Giro D’Italia 2025 - The First Week
A once in a lifetime cycling journey to discover the very best of Albania and beautiful Puglia. VIP hospitality, Pro Race viewing and unforgetable riding in the Official Premium Tour Opertor package.
Let’s be honest with you. We were lucky enough to have the official route of this year’s Giro d’Italia way back in October. For this reason four of our staff hopped on a flight a spent one week in Albania and Puglia designing this breathtaking tour. We LOVE Albania and we know you will love the warm hospitality, beautiful riding and stunning scenery. The second half the tour allows us to explore the majesty of Puglia which is fast becoming the place to visit in Italy. We have designed the perfect cycling holiday allowing you unparalleled stage viewing, getting up close to the riders and merging yourself in all things Giro d’Italia. This is an opportunity not to be missed - but be quick we are nearly sold out!
Excellent hotels
VIP stage hospitality
Non-rider welcome
Guided & supported rides
Mechanical support
Welcome pack
Airport transfers
Amazing food and drink
-
Activity level:
LEVEL 2 – Gentilissimo
- I ride my bike most weeks back home. - I enjoy chatting and stoping to take in the view when riding. - The best part of my ride is the coffee stop. - I can’t do a wheelie yet. - Duration: 9 days | 8 nights
- Date: 07 - 15 May 2025
- Want a custom Giro experience? Get in touch here.
- Price from: €3099
- Single supplement €699
- Room upgrade available: Yes
- What's Included
Perfect Giro 2025 Experience
Is this what I’m looking for?
- Are you wanting to experience the thrill of the Giro d'Italia?
- Would you like to enjoy the best VIP hospitality on the finish line of one of the stages?
- Have you been searching for a holiday that combines great riding and great organisation?
- Do you want a holiday organised by Italy's best cycling tour operator?
- Is amazing food and even better wine on your wish list?
Albania and Italy
What to look forward to?
- Enjoy Albania’s unique charm, fabulous cuisine and world-class hospitality.
- Be inspired by the stunning scenery as your ride through the hills around Matera.
- Ride with ex-pro guides and learn untold stories about riding in the Giro d'Italia.
- Visit Puglia, one of Italy's most beautiful regions.
Stages of your Tour
WELCOME | Team Presentation
20 km | flat wed 7 may
Let’s go! After a short private transfer from the airport, you’ll have time to explore the vibrant city of Tirana, with its colourful architecture and lively atmosphere or if you prefer you are very welcome to enjoy the hotel’s beautiful pool next to the beach and relax while the others go on to the team presentation, where you’ll enjoy exclusive VIP hospitality as all the riders parade on stage, setting the tone for an exciting adventure.
Hotel Sol Tropikal - Durazzo (Durrës)Albanian Coastline
40km | flat thur 8 may
After a beautiful breakfast over-looking the ocean we start day 2 of your Giro d’Italia cycling holiday with a scenic 40 km route around Durazzo, taking in the coastal views and the charm of this historic area. After the morning ride, the afternoon is yours to relax by the sea—unwind on the sandy beaches, enjoy a refreshing swim, or savour local seafood delicacies while soaking up the Mediterranean vibe. In the evening we will take you to a fabulous restaurant above the city with views far and wide.
Hotel Sol Tropikal - Durazzo (Durrës)stage 1 | DEPARTURE
45km | 400 m climb fri 9 may
We head off this morning with a visit to the Giro d’Italia’s first stage departure, soaking in the electric atmosphere as the riders roll out. After the stage start, we will go back to the hotel and relax in the afternoon, maybe go to the swimming pool or the beach.Tonight we will enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant.
Hotel Sol Tropikal - Durazzo (Durrës)Stage 2 | VIP Hospitality
no ride sat 10 may
After a relaxed breakfast, we take the short transfer to Tirana for an unforgettable day of Giro d’Italia excitement - It’s time to see stage 2! With VIP Hospitality access, you’ll have the best seats to watch the thrilling time trial and witness who claims the coveted pink jersey. After the race, there will be time to explore Albania’s vibrant capital, delving into its rich culture, historic landmarks, and lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect mix of world-class cycling and cultural discovery!
