Bicycling Across Italy

In 1998, the Italian Parliamentary Transport Commission approved the first proposal for a bicycling promotion law. For the first time in Italy's history, the government's agenda was set to focus on the bicycle as a transporting and commuting staple.

The new law will give each region the additional responsibility of creating plans for cycling facilities, establishing and building a fund for routes for increased cycling mobility, like bike paths, bridges and under ways, parking, etc. Each region will also have to burden the financial costs of infrastructures for the intertwining of roadways between bikes, public transportation and "tour lines", or roads and walkways/paths maintained specifically for use as tourist routes.

For now, abandoned railroad tracks have been considered the most economical choice when deciding what resources bikers can use (out of those that are already in existence.) New roads in each region must now be designed to provide room for bicycle paths alongside vehicular commuters. With this innovation, however, many are finding themselves using bicycles more and more for those morning and evening commutes, reducing car traffic only slightly but providing a faster, healthier alternative to their cars.

I've never seen more bicycles than I did in Italy. People use those things EVERYWHERE [not equal] for absolutely everything. If you've seen (or even just HEARD) about the traffic in ANY major Italian city, you know why. But it's not only a great means of transportation in the city; it's a great way to really SEE Italy -- ALL OF IT. Yeah, it's work and not as luxurious as other means of transportation, but you'll really FEEL the essence of Italy when seeing it from atop your bicycle seat.

There are several ways you can do this. One way to bike across Italy is to pack it before you leave the states. If it doesn't exceed the weight limit, you can usually check it onto the plane with no extra costs. (Word to the wise: If your bike DOES exceed the limit, it's probably a heavier bike and not great for extended, long-distance travel. Consider buying a bike with a lighter, more durable frame to give you some weight leeway for luggage and supplies.)

You can, of course, use the money you would have spent on a rental car, gas and insurance to purchase a bicycle. A good, sturdy, solid bicycle will cost you between $300 and $400 U.S. dollars. Throw in a bicycle maintenance kit (with sealant for flat tires and a spare tire tube [not equal] two if you're going far; throw in extra spokes and tools, too) for another $10 and you've got a vacation on (two) wheels. If you DO purchase a bike in Italy, tell the shop owner you want a bike equipped with fast change wheels, extra strong brakes and a strong carrier over the rear wheel.

Here are a few tips for safe and easy bicycle travel within Italy:

1. Don't pack food for all meals. Keep one or two meals worth of "emergency food", but pick up regional meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables, as well as water and samples of local wines, along the way.

2. Be sure to follow rules of traffic. If you are in the city, be VERY WARY of cars. You might have the right of way, but they don't care. Be cautious and you'll be fine.

3. Keep a camera handy. You'll find such spectacular views at every turn that you'll want to keep it close. It will save you time if you don't have to dig through your saddlebags at every stop, only to replace the camera and do it again next time you want a picture.

4. If you can, travel with a partner. Even better is to travel with a group. The advantage to group travel is that you can all chip in for the cost of a van rental, which will ride behind, keep your luggage and serve as a "sag wagon" for those too tired to ride anymore that day/leg/trip.

5. Know that there are certain RULES to traveling on the Italian trains with bicycles. (See TRAINS link below for rules and regulations regarding bicycles on trains.)

6. Don't forget the MAPS! Detailed maps are better. If you travel with a partner, make sure you EACH have a copy in case one is lost. Be sure to keep a compass with you as well. A small one will work fine.

7. Remember to check if bicycles are allowed on main highways. Most regions do not allow this, but instead provide special bike lanes along secondary outer roads that run parallel to the highway.

8. Keep bungee cords with you. Should you choose, at some point, to disassemble your bike, you'll need the bungee cords to keep all of the pieces together.

9. Get a strong, U-shaped lock, and be sure to keep both keys with you. Give one to a partner. If you're alone, pin a key inside your sock and roll the sock down over it so it doesn't chafe your skin. Or, keep it in your wallet and keep the wallet on your body at all times.

10. Remember that breakfast in Italy is NOT available in 95 percent of the country until 7 a.m. Plan accordingily, because if you plan to leave at 6 a.m. you'll find yourself delayed more than an hour because of breakfast. Many choose to grab something simple the night before and keep it with them. Or grab a small breakfast at or outside their hotel before they leave, and make the day a shorter leg. It's up to you, but keep that in mind.

Bicycle travel is a cheap, fun and healthy way to see Italy. If you're interested in checking out the country by bicycle, or even just replacing your rental car with a bike, do so. Using a bike makes you truly appreciate your surroundings. Where on Earth can you find a better place to do that than ITALY?

To check regulations for train travel with bicycles, check Italy Trains and Bikes.

For an Italian Survival Guide to bike tours, complete with a listing of Italian language to know on your bicycle trip, click here.