Bike and barge in Italy
3 tours see all tours
In brief
Venice lagoon, hidden waterways and the Po Delta
Sleep on board, enjoy traditional dishes and explore Italy in a unique way.
Girolibero’s bike and barge tours navigate the inland waterways of northern Italy, between the lakes of Mantua, the river Mincio and the Venetian Lagoon.
Two new tours go further: east along the Litoranea Veneta, the sheltered coastal canal that runs to the Gulf of Trieste, and island-hopping across the lagoon of Venice, beach to beach.
From April to October, our boats offer an itinerary with bike stages (and vice versa). In winter they are available to private groups on a tailor-made basis.
The story
In 2007 we bought an old boat in Amsterdam, the Vita Pugna, and after an adventurous journey around Europe by river and sea, we brought it to the shipyard in Mantua. A series of “sold-out” trips began in 2008, with guests from all over the world. Also navigating with the Vita Pugna since 2011 is the Ave Maria Italia, a 31-passenger eco-sustainable riverboat custom-built using the salvaged hull of a Po River dredge.
Navigation guaranteed
Our barges Ave Maria Italia, Ave Maria Portegrandi and Vita Pugna have been specifically designed to sail along uncrowded waterways parallel to the Po river, not on the Po itself. Dry spells happen more and more often in large rivers (Po, Rhine, Danube…). However, since 2011 we have never had a day’s stop due to drought: the “Fissero-Tartaro-Canalbianco” canal that runs parallel to the Po River is regulated by a system of 6+3 locks, which guarantees a constant level of water, thus enabling navigation all year round, all the time.
Dai un occhio ai viaggi con promo ancora attiva
To know
Fresh local food and fine wines
This is what makes Girolibero’s Bike and Barge holidays in Italy unique. Breakfasts, yummy afternoon snacks, and dinners are served on board, while the packed lunch is prepared by you using fresh ingredients.
Our on-board catering is uncomplicated yet subtle, based on local food traditions and seasonal ingredients, plentiful but healthy.
Your floating restaurant also offers a good range of local wines and excellent service. Our chefs boast plenty of experience and their dishes alone are worth the trip!
Tours
The waterways of Venice, from Mantua to Venice
A slow journey through art cities, like Mantua, Ferrara and Venice, and unusual villages with rhythms now forgotten. Explore by bike and boat the Po Valley until you reach the lagoon of Venice.
Venice Lagoon & hidden Veneto–Friuli Canals
A brand new bike and barge tour along the Litoranea veneta, the navigable waterways between the Venice lagoon and the Gulf of Trieste. You have the chance to visit this area in a gentle and sustainable way, in contact with nature, the colors of the lagoon, and the smell of the sea.
Venice and its islands, from beach to beach
A summer holiday by bike&boat between Venice and Treviso, discovering beaches, islands, and unexpected spots where time seems to slow down, like in Lio Piccolo. A different beach every day: between boat trips and bike rides, there is plenty of time to go for a swim and enjoy some relaxation on the long sandy shores!
Tailor-made bike and barge tours
From late March to early November, private groups can customize berths, and add onboard services and/or private transfers to UNESCO Sites and art cities. In the winter months, the boats can become convenient floating hotels for exploring the waterways of northern Italy. Contact us for information.
FAQ
How does a bike and barge tour in Italy with Girolibero work?
Our promise to those who travel with us is this: cycle easy, travel light. Our bike and barge tours in Italy are organized in detail. We take care of: itinerary, local crew, tour leader, food on board, and multilingual dedicated assistance. On this tour, you can also choose to cycle independently following the route maps. Read also An unexpected journey from Mantua to Venice by bike and barge
When is the best time for a bike and barge tour in Italy?
Our bike and barge tours in Italy run from March to October, and each season offers a different experience.
Spring is ideal for mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and quieter cycling routes. Summer brings long sunny days and lively local events, including Venice’s famous Festa del Redentore in July, when the lagoon comes alive with celebrations, illuminated boats, and spectacular fireworks. Autumn is perfect for enjoying warm weather, fewer crowds, and the colours and flavours of the harvest season. There is no wrong time to explore Italy by bike and barge!
Is the tour guided or self-guided?
Our bike and barge holiday in Italy can be either guided or self-guided. You can choose the option you prefer.
How does it work with meals?
