Exploring Tuscany by bike: Our practical guide

From Florence to Siena, passing through the walls of San Gimignano, Volterra, and Lucca, Tuscany, nestled in the heart of the Italian peninsula, is a region that’s nothing short of enchanting. As the cradle of the Renaissance, it delights art and history enthusiasts while also satisfying cyclists with a penchant for gastronomic adventures. Exploring Tuscany by gravel bike is a journey of wonder and magic, flirting with its gentle, verdant hills and being mesmerised by the scents of its vineyards and olive groves. To ensure you don’t miss out on this splendid adventure awaiting you in Tuscany, here’s a list of must-see spots you absolutely shouldn’t miss! And, as we’re committed to making your trip as successful as possible, we’re also sharing some tips to help you prepare. Get your bike ready, plan your route, and set off to discover this stunning Italian region.

Why Choose Tuscany for Your Next Gravel Adventure?

It surely hasn’t escaped your notice that gravel biking is currently riding high! If this cycling trend is on the rise, it’s because it combines the joys of road biking with the playful character of mountain biking. Gravel bikes, designed for versatility, can handle both tarmac and unpaved trails with ease. And to be honest, we haven’t found a better way to chart new tourist routes and indulge in the thrill of exploration.

You see, gravel biking is the ideal choice if you want to discover Tuscany. Globally renowned for its rolling hills, sunflower fields, olive groves, endless vineyards, and cypress trees, this destination is among Europe’s most sought-after. With its breathtaking landscapes, unparalleled cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine, Tuscany offers everyone who visits a taste of eternity and a waking dream.

From its historic villages like San Gimignano, Pienza, and Montepulciano to its picturesque landscapes and culinary delights (think ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, or its famed wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino), your gravel adventure might very well take you straight to seventh heaven!

10 Must-Visit Spots to Discover Tuscany by Gravel Bike

Tuscany is packed with essential highlights that captivate with their beauty, history, and culture. Here’s a list of sites you definitely shouldn’t miss on your next gravel adventure.

• Florence

Let’s start at the very beginning: Florence! Renowned as a true open-air museum, the Tuscan capital majestically stretches along the banks of the Arno. While strolling its cobbled streets, don’t miss the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and its Duomo, from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. Discover Renaissance masterpieces housed in the Uffizi Gallery, including works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, and take a leisurely walk to see the famous Ponte Vecchio, lined with jewellers' shops. Florence, a symphony of light and shadow, is a true ode to beauty. Every corner, every stone, whispers tales of love, creation, and a quest for perfection.

• Siena

Siena, the city of gold and terracotta, nestles among Tuscany’s rolling hills. This medieval town, where time seems to have stood still, is best explored by wandering its winding streets where ancient stone and red brick blend with colourful shutters. But that’s not all; the majestic Piazza del Campo, fanned out like a shell, hosts traditional horse races each year, and the elegant Torre del Mangia offers a stunning view over the city’s rooftops and the surrounding countryside to those who dare to climb its steps. If you’re in Siena at dusk, prepare for a truly magical moment. The golden light of the setting sun gently envelops the city, and hues of gold and purple spread across the hills, giving them a postcard-perfect look.

• Pisa

Ah, the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa! This emblematic leaning tower is an obvious must-see if you’re discovering Tuscany. However, did you know that Pisa is also distinguished by its white marble cathedral, its Duomo, and the Baptistery of St. John (the largest in Italy)? Note that as night falls, Pisa’s monuments are bathed in a soft, mysterious light. The streets and squares come alive, cafés and trattorias fill with laughter and chatter, and the air is filled with delightful aromas that will surely excite all your senses after a long day of cycling.

• San Gimignano

This medieval village, known as “the town of beautiful towers” due to its many well-preserved towers, offers a true journey through time with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. The highlight? At sunset, take the time to explore its alleyways with a cornetto in hand, or enjoy the spectacular view from the top of its walls.

• Val d’Orcia

If you’re not yet familiar with the Val d’Orcia, do yourself a favour and look it up! You’ll see why this place is on our list of must-visits! Imagine vast rolling hills dressed in fields of wheat, cypress-lined roads winding through the landscape as if guiding you along. Picture the wind in your hair, a late afternoon sun gently teasing your nose, and a tasting of pecorino cheese, eyes squinting in the face of such beauty. Yes, Val d’Orcia is all of this, so don’t miss the chance to visit this little piece of paradise!