Hotel Sol Tropikal - Durazzo (Durrës)stage 3 | Finish line
80km | 350m climb sun 11 may
Today’s adventure takes us to stage 3 of the Giro d’Italia! We’ll leave Durazzo by bike, heading towards one of our favourite wineries in Albania. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided visit of the winery, followed by a delightful tasting of Albanian wines paired with a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine, all set against the stunning backdrop of the countryside and the sea. After this relaxing and flavourful experience, we’ll continue to Valona to soak in the excitement at the stage finish line.
Hotel Sol Tropikal - Durazzo (Durrës)welcome to italy
40km | 300m climb mon 12 may
In the morning you can enjoy the facilities in the hotel and then we bid farewell to Albania and take a flight from Tirana to Bari Airport. Upon arrival, our staff will arrange a comfortable transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a short, easy ride to the picturesque town of Polignano a Mare to loosen up the legs and prepare for the adventures ahead. Where else to enjoy dinner than in the local pizza restaurant run by our friend and local legend Pippo!
Corte Altavilla - ConversanoStage 4 | Departure
60km | 560m climb tue 13 may
Today, we’ll leave the hotel and head to the famous UNESCO world heritage site of Alberobello. Here, you’ll have the chance to see the riders sign up for the race, take their position on the podium, and witness the stage departure up close. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the charming village with its iconic Trulli houses. We’ll then cycle back to the hotel, guided by our special ex-pro rider, making the ride even more memorable. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner chatting about the day’s adventures.
Corte Altavilla - ConversanoStage 5 | Matera FINISH LINE
62km | 480m climb wed 14 may
There’s no better way to conclude a holiday like this than with a ride to one of the most beautiful cities in the world: Matera. Famous for its white stone “Sassi” and unique winding streets, Matera offers a one-of-a-kind experience. As a Giro stage host, we’ll fully immerse ourselves in the excitement of the race at the finish line. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel by van and cap off the trip with a wonderful dinner, reflecting on the journey and sharing the best moments of this unforgettable holiday.
Corte Altavilla - ConversanoARRivederci
home thur 15 may
All good things must come to an end and this morning with heavy hearts and emotional goodbyes we will transfer you to your next destination as agreed prior to your arrival. What a ride!
Home
BIKE HIRE
The perfect cycling holiday requires pedalling on the perfect bike. So should you not wish to bring your own bike with you, we have a number of beautiful bikes that you can hire at very reasonable prices. If you are not sure what is the perfect bike for you then fire as an email and we will be delighted to give you some expert advice. You can find more information about our bikes below. And yes, you can buy our bikes if you fall in love with them!
Colnago V3 - the perfect road bike to hire on our more challenging cycling holidays. As you would expect, it’s lightweight, aerodynamic with great handling.
COLNAGO V3
COMPONENTS:
- Shimano 105 12 Speed Di2 Drivetrain (50/34 Chainset and 11-34 Cassette)
- Fulcrum Racing 600 Wheelset
- Pirelli P7 Sport 28mm Tyres
- Shimano 105 Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Selle Italia Novus Boost Evo Flow saddle
- (Sizes: XXS(42S), XS(45S), S(48S), M(50S), L(52S), XL(54S), XXL(56S), XXXL(58S))
Colnago G4-X - one of the finest gravel bikes in the world from one of the most famous and respected brands in the world. A dream to ride on the gravel and on the road!
COLNAGO G4-X
COMPONENTS:
- Shimano GRX 822 1x - 42T 1x Chainset, 12 Speed 10-51T Cassette
- Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 Wheelset
- Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Prologo Kappa BK saddle
- Sizes: 46s - 58s
Guerciotti Brera Touring ION - the ideal bike for guests looking for a little assistance when riding. The flat handle bars are perfect for clients looking for maximum comfort.
GUERCIOTTI BRERA TOURING ION
COMPONENTS:
- SRAM NX Mechanical 1 x 11 Speed Drivetrain (40T Chainset and 11-42T Cassette) URSUS Orion Disc Wheelset
- Challenge Gravel Grinder 42mm Tyres
- SRAM Guide Rival Hydraulic Levers and SRAM Rival Caliper Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Electric Polini E-P3 250 watt motor, with 70 N/m maximum torque
- 500 wh battery with 220 km range in assist mode
- DPV Touring saddle
- (Sizes: S, M)
Guerciotti Navir ION - loved by clients that enjoy the challenge of riding some of our more challenging tours. Assisted road bikes are a real ‘game changer’.
