A cyclist’s paradise, that’s what Tuscany‘s cities are, it seems like they were specifically made for bike rides, offering a tapestry of history, nature, and experiences. Every corner of this region invites exploration, from the medieval streets of its towns to the scenic countryside. Whether the leisurely rides or challenging climbs interest you, exploring Tuscany by bike promises unforgettable experiences. Let’s take a closer look at what we think are the best Tuscany cities for bike rentals and cycling adventures: Lucca, Florence, and Siena.
Lucca: Rolling Hills and Storybook Charm
Lucca feels like a step back in time. Its Renaissance walls that surround the city and can be walked or cycled on, are both a stunning scenary and a good warm up ride, especially since you can get fill your water bottles for free from the many fountains that you’ll find along the road. Venture further, and you’ll find many backroads that will lead you through olive groves and vineyards that seem pulled from paintings.
A favorite route among locals and visitors, that we always recommend, leads through Matraia, where you can enjoy serene hillsides, before descending to Collodi, which not many know is the hometown of the famous and beloved character Pinocchio. If that interests you, a stop at the whimsical Pinocchio Park is almost mandatory! From Collodi, winding roads take you through Montecarlo, a medieval hilltop village famed for its wines, before looping back to Lucca. This route in our opinion is good for both novice and experienced cyclists, as in case you’d want to shorten the distance it’s always possibile to do so given the layout of the route, and the same goes for making it a bit tougher it needed.
With CiclismoPlus bike rentals in Lucca, you’re not just renting a bike—you’re unlocking a journey through Tuscany’s hidden gems!
Florence: Pedaling Through Art and Vineyards
Florence is a masterpiece in itself, but for cyclists, we think it offers so much more. The city’s bike-friendly streets lead you through iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, but cycling in Florence is more than just sightseeing—it’s about experiencing the essence of Tuscany.
A fantastic route starts from the city center and takes you into the rolling Chianti hills. Begin by heading towards Impruneta, and cycle through quiet, winding roads surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. Afterwards you’ll get to Greve in Chianti, the unofficial capital of Chianti wine, if you started your ride in the morning you should be here around lunch time and that’s another reason that makes us recommend this stop along your ride, aside from its stunning views, Greve in Chianti, provides delicious rewards—wine tastings and local specialties abound! On your way back, you can opt for a scenic detour through Badia a Passignano, a monastery perched on a hill, before making your return to Florence. This route offers a perfect mix of gentle climbs and smooth descents, making it accessible yet satisfying for all levels.
Whether the leisurely vineyard paths or the various climbs with their panoramic views drawn you in, Florence caters to every kind of cyclist! And with CiclismoPlus bike rentals in Florence, you’ll have the perfect companion for your Tuscan adventure.
Siena: Gravel Roads and Timeless Beauty
Siena’s charm is irresistible, both for its medieval ambiance and its access to the legendary Strade Bianche. The cobbled streets of the roads really set the stage for your ride, but the real magic starts once you leave the city walls. What awaits you are the famous white gravel roads that are a dream for cyclists seeking a mix of challenge and scenery.
From Siena, you can embark on a ride that takes you into the heart of Tuscany’s natural beauty. Head towards Monteriggioni, a perfectly preserved walled village that seems frozen in time. The gentle, rolling terrain makes it an enjoyable ride, and the views of its towers rising against the horizon are nothing short of magical. For those seeking a bit more challenge, venture towards the Elsa Valley, where quiet roads wind through lush meadows and medieval hamlets like Colle di Val d’Elsa. If you’re a fan of gravel riding, the Strade Bianche—Siena‘s iconic white roads—offer an unforgettable experience, combining Tuscany’s rugged beauty with its cycling heritage.
Our bike rental in Siena gives you the freedom to explore this incredible region, from serene routes to challenging climbs, all while soaking in the rich culture and stunning scenery.
CiclismoPlus: Your Trusted Partner in Tuscany
That concludes our list of the best Tuscany cities for bike rentals and cycling adventures.
We’ve been doing this since 2017, and the smile on the faces of people before and especially after our bike rentals is what drives us to continue to provide cyclists with top-quality bikes and premium services.