• Lucca

Lucca, a Tuscan city surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls, is a true treasure of history, art, and culture. Each stone, each street, and each church speaks of ancient history and offers a complete immersion in the charm and elegance of a fairy-tale Italy. Its Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, a unique oval square built on the remains of a Roman amphitheatre, and its imposing walls, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, encircle the city for four kilometres, creating a lovely promenade where you can admire the city and its surrounding hills. A little gem where it’s lovely to relax at a trattoria or café, enjoying a zappa di farro e fagiolo, the local specialty of bean and spelt soup.

• Elba Island

Off the coast of Tuscany, if there’s one gem you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it’s Elba Island! In the midst of the Tyrrhenian Sea, this island stands like a charming mole where rugged mountains meet sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Not only is Elba a true seaside paradise, but it’s also known for being the site of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile, adding a historical and almost symbolic character to its pristine landscapes. Thrills guaranteed!

• The Tuscan Wine Route

If you’re a connoisseur or simply a fan of fine wines, you probably know that Tuscany is also renowned for its prolific wine region. And what would a gravel adventure be without a few stops here and there to discover and taste some local specialties? The Chianti route (a world-famous appellation), running from Siena to Florence, traverses the Tuscan countryside, taking you from charming villages to vineyards. A delightful ride if, for you, a bike trip also means wine exploration.

• The Strade Bianche

The Strade Bianche, literally “white roads,” are a network of white gravel paths that are emblematic of Tuscany. This popular route starting from Siena winds through the hills, offering technical sections as well as, most importantly, spectacular views. Riding these white roads is also an opportunity to traverse sections of a legendary race that bears their name: the Strade Bianche.

• The Via Francigena

For those seeking an adventure that bridges the gap between road and gravel, the Via Francigena could be a fantastic option. This ancient pilgrimage route that crosses Tuscany from north to south offers a fully marked path combining gravel sections with stretches of paved roads. Trust us, if you want to experience Italy’s rhythm and take in its incredible beauty, the Via Francigena won’t disappoint!

Our top tips for Gravel riding around Tuscany.

Any gravel adventure needs a bit of preparation, so here’s a few top tips to help you plan your trip:

• Plan your route

Plan your routes and rides beforehand, taking into account how far and long you’d like to ride for (and your fitness!) and what you’d like to see en route. Don’t forget to check the weather beforehand and adjust your ride as needed. You could choose a fairly flat ride exploring the Empordà plain of head towards or even into the mountains for more of a challenge.

Here at GravelUp we have trips to suit all levels. Thanks to the local knowledge of our guides (who have all the appropriate qualifications and first-aid certificates of course) we tailor-make the best routes for you, to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure.

• Check your kit

As for any bike trip, your bike needs to be in perfect condition for the adventure that awaits. Treat it to a service and some TLC at your local bike shop, paying particular attention to the brakes and tyres. If you don't have a Gravel bike yet, we have both traditional and electric bikes available to rent from Origine, a French bike manufacturer. Our high end bikes combine comfort and performance to ensure you have a top-class experience.

• Take care of yourself

You’ll need to stay well fuelled and hydrated, not always easy in more isolated areas. Make sure you can carry enough water and snacks with you, and consider taking electrolytes to help stay hydrated. Don’t forget to have regular breaks to enjoy some local tapas too!

The weather in Catalonia can be very hot, so don't forget your high factor suncream and take a small bottle with you on your ride. Choose light, breathable clothing to help stay cool on the climbs.

• Ride safely

As with any bike trip, it's important to respect the local rules and protect the environment. Before you set off, inform yourself of any local trail, or other, restrictions - for example wild camping is generally illegal in Spain.

Most cyclists in Spain ride with a fixed or flashing rear red light, even when on the trails. Make sure you are as visible as possible, and respect the Spanish Highway Code.

Exploring tuscany by gravel bike: a tailor-made adventure from GravelUp

By choosing an adventure with GravelUp, you’ll be choosing to join a tailor-made bike trip organised and led by an uber professional team.

Our aim is to ensure that EVERYONE has a great time, from first time riders to the most converted gravel-lers. Whatever your level and experience, join us for a gravel bike trip to one of the top spots in France, or indeed Europe.

We take care of everything during your trip so that you can focus on the important things - exploring, pedalling, relaxing in our carefully chosen accommodations, and making the most of every moment, including delicious meals, local tastings and yoga.

All our trips are led by a qualified and passionate guide, and we have top of the range gravel bikes available for hire.

All that’s left to be done is choose where you’d like to go, we’ll take care of the rest!

→ Find out more about the Tuscany destination

→ Get in touch for a tailor made trip.