Pisa to Florence bike tours: what you need to know about this classic Tuscany bike trip

Part 1: An overview of the Pisa to Florence route

The Pisa to Florence cycling route offers a relaxed point-to-point journey through Tuscany, one of Italy’s most beautiful regions. It links two magnificent cities via a scenic mix of riverside paths, rolling countryside, and gorgeous Tuscan towns.

Surfaces

The entire route follows low-traffic secondary roads and quiet trails. Around 85% of the route is paved and 15% is unpaved. These off-road sections are mainly found on gentle riverside towpaths.

Terrain

The first and last stages of the tour are relatively flat, as they follow river paths. This results in minimal elevation changes along the Serchio River between Pisa and Lucca, and the Arno River between Florence and Pisa.

However, the stages from Lucca to Montecatini and around Montecatini are more undulating and feature more elevation gain due to mixed terrain. This area includes the Fucecchio Nature Reserve on one side and the hills leading to Collodi and Vinci on the other.

Optional rides and train shortcuts in major cities are also available to adjust distances and difficulty. Find out more below.

Signposting

Be aware! There are no specific signposts along this route.

However, Girolibero provides cyclists who book with them access to navigation through the Ride with GPS app. This includes a roadbook, points of interest, and GPS tracks. Usefully, it can also be accessed offline!

Who is this tour suitable for?

This tour is ideal for regular cyclists in good physical condition. You do not need to be a seasoned rider. But you should feel comfortable cycling for a few hours at a steady pace.

Find out more about how challenging the riding is below.

History

While Tuscany’s Chianti and Via Francigena routes have long been known for cycling, the Pisa to Florence corridor only gained attention around 20 years ago. Its easier terrain and excellent airport access have made it a great option for cyclists wanting a more relaxed tour in this popular Italian region.

Girolibero created this route to offer something unique: a blend of famous art cities and lesser-known gems like Pistoia, Collodi and Vinci. Find out more about these places below.

Today, similar routes are common in the cycling travel market, a testament to the region’s appeal and growing popularity!

Is it a popular route?

The Pisa to Florence route has grown in popularity over the last two decades and now features in several tours we, and other travel operators offer.

Its approachable terrain, cultural richness and good travel connections make it a favourite among cyclists of all levels.

Route options

Girolibero offer several different Pisa to Florence bike tour variations for cyclists to consider, this includes:

• Pisa-Florence-Pisa loop (8 days): 290 kilometres
• Pisa-Florence (5 days): 155 kilometres 
• Grand Tour of Tuscany, from Pisa to Siena (5 days): 145 kilometres 
• Grand Tour of Tuscany Pisa-Siena-Florence 7 days: 235 kilometres 

This article focuses on Girolibero’s 8 day Pisa-Florence-Pisa loop.

Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Considering a Tuscany cycle tour?

Girolibero have run cycling holidays in Tuscany since 2009. This includes popular Pisa to Florence bike tours, offering multiple options and durations to suit a range of cycling abilities.

Interested? Head to the Girolibero website for full details.

Part 2: Why is cycling Pisa to Florence a must-do?

Tuscany on two wheels

Tuscany is one of the most iconic cycling destinations in Europe, and for good reason!

This legendary landscape is endlessly scenic, with rolling hills, cypress-lined lanes, vineyards and olive groves stretching to the horizon.

But it is not just about the views.

Tuscany’s rich cycling heritage, quiet country roads, and beautiful, historic towns make it a joy to explore by bike!

Renowned landmarks and lesser-known gems

The Pisa to Florence route connects two of Italy’s most celebrated cities.

In Pisa, you can marvel at the Leaning Tower and medieval architecture. In Florence’s UNESCO historic centre, you can immerse yourself in Renaissance masterpieces and the grandeur of the Duomo, one of the largest churches in the world.

Between them, the route also guides you through delightful lesser-known towns offering its own slice of Tuscan charm and unique history.

Some noteworthy pit stops include:

• Lucca: Encircled by Renaissance walls, the city of Lucca charms with leafy ramparts, Roman history, cobbled streets, and lively piazzas.
• Montecatini Terme: A refined spa town with elegant Art Nouveau architecture, Montecatini Terme invites relaxation. Visit historic thermal baths, stroll manicured parks, or take the funicular to Montecatini Alto for panoramic views.
• Pistoia: Less touristy than nearby cities, Pistoia offers medieval charm, bustling markets, and impressive churches. Its authentic Tuscan feel, compact layout, and cultural events make it a rewarding stop for cyclists.
• Vinci: A peaceful hilltop town surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Vinci is the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. You can visit the Leonardo Museum and enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
• Collodi: Famous as the childhood home of Pinocchio’s author, Collodi features the whimsical Pinocchio Park and the stunning Villa Garzoni gardens. Its cobbled lanes and fairytale charm provide a memorable pit stop.

