The 10 Most Beautiful Autumn Cycling Routes in Italy

Cycling among the Colors of Autumn

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons for cycling: mild temperatures, warmly colored landscapes, and fewer tourists on the trails. We've selected the 10 most spectacular cycling routes in Italy for you to enjoy this season.

1. Pusteria Valley Cycle Path (South Tyrol)

Distance: 105 km
Difficulty: Easy
Difference in altitude: Mostly flat

From San Candido to Brunico, this cycle path passes through breathtaking Alpine landscapes with the Dolomites as a backdrop. In autumn, the larches turn golden, creating a unique spectacle.

Highlights:

  • Lake Braies (recommended detour)
  • Medieval castles along the route
  • Excellent refuges for gastronomic breaks

Tip: Ideal route for families and beginners.

2. Mincio Cycle Path (Lombardy-Veneto)

Distance: 45 km
Difficulty: Easy
Difference in altitude: Flat

From Peschiera del Garda to Mantua, following the Mincio River through nature reserves and historic villages.

Highlights:

  • Borghetto sul Mincio, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy
  • Mincio Valleys Nature Reserve
  • Arrival in Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage city

Best time: September-October to avoid the fog.

3. Via Francigena in Tuscany

Distance: Various stretches from 30 to 60 km
Difficulty: Medium
Difference in altitude: Hilly

The Tuscan stretch of the Via Francigena offers postcard-perfect views of vineyards, cypress trees, and medieval villages.

Highlights:

  • San Gimignano and its towers
  • Chianti Hills
  • Wine and local product tastings

Tip: Perfect for cycle touring with overnight stays in villages.

4. Adige Cycle Path (Trentino)

Distance: 80 km (Merano-Trento section)
Difficulty: Easy
Difference in altitude: Slight descent

Along the Adige River, through apple orchards, vineyards, and castles. Autumn is the time for grape and apple picking.

Highlights:

  • Roncolo Castle in Bolzano
  • Apple orchards in full harvest
  • Lake Caldaro

Gastronomy: Stop at the wineries to taste local wines!

5. Po Delta Park (Emilia-Romagna-Veneto)

Distance: Various routes from 20 to 100 km
Difficulty: Easy
Difference in altitude: Flat

A paradise for birdwatching and pristine nature. Thousands of migratory birds arrive in autumn.

Highlights:

  • Comacchio and its canals
  • Natural oases
  • Deserted beaches out of season

Ideal for: Nature and photography lovers.

6. Alpe Adria Cycle Path (Friuli-Venezia Giulia)

Distance: 150 km (Italian section)
Difficulty: Medium
Difference in altitude: Varied

From Tarvisio to Grado, crossing the Alps, hills, and lagoon. A journey from the mountains to the sea.

Highlights:

  • Fusine Lakes
  • Cividale del Friuli (UNESCO)
  • Grado Lagoon

Recommended duration: 3-4 days with intermediate stops.

7. Valsugana Cycle Path (Trentino)

Distance: 80 km
Difficulty: Easy-Medium
Difference in altitude: Light

From Pergine to Bassano del Grappa, skirting alpine lakes and crossing beech and chestnut forests.

Highlights:

  • Lake Caldonazzo
  • Lake Levico
  • Arte Sella (open-air art museum)

Autumn Special: Spectacular foliage in the woods.

8. Cycle Route of the Sun - Emilian Section

Distance: 70 km (Bologna-Modena)
Difficulty: Easy
Difference in altitude: Flat

Through Italy's Food Valley, between cities of art and gastronomic traditions.

Highlights:

  • Bologna and its porticoes
  • Modena and the UNESCO Cathedral
  • Traditional vinegar factories

Don't miss: Gastronomic stops for tortellini and balsamic vinegar!

9. Lake Garda Cycle Path

Distance: 140 km (full tour)
Difficulty: Medium
Difference in altitude: Varied

A tour of Italy's most famous lake. Less crowded in autumn and with ideal temperatures.

Highlights:

  • Sirmione and the Grottoes of Catullus
  • Lemon on Garda
  • Riva del Garda

Tip: Divide it into 2-3 stages to enjoy each village.

10. Ancient Appian Way (Lazio)

Distance: 16 km (urban stretch)
Difficulty: Easy
Difference in altitude: Flat

The queen of Roman roads, nestled between millennia of history and nature. Perfect for a day out of Rome.

Highlights:

  • Catacombs of San Callisto
  • Villa of the Quintili
  • Aqueduct Park

Best time: October-November to avoid the summer heat.

Practical Tips for Cycling in Autumn

Clothing:

  • Dress in layers (varying temperatures)
  • Waterproof windproof jacket
  • Lightweight gloves for cool mornings
  • Glasses to protect from wind and leaves

Equipment:

  • Front and rear lights (shorter days)
  • Mudguards (roads may be wet)
  • Repair kit

Planning:

  • Check opening hours (some services close out of season)
  • Book accommodations in small villages in advance
  • Always carry water and energy snacks

Conclusion: Autumn is the Perfect Season

These 10 routes offer the best of Italian autumn cycling: breathtaking scenery, ideal temperatures, and fewer crowds. Whether you prefer mountains, lakes, the sea, or hills, there's a perfect itinerary for you!

Need to prepare your bike for an adventure? Stop by for a complete check-up , gear recommendations, and everything you need for your bike trip. Happy riding! 🚴♂️🍂