A Taste of Italy: Emilia-Romagna

★★★★★★4.2/5 (13)
7 nights
32 miles/day
Self guided from EUR € 1285
Bike tour in Italy
Rider Level: Recreational Electric bike tours
Book this tour
Ask a tour advisor

A Taste of Italy: Emilia-Romagna

★★★★★★4.2/5 (13)

Rider Level: Recreational Electric bike tours

7 nights
32 miles/day
Self guided from EUR € 1285
Bike tour in Italy

Book this tour
Ask a tour advisor
Why book with us?

Tap above to jump to different sections of this tour

  • A Taste of Italy

    On this best-selling bicycle tour, you'll ride through Italy's premier pasta region. Every meal will include extraordinary local dishes made according to tradition, and every day of pedaling will not only take you on behind-the-scenes visits to parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar makers, but also to ancient castles and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here, history, art, culture, and tradition conspire to make this tour unforgettable!

    Note: This tour starts on Sundays. Other start days may be possible with a surcharge. If you start this tour on a day other than Sunday, some of the optional services may not be available due to businesses being closed.

    There is also a shorter version available (4-night/5-day). Please inquire for more details.

    A support van with a driver is available as an option. Please inquire for more details.

    • Lambrusco wines originate from Emilia-Romagna's wine zones. Ricardo Bernardo@Flickr
    • Modena grapes in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Sefano Zocca@Unsplash
    • Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Petr Slovacek@Unsplash
    • Cycling the province of Emilia-Romagna, Italy!
    • <i>Tagliatelle al ragù bolognese</i> is the local dish in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Pug Girl@Flickr
    • Palazzo del Governatore, Parma, Italy, CC:Pjt56
    • Wine tastings! Zan@Unsplash
    • Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr

    View more photos

    Highlights

    • Balsamic vinegar cellar
    • Famous Parma cured ham
    • Parmesan cheese
    • Bologna and mortadella
    • Castle of Torrechiara
    • Modena
    • Gelato Museum and tasting

    Learn More

    Learn about our self-guided tours or see more bike tours in Italy.

  • CC-BY-2.0 - Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Josh Petersen@Flickr' data-type='image'> Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Josh Petersen@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Palazzo del Governatore, Parma, Italy, CC:Pjt56' data-type='image'> Palazzo del Governatore, Parma, Italy, CC:Pjt56
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr' data-type='image'> Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr
    CC-BY-2.0 - Parma Cathedral, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Richard Mortel@Flickr' data-type='image'> Parma Cathedral, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Richard Mortel@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr' data-type='image'> Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Parmigiano Reggiano tastings with Modena vinegars in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. CC:Sputnikcccp' data-type='image'> Parmigiano Reggiano tastings with Modena vinegars in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. CC:Sputnikcccp
    CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Castello di Torrechiara near Parma, Italy. CC:Mdntb' data-type='image'> Castello di Torrechiara near Parma, Italy. CC:Mdntb
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Great churches in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr' data-type='image'> Great churches in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Desserts in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr' data-type='image'> Desserts in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr
    CC-BY-SA-2.0 - Cheese tastings in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr' data-type='image'> Cheese tastings in Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Kent Wang@Flickr
    CC-BY-2.0 - Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. German Poo-Caamano@Flickr' data-type='image'> Modena, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. German Poo-Caamano@Flickr
    CC-BY-2.0 - Parma Cathedral, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Richard Mortel@Flickr' data-type='image'> Parma Cathedral, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. Richard Mortel@Flickr

    Traveler photos

    • the central square in Parma (photo by TomS)
    • the first stage of Parmesan cheesemaking (photo by TomS)
    • at the Parmesan cheese factory (photo by TomS)
    • our hosts at the traditional balsamic vinegar producers (photo by TomS)
    • True Parmesan Cheese (photo by DeniseCS)
    • Castello Torrechiara (photo by DeniseCS)
    • The Beautiful Dining Room at La Razza Agritourismo (photo by DeniseCS)
    • Reggio Emilia (photo by DeniseCS)

    A Taste of Italy

     Tour Description Daily Program 

  • Daily program

    This tour starts on Sundays to allow for the full benefit of all possible attractions and excursions. Starting on other days may be possible for a surcharge. If you start this tour on a day other than Sunday, some of the optional services may not be available due to businesses being closed.