Delicious Tuscan flavours

This tour is as much a culinary journey as a cycling one.

You’ll have plenty of opportunities to fuel up on hearty local dishes like pappa al pomodoro (traditional Tuscan soup made with tomatoes), ribollita (Tuscan bread stew) and wild boar ragù (a meaty pasta dish).

Local wines are a highlight too! Think Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile and the world-renowned Chianti. Salute! (cheers!)

Find out more about what food and drink you can expect below.

Part 3: Your Pisa to Florence bike tour itinerary

The map below highlights some of the key places mentioned in this article. Hover over the map pins to see the names of places.

As mentioned earlier, Girolibero offer a number of Pisa to Florence bike tours. Find out more about these here.

Below is a breakdown of their popular 8-day itinerary from Pisa to Florence and back to Pisa. There are several options to shorten days by using trains, as well as the option for a rest day in Florence. This provides a flexible tour that caters to a range of cycling abilities.

Day 1: Arrival in Pisa

Start your journey in Pisa, home of the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Leaning Tower. Wander the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli and soak in the vibrant university-town atmosphere.

Day 2 : Pisa to Lucca

Key statistics

25 or 45 kilometres

130 metres of elevation gain (standard) or +325 metres of elevation gain (via Lake Massaciuccoli)

Overview

Pedal through the peaceful Pisan countryside along the Serchio River. You can opt for a flat and easy ride, or take on a scenic detour past Monti Pisani and Lake Massaciuccoli.

The day ends with you cycling in Lucca, your chance to explore its Renaissance walls and cobbled streets.

Day 3: Lucca to Montecatini

Key statistics

45 kilometres
460 metres of elevation gain

Overview

You climb gently into the hills, passing through Collodi, birthplace of Pinocchio, and the elegant Villa Garzoni and its gorgeous garden.

Continue to Pescia, known for its flower market and historic churches, before arriving in Montecatini, one of Europe’s most famous spa towns.

Day 4: Montecatini loop day tour or rest day

Key statistics

60 kilometres
530 metres of elevation gain

Overview

Choose to relax in the thermal waters or explore by bike.

Ride through the countryside to Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace, passing olive groves, vineyards and noble villas. Or take the funicular to Montecatini Alto for panoramic views.

Day 5: Montecatini to Florence (via Pistoia optional)

Key statistics

50 or 65 kilometres
540 metres of elevation gain

Overview

Start cycling from Montecatini or take a train to Pistoia, an underrated destination in Tuscany with Romanesque churches and one of Italy’s finest piazzas. From there, ride into Florence, the jewel of the Renaissance.

Day 6: Florence (free day or optional ride)

Key statistics

10 kilometres (optional loop)
190 metres of elevation gain

Overview

Spend the day exploring Florence’s countless cultural treasures! The Duomo, Uffizi, and Ponte Vecchio are all worth exploring. Or you can take a short Florence cycling loop ride past elegant villas, Romanesque churches and peaceful Tuscan hills.

Find out more useful information about visiting Florence’s famous sites below.

Day 7: Florence to Pisa (via Empoli)

Key statistics

40 or 65 kilometres
360 metres of elevation gain

Overview

Depending on which version of the tour you choose, you may (or may not) take the train to Empoli. You then continue riding to Pisa on a scenic, mostly flat route along the Arno River. You will experience a rewarding final ride through riverside landscapes, countryside and villages.

Day 8: Departure from Pisa

Enjoy a final breakfast in Pisa before departing, with unforgettable memories and plenty of photos to take home.

Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Considering a Tuscany cycle tour?

Girolibero have run cycling holidays in Tuscany since 2009. This includes popular Pisa to Florence bike tours, offering multiple options and durations to suit a range of cycling abilities.

Interested? Head to the Girolibero website for full details.

Part 4: Planning for Pisa to Florence bike tours

Practicalities of cycling holidays in Tuscany

When is the best time to ride from Pisa to Florence?

Tuscany enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny days through spring, summer and early autumn. Expect average daytime temperatures of 15–25°C in spring and autumn, and 25–30°C in summer.

Be aware! Rain is rare in summer but more likely in April and October. Winter weather can also be unpredictable in Tuscany, with cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours. The official season (April to October) is chosen for the best riding conditions and local experiences.

