One of Italy’s most achingly romantic cities, Verona is also pleasingly easy to navigate by bike, with a wide variety of cycling tours on offer.
(Photo: Ken via Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0)
Famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”, the picture-postcard city in northern Italy’s Veneto region is a delight to explore by any means. But there’s nothing that taps into the spirit of travel quite like traversing a new place on two wheels. In Verona, that option is open to all courtesy of a number of organised bike tours. We’ve picked out three to consider below.
Highlights and Panorama Bike Tour
This 3-hour group tour brings the city’s rich layers of history into focus, through its Roman amphitheatres, Renaissance squares and Shakespearean romance. Pedal past the Arena and through bustling piazzas before crossing the ancient Ponte Pietra, where the climb to Castel San Pietro begins. The ascent is rewarded with scenic views over tiled rooftops, the Adige River and the ruins of the Roman Theatre below. Along the way, your expert guide will be on hand with commentary at various stop-off points, adding colour to the experience. From €39 per person.
E-Bike Tour with Aperitif
(Photo: Revol Web via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
An e-bike makes Verona’s hills feel effortless, making the city and its countryside more acccesible to riders who prefer a gentler pace. Beginning in the historic centre, the route winds through cobbled lanes before climbing easily into the Torricelle, where villas and vineyards scatter the slopes and panoramic views frame Verona below. With a local guide leading the way, the ride blends familiar landmarks with quieter corners rarely reached on foot. Midway, there’ll be a pause at a welcoming osteria for a light lunch or aperitif, before a leisurely return to the city. From €55 per person.
Private Bike Tour
(Photo: bajabikes.eu)
For a more intimate and personalised experience, this private bike tour allow you to explore Verona as part of a select group of family or friends. With your group setting the pace to their wishes, you’ll begin in the city centre, where you’ll be introduced to Verona’s landmarks in a relaxed way, from Juliet’s balcony to the Roman arena and the more serene corners that give the city its distinctive charm. The itinerary is crafted around your specific tastes and interests, with time to pause for photographs or to explore a favourite site more deeply if you way, and the added benefit of your guide’s full attention. From €50 per person.