    Day 1: Arrive in Bologna
    Arrive and check in to the centrally located hotel in Bologna, enjoy the views of the old town from the rooftop terrace, and get yourself situated. Bologna today is Emilia Romagna's administrative capital and, arguably, its culinary capital too. Home to the oldest continually operating university in the world, Bologna has a long tradition of studies, arts, and gastronomy. Speaking of gastronomy, Bologna gave birth to the mortadella, vulgarly distorted abroad as "bologna," although the fresh, artisanal mortadella has nothing to do with processed ham! Make sure you put this culinary delight on your 'must try' list! After meeting our staff at your for a tour briefing and bike fitting (normally in the early afternoon), you are ready to go! We recommend getting out to explore this afternoon and check out our suggested dinner locations!
    Overnight in Bologna

    Day 2: Bologna – Modena (39 miles/63 km)
    Leave Bologna on its city bike paths and next to the one-of-a-kind porticoes, to get to the first hills where great views reward you after a short climb. A rails-to-trails bike path leads you out to the fortress town of Bazzano, before heading to Modena. Don't forget to visit the historic town center of this city with the marble covered cathedral and its Ghirlandina bell tower. Dinner may be booked as part of the optional dinner package.
    Overnight in Modena

    Day 3: Modena – Castelvetro loop ride (37 miles/60 km)
    Take time to explore Modena today by climbing up the bell tower or visiting the Palace of the Duchy. Alternatively, enjoy a ride to the foothills of the Apennines along quiet roads and bicycle lanes. Visit the picturesque town of Castelvetro with its fortified historical center and balsamic vinegar production. If you are a car fan, Modena is the home of Ferrari and other historical brands so there are museums and exhibitions you can indulge in!
    Overnight in Modena

    Day 4: Reggio Emilia countryside (29 miles/47 km)
    Before heading out of Modena with your bicycle, we suggest a visit to the local covered market that has been selling local products since the Middle Ages: fruits and vegetables, but also gourmet selections of Lambrusco wine, Amaretti cookies, truffles, cheese and Prosciutto, and of course traditional balsamic vinegar.

    With your senses alight by the sounds, sights and smells, you will visit the lovely Acetaia Cavalli estate, where the family has been producing the highest quality balsamic for over a hundred years.
    An easy ride today will lead you along back roads to tonight’s very special stay - an agriturismo country house hotel with a working farm, parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar production, vineyards and winery, and more, within a wonderful natural setting.
    Dinner may be booked as part of the optional dinner package.
    Overnight in Reggio Emilia

    Day 5: Reggio Emilia loop ride on the hills (12-35 miles/22-57 km)
    Head for the hills today on a ride to Canossa Castle ruins, where the Holy Roman Empire Emperor Henry 5th had to show penance to the Pope, waiting in the snow barefoot at the gate of Matilda's Castle for 3 days before Matilda, countess of Canossa, convinced the Pope to open. Alternatively follow the bike path to Reggio Emilia for a visit of this bustling, pretty town.
    Overnight in Reggio Emilia

    Day 6: Reggio Emilia – Parma (39 miles/63 km)
    You'll start the morning with a visit of the parmesan factory at your Agriturismo. Paolo the friendly owner and manager of the La Razza establishment will guide you through a truly wonderful experience, learning why Parmiggiano-Reggiano is known as "the king of cheeses".