Girolibero operate Pisa to Florence bike tours weekly from April to October, and each season offers something unique:

• Spring (April–June): Fresh green landscapes, wildflowers, and mild weather – ideal for riding.
• Summer (July–August): Hot and dry, with long days. Best suited to early starts and relaxed afternoon breaks.
• Autumn (September–October): Warm colours, wine harvests, and cooler cycling temperatures.

Top tip! September is often the busiest month, as it combines ideal weather with harvest season appeal. Cities like Florence and Pisa can be crowded in peak tourist periods. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider April, early May or late October.

How challenging is riding Pisa to Florence?

We have graded our Pisa to Florence cycling tour as medium-easy. As mentioned previously, most of the route is flat, following river paths and quiet back roads, with occasional hilly sections that do not require advanced fitness or technical skills.

Be aware! There are short stretches of unpaved road, but nothing too demanding. On some days, you also have the option to shorten the ride with a train transfer or to skip hillier segments.

For those looking for something a little more challenging, we suggest looking at a Girolibero tour in the Chianti region.

Is this a family-friendly cycling route?

We do not typically recommend our tour for families with young children, due to the daily distances and occasional hills. Older children or teenagers who are experienced cyclists may find it manageable, particularly with the route adjustments offered.

What kind of training is helpful?

We always suggest doing a few longer rides in the weeks before your trip, ideally on similar terrain and distances. This will help build your confidence and stamina so you can enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Where do you stay on the Pisa to Florence bike tour?

There are plenty of options for cyclists to consider in this part of Tuscany, including B&Bs and hotels.

If you travel with Girolibero, all hotels on the Pisa to Florence bike tour are bike-friendly. You can expect dedicated bike storage, breakfasts tailored for active guests, and charging facilities for e-bikes. Each hotel is selected not only for comfort and quality, but also for its convenient location and understanding of cyclists’ needs.

We offer two levels of accommodation, designed to suit different preferences and budgets while maintaining comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

• The Gold category features a selection of carefully chosen 3- and 4-star hotels. These hotels often include elegant interiors, central locations, and a few added comforts to enhance your stay. Ideal if you enjoy a little extra style after a day’s ride.
• The Silver category includes well-rated 3-star hotels, plus a welcoming 2-star family-run hotel in Lucca and a cosy bed and breakfast. These properties offer authentic hospitality and a relaxed, informal atmosphere; this makes them perfect for travellers who value simplicity and charm.

To make your journey even easier, Girolibero also provides detailed directions and GPX tracks in their tour app. This means you can find your accommodation each night without stress, especially useful in busy cities like Florence or Pisa.

What’s the best bike for your Pisa to Florence bike tour?

Touring bikes 

For the Pisa to Florence tour, our guests typically ride touring bikes. These are perfect for comfortable riding both on road and on the unpaved sections.

Most riders opt for e-bikes, especially during warmer months or to make the hillier sections more manageable.

There’s more info on our bike fleet below.

Road and gravel bikes

While the tour is not designed specifically for road bikes, experienced cyclists could complete it on one. However, they should be aware of short unpaved sections. A gravel bike would also be a good choice if you prefer that kind of set up to a touring bike.

Can you cycle from Pisa to Florence without support?

Yes, it is possible to cycle the Pisa to Florence route without support. However, be aware that there is no dedicated route signposting, which can make navigation more challenging, especially in rural areas or towns.

That’s where Girolibero’s support makes all the difference. Our tour package includes GPS navigation via a custom app, luggage transfers, comfortable hotels with breakfast, and on-site assistance throughout the trip. This means you can enjoy the ride with confidence, knowing all the logistics are taken care of and you have clear directions every step of the way.

How do you get to Pisa and Florence?

Both Pisa and Florence are easy to reach by air and rail. This makes them convenient start and end points for your cycling tour.

Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei) is just a few minutes from the city centre. From the airport, the PisaMover shuttle connects directly to Pisa Centrale train station in under 10 minutes. This makes transfers smooth, whether you’re arriving or departing.

Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci) is located just northwest of the city. From here, the GEST tram takes you straight to Santa Maria Novella train station in approximately 20 minutes. From the station, it’s easy to catch a direct train to Pisa or other destinations across Italy.

If you’re travelling by train from elsewhere in the country, both Pisa and Florence are on major railway lines and are well connected to cities like Rome, Milan, and Venice. This makes them ideal hubs for starting or ending your Tuscany cycling adventure.

How do you travel between Pisa and Florence by train?

Pisa and Florence are well connected by regular, direct regional trains.

From Pisa Airport, the PisaMover shuttle takes you to Pisa Centrale train station in just a few minutes. In Florence, the GEST tram links the airport to the city’s main train station, Alemanni – Santa Maria Novella, in approximately 20 minutes. From there, you can take a regional train to Pisa; the journey takes around an hour.

