Venice to Bologna

A Culinary Odyssey along Coastal Lagoons and Fertile Farmlands

Highlights

Unparalleled cycling along Venetian lagoons
Tranquil riding on the level terrain of the Po River Delta reserve
Views of the renowned Byzantine mosaics at the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe
Walking tour of Venezia, Ferrara and Ravenna with a local guide
Strolls through lively fruit and vegetable markets
Experience the rich flavors of authentic aceto balsamico (balsamic vinegar) and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Stays in a well-known spa resort at the end of the tour

Medieval Venice. Renaissance Ferrara. And Ravenna, light of the Dark Ages. Link them together with ventures into the simple countryside and you've got irresistible getaway through the heart of northern Italy. Flavored with hearty local food and wine, it's the perfect introduction to cycle touring - and the pleasures of Italy.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Venice
After a warm-up spin along the Lido, we'll wind through Venice's famous waterways. Following dinner, enjoy a late night stroll on the Piazza San Marco.

Day 2 – Chioggia
Bike and ferry through the Veneto region to Chioggia, known as "the little Venice" with its canals, small bridges and colorful market.

Day 3-4 – Ferrara
Trace the Po along a new bike path to Ferrara, a well-preserved Renaissance town. Bicycles are the preferred mode of transport here, as its streets are closed to car traffic! Day 4, enjoy a tranquil morning loop around the surrounding fields and canals, a walking tour of Ferrara’s historic center and a tasting at the world’s oldest winery!

Day 5-6 – Ravenna
Roll through a pastoral countryside of orchards and fruit trees to Ravenna—a prominent political center during the Dark Ages. We'll stop along the way for a tasty Ciclismo Classico picnic! On Day 6’s walking tour of the city, admire the famous mosaics in the Church of San Vitale, the covered market, the leaning towers, and Dante’s tomb. We’ll also view the sparkling mosaics at Sant’Apollinare in Classe.

Day 7-8 – Castrocaro Terme
Spin through endless fruit orchards of the Emilia-Romagna region to Castrocaro Terme, a charming spa village. Day 8, enjoy a ride through rolling hills to Faenza, a town noted for its fine ceramics. Here, we'll visit a ceramic laboratory and artisans will show us how they decorate the finest potteries in the world. After we ride back to Castrocaro, take the afternoon to relax.

Day 9 – Arrivederci!
Shuttle to Bologna for an educational walking tour before saying arrivederci! If you would like to continue traveling through Italy or beyond, we are happy to assist you with plans!

Picture Slideshow

Venice to Bologna

Upcoming Dates

~~Jun 2, 2008~~ (Sold Out)
Jun 15, 2008
Sep 7, 2008
Sep 19, 2008
Oct 12, 2008

Accommodations

Premier

Ability

Beginner

Terrain

Flat

Distance

245 miles
Daily average: 33 miles

Arriving

Venice

Departing

Castrocaro Terme or Bologna

Price

$4,195 - 6/15
$4,295 - 9/7, 9/19, 10/12

Single Supplement

$550 - 2007
$700 - 2008

Bike Rental

Included!