Greenways and cycle paths in Italy: routes and tips for planning a cycling trip
Italy is an increasingly popular destination for the bike trip, with a variety of routes that combine cycle paths, greenways and long-distance cycle routes.
Unlike Spain, the network is less homogeneous, but it relies on structuring axes and sometimes exceptional local developments. This is particularly the case in the north of the country, where some of the Europe's most beautiful cycle paths.
A network structured around cycle routes and local cycle paths
In Italy, there is no single program equivalent to Greenways Spanish. The network is based on a different logic:
A combination of:
- major cycle routes (EuroVelo)
- National Network Bicitalia
- local cycle paths (ciclabili)
- repurposed former railway lines
Project Bicitalia aims to gradually structure a coherent network across the country, by linking these different infrastructures.
For the cycle tourist, this implies a different approach:
- less continuity than in Spain
- but a great wealth of experiences
- and the possibility of building customized itineraries
The great cycling routes in Italy
EuroVelo 5 – Via Francigena
- Connects Switzerland to Rome
- Cross Italy from north to south
Interest :
- structuring axis
- good density of services
- long-distance roaming logic
Discover the EuroVelo 5 route in France
EuroVelo 7 – Route du Soleil
- Cross Italy from north to south
- Passing through the Alps, Tuscany and Rome
Interest :
- backbone of the Italian network
- possibility of full crossing
EuroVelo 8 – Mediterranean
- Pass by the Ligurian coast
- Direct connection with France
Interest :
- Easy access from the French Riviera
- linear and legible route
Discover the EuroVelo 8 route in France
The main greenways and cycle paths in Italy
In Italy, the term “greenway” is not widely used, but some infrastructures offer an equivalent experience: safe, continuous and suitable for bicycle travel.
The Imperia cycle path (Riviera dei Fiori)
- Length: approximately 30 km
- Location: Liguria (Mediterranean coast)
- Route: Imperia → Sanremo → Ospedaletti
This is one of the most iconic cycle paths in Italy.
Built on a former railway line, it offers a route:
- completely flat
- without traffic
- largely by the sea
The route takes you through rehabilitated tunnels, transformed old train stations and coastal villages.
This makes it a benchmark:
- exceptional continuity
- total security
- direct access to services
- quality of development
It is often considered theone of the most beautiful cycle paths in Europe.
Use :
- ideal for a stay
- suitable for a first experience
- basis for building a route along the coast
Ciclovia dell'Adige
- Length: over 300 km
- Location: Northern Italy
Features:
- structuring route
- very smooth rolling
- connection with Austria
This is one of the most used routes for long-distance travel.
Mincio cycle path
- Length: approximately 45 km
- Location: Lake Garda → Mantua
Features:
- dedicated track
- very accessible
- excellent continuity
Use :
- day trip
- cycling holiday
Ciclovia delle Dolomiti
- Former railway line repurposed
- Northern Italy
Features:
- regular profile
- logic similar to a greenway
- adapted for roaming
Lake Garda Network
- Several interconnected cycle paths
Interest :
- base for a stay
- numerous loop possibilities
Joining the Italian cycle paths from France
Via the Mediterranean: EuroVelo 8
Starting point : Nice / Menton
- Follow the EuroVelo 8
- Crossing the border into Liguria
- Direct access to the Imperia cycle path
Interest :
- immediate access to a secure infrastructure
- simple continuity
- itinerary suitable for a first trip
Via the Alps: access to northern Italy
Passage via:
- Switzerland
- Austria
Connection to:
- Ciclovia dell'Adige
- alpine networks
Interest :
- access to the most structured routes
- long-distance roaming capability