    With your senses awakened, you are ready for today's destination - yet another place where your taste buds will not be disappointed, Parma! Famous for its culinary traditions, the arts also flourished outside of the kitchen in this lovely, stately city: Parmigianino, Correggio, and Giuseppe Verdi are some of its most famous citizens, and their influence are present to this day. The city is still an important cultural and artistic center. Explore and enjoy the historic center, and delight your palate with Parma's signature cured ham (prosciutto crudo) and Parmesan cheese, eaten as an aperitivo or sprinkled on homemade pasta dishes. No place better to do this than from a table in a piazza! Aperitif and dinner in Parma may be booked in advance as part of the optional dinner package
    Overnight in Parma

    Day 7: Loop ride to Torrechiara Castle (30 miles/48 km)
    Get ready for your last day of bicycling amidst ancient castles and local traditions! Today's ride will loop to the breath-taking castle of Torrechiara. Dominating the Val Parma, the castle was constructed between 1448 and 1460, devised as an instrument of defense as well as a distinguished home for the count and his lover. This area is famous for its cured prosciutto and local salami--taste them in this historic setting! Enjoy time in the historic center and delight your palate with Parma's signature cured ham (prosciutto crudo) and Parmesan cheese, eaten as an aperitif or perhaps sprinkled on homemade pasta dishes.
    Overnight in Parma

    Day 8: Departure
    Your cycling tour ends in Parma. Now with a refined palate, shop well and take some recipes home to try in your own kitchen!

    There is also a shorter version available(4-night/5-day). Please inquire for more details.

    Surface and terrain

    This tour features relatively short daily distances on non-hilly terrain. You cycle on roads and dedicated bicycle paths.

    Hotels

    These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.

    Bologna: Hotel Touring Via De' Mattuiani

    Modena: Hotel Canalgrande

    Canali di Reggio: Agriturismo La Razza Via Monterampino

    Parma: Hotel Button Borgo della Salina

    Local hotel taxes are not included and are to be paid directly to each hotel (approximately €1-5 per person/night). Hotel upgrades are possible; please inquire for pricing.

    Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.

    How to get there

    Tour start
    Nearest airport and train station: Bologna (BLQ), Italy

    Tour end
    Nearest airport: Bologna (BLQ), Italy
    Nearest train station: Parma, Italy

    Taxis are available at the Bologna airport (there is a specific line for this near the arrivals area).

    Please note that there is a €50 per hour, or fraction thereof, fee for airport wait time in case of late arrivals.

    Tips on getting to and from your tour

    A Taste of Italy

     Tour Photos Dates & Prices 

  • Dates

    Sundays: Mar 1-Oct 31, 2024 (other start days are possible for an additional fee)

    Low season: Mar 01, 2024 - Aug 31, 2024, Oct 13, 2024 - Oct 31, 2024

    High season: May 01, 2024 - Jun 30, 2024, Sep 01, 2024 - Oct 12, 2024

    Prices

    Tour package

    Low Season High Season
    Per person, double occupancy €1285 €1385
    Single use room (1 person/1 room) €1657 €1757
    Solo Traveler €2013 €2113

    Additional Options

    Optional Dinner package (4 dinners) €153
    Cooking classes(various locations) Upon request

    Bike Rentals

    Aluminum standard bike €137
    Titanium standard bike €179
    Titanium road bike €179
    Electrically assisted bike €268

    Transfer

    Per Vehicle (1-3 persons), Bologna Airport to Bologna Hotel €53
    Per Vehicle (4-6 persons), Bologna Airport to Bologna Hotel €63
    Per Vehicle (1-3 persons), Parma to Bologna Airport €205
    Per Vehicle (4-6 persons), Parma to Bologna Airport €226

    Included services

    • 7 nights in 3- or 4-star hotels and B&B's of similar quality with breakfast
    • Access to smartphone app with tracks and digital roadbook
    • Luggage transfers
    • Welcome briefing and bike fitting with local, English-speaking professional staff
    • Artisan food producer visits (Balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese visits are included in tour package)

    Local hotel taxes are not included and are to be paid directly to each hotel (approximately €1-5 per person/night).

    NOTE: If you start this tour on a day other than Sunday, some of the optional services may not be available due to businesses being closed.

