Tour Overview
Venice needs no introduction as one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in the world, but the hinterland of Venice, the Veneto, holds an immense amount of interest, and its gentle landscapes are easy to explore by bike. Cycling through the soft hills of Monti Berici and the green river banks of Adige, we discover many sides of Italy, passing ancient churches, farming communities and vineyards, travelling to many places that are virtually inaccessible to vehicles. There's stunning sea views, and beaches and lagoons for swimming. The cities are true delights, and a bike is the ideal way to explore their narrow streets. Vicenza was the home of the architect Palladio, and has the first covered theatre in Europe, while the Basilica of St Anthony and one of the oldest universities in Europe can be found in Padua. Returning to Venice provides a chance to relax in the highest and richest symbol of Venetian civilisation - Piazza San Marco.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1From Venice airport/station, make your own way to the hotel in Mestre or Marghera. After arrival a local representative will deliver hire bikes to your hotel. The next morning a short briefing will be held at the hotel reception.
Day 2
Cross the impressive Ponte della Liberta' (Freedom Bridge), which was built in 1933 as the link between Venice and the mainland. After a short ferry ride to Lido, we cycle to Chioggia via Pellestrina, enjoying wonderful sea views all the way. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of Sottomarina. This southernmost part of the Venice lagoon almost disappeared until the mole was built in the 1930s, which now helps reclaim land from the sea.
Day 3
Following the River Adige, we cycle on quiet roads through melon plantations, fertile fields and solitary villages to Rovigo. We spend the evening in this charming town of narrow alleyways and mediaeval buildings, which include a fine church and museum. The locals are also very friendly and most of their time is taken with lounging in the town's comfortable cafes.
Day 4
We start the day with a short train journey to Monselice and then continue by bike across the rolling hills of Euganese, to the little mediaeval village of Arqua Petrarca, named after its most famous inhabitant, the poet Petrarch. The final part of today's ride follows the beautiful Monti Berici, which were originally believed to protect Vicenza from harm. We spend the evening in Vicenza - the official home of Palladian architecture. Although the Romans were the first to settle here, Vicenza's city centre reflects the inspirational leadership of its most famous adopted son - Andrea Palladio.
Day 5
There is chance today to explore more of the enchanting streets of Vicenza, where the wealth of modern day Vincentines is very much on display with its quality textiles and gold jewellery. Corso Palladio is one of the most famous streets in the Veneto region, and all the famous Italian designers have shops there. Alternatively, you can take a short circular ride to Lago di Fimon and enjoy the beautiful hills of the Monti Berici.
Day 6
There is chance today to explore more of the enchanting streets of Vicenza, where the wealth of modern day Vincentines is very much on display with its quality textiles and gold jewellery. Corso Palladio is one of the most famous streets in the Veneto region, and all the famous Italian designers have shops there. Alternatively, you can take a short circular ride to Lago di Fimon and enjoy the beautiful hills of the Monti Berici.
Day 7
Many of the splendid Venetian villas can be seen on today's ride, including the immense Villa Pisani. Villa Pisani was built for one of the wealthy banking families of Venice. It was confiscated by Napoleon for the use of his family, and then became famous again when Mussolini and Hitler first met here. A gentle cycle then brings us back to Mestre with enough time to explore the fascinating lagoon of Venice. There is so much to see we can't begin to describe it all here, but a walk from the bus station to the Rialto and the Piazza San Marco, an exploration of the surroundings, and then a boat trip back along the Grand Canal would easily occupy most of the day. There is of course a wide range of cafes and restaurants to choose from, often in the most superb settings, should you feel you deserve some serious relaxation after the week's riding.
Day 8
End Mestre. The best day to explore Venice.
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