Self-guided bike tours
44 tours see all tours
IN BRIEF
Cycle at your own pace
Our self-guided tours are right up your alley if you are looking for the perfect mix of freedom and organisation. You choose when to start, when to stop, and how long to linger, while we take care of everything else. Hotels, luggage transport, route materials and assistance are all arranged before you arrive. All you need to do is get on the bike and enjoy the ride! Check out all our itineraries in Italy and Europe
To know
App, maps and detailed tour information
Before your trip, we send you everything you need to follow the route with confidence: a roadbook with stage-by-stage directions, detailed maps with points of interest and, in most of the tours, you can count on the free ‘Ride with GPS’ app and navigate the route from your smartphone, even offline. Most of our routes follow well-marked cycle paths and quiet roads, so navigation is straightforward. And if you ever need help on the road, our team is available seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
In the briefing materials, you will find all the practical details of your trip, such as how to get to the meeting point, a list of hotels and helpline numbers, and answers to any questions you may have.
Where do you want to ride?
Our self-guided tours cover some of the most beautiful cycling destinations in Italy and Europe. You can pedal through the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany, follow the Loire river past the châteaux of the Loire Valley, or explore the gentle plains and waterways of the Veneto. Whether you’re looking for a flat and easy route or something more challenging, there’s a self-guided itinerary for every type of cyclist. Check out all the destinations below and find your next adventure.
Activity
Bike tours (31 tours)
Cycle through some of the most beautiful routes in Italy and Europe, with hotels booked, luggage transported and everything organised from start to finish. You just pick your destination and start pedalling.
Bike and barge tours (13 tours)
Cycle by day and sleep on board a comfortable floating hotel that follows you stage by stage along rivers, canals and coastal routes. No repacking every night, no logistics to worry about, just riding and relaxing.
Themes
For families (4 tours)
You’ve got enough work on your hands already with little ones running around! We’ll happily take the planning off your plate by checking you in to family-friendly hotels with discounts for kids and teens, and an itinerary suitable for all ages. Discover our family tours.
FAQs
How does a self-guided bike tour with Girolibero work?
Our promise to those who travel with us is this: cycle easy, travel light. These words capture the essence of what we do. Choose your favourite cycling holiday and leave the rest to us: itinerary, handpicked accommodation, luggage transfer between stops and multilingual dedicated assistance. If you choose a self-guided cycling tour, you follow the stages at your own pace with route maps; if you join a group tour, just follow your guide.
What are the best destinations for a self-guided bike tour?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. For stunning scenery and cultural stops, Tuscany and the Veneto regions are hard to beat. If you prefer flat, easy cycling on well-marked paths, the Netherlands and the Danube Cycle Path are classic choices that never disappoint. All our destinations are handpicked for their routes, and most are suitable for cyclists of all levels.
How do I follow the route?
On self-guided bike tours, we provide everything you need to find your way: detailed maps and route descriptions, in printed or digital format depending on the trip. Some trips also include the Ride with GPS app, with GPS tracks and route content, available offline too. On guided group tours, your guide takes care of everything — you just follow along.
Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not at all. Our tours are designed for people who enjoy cycling, not competitive athletes. We have five difficulty levels, ranging from flat and easy routes (around 30 km/day) to more demanding rides with climbs. If hills worry you, renting an e-bike solves the problem. You can check the difficulty level on each trip page.
Can I rent a bike or should I bring my own?
You can rent the bike that suits you best — it will be ready and waiting at your starting point. You can choose between an e-bike and a standard bike and, if you’re travelling with family, there are plenty of accessories for children of all ages, from child seats to bike trailers. On some trips you can also bring your own bicycle. Check the trip page for full details on available bikes.
Do you provide e-bikes?
Yes, on almost all our trips you can rent an electric bike — a great help when the stages are hilly or when the heat kicks in. If you want to find out more before deciding, our blog has everything you need to know about e-bikes: how they work and why you might want to choose one.
Is a helmet required?
Wearing a helmet while cycling is not required by law. For your safety, we always recommend wearing one, so make sure to bring yours.
How does the luggage transfer work?
Every morning you leave your luggage at the reception desk and we take care of transporting it to your next accommodation. We will provide you with luggage labels and drop-off times. During the day, you can carry your essentials in the side bag provided with your rental bike. The service is always included in the price. Cycling light makes all the difference.
What kind of accommodation do you provide?
Accommodation varies depending on the trip. It can range from hotels and guesthouses to B&Bs and private rooms, or even boats if you choose a bike and barge tour. We handpick every property with care, favouring those conveniently located along the route. Breakfast is always included. For full details, check the “Comfort” section on the trip page.
What is included in the price?
Every bike tour includes: handpicked accommodation with breakfast, luggage transfer, route materials and multilingual assistance. Depending on the trip, you can add extra services to your quote, such as bike rental, meals, extra nights and transfers.
Can I choose my own departure date?
Yes, and that’s one of the best things about self-guided tours. You pick the date that suits you within the tour’s season (usually April to October). A few tours have restricted start days for logistical reasons, which is always flagged on the tour page.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend it. A good policy should cover medical expenses, trip cancellation and cycling-specific incidents. Travel insurance is not included in the tour price and must be arranged independently before your trip.
How can I book?
It is simple: select your trip, get your quote, and book directly online by filling in the required details and paying a deposit by credit card or bank transfer. Within 3 working days we will send you a confirmation email or an update. If you have any questions or doubts, get in touch. We are available by phone or email.
Assistance
We take pride in planning your trip carefully to prevent any mishaps, but if you need extra assistance, you can always fall back on our support numbers. We are available 7 days a week in case of emergencies, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
If you’d like to follow the route independently, we’ll send you off with detailed maps, roadbooks, and all the practical information you need, such as details on how to reach the starting point, and answers to other frequently asked questions.
Discover more
Girolibero cycling holidays
Holidays on cycle paths and the best cycle tourism routes in Italy and Europe, featuring accommodation in selected facilities, luggage transport services, informational materials, bike rentals, and dedicated assistance
Discover all bike toursTravelers’ tips and stories
Get inspired before your trip with advice and travel tales from fellow adventurers on our blog
Read the blogReceive our newsletter
Loving what you have read so far? Stay in the loop and get free travel tips, ideas, and news from us!
Yes, sign me up!