    The "Optional dinner package" service includes(Each dinner consists of a 3-course set menu):

    • Dinner in Bologna (Day 1--drinks excluded)
    • Dinner in Modena(Day 2--drinks excluded)
    • Dinner at the Agriturismo (Day 4--drinks excluded)
    • Dinner in Parma (Day 6--drinks excluded)

    Bike rentals

    Bikes available to rent on this tour (reserved in advance at the time of booking):

    • High-quality titanium standard bicycle
    • High-quality titanium racing bicycle
    • Electrically assisted bikes (upon request)
    • Tandem bikes (upon request)
    • Children's bikes (upon request)

    *More about electrically-assisted bikes >

    Note: premium bike upgrades and ebikes are subject to availability in September.

    Equipment included at no extra cost:

    • Water bottle cage with water bottle
    • GPS with preloaded tracks
    • Lock
    • Rear rack and bag
    • Spare tube, repair kit, mini-tool kit, and small pump
    • Cycle computer
    • Small bell
    • Map holder
    • Helmet rental (upon request)
    • Gel seat cover (upon request)
    • Kick stand (upon request)
    • Mud guard (upon request)

    Equipment available for an extra cost:

    • Panniers
    • Helmet purchase

    Pedals:
    The bikes will have flat pedals with optional toe cages. If you bring your own pedals, be sure to bring your own shoes and also the necessary equipment to change the pedals.

    Helmets:
    Helmets are available on this tour. However, we recommend that you bring your own helmet for safety and hygiene purposes.

    Tour Company

    A Taste of Italy

     Daily program Tour Reviews 

  • Reviews

      Write a review

    • ★★★★★ Moira Quigley 1 month ago

      Interesting part of Italy

      Well organised, GPS system worked well for us most of the time, person greeting us and setting us up was fantastic, bikes excellent. Loved the parmesan and balsamic vinegar factory tours - wonderful hosts. We did not enjoy the route as much as other tours we have done. There were more main roads and traffic than we were expecting and have experienced on previous bike tours. The agritourismo accommodation was so nice we did not want to leave.

      What was the date of your tour?
      October 2023
      How many tours have you completed?
      Three
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Do you recommend this tour?
      No
      • 4/5 Value
      • 3/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 3/5 Scenery
      • 4/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 3/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ Cathie Macmillan 2 months ago

      Enjoyable trip through the food bowl of Italy

      This tour was well organised and easy to follow using the Ride with GSP App. It was great to spend 2 nights at each destination and not rush from one town to the next. The e bikes were very well maintained and comfortable to ride. Unfortunately one of my drink holders broke as I cycled down a hill!
      The route was a mix of bike paths, main roads and smaller roads. We didn't enjoy the main roads as the traffic was quite busy and passed us very quickly which was scary at times. I wouldn't recommend the tour to first time bike tourists or families as it was a bit dangerous on so many main roads.
      Most accommodation was comfortable and met our needs. Our favourite accommodation was definitely La Razza Agritourismo! Hotel Button was our least favourite as it didn't have a fridge or tea making facilities in the room.
      Cycling through the food bowl of Italy gave us the opportunity to see how Parmigiano Reggiano and Balsamic Vinegar are made. Tasting the products was even better! We took the dinner options but in hindsight probably would have preferred to organise our own dinners.
      On reflection, we probably should have chosen a tour with a harder rating and more hills. The route was very flat so we didn't experience many good views of the scenery. We enjoyed the loop ride into the hills of Reggio Emilia. We didn't do the loop ride from Modena due to illness and poor weather so perhaps missed one of the good scenery days.

      What was the date of your tour?
      Oct 23
      How many tours have you completed?
      3
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Much easier
      Do you recommend this tour?
      No
      • 4/5 Value
      • 3/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 3/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ Desmond Barnett 3 months ago

      Nice way to see parts of Italy

      Self guided, hotels generally good but thought the hotel in Reggio Emilio was poorly sited. One restaurant fully booked little opportunity without taxi’s. Accomodation needs to be located in a town.