Breakfast and dinner are served on board, while lunch is a packed lunch prepared with ingredients from the kitchen on board. Our chefs on board use fresh and local ingredients to prepare traditional recipes with care and passion.
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 directly on the barge. Check the trip page for full details on available bikes.
Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not at all. The itinerary between Mantua and Venice is easy and it takes place mainly on the Po River plains, on paved bike paths along rivers and canals, or on quiet country roads. We recommend it even to those who are looking for bike tours for beginners. But don’t worry — on days when you’d rather skip the ride, you can always stay on board.
Can I join as a solo traveller?
Sure. Solo travellers are welcome on bike and barge tours. A single cabin supplement applies, as cabins are normally priced for double occupancy.
Can I stay on board if one day I don't feel like cycling?
Of course! If you don’t feel like cycling one day, you’re welcome to stay on board and enjoy the cruise.
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 far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking as early as possible, as places on the barge are limited. Last-minute availability does occasionally come up, so it is always worth checking.
How can I book?
It is simple: 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.
The Girolibero barges
Our floating-hotels Vita Pugna and Ave Maria Italia brought the Bike and Barge formula to Italy in 2008: since then they have brought thousands of cyclists from all over the world to cities of art, small villages and natural areas in northern Italy.
Ave Maria Italia
- comfort Gold
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- air conditioning in the whole barge
- WiFi available in common areas
- 17 cabins
- 31 guests in low beds plus additional guests in bunk beds (on request)
Ave Maria Italia
- comfort Gold
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- air conditioning in the whole barge
- WiFi available in common areas
- 17 cabins
- 31 guests in low beds plus additional guests in bunk beds (on request)
Ave Maria Italia is a comfortable river cruise ship made in Italy, built with innovative solutions and where materials were chosen with aesthetics and comfort in mind. It is also a small barge capable of passing under low bridges and sailing on shallow water, typical of Italian waterways. The barge was custom-built using the salvaged hull of a Po River dredge.
All in strict compliance with new and stricter safety and eco-friendly standards.
Ave Maria Italia is an “environmentally sustainable” boat due to energy conservation on
board, purification of dark water, and navigation that does not damage the shores. View more details
Bike and barge tours
See all tours
Cabins
- 4 upper deck dbl/twin cabins 11 sq.m (D)
- 10 lower deck dbl/twin cabins 11 sq.m (B,C)
- 3 lower deck single cabins 7.5 sq.m (A)
- the two single beds can become a double bed and most of the double beds can be separated into two single beds
- possible additional bunk beds in some cabins
Features
- Comfortable low beds (2.00 m x 0.80 m)
- En-suite facilities
- Large windows
- Individually controlled air conditioning
- Safe deposit box
- Under the beds there is an empty space for luggage storage: H36cm x W112cm x D80cm
Common areas
- Cozy and bright restaurant hall with large panoramic windows
- Lounge area for relaxation with a wide selection of board games, books and travel guides, a 55” multimedia screen, and free WiFi
- Sundeck to enjoy sailing and outdoor dining
Vita Pugna
- comfort Silver
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- air conditioning in the whole barge
- sundeck
- WiFi available in common areas
- 10 cabins
- 21 guests in low beds
Vita Pugna
- comfort Silver
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- air conditioning in the whole barge
- WiFi in common areas
- 10 cabins
- 21 guests in low beds
After many years as cargo boat Vita Pugna has been totally renewed in the beginning of the 1990s in order to start her new life as floating hotel along the Dutch canals. After a famous long journey from Holland to Italy, this charming Dutch lady has been sailing with great success between Venice and Mantova since 2008. It is a small barge capable of passing under low bridges and navigating on shallow water, typical of Italian waterways. View more details
Bike and barge tours
See all tours
Cabins
Cozy and typical wooden furniture design.