On Girolibero’s bike tour, guests only use the train to return to Pisa from Florence at the end of the trip.

Can you take bikes on public transport?

For the regional trains used to shorten certain cycling stages on Girolibero’s bike tours, bikes are permitted. This gives you the flexibility to skip hillier sections or reduce daily distances if needed, a helpful option built into Girolibero’s Pisa to Florence bike tour.

Tips for making the most of your Tuscany bike trip

Is mechanical assistance available during the tour?

Cyclists can typically find bike shops in the larger cities between Pisa to Florence. But beware that these services may be limited in the smaller towns and more rural locations along the way.

Girolibero provides on-the-ground support throughout the trip. If you experience a mechanical issue, our local colleague is available to assist you.

What kit gear should you bring?

As well as lightweight, breathable cycling clothing and waterproofs, it’s a good idea to carry a power bank, water bottle, sun protection, and a few energy snacks.

A handlebar mobile phone holder is also useful for using the GPS app.

A swimming costume is also worth packing if you plan to visit the thermal baths in Montecatini Terme.

For more useful packing information, don’t miss this helpful guide.  

Are there places to eat and refill water along the route?

You’ll pass through many villages and towns with bars, cafés, restaurants and shops where you can find food and water.

What food should cyclists try?

One of the highlights of cycling through Tuscany is the chance to experience its rich and varied food culture.

The region is known for its simple, seasonal and hearty cuisine, with recipes often passed down through generations. Along the route, you’ll encounter everything from rustic street food to elegant regional specialities, each deeply rooted in local tradition.

Tuscan cuisine is typically based on a few high-quality ingredients: Tuscan bread (unsalted and crusty), extra virgin olive oil, beans, local meats and seasonal vegetables.

While menus vary by town and time of year, here are some dishes to look out for:

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick-cut T-bone steak, grilled over wood or charcoal and typically served very rare. It’s a must-try in Florence and usually shared due to its size (often 1.5 kg or more). The best cuts come from Chianina or Maremmana cattle.
• Ribollita: A filling soup made with bread, beans and seasonal vegetables like cavolo nero (black cabbage). Its name means “reboiled”, referring to its origins as a dish made from leftovers.
• Fagioli all’uccelletto: Cannellini beans stewed with tomatoes, garlic and sage. It’s a staple side dish often paired with grilled meats.
• Lampredotto: A traditional Florentine street food made from the fourth stomach of the cow, slow-cooked and served in a crusty bun. You’ll find it at street stalls (trippai) throughout Florence.
• Tordelli Lucchese: A meat-filled pasta, similar to ravioli, typically served with a rich ragù. This is a Lucca speciality and not to be missed.
• Matuffi: A soft polenta dish topped with mushrooms, cheese and meat sauce. Warming and comforting, especially in cooler months.
• Farinata Lucchese: A dense, flavourful dish made from maize flour, beans, cabbage and tomatoes – hearty and satisfying after a day on the bike.
• Torta co’ bischeri: A rich tart filled with rice, chocolate, pine nuts, raisins and candied fruit. Found around Pontasserchio, it’s traditionally baked for religious festivals.
• Torta co’ becchi: Lucca’s version of the tart, often sweet but also available in savoury varieties with seasonal greens and herbs.
• Castagnaccio: A rustic chestnut flour cake with pine nuts, raisins and rosemary – naturally gluten-free and very traditional.
• Buccellato: A sweet bread flavoured with aniseed and raisins, typically from Lucca and often enjoyed with a glass of local wine.

What wines are produced in the area?

Tuscany is home to some of Italy’s most celebrated wines. As you cycle through the region, you’ll see vineyards everywhere and many offer tastings:

• Chianti: Classic red wine with fruity, earthy flavours, perfect with grilled meats and pasta.
• Brunello di Montalcino: A fuller-bodied red, excellent with steaks or aged cheeses.
• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano: Elegant and smooth, great for special meals.

Do I need to carry cash?

Most shops, cafés and restaurants accept cards. But it’s a good idea to have some cash(euros) on hand for smaller purchases, especially in rural areas.

Should you book tickets to Tuscany’s famous sights in advance?

No Florence cycle tour is complete without a visit to some of its main attractions!

But beware! Florence’s top cultural attractions, such as the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery (home to Michelangelo’s David), and Duomo complex, are incredibly popular and often have long queues. Booking your tickets in advance saves time and guarantees entry, especially in peak months like May to September. Girolibero doesn’t book these for you in advance, so if you want to visit one, make sure you plan ahead!

