Giro d’Italia 2026 - Last 12 days
Immerse yourself in the thrill of the Giro d’Italia, feeling the energy of the race up close.
Pedal along legendary routes, soak in breathtaking landscapes, and savor the best of Italian cuisine
12 Days of Iconic Roads, Alpine Peaks, and the Grand Finale in Rome
Step into the heart of Italy and experience the Giro d’Italia like never before on this 12-day cycling journey, ending in the Eternal City of Rome.
From the moment you pedal through sun-dappled vineyards and along serene alpine lakes, you’ll feel the pulse of Italian cycling history under your wheels. Each stage offers a new adventure - gentle warm-up loops around picturesque towns, challenging mountain climbs that have tested the pros, and iconic stage finishes where the energy of the race is electric.
Between rides, immerse yourself in the culture and flavors of Italy: savor hand-crafted cheeses and wines, discover local culinary traditions, and explore charming villages and historic landmarks tucked into the landscape. Non-riders can enjoy equally rich experiences, from guided tours and artisan tastings to scenic excursions that capture the magic of Italy’s countryside.
Witness the Giro live, ride the legendary roads, and end your adventure in Rome with the final stage, celebrations, and a festive farewell dinner - a journey that blends passion, history, and the true soul of Italy.
IBT Private Hospitality
Guided Rides
VIP Hospitality
Mechanical Support
Transfers
Non-Rider Welcome
Guest Reviews
Signing up to be a guest rider for 12 days with a World Tour team? Vicariously, it felt that way. Everything was prepared for you - the meals (many of the dinners were included and reflected the local cuisine where we stayed), the bikes (checked and cleaned on a daily basis), the training plan (there was the option to do a shorter ride or take a rest day and join the non-rider program), the guides (as mentioned in other reviews, former pro riders) and support staff that would come with us. All we had to do was ride and commiserate 🏔️ 🏔️ 🏔️ 🏔️ to our heart's content.
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I just wanted express my sincere appreciation for all your help and planning to make this a trip of a lifetime!! All of your staff have been so professional and kind ❤️ We also have the pleasure of meeting Alberto’s father today on our drive to Milan. We will be spreading the word and recommending you to any and all of our cycling friends. Take good care Clive!
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We came for the joy of cycling and being closer to the Peloton. We left with much much more. The cross cultural experience of meeting wonderful people from all over the world. Further the pro’s were remarkable, not just their care on the road, but more importantly the care off the road. And let’s not forget Lucy and the wonderful meals she prepared! Amazing tour group, amazing people. Special thanks to Pavel, John, Sylvia, Alex and Nicola!
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This group of guys is wonderful, we participated with them in the most beautiful stages of the Giro d'Italia 2025 and they were simply fantastic!! Organized and available to everyone (riders and companions) no one is left alone. We hope to meet again soon! BRAVISSMI.
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We had a wonderful two days with Italy Bike Tours and the Giro d’Italia. Alberto was our host/guide and took care of our every need! I appreciate their attention to every detail. I will give them a rating of 10/10!
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A very well organised company that caters for all abilities and goes out of their way to assist in any way possible. We did some fantastic rides with some very experienced guides that where very familiar with the rides and had support vehicles and backup in all the right places. We had a great holiday and would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone.
Read moreIn the Saddle
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD to on-bike
- Warm-up through Novi Ligure’s rolling hills.
- Scenic ride through Piedmontese vineyards, charming villages and rural landscapes.
- Iconic ascent of Madonna del Ghisallo, steeped in cycling history.
- Challenging Swiss Alpine roads with dramatic valleys and sweeping mountain views.
- Legendary Dolomite ascent at Passo Giau.
- Feel the Giro’s energy firsthand at Piancavallo.
beyond the ride
What to look forward to off-bike
- Taste artisanal chocolate at Bordato Chocolate Factory.
- Savor Piedmontese wines and learn vineyard stories at a local winery.
- Cruise Lake Como and explore the Ghisallo Cycling Museum.
- Discover Italian fashion at Armani/Silos Museum.
- Experience coffee roasting and sample artisanal brews at Trismoka Coffee.
- Explore Bellinzona’s three UNESCO-listed castles overlooking the Ticino Valley.
Itinerary
32 km | 370 m
After a smooth private transfer from Milan, your journey begins with a personalised bike fitting - a quiet moment to tune your machine and prepare for the adventure ahead.