10 cabins
- 9 lower deck twin cabins 7-8 sq.m (B)
- 1 lower deck twin/triple cabin 7-8 sq.m (C)
- one cabin can accommodate 3 people (3 low beds)
Features
- Comfortable low beds (1.90/2.00 m x 0.75/0.80 m)
- En-suite facilities
- Opening portholes
- Individually controlled air conditioning
- Safe deposit box
- Under at least one of the two beds there is an empty space for luggage storage: H40cm x W150cm x D75cm
Common areas
- Spacious air-conditioned restaurant and lounge bar area with free WiFi
- Sundeck to enjoy sailing
Ave Maria Portegrandi
- comfort Gold
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- air conditioning in the whole barge
- WiFi available in common areas
- 12 cabins
- 24 guests in low beds
Ave Maria Portegrandi
- comfort Gold
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- air conditioning in the whole barge
- WiFi available in common areas
- 12 cabins
- 24 guests in low beds
An elegant, latest-generation electric river barge, built in Italy and designed to navigate the little-used waterways between Mantua, Venice, and Grado. It combines technological innovation with environmental awareness: its 36 kWp photovoltaic panels and 340 kWh batteries make the use of a diesel generator almost unnecessary, promoting silent, low-emission navigation. View more details
Bike and barge tours
See all tours
Venice Lagoon & hidden Veneto–Friuli Canals
Venice and its islands, from beach to beach
Cabins
- 12 dbl/twin cabins 11 sq.m (B, C)
The cabins can be arranged with either a double bed or two separate beds.
Possible additional bunk beds in 4 cabins.
The cabins are luminous, spacious, and functional, thanks to the carefully designed furnishings.
Features
- Comfortable low beds (2.00 m x 0.80 m)
- Bathroom with shower, heated towel rail, and two sinks (one in the bathroom and one in the cabin)
- Large windows
- Individually controlled air conditioning
- Safe deposit box
- Ample space under the beds for the luggage: H36cm x W112cm x D80cm
Common areas
- Cozy and bright restaurant hall with large panoramic windows offering a 270° view
- Relaxation area with a coffee, cappuccino, and hot chocolate machine available any time of the day, a wide selection of board games, books, and travel guides, an 80″ multimedia screen, and free WiFi
- Sundeck to enjoy sailing and outdoor dining
Bikes
Assembled and serviced by our mechanics, Girolibero bikes are reliable and easy to ride. You can choose between touring bikes or e-bikes, just perfect if you don’t feel trained enough to spend multiple days on the saddle. Find out more about Girolibero bikes.
The renting of Girolibero bikes includes insurance against theft and irreparable damage.
Unisex touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- the only one suitable with children’s accessories
Unisex touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- the only one suitable with children’s accessories
Specifically assembled by our mechanics, our touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour. Furthermore, thanks to the step-through frame, getting on and off your bike is easier.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- repair kit (1 per room)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- lock
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Bosch unisex e-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Bosch unisex e-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Our e-bike is the right choice if you do not feel trained enough to spend more days on a saddle. You can easily adjust the assistance of the electric motor: from a mild pedaling support, to a more intense boost, which is especially useful on starts and uphill climbs. The battery charge covers an entire cycling stage, or even more if you don’t use it at full power all the time, and you can recharge it at the end of the day at the hotel .
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- frame lock
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- battery charger
- battery key
- repair kit
- lock
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Men's touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Men's touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Specifically assembled by our mechanics, our touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- repair kit (1 per room)
- lock
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Child bike 24"
- age: 8-10 years old
- body height: min 135-max 148 cm
- 24” wheel
- 7 speed
Child bike 24"
- age: 8-10 years old
- body height: min 135-max 148 cm
- 24” wheel
- 7 speed
Equipped with anti-puncture tires and comfort gel saddle.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- rear rack
Accessories included
- repair kit
Child bike 20’'
- age: 6-8 years old
- body height: min 120 cm -max 135 cm
- 20″ wheel
- 7 speed
Child bike 20’'
- age: 6-8 years old
- body height: min 120 cm -max 135 cm
- 20″ wheel
- 7 speed
Equipped with anti-puncture tires and comfort gel saddle.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- rear rack
Accessories included
- repair kit
Family tandem
- 1 adult + 1 child 6-8 years old
- 26” wheel
- 11 speed
Family tandem
- 1 adult + 1 child 6-8 years old
- 26” wheel
- 11 speed
Tandem to carry an adult and a 6-8 year-old child. The adult sitting in the back rides, while the child sits in the front and may not pedal.
Recommended for body height: adult min 155 cm and max 200 cm; child min 120 cm and max 135 cm.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12.5 l)
- lock
- repair kit
Pino hase bike
- 20/26” wheel
- 27 gears
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Pino hase bike
- 20/26” wheel
- 27 gears
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Two-person tandem: driver sits in back, passenger in front (and may not ride).
Thanks to the reclined front seating position, the passenger is more relaxed during cycling and communicates easily with the driver. Both riders enjoy panoramic views.