Do I need to speak Italian?

You do not need to speak Italian, but a few words can go a long way and can really enhance your experience. Locals usually appreciate the effort too!

Here are some helpful words and phrases to get you started:

• Buongiorno: Good morning
• Buonasera: Good evening
• Per favore: Please
• Grazie: Thank you
• Prego: You’re welcome
• Mi scusi: Excuse me
• Parla inglese?: Do you speak English?
• Il conto, per favore: The bill, please

Highway code and travel information

As ever, it’s a good idea to check current travel information before you book and travel. For UK visitors, the UK government travel information pages for Italy are here.

You should also read and follow Italy’s highway code.

Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Considering a Tuscany cycle tour?

Girolibero have run cycling holidays in Tuscany since 2009. This includes popular Pisa to Florence bike tours, offering multiple options and durations to suit a range of cycling abilities.

Interested? Head to the Girolibero website for full details.

Part 5: What does Girolibero offer?

We offer a well-organised, scenic and hassle-free way to explore Tuscany by bike. You’re in safe hands with Girolibero! This is a team that lives and breathes cycling – and has been running bike holidays in Tuscany since 2009.

What’s included

• Comfortable accommodation with breakfast
• Luggage transfer between hotels
• Ride with GPS app with maps, roadbook, and GPS tracks
• Points of interest for each stage
• On-site assistance and 7-day phone support
• Rental bikes (optional) with theft/damage insurance
• Multilingual content (available in English, German, Italian, Dutch, and French)

A trusted route with local support

The Pisa to Florence tour is one of our longest-running and most popular routes. Over the past 16 years, the itinerary has been fine-tuned to offer a perfect mix of iconic cities and peaceful countryside.

A dedicated local colleague based in Pisa ensures the route is checked regularly, at least once a year (or whenever a guest informs us of an issue along the way!). He updates navigation details in the app, delivers and maintains the bikes, manages luggage transfers, and is on-hand to assist with any issues that might arise.

Experienced team

Our team includes route designers and accommodation bookers to mechanics and customer support. This means you’re backed by a network of professionals who love cycling as much as you do.

Multilingual customer care

Need help? The customer care team speaks English, German, Spanish and French and can assist by phone, email or chat.

International expertise

Girolibero has headquarters in Vicenza and additional bases across Italy and France. This means we are one of Europe’s most experienced cycle tour specialists.

Find out more information about Girolibero’s expert team here.

Bike hire

If you come on a tour with us, you can choose from unisex touring bikes, men’s touring bikes or e-bikes, all branded and maintained by Girolibero. Each rental includes insurance against theft and irreparable damage, offering peace of mind as you ride through Tuscany.

Pisa is our main operating base in the region. Here we have a fleet of over 150 bikes prepared for the cycling season. A dedicated on-site colleague is available from late March to early October, to deliver bikes, manage luggage transfers, and assist you along the route should you need support.

All our hire bikes are also delivered directly to your starting hotel and collected at the end of the tour. This ensures a seamless experience for cyclists, from beginning to end.

These bikes are fitted with efficient batteries that can be recharged overnight at your hotel. For best performance, it’s best to use the e-bike in eco mode. This helps preserve the battery over the full day’s ride.

What Tuscany tours do you offer?

Girolibero offers several tours in Tuscany to suit different travel styles and timeframes. Cyclists can choose from:

• Pisa–Florence loop (8 days) 
• Pisa–Florence (5 days) 
• Grand Tour of Tuscany: Pisa to Siena (5 days) 
• Grand Tour of Tuscany: Pisa–Siena–Florence (7 days) 

Where can cyclists find out more about your services?

Head to Girolibero’s website for full details about their Florence to Pisa bike tours, including availability and how to book.

What’s next?

A huge thanks to Sandra for these detailed Pisa to Florence bike tour insights! We think this sounds like some of the best cycling in Tuscany!

Have you cycled from Pisa to Florence before? Perhaps you have tried a Tuscany bike tour or enjoyed cycling in Florence? We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for more cycling tours in Tuscany, or Italy cycling inspiration? Don’t miss these:

• Guide to cycling Tuscany, for more Tuscany bike rides and tips
• Best bike hotels in Tuscany, to find your ultimate cycling hotel in Tuscany
• Guide to the Via Francigena, for more cycling routes in Tuscany
• Best cycling tours in Italy, for our pick of the best tour operators
• Guide to Friuli Venezia Giulia, for an underrated Italian region
• Guide to Puglia cycle tours, for more historic wonders in Italy
• Guide to cycling in Italy, for an overview of what to expect