Why is accommodation not specified?

Our priority is to find the ideal accommodation that suits your needs. We collaborate with several lodging providers that meet our criteria, but please note that availability can be limited, particularly during peak seasons. Furthermore, we can tailor your holiday to align with your preferences and budget , and are committed to finding a more suitable alternative that matches your taste.

How challenging are your tours?

Our tours are categorized into three difficulty levels: leisurely, moderate, and challenging. Although each may include both easier and more demanding days, our rating system reflects the average difficulty level for a typical day. Leisurely tours take place primarily on flat, paved cycling paths, asphalt roads, or easy gravel tracks, and they are suitable for all fitness levels. Moderate tours may include some uphill climbs or technically more demanding terrain, but they are manageable for individuals of average fitness. Challenging tours entail either long distances and numerous climbs or technical terrain, possibly featuring downhill sections requiring proficiency with a mountain bike.

What kind of a bicycle is the best for your tours?

Our tours can be adapted to any bike type, whether road, gravel, or mountain bike . We are in constant communication with you to find the optimal conditions for your cycling holidays in Italy. The most versatile option is a gravel bike , even if you are coming on a road cycling holiday. It does not really affect your road performance while allowing you to take some scenic backroads that can be in a slightly worse state than the main ones. A gravel bike is usually more comfortable as well.

Do you offer bike rentals?

If you are not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can certainly arrange that for you. We have a wide selection of bikes at our disposal and we will choose the ones that best fit your tour. All we need from you is your usual bike size and any other relevant information or preferences so we can make sure you will be comfortable throughout your trip.

I have food restrictions

The availability of food options in Italy depends on the extent of your dietary restrictions . While it is relatively easy to find vegetarian dishes, locating vegan meals can be challenging, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. Additionally, the traditional lunch stops we make may have limited ability to accommodate special requests beyond their standard menu. We recommend considering this when planning your meals.

Will I have some time to myself?

Absolutely, the choice is yours! We understand that some travelers enjoy group activities while others prefer a more solitary experience. Therefore, we want to offer you the flexibility to personalize your trip to suit your preferences. After all, it is your holiday! As long as you adhere to the designated group timings and locations outlined by your guide, please feel free to customize your itinerary and embark on your own adventure. If you want to have a completely independent holiday , you can always opt for a self-guided tour , which is possible on most of our tours!

What is the best season for cycling in Italy?

The optimal time for our tours varies depending on the specific trip. However, typically late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are ideal. Of course, summer is also an excellent time to travel. Additionally, some of our holidays can be enjoyed in winter too!

What if the weather forecast is bad?

With proper attire, most of our tours can still be enjoyed even in light rain. During the summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon, so it’s recommended to start your day early. If inclement weather is forecasted, we will do our best to modify the tour or arrange for shuttle transportation to skip a particular stage.

How much in advance should I book?

To ensure availability, we advise booking your tour as early as possible. Our tours typically pass through highly popular tourist destinations where lodging options are restricted. Many of these desirable locations become fully booked for the summer season well in advance, often filling up by spring.

How does luggage transfer work?

On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.

Do you transfer bikes too? How does it work?

Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.

Best Time to Cycle Italy - Cycling Holidays Italy

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Best Time to Cycle Italy

Seasons shift and Italy’s landscapes transform dramatically — explore our month-by-month and region-by-region weather guide to find your perfect cycling season.

Cycling in Italy is a year-round possibility — but the experience changes dramatically by the season and the region.

Understanding Italy’s weather patterns can make the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.

What to know at a glance?

Cycling is possible year-round – best conditions vary by season & region
Spring: Mild and green — perfect across most regions as mountain routes reopen
Summer: Best for the Dolomites and Alps; hot and crowded in the south
Autumn: Warm, golden, and calm — ideal for Tuscany, Veneto, and Puglia
Winter: Cold in the north; Sicily and Sardinia stay mild and inviting

Italy is a year-round cycling destination, but depending on the regions

Each season paints a different picture of Italy — from alpine snow to sunlit coastlines. To help you plan your ride, here’s how cycling conditions unfold by months and regions across the country.