Recommended for body height: driver min 155 and max 195 cm; passenger min 130 and max 195 cm.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12.5 l)
- water bottle
- front map holder
- lock
- repair kit
Adult tandem
- 26” wheel
- 8 or 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Adult tandem
- 26” wheel
- 8 or 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Tandem for two adults: the driver sits in the front and both of them pedal.
Recommended for body height: min 155 and max 200 cm.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- front bag (7 l)
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12.5 l)
- lock
- repair kit
Child trailer
- Age: between 11 months and 4 years old
- weight: max 35 kg
- compatible only with unisex non-electric rental bike
Child trailer
- Age: between 11 months and 4 years old
- weight: max 35 kg
- compatible only with unisex non-electric rental bike
Appendix to be attached to the back of the adult bike. Complete with belts to secure the child, windproof semi-waterproof fabric cover, clear pvc window.
Recommended for carrying a child 11 months-4 years old, max 35 kg. Upon request, the “hammock” seat can be included to carry a baby younger than 11 months old. Can only be mounted on unisex touring bikes.
Rear seat
- age: 1-5 years old
- weight: max 22kg
- reclining backrest
- compatible only with unisex non-electric rental bike
Rear seat
- age: 1-5 years old
- weight: max 22kg
- reclining backrest
- compatible only with unisex non-electric rental bike
Accessory to be attached above the rear rack of the adult bike. The backrest reclines, which is useful when the child falls asleep.
Approved for a child 1-5 years old, maximum weight 22 kg. Can only be mounted on unisex touring bikes.
FollowMe tandem + 20" bike
- age: 6-8 years old
- height: min 120, max 135 cm
- weight: max 30kg
- includes hitch + baby bike 20″
- compatible only with unisex non-electric rental bike
FollowMe tandem + 20" bike
- age: 6-8 years old
- height: min 120, max 135 cm
- weight: max 30kg
- includes hitch + baby bike 20″
- compatible only with unisex non-electric rental bike
Accessory consisting of a hook (to attach to the back of the adult bike) and a 20″ child bike.
If the child wants to ride independently, the hook detaches from the toddler bike and folds onto the adult bike.
Recommended for carrying children 6-8 years old, min height 120 and max 135 cm, max weight 30 kg. Can only be mounted on unisex touring bikes for hire.
Tour guides
A crew of well-trained travel professionals will be awaiting you on board; like a well-oiled machine that feels almost like family. Our captain, chefs, and stewards are the first to get up in the morning and the last to go to bed at night, coordinating your daily activities. They’ll be happy to share a relaxing moment with you as well, and above all, they love to spoil their guests on board.
Riccardo Tamani
Filippo Bonafè
Sara Visentin
Alberto Reghellin
Assistance
Tour information
We’ll send you all the tour information before you set off on your adventure. It contains practical information, instructions on how to reach the starting point, a list of hotels, and answers to frequently asked questions. For our self-guided tours, we’ll also hand over detailed maps and roadbooks, in either physical or digital format, so you can follow the route on your own.
No need to worry about figuring out which turn to take if you opted for one of our group trips; in this case, your chaperone will gladly tell you where to go next!
Need help?
We plan your trip carefully to prevent any mishaps, but in case you need assistance, we’re available for support 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
175 reviews
Karen
Tami
Mary
Discover more
Onboard kitchen
Fresh ingredients and local recipes are prepared with care and passion in the onboard kitchen, so much so that by popular demand they entered a cookbook published in English and Italian.
Browse a preview of the cookbook
In the daytime by bike, in the evening on the boat
Holidays along rivers, canals and coastal routes, with cycling by day and overnight stays in a floating hotel that follows cyclists stage by stage
Discover all our bike and barge tours
One-week river cruises in the Venice lagoon
Explore the Venice Lagoon and hidden Veneto–Friuli Canals on intimate one-week cruises aboard our elegant and cozy boats Ave Maria Italia and Ave Maria Portegrandi, with daytime cruising and enchanting night moorings
Discover our boutique cruising hotels
Travelers’ tips and stories
A trip that everyone should do once in a lifetime: from Mantua to Venice by bike and barge. Forget crowded places and kilometer-long queues: here you sail on the water and get off the boat for easy pedaling that will take you to unusual places
An unexpected journey from Mantua to Venice
Receive 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!