      What was the date of your tour?
      September 2023
      How many tours have you completed?
      4-5
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Somewhat easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 4/5 Value
      • 1/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 4/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ Chris MacMillan 4 months ago

      Hot in Italy in August

      Enjoyable cities and food. Bike routes a bit bumpy but easy. Unfortunately very hot 🔥 this year in Italy. Tour operator helpful with flat tires.

    • ★★★★★ Daniel Serventi 6 months ago

      An Exquisite Way To See Italy!

      To be honest we did not fully know what we were getting ourselves in to - but this trip checked every box and surprised us with how well thought out it was. Each hotel was beautiful in accommodations and city placement. Dinner and activity recommendations were on point. And most importantly, the bike support and GPS were perfect. I would recommend this tour to everyone and anyone! Would recommend that you purchase the additional cooking class- It was the highlight.

      What was the date of your tour?
      June 2023
      How many tours have you completed?
      This is our first!
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
      • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
    • ★★★★★ John Hastie 7 months ago

      Wonderful trip!

      Evrything was great, but we didi have a couple of issues:
      * The Garmin GPS unit was programed for an incorrect departure hotel. Destpite our attempts to join up with the route, it constantly told us we were off course. We ended up abandoning it and using google maps to get from point to point.
      * Our hotel in Parma informed us that our reservation didn't include breakfast, which was unexpected.

      Other than that, the trip was wonderful.

      What was the date of your tour?
      May 2023
      How many tours have you completed?
      many self-guided. two through tourig companies.
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 4/5 Value
      • 4/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 2/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 3/5 Local tour company services
      • 3/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ Francisco Averhoff 8 months ago

      great riding, great food

      Great way to see and feel the country and the food was amazing. the restaurants selected by the tour company were all excellent, just a little too much food. the bike paths were also wonderful with very little street riding and when we did need to ride on the street, the traffic was light. The tour company could have given us better instructions regarding use of the GPS and odometer. We were never able to get the odometers to work. we missed the parmigiana tasting since the GPS instructions were not clear. the GPS loop rides were also not clear and we missed the turn offs on a few occasions.

      What was the date of your tour?
      April 2023
      How many tours have you completed?
      4
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 4/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 4/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ csilva September 30, 2019

      Best Bike Tour even 3 plus years passed

      Best way to see the most underrated area of Italy!

      What was the date of your tour?
      11/2016
      How many tours have you completed?
      3
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 4/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ MarkE November 12, 2018

      Great 1st self guided tour - mixing cycling and culinary experiences

      Mostly flat terrain so easy riding at moderate pace which allowed plenty of time for stops, photos etc. Each of the towns had unique architecture/character. Great selection of hotels in the old town sections. All meals excellent whether part of package or self selected. A little challenging following directions out and back into towns in order to avoid major roads. Each of the tours very educational (and tasty) - we learned so much.

      What was the date of your tour?
      10/13/18
      How many tours have you completed?
      1
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Somewhat easier
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 4/5 Value
      • 4/5 Included meals
      • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 3/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 4/5 Local tour company services
      • 4/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ TomS June 18, 2018

      the combination of biking and food was excellent

      This was our third time out with biketours and each has been unique and fun. The Taste of Italy was well-named. Stops to see the production of parmesan cheese, gelato, and especially balsamic vinegar were terrific. Loved the cooking class! Level of difficulty was not bad--although some of the hills on the first day required us to dismount. The night at the Agritourismo was memorable.

      What was the date of your tour?
      June 3
      How many tours have you completed?
      3
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • the central square in Parma (photo by TomS)
      • the first stage of Parmesan cheesemaking (photo by TomS)
      • at the Parmesan cheese factory (photo by TomS)
      • our hosts at the traditional balsamic vinegar producers (photo by TomS)
      • 4/5 Value
      • 4/5 Included meals
      • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 3/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 4/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ DeniseCS October 19, 2017

      By Far, the Best Bicycle Tour Ever

      We encourage any cyclist with a spirit of adventure to take this tour. We call it a self-guided tour with training wheels! We have used other companies (Back Roads, VBT) but by far BikeTours.com and the local tour company (CycleEurope) was the best experience we ever had.