As soon as you roll out, the landscape opens into gentle hills, silver olive groves, and villages that seem frozen in time. It’s the perfect warm-up, a soft introduction to the beauty of northwestern Italy.
Your ride leads you to the iconic Giro d’Italia finish line in Novi Ligure. Standing there, you can feel the energy, the history, the heartbeat of Italian cycling.
As evening falls, you’ll sit down to a dinner bursting with Piedmontese flavours, raising a glass to the road that awaits and the unforgettable days still to come.
Non-riders:
Visit the Bordato Chocolate Factory, where you’ll taste handcrafted artisanal chocolates and discover the secrets behind this beloved family-run tradition.
Hotel Villa Raggi | Novi Ligure
58 km | 190 m
Today’s ride unfolds through postcard-perfect countryside - soft rolling hills, endless vineyards, and quiet Italian villages - until you reach the official stage start in Alessandria. It’s a day made for smooth miles and pure enjoyment, where every turn reveals another slice of rural beauty.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit a renowned local winery to uncover the secrets of Piedmontese wines, tasting them as the sun sets over the hills.
Non-riders:
Guided wine tasting at Cantina Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta, enriched with family stories and the aromas of freshly harvested grapes.
Hotel Villa Raggi | Novi Ligure
Option 1: Aosta - Pila with Stage view
86 km | 1990 m
Riders heading to Pila will experience the finish of the Giro d’Italia stage.
The route climbs through scenic Alpine valleys and picturesque villages, with dramatic mountain landscapes framing every pedal stroke. Approaching Pila, the atmosphere intensifies: fans line the roads, the sound of cowbells fills the air, and helicopters circle overhead.
Reaching the summit before the pros allows you to be right at the finish line, soaking up the energy, excitement, and celebration as the peloton arrives. A truly unique experience that only a cycling enthusiast could dream of.
Option 2: Madonna del Ghisallo Iconic Climb
70 km | 1200 m
For those preferring a personal challenge, the ride up to the Madonna del Ghisallo offers an iconic ascent steeped in cycling history.
You’ll pedal across Lake Como and the charming town of Bellagio, winding through hairpins, breathtaking viewpoints, and the sacred sanctuary that has welcomed cyclists for generations. On top, visit the Cycling Museum, a unique spot for cycling enthusiasts. This option focuses on the beauty of the climb, the physical challenge, and serene Alpine scenery - without the Giro stage finish.
Non-riders:
Enjoy a scenic boat excursion on Lake Como, then explore the Ghisallo Cycling Museum, discovering the history of the Giro d’Italia and the legendary champions who shaped it.
Hotel Il Corazziere | Merone, Lake Como
39 km | 140 m
Ride toward Milan on roads that blend tradition and modernity. The day culminates as you cross the official finish line, like the pros, with exclusive access to VIP hospitality, where you can watch the race from a privileged perspective amidst the adrenaline and strategy of the pros.
After the stage, transfer to Lake Como for a special dinner featuring local dishes and fine wines - a perfect way to recharge and share the day’s emotions.
Non-riders:
Enjoy a guided visit to the Armani/Silos Museum, exploring the elegance of Italian design before joining the riders in the VIP area.
Hotel Il Corazziere | Merone, Lake Como
82 km | 1020 m
After several intense days, it’s time to recharge. A scenic ride lets you admire the Alpine valleys and Swiss landscapes. It’s the perfect day to recover your legs, stretch, or simply enjoy the silence and beauty of Alpine villages.
The day ends with a dinner celebrating Swiss Alpine gastronomy, made with fresh local ingredients.
Non-riders:
Explore the Three Castles of Bellinzona, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a guided tour among medieval towers, stories of knights, and spectacular views.
Hotel La Tureta | Bellinzona
53 km | 1480 m
Today carries a special significance: your ride takes you all the way to Carì, where you will experience firsthand the excitement of the Giro d’Italia stage finish.
The climb to Carì is challenging but incredibly rewarding: with every turn, you get closer to the heart of the race, surrounded by an atmosphere that grows more vibrant - fans cheering, splashes of color everywhere, and cowbells echoing along the road.
Non-riders:
Set off on a gentle panoramic mountain walk, then sample local cheeses and regional specialties - an authentic journey into Alpine flavours - before experiencing the thrill of the pros powering up the final.
Hotel La Tureta | Bellinzona
48 km | 640 m
After transfer to Bergamo, you tackle on the Giro d’Italia’s stage, in the Franciacorta area, before climbing on Passo dei Tre Termini (Polaveno), where a relaxing IBT private hospitality will ensure you to enjoy in the better way the pros passing through.
After the giro’s view, we drive to the new hotel with a dinner features seasonal Veneto flavors - a true reward for both body and mind.
Non-riders:
Immerse yourself in a sensory journey at the Trismoka Coffee Experience, uncovering the secrets of roasting and tasting exceptional artisanal coffee.
Hotel Borgoluce | Susegana
52 km | 280 m
Ride through Alpine scenery and gentle hills all the way to the official finish line, and cross the line like the pros for the second time on this journey!
After that, you can enjoy the finish of the stage with exclusive access to VIP hospitality. The day offers a perfect balance of challenge and relaxation, with green landscapes and postcard-worthy views.
The dinner celebrates fresh local products with traditional Veneto cuisine.
Non-riders:
Visit the charming village of Asolo, the “city of a hundred horizons,” wandering through its elegant squares and taking in sweeping views of the surrounding hills.
Hotel Borgoluce | Susegana
Option 1: Feltre with Giro Stage Start
51 km | 660 m
Riders heading to Feltre will experience the official Giro d’Italia stage start. As you arrive in the historic town, you are immediately immersed in the pre-race buzz: team buses lined up, mechanics performing final checks, riders warming up, and crowds gathering in anticipation. Watching the professionals roll out from the start line is a moment charged with energy, excitement, and pure cycling passion.
After the start, you continue with a scenic and more relaxed ride through the valley.
Option 2: Passo Giau - Giro Mountain Passage
70 km | 2000 m
Those choosing the challenge of the Passo Giau climb will witness the passage of the Giro d’Italia on one of the race’s most iconic ascents.
A one-hour transfer takes us to Belluno, where we begin pedaling up this legendary climb. Famous for its dramatic switchbacks, breathtaking Dolomite scenery, and challenging gradients, the atmosphere builds with every turn as you approach the race route. Fans line the road, helicopters echo above, and the excitement builds until the pros surge past on the mountain. Seeing the Giro on such a mythical climb transforms the day into a truly unforgettable cycling experience.
Non-riders:
Explore the Sportful Factory to discover how high-performance sportswear is crafted, then dive into a hands-on tiramisu cooking class, creating Italy’s most iconic dessert from scratch.
Hotel Borgoluce | Susegana
48 km | 1360 m
Today is truly a historic and unforgettable day, as the overall winner of the Giro d’Italia will be decided on the slopes of Piancavallo.
This stage offers two climbs of the same legendary route, with switchbacks and breathtaking views of Friuli and the Dolomites. Riders feel the Giro’s energy firsthand, while non-riders witness the pros in action.
This is not just a ride - it’s a front-row seat to history. With access to IBT hospitality you will enjoy the moment as never before. The day ends with a dinner celebrating local flavors and typical Venetian cuisine.
Non-riders:
Visit the Caneva Castle, a place where history, architecture, and stunning landscapes come together - perfect for a cultural and relaxing walk.
Hotel Borgoluce | Susegana
The day begins with a transfer by train to Rome for both riders and non-riders.
Once there, immerse yourself in the Eternal City’s timeless charm, wandering among its historic monuments and vibrant streets. The excitement builds with the final Giro d’Italia stage, followed by the award ceremony and celebrations - an unforgettable moment for every cycling fan.
The adventure concludes with a festive Roman dinner, enjoying local specialties and raising a toast to an extraordinary journey.
Hotel Napoleon | Rome
All great adventures must come to an end, and today marks the conclusion of this extraordinary journey. Every pedal stroke and every moment has created memories that will last a lifetime.
Enjoy a final breakfast together, savor the last conversations, and carry with you the laughter, the breathtaking landscapes, and the shared passion that made this trip truly unforgettable.
Your adventure may conclude here, but the memories and stories you’ve created will stay with you forever. We’re happy to assist with arranging a transfer to the airport or any other destination of your choice.
Dates & Prices
| Dates | Price | Availability | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu. 21 May - Mon. 1 Jun | From €4499 |
|
Ridley Bikes & Gear
Ridley ASTR GRX600 – Explore epic landscapes! Lightweight, responsive, and adventure-ready. Perfect for gravel, touring, and thrill seekers.
Ridley FALCN – Lightweight, aerodynamic road bike designed for speed, precision handling, and all-day comfort on performance rides.
E-Kanzo Adventure *or similar – A powerful motor, long-lasting battery, and comfortable design. Perfect for gravel roads, scenic routes, and iconic climbs.
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))
3T ULTRA
COMPONENTS:
- Shimano GRX 822 1x - 40T 1x Chainset, 12 Speed 10-51T Cassette
- Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 Wheelset
- Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
- Selle Italia Model X Superflow
- Sizes: 48 - 61
The nuts and Bolts
What's Included?
- 11 nights' 4* accommodation
- Transfers on Day 1 from Milano Malpensa Airport
- All breakfasts
- 7 dinners
- Water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package
- Beautifully planned rides
- Experienced team of local professionals
- GPX Routes
- Van and mechanical support with snacks and water
- Wine tour & tasting
- 2 IBT Private Hospitality (lunch included)
- 9 Stage views
- 2 "Through the Line" and Podium Experience
- 2 VIP Hospitality
- Bike cleaning service
- IBT cycling jersey
- IBT water bottle
- City taxes
What's Not Included?
- Travel insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
- Flights
- Beverages
- Bike Hire & Helmet
- Lunches
- Nutrition
- Tips and gratuities
At a Glance
- Level:Perfect for medium-to-fit riders and cycling enthusiasts looking to embrace the excitement, challenge, and iconic roads of the Giro d’Italia.
- Total Kilometres: Covering approximately 560 km (347 miles) over 11 thrilling riding days.
- When: Thu 21st May - Mon 1st June.
- Start: The tour begins in Novi Ligure, where you’ll witness the Stage 12 finish line.
- Finish: The tour ends in Rome.
- Nearest Airport: Milano Malpensa Airport is the perfect option for arrivals, Rome Airport for departures.
- Top Tip: Bring a flag from home - waving it on the climb instantly turns you into part of the Giro spectacle!
- Average Age of Guest: 50 years old, but open to all ages.
- Male vs Female %: Well balanced, ideal for groups of friends, couples, and solo travelers alike.
| Where to Meet |
Please arrange to meet us at Milano Malpensa Airport (MXP) at 12 pm on Day 1. 24 hours before meeting we will contact you via WhatsApp to confirm the name of staff meeting you. |
|---|---|
| Drop off Location |
Following the conclusion of the tour in Rome we will assist you with planning and booking of onward travel. |
| Transfer Time |
Please consider have something to eat before we collect you from Malpensa Airport. The transfer time from Malpensa to Novi Ligure is 1h45. |
| Riding in Italy |
The general road conditions in Italy are very good, mostly are quiet with less traffic. The majority of roads in are tarmac but we will also be riding on some gravel roads - they are in good condition and can be enjoyed on both a road, gravel or E-Bike. |
| Cuisine |
The food in Northern Italy is exceptional. Expect to savor regional specialties like Ligurian pesto and fresh seafood, Piedmontese truffles and hearty risottos, or Venetian cicchetti and polenta. You shouldn’t miss trying the homemade local wines and craft beers that perfectly complement the cuisine! |
| Hotel Facilities |
The hotels on this tour have pools and spas so we recommend bringing swimming costumes. The hotels also have good WiFi and bar service. All our hotels have air conditioning. Hotels may charge extra for the use of these facilities. |
| Private Tours & Groups |
We welcome the opportunity to discuss a private tour with you should you be in a group of six or more. A private tour allows you to choose dates and personalise the itinerary according to your requirements. |
| Weather |
In late May to early June, Northern Italy enjoys mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures typically between 18 - 25°C (65–77°F). Expect mostly sunny days with occasional spring showers, perfect for cycling and sightseeing. |
| 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. Please check your SPAM/JUNK folder should you not have received an email in this time. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page. |
Hotels
VILLA RAGGI ★★★★
HOTEL IL CORAZZIERE ★★★★
HOTEL LA TURETA ★★★★
HOTEL BORGOLUCE ★★★★
HOTEL NAPOLEON ★★★★
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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 by clicking the button at bottom right of page.
Drop us a direct email to: info@italybiketours.com