Month-By-Month Breakdown

Snow in Tuscany, Castelnuovo Val di Cecina village, winter panorama. Pisa, Italy

January - Italy

Winter rules most of Italy. Snow blankets the Dolomites, the Alps, and Apennine regions, closing major passes and making mountain cycling impossible. In the north, cold fog settles over the plains, while the southern coasts and islands enjoy occasional mild, sunny days around 10–15 °C. It’s a quiet time of year, best suited for those seeking off-season solitude or low-altitude coastal rides in Sicily and Sardinia.

Aerial View of St. Peter's cathedral in Rome, Italy at sunset with red balloon in form of heart. Counter light shot. Business, Love and travel concept

February Italy

Still deep winter in northern and central Italy, with cold and wet conditions. Southern regions start to see a few more dry, mild days, but weather remains unpredictable. Coastal areas of Puglia and Sicily may allow for comfortable short rides, yet inland and mountain areas are mostly unsuitable. It’s a calm, uncrowded month—great for planning rather than pedaling.

Traditional trulli houses in Alberobello, province Bari, region Puglia, Italy. Beautiful Italy, Bari region.

March Italy

Spring begins to stir. The first wildflowers appear in Tuscany and Veneto, and temperatures slowly climb to 12–18 °C in many lowland areas. The north and mountains remain cool, with lingering snow at higher elevations, but southern Italy and the islands start to shine for early-season rides. Expect some rain and fresh mornings, but also a sense of renewal across the landscape.

The Ruins of Taormina Theater at Sunset. Beautiful travel photo, colorful image of Sicily.

April Italy

The true start of the Italian cycling season. Days grow longer, greenery returns, and temperatures settle comfortably between 15 and 20 °C. Low and mid-altitude routes are ideal now, from the Tuscan hills to the Veneto plains and the shores of Lake Garda. Alpine roads may still be closed, but the rest of the country is in full bloom—perfect for relaxed rides through vineyards and countryside lanes.

nice senior woman riding her electric mountain bike between olive trees in the Ghianti area with medieval city of Montepulciano in background, Tuscany , Italy

May Italy

One of the very best months to cycle in Italy. The weather is warm but not hot, ranging from 18 to 25 °C, and almost all regions are accessible. The Dolomite passes start to open toward the end of the month, while Tuscany, Puglia, and Sicily are at their most colorful and pleasant. Tourist numbers rise slightly but roads remain manageable—May is prime time for both mountain and cultural cycling.

Cycling woman and man riding on bikes at sunrise mountains and Garda lake landscape. Couple cycling MTB enduro flow sentiero ponale trail track. Outdoor sport activity.

June Italy

Early summer brings long daylight hours and fully open mountain routes. High-altitude rides in the Dolomites and Alps are spectacular now, while Tuscany and Veneto begin to feel warmer, reaching 25–30 °C. Southern regions can be hot but manageable with early starts. Expect occasional afternoon storms in the mountains, but otherwise bright and settled conditions—ideal for ambitious riders.

July Italy

Peak summer—and peak energy. The mountains are in perfect shape for cycling, offering cool air and endless alpine views. In contrast, the plains, lakes, and coastal areas can reach 30–35 °C or more, making morning and evening rides essential. Tourist traffic is heavy in popular destinations like Lake Garda and Tuscany, so planning ahead and seeking quieter routes pays off.

Road cyclist climbing the Italian Dolomites

August Italy

Italy’s warmest month and the heart of holiday season. Expect hot days across most of the country and busy roads in resort areas. Temperatures often exceed 30 °C, especially in the south, though alpine routes remain comfortable. Many Italians take vacation in mid-August (Ferragosto), so some local businesses close while tourist areas stay crowded. Stick to mountains and coastal routes for the best experience.

30 September 2019. View of Barolo Castle, in autumn season, Piedmont region, Italy

September Italy

A dream month for cyclists. The heat softens, skies are clear, and the crowds thin out. Average highs sit around 22–27 °C, and most mountain passes stay open until late in the month. Vineyards turn golden, making rides through Tuscany, Veneto, and Piedmont especially scenic. Sicily and Puglia remain warm enough for swimming after your ride—September truly offers the best of both worlds.