      Even though this is a self-guided tour, the local representative, Giovanni, spent over two hours with us at the inception, going over every detail. They provided us with a huge binder with everything needed: maps, written instructions; points of interest; restaurant recommendations; info on each city we visited.

      Their titanium framed bikes looked brand new and were maintained beautifully.

      Giovanni informed and reassured us that if we had any trouble along the way, he could reach us within two hours maximum wherever we were.

      Do take advantage of their provided GPS. It was the first time we used one on a bike and it was a blast.

      The hotels were all 5 Star and our suites in Modena and Reggio Emilia were incredible. The cooking class included with Manuel was one of the best experiences. We learned so much and will use our new cooking skills at home. The included dinners were at top restaurants in that particular city and the food and staff were phenomenal. The included meal at the Agritourismo was one of the best we have ever had. The steak was truly the best beef we ever ate. The owner, Paolo and his wife Cecelia treated us like family.

      Please do not miss this experience. The staff at BikeTours.com will make your self-guided tours the most fabulous trip of a lifetime.

      What was the date of your tour?
      9/22/17 to 10/1/17
      How many tours have you completed?
      9
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • True Parmesan Cheese (photo by DeniseCS)
      • Castello Torrechiara (photo by DeniseCS)
      • The Beautiful Dining Room at La Razza Agritourismo (photo by DeniseCS)
      • Reggio Emilia (photo by DeniseCS)
      • 5/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 5/5 Hotels or boat
      • 5/5 Scenery
      • 5/5 Ease of navigation
      • 5/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 5/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ Chloe March 31, 2017

      A Taste of Italy

      What was the date of your tour?
      3/9-3/16
      How many tours have you completed?
      2
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      Somewhat harder
      Who is this tour suitable for?
      Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
      Do you recommend this tour?
      Yes
      • 4/5 Value
      • 4/5 Included meals
      • 3/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 3/5 Ease of navigation
      • 4/5 Tour documents
      • 3/5 Route selection
    • ★★★★★ kirbymom October 19, 2016

      Great Effort but we were frequently lost

      We had titanium bikes and a very intro. Unfortunately we were lost so often that instead of enjoying time at q location, we were biking around asking locals and using our compass. I think Bike Tour tried too hard to use route with less traffic or a bicycle trail. This made it very hard to get in and out of cities. We had both a bike gps with the routes inputted and the written instructions. Just give us the most direct route out of the cities.
      The hotels were nice and mostly well located. Sometimes they weren't well located like the one on the farm. We very much enjoyed the cooking class, the visit to the balsamic vinegar producer, and the gelato machine making -- that ws great. Also the dinners and breakfasts were very good to excellent.
      I would recommend this tour IF the routes were adjusted and the visit to the farm was eliminated

      What was the date of your tour?
      10-4-16
      How many tours have you completed?
      thousands of miles w/o guides
      Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
      As expected
      Do you recommend this tour?
      No

      • BikeTours.com staff reply from Lindsay Nash October 20, 2016

        Hi, thanks very much for sharing your experience! We're so glad to hear that the cooking class, hotels, and food experience on this tour was wonderful. However, we're sorry to hear of your problems with the directions and route. We'll share your feedback with the local tour operator and work together to make sure this experience is improved. Thank you again for your review and for helping us share in the joy of bicycle touring!
        Kind regards,
        Lindsay

      • 3/5 Value
      • 5/5 Included meals
      • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
      • 4/5 Hotels or boat
      • 4/5 Scenery
      • 1/5 Ease of navigation
      • 3/5 Tour documents
      • 5/5 Local tour company services
      • 2/5 Route selection

    A Taste of Italy

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