What’s included?
- 8 nights 4* accommodation
- All breakfasts
- 5 dinners
- Airport transfers (from specified airport/train station)
- VIP team presentation hospitality
- 1 stage VIP finish line hospitality
- 5 stage views
- Guided rides with an ex-Giro d’Italia professional rider
- Supported rides with vehicle and snacks
- Wine tasting experience
- IBT welcome pack – jersey, water bottle and cap
- Fully qualified bike mechanic
- Bike cleaning service
- City taxes
What’s not included?
- Travel Insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
- Flights
- Bike hire
- All beverages at mealtimes (water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package)
- Lunches
- Nutrition
- Tips and gratuities for staff
The nuts and Bolts
Useful information about your holiday
Still Undecided?
My husband is a much stronger cyclist than what I am. To have been able to go out and cycle with the peace of mind that I was being looked after if anything went wrong was a huge plus for me. My husband could go out and enjoy his cycle and not have to worry about me. Being in the slower group made no difference at all, we were all treated the same and felt just as proud on completing our cycle. Being this close to the Giro d'Ítalia was a very special experience. The guides were kind, caring, helpful and very encouraging. Clive runs a very well-organized tour, the bikes were brilliantly maintained and if you had any problems Matt was there to assist and sort it out for you. Thank you Italy Bike Tours for a wonderful experience and we will hopefully see you again for the next one!
Lara 2024 | Giro d’ italia
| Where to meet |
Please arrange to meet us at Tirana Airport (TIA) at 12:00 lunchtime or agreed meeting location. 24 hours before meeting we will contact you via WhatsApp to confirm the name of staff meeting you. Alternative transfers can be arranged and we are happy to provide a quote for this. |
|---|---|
| Drop off location |
Following the conclusion of the tour we will assist you with planning and booking of onward travel. We will run one morning transfer to Bari Airport (BRI) and train station. |
| Transfer time |
Please consider eating lunch before we collect you from Tirana. The transfer time from Tirana Airport (TIA) to Tirana centre is around 30 minutes. On the return journey to Bari Airport (BRI) the transfer time is 45 minutes. |
| Riding in Albenia and Puglia |
Albania: The road conditions vary depending on the area. Major roads connecting larger cities are generally paved and functional, though they may not always be in perfect condition. Puglia: generally offers better road conditions for cycling. The region is known for its well-maintained rural roads, especially in more touristy areas and along the coast. |
| Cuisine |
Albanian food is influenced by Mediterranean, Balkan, and Ottoman flavours. It features fresh, locally sourced ingredients like olive oil, fresh vegetables, meats. Puglia's food is known for its simplicity and reliance on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The region is famous for its olive oil, fresh pasta, and seafood. It's a great opportunity to try traditional food. Please let us know about any special dietry requirements before the tour. |
| Hotels |
The hotels on this tour have lesiure facilities and private beaches and we recommend bringing swimming costumes. Hotels also have good wifi and bar service. Hotels may charge extra to use some of these facilties. |
| Private tours & groups |
You may wish to make our Giro d'Italia package part of a longer cycling trip. We therefore welcome the opportunity to discuss with you a private tour should you be in a group of six or more people. The private tour allows you to choose dates and personalise the itinerary according to your requirements. |
| Weather |
In May, both Albania and Puglia experience mild to warm spring weather, making it an ideal time to visit for outdoor activities like cycling. Check the weather before arriving to pack the right clothing, but remeber you can always keep a day bag in the support vehicle. |
| What happens next? |
Are you thinking about joining us? You probably have some questions! There are a number of ways to contact us, email is best, we will reply within 24 hours. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page. |
Your Stay
Hotel Sol Tropikal - Durazzo
Corte Altavilla - Conversano
Get In Touch
If you would prefer to give us a call and talk cycling and Italy please WhatsApp us on the number below and we will arrange a call back.
ITA: +39 320 638 4713
Or you can chat to us online also by clicking the button at bottom right of page.
Drop us a direct email to info@italybiketours.com