Two individuals, riding bicycles, are seen cycling down a scenic country road in lush greenery and rolling hills of the European landscape

October Italy

Autumn arrives gently, painting the hills in gold and amber. Days are cooler but still pleasant, around 15–22 °C, especially in central and southern Italy. Rain becomes more frequent in the north, and some alpine passes begin to close by the end of the month. It’s harvest season, with festivals in wine regions and perfect light for photography—ideal for cultural and culinary cycling.

November Italy

The cycling season slows down. Shorter days, rain, and cooler temperatures limit options in much of the country. Southern Italy and the islands still see some mild days, but weather can shift quickly. This is a good month for city cycling or low-altitude touring, but most riders transition to off-season training or warmer destinations.

December Italy

Winter settles in once again. Snow and ice dominate the north and mountains, while the south and islands experience mild but unstable conditions. Average highs range from 8–15 °C in Sicily and Sardinia, with occasional sunny breaks between rain fronts. It’s a peaceful time to visit for those who prefer quiet roads and don’t mind a chill in the air.

Prime Cycling Times by Region

Of course, Italy’s weather isn’t one-size-fits-all — it shifts dramatically between the regions. To help you choose where to ride, here’s when each region shines at its best.

Dolomites & the Mountains

Best from June to October, when high passes are open

Best Time: June to early October

Why: High passes and iconic climbs are only reliably open in summer once the snow melts.

Climate: Alpine — cold winters, cool springs, mild summers, and unpredictable storms.

What to Expect: In summer, valley temps often reach 15–25 °C; at altitude, 5-15 °C is common. Outside this window, snow or frost can close roads.

What to Watch Out For: Afternoon thunderstorms, rapid weather shifts, and early/late season snow or ice at higher elevations.

Pro Tip: Plan around mid-July’s Maratona delle Dolomites (first week of July) when many roads are open and cycling energy is high.

Cyclist riding a road bike on a mountain road with green slopes and blue sky

8 days

The Ultimate Dolomites Bike Tour

4/5 Fitness

from 1.997 €/person

Ebike tour with two cyclists on mountain road with jagged Dolomites peaks in background

8 days

Epic e-Bike Tour of the Dolomites

3/5 Fitness

from 2.245 €/person

Lake Garda & Lake Como

Shoulder seasons bring perfect balance and quiet roads

Best Time: April to early June, and September to mid-October

Why: Less heat, more stable weather, and fewer crowds. Full summer is possible but can be intense.

Climate: Mild, with lake influences moderating extremes. Summers can heat up; springs and autumns are comfortable.

What to Expect: Pleasant 15–25 °C in shoulder months. In July/August, temps may rise above 30 °C in lower zones.

What to Watch Out For: Tourist overload in midsummer; midday heat in exposed areas.

Pro Tip: Use early mornings and evenings for lower routes; lakeside breezes often offer relief during heat peaks.

Mountain biker cycling on gravel road through lush green vineyards near Garda/Venice region.

8 days

Lake Garda to Venice Cycling Tour

2/5 Fitness

from 1.599 €/person

Colorful buildings on steep hillside above Lake Como with snow-capped mountains in distance.

8 days

The Best of Lago di Como

3/5 Fitness

from 1.975 €/person

Veneto

For optimal cycling conditions and crowd-free trails, plan to ride from April to June and September to October

Best Time: April to June and September – October

Why: Comfortable temperatures and manageable rainfall make spring and autumn ideal; summer is hot and busy.

Climate: Transitional — influenced by both alpine and Mediterranean patterns.

What to Expect: Spring and fall days often range 15–24 °C. Summer days in plains and lowlands may push above 30 °C.

What to Watch Out For: Thunderstorms in summer, traffic in tourist towns, and occasional humidity in lower zones.

Pro Tip: Combine Veneto with nearby mountain or lake routes in summer to escape the heat of the plains.

Cycling on paved road through Tuscan landscape with cypress trees and rolling hills

8 days

Veneto Cycling Holidays

2/5 Fitness

from 1.295 €/person

Sicilia & Sardinia

Sicily is wonderful to ride year-round due to mild climate, but best in spring and autumn

Best Time: March to June and September to October

Why: Mild weather lasts long here; summers are hot, but spring and autumn are ideal.

Climate: Mediterranean — mild winters, hot summers, dry conditions in mid-season.

What to Expect: In spring and autumn, temps often 18–25 °C; summers reaching 30–35 °C or more inland.

What to Watch Out For: Intense midday sun, interior heat, occasional strong winds, and limited shade in rural zones.

Pro Tip: Coastal or island rides in midsummer offer relief. In spring and autumn, inland climbs are more comfortable.

Mountain biker riding near a large natural rock arch overlooking the sea in Sardinia.

8 days

Sardinia eMTB Cycling Holidays

3/5 Fitness

from 2.245 €/person

Cyclist with bright green backpack riding toward an ancient stone archway on a coastal road in Sicily.

9 days

Sicily Bike Tour

3/5 Fitness

from 2.115 €/person

Piedmont

Best Time: May to June, and September

Why: These months blend comfortable temps, stable weather, and full access to hill and wine-country roads.

Climate: Continental with moderate influences from the Alps and Mediterranean.

What to Expect: Spring/fall days around 15–25 °C. In summer, lowlands may get hot, and storms can intensify.

What to Watch Out For: Heat spikes in July/August; thunderstorms in late summer; strong sun in open agricultural plains.

Pro Tip: Combine Piedmont with Alpine foothills to escape the lower heat during summer peaks.

White truffles, red wine, and a truffle slicer with a castle in Piedmont, Italy background.

8 days

Gourmet Tour of Piedmont

2/5 Fitness

from 1.275 €/person

Tuscany

Best Time: April to June, and September to early October

Why: The hills and countryside are most pleasant then; summer gets hot and bright, winter wetter.

Climate: Mediterranean / inland – warm dry summers, mild wet winters.

What to Expect: Spring and early autumn often hang in the 15–25 °C zone; summer may reach 28–32 °C. Rainfall peaks in spring and fall.

What to Watch Out For: Intense summer heat, tourist congestion, and afternoon storms in shoulder seasons.

Pro Tip: September is especially magical — harvest time, gentle light, and wide accessibility of agriturismi and routes.

Gravel road through rolling hills with cypress trees, farm buildings, and hazy mountains in Tuscany.

6 days

Tuscany Gravel Cycling Tour

3/5 Fitness

from 995 €/person

Puglia

Ride through timeless villages under spring and autumn sun

Best Time: April to June, and September to October

Why: Pleasant warm weather, fewer extremes, and good service availability.

Climate: Mediterranean — dry summers, mild winters, coastal influence.

What to Expect: In spring and autumn, temps range ~17–27 °C. Summer may hit 30 °C+ inland; winters can bring rain and cooler spells.

What to Watch Out For: Summer sun intensity, limited shade, and strong winds in certain coastal sectors.

Pro Tip: Focus on inland rural roads in spring/autumn; coastal stretches are more comfortable during heat peaks.

8 days

Cycling in The Heart of Puglia

2/5 Fitness

from 1.045 €/person

Where to Check the Weather

Italy’s weather can shift quickly between the Alps and the coast, so make sure to check local forecasts before every ride.

Check the forecast before every ride, especially when riding in the mountains

Here are two reliable sources to plan your cycling days:

ItaliaMeteo – the official Italian meteorological agency, offering accurate regional forecasts, maps, and alerts based on national monitoring stations.

Meteo.it – a popular, user-friendly site and app providing daily and long-range forecasts for every Italian town, including radar maps and precipitation alerts.

Somewhere in Italy, it’s always cycling season

Italy’s weather keeps cycling exciting year-round. Warm springs, sunny summers, golden autumns, and mild southern winters mean there’s always somewhere to ride.

If you’re keen to learn everything you need to know about cycling in Italy, check out our ultimate guide, and get all the information in one place.

Ready to plan your trip? Get in touch and let us help you choose the best time and region for your Italy cycling adventure.

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Best Time to Cycle Italy

Seasons shift and Italy’s landscapes transform dramatically — explore our month-by-month and region-by-region weather guide to find your perfect cycling season.

Quick links

What to know at a glance?

Month-By-Month Breakdown

Prime Cycling Times by Region