Today’s stage between Montagnana and Vicenza is flat to gently rolling. Along the way, you pass through agricultural, wine-growing and wooded areas. You discover ancient villages with well-preserved villas and centuries-old gardens.
At the end of the stage, you reach Vicenza, a charming UNESCO-listed town whose history is closely linked to Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. Just before Vicenza, you can admire one of his most famous masterpieces: Villa La Rotonda.
In the evening, we recommend you try Vincenza’s signature dish: baccala alla vicentina.
From VICENZA to BASSANO-DEL-GRAPPA 47km
At the start of the stage, the route winds through the Vicenza countryside. You see pretty country houses and elegant Venetian villas.
Not far from the finish, a stop in the fortified town of Marostica is a must. The village is famous for its lively chess tournament and its large square with its maze of busy alleyways. In this wine-growing region, fine organic wines invite you to taste them. Arrival in Bassano del Grappa is superb. Cross its famous wooden bridge and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
From BASSANO-DEL-GRAPPA to TREVISO 64km
You skirt the lush Monte Grappa mountains and the Asolo hills, then follow cycle paths along spring-fed streams to Castelfranco Veneto, a walled town famous for being Giorgione’s birthplace. The road to Treviso follows a shaded cycle path built over an old railroad line.
From TREVISO to MESTRE (VENICE) 52km
Leaving Treviso, you follow a beautiful cycle path along the river Sile. The green, wooded setting is ideal for relaxing and daydreaming. Occasionally, sumptuous Venetian villas catch the eye of travelers.
At the end of the stage, you reach Mestre, the mainland of Venice. This is where you find your accommodation.
The historic heart of Venice is close at hand, and we recommend a visit to the city’s many canals. And why not take a gondola ride to see Venice from the water?
MESTRE (VENICE)
End of your cycling holiday in Italy. Have a safe journey home! Arrivederci!
Comfort Range
Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.
Starting from 1295€/participant in Self Guided option | See detailed prices
Essential Range
You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.
Quote on request | Contact us
Privilege Range
Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request | Contact us
Price includes
- Accommodation: 7 nights in a Double room
- 7 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 24/7
- Application fee
- The routes described on the following media:
- Tracking app
- Route maps (pdf)
- A descriptive road book (pdf)
- Day 1 : A personalized greeting with our team at the beginning of the trip
Price does not include
- bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Drinks, tours and other personal expenses
- City taxes
A “homemade” trip organized by a local partner specializing in Northern Italy:
- Routes selected with the Abicyclette Voyages team for their tourist and cycling interest, fully marked out and kept out of traffic.
- Accommodation selected for the quality of its welcome, atmosphere, services and gastronomy.
- Flexible organization that adapts to your needs and desires: you leave on the date you want! We check accommodation availability to ensure your departure.
Local support:
- A personalized welcome in French or English at the start of your stay
- 7/7 telephone assistance from 8.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. from the ABICYCLETTE VOYAGES team.
- Local telephone assistance 7 days a week from 8.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.
- Luggage transfer service
A simplified route tracking:
- A trekking app with all your itineraries
- A digital roadbook with all useful addresses and tourist information, maps and a km-by-km tour description.
And also:
- Comfortable bike rentals, ideal for this itinerary.
- The option of taking out a cancellation & multi-risk insurance covering you in the event of a problem or unforeseen event
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.
Touring bike“Velo de ville” brand touring bike. Supplied equipment per bike – helmet | |
Touring E-Bike“Vélo de ville” brand e-bike. Supplied equipment per bike – helmet | |
Children's BikeCannondale children’s bike (24″ or 26″ wheels) Supplied equipment per bike – helmet – lock |
Getting here
Departure city : VERONA
Coming by car
- at 10h from PARIS
- at 12h from BORDEAUX
- at 6h from LYON
Coming by train
- Verona Train Station - More than 12h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Verona Airport
Arrival city : MESTRE (VENICE)
Coming by car
- at 12h from PARIS
- at 8h from GENEVE
- at 3h30 from FIRENZE
Coming by train
- Venezia train station - 12h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Venezia Airport
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
How to get back to the starting point
- Return by car in 1h15 to your starting point
- Private shuttle: see detailed fares or contact us
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
Terms of payment and cancellation
The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/conditions-generales-de-vente/
Booking and payment
- Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
- Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.
Cancellation of the Contract
You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:
Cancellation period | Fees |
From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme | 5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer
|
Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of 150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
Entre 9 à 7 jours avant le départ ou le 1er jour du programme | 45% du montant total du Voyage (options incluses) |
Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 75% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme | 100% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme |
VERONA
Arrive in Verona and check into your hotel.
Spend the rest of the day discovering the charms of Verona, a UNESCO-listed city and one of Italy’s most charming.
Meeting with our local guide
Before your first ride, we invite you to meet one of our guides, at your place of departure. A time of exchange, a privileged moment to give you our last practical tips, must-see places and experiences, to answer all your questions, take care of your bike fitting to begin your trip.