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7-Day Back Roads of Northern Italy

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• What’s Included

DAY 1: ARRIVAL

This 7-Day Northern Italy backroad tour starts in Bologna and ends in Milan. You can fly in/out of Milan and we can arrange transfer to Bologna or you can fly in Bologna and out of Milan. We can assist you with finding the right arrangements for this tour.

You will arrive in the city of Bologna, the birthplace of the iconic Italian bolognese pasta dish, and stay overnight in a hotel right in the city center. Learn more about our Food tour in Bologna, Italy here.

DAY 2 – BOLOGNA: THE CITY AND THE FOOD

On your first full day in Italy, you will be met by your guide after enjoying breakfast in your hotel, and discover the city of Bologna. The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, this city is said to be the gastronomical capital of Europe and today will be full of both history and food. A food tour of Emilia-Romagna is not to be missed when in Italy.

Bologna is home to the oldest university in the world and has a varied and detailed cultural past involving inhabitants from across the globe. Visit famous spots such as the Basilica di San Petronio and the Piazza Maggiore, taking in the atmosphere of the city and admiring its architecture.

In the afternoon, you will have the chance to take part in a local cooking class and learn to make either tagliatelle al ragu or tortellini – two iconic Northern Italy pasta dishes. In the evening, you will get the chance to sample the city’s world-famous cuisine and enjoy dinner in a classic Italian osteria before another night in your hotel.

For more information about cuisine in Bologna, discover our Bologna food tours .

DAY 3 – RENAISSANCE IN FERRARA AND BYZANTINE IN RAVENNA

The third day of your tour will be spent with a private driver-guide, who will take you to the contrasting cities of Ferrara and Ravenna.

Ferrara is an iconic Renaissance location, which you will explore independently. The city is home to art and architecture and was home to the famous Estense Family between the 13th and 16th centuries, who built magnificent palaces and castles around the area.

Ravenna, on the other hand, is thought of as the Byzantine capital of Italy, and is recognizable by its colorful buildings decorated by mosaics. You will want to make a point to visit the Mausoleo di Galla Placidia and the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, both iconic architectural structures.

You will return to your hotel in the late afternoon and have the evening to yourself in Bologna for another night in your hotel.

DAY 4 – MODENA AND MANTUA

You will be met again today by your private driver-guide to travel to Verona, stopping off in the cities of Modena and Mantova (or Mantua).

Modena is another exceptional location for food, and you will be treated to a lunch of local delicacies at a traditional farm in the area. Enjoy ingredients such as tortellini, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and prosciutto ham, and afterwards learn more about the production of balsamic vinegar from the farm’s workers.

Mantua is more of a historic haven, and was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Built over three lakes, the most famous architectural site in Mantua is perhaps the Palazzo Ducale di Mantova, home to the noble Gonzaga family between the 14th and 17th centuries.

After exploring both cities, you will be driven to Verona and have a chance to settle into your new hotel and explore before dinner.

Follow this link for more information about our Food Tours in Northern Italy

DAY 5 – VERONA AND VALPOLICELLA

You’ll spend the morning independently exploring the picturesque city of Verona. Verona is certainly most famous for being the setting for Shakespeare’s tragic masterpiece Romeo and Juliet, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.

A couple of iconic attractions include the Castelvecchio medieval fortress, the Scaliger Bridge tombs and the central Piazza Erbe, which has been the heart of the city since Ancient Rome. The city is also home to the remains of a Roman theatre, and at certain times of the year you can see music or theatre performances on the site.

You have the option in the afternoon to visit the wine region of Valpolicella with a private driver-guide and enjoy the beautiful countryside that features villas and vineyards among the scenery. This visit provides a change of pace from the busy Italian cities, offering spectacular landscapes and a relaxed local way of life that centres around producing delicious wine.

Return to Verona in the evening and enjoy another night in your hotel.

DAY 6 – FRANCIACORTA AND LAKE ISEO

Your last full day in Italy will begin with a transfer from Verona to Milan by another private driver-guide.

During your journey, you will get the chance to stop off in the Franciacorta territory and enjoy its spectacular landscapes. Famous for a particular brand of sparkling wine, Franciacorta has many different towns and villages between its rolling hills and sprawling vineyards, and is a beautiful place to either drive through or stop and explore.

Lake Iseo is surrounded by mountains and is a wonderful lake to visit, with a unique atmosphere and romantic charm. Known for its thriving wildlife and natural elements, you can enjoy the scenery or visit the quaint town of Siviano on the island of Monte Isola.

After your tour, you will arrive in the stylish city of Milan in the late afternoon and check into your hotel before enjoying dinner in your choice of restaurant.

DAY 7 – DEPARTURE

After breakfast in your hotel, you will depart Milan independently and travel back to the airport.

With sumptuous local cuisine and fascinating historical sights, this 7-day backroad Northern Italy tour has something for everyone.

While the south of Italy is popular for its beautiful beaches and scenic coastal villages, Northern Italy is equally stunning and popular for its lush countryside, ancient buildings and famous food. This 7-day Northern Italy backroad tour features some of the very best that this part of the country has to offer, with enough variety to make every day just as entertaining as the last.

Visit fair Verona, home to Shakespeare’s iconic young lovers, or the birthplace of spaghetti bolognese in Bologna, also famed for its ancient university. Poetry lovers will enjoy the mosaic-covered city of Ravenna, where the famous Dante Alighieri lived, while the vineyards of Valpolicella will be heaven to those who enjoy their wine.

Whatever you’re looking to experience in Italy, this Northern Italy tour will be perfect for you. It is not fully escorted, but you will have private guides for the days of sightseeing and private driver transfers between locations. Local assistance will also be available for you 24/7.

Departure Dates & Pricing

This tour is customized to your exact dates. Please contact us for a price for the date you would like to travel.

Prices starting from:

Pricing Guide From € 2,371 per person

This tour offers customized pricing which means that you can pick your own departure dates, level of hotels, add or remove days or book it as it is shown. Just contact us at [email protected] for a custom quote.

What's Included

• Daily breakfast at each of your hotels
• 3 nights staying in the city of Bologna
• A private walking tour of Bologna led by a guide
• A special cooking class in Bologna that includes a dinner afterwards
• A driver-guided excursion to the cities of Ferrara and Ravenna
• Private transfer from Bologna to Verona, stopping en route in Modena and Mantova
• A balsamic vinegar tasting session in Modena, followed by lunch
• 2 nights staying in Verona
• A private walking tour of Verona, led by a guide
• A private transfer from Verona to Milan, stopping on the way in the Franciacorta area and at Lake Iseo
•  1 overnight stay in Milan

Not Included

• Transfer to Bologna on arrival
• Transfer from Milan on departure
• Italian city tax
• Your airfare to and from Italy.
• We can help you with the airfare for your trip, just ask when booking
• Travel insurance. Travel insurance is necessary for this tour, and can be purchases from us or independently

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About Back-Roads Touring

Here at Back-Roads, our passion is delivering small group holidays that delve a little deeper. Travelling by luxury mini-coach along scenic roads, our tours invite you to see each destination through the eyes of the people who know it best: the locals who call it home. We know that the best kind of adventure is one that introduces you to authentic experiences, never-to-be-forgotten views and hand-picked retreats brimming with local charm – while providing you with the time and space to explore independently. With intimate group sizes and expert Tour Leaders and Drivers, there’s no better way to feed your curiosity than with a Back-Roads tour.

Back-Roads Touring have been running their small group, intimate, and unique trips across the UK and Europe since 1986. In this time, they have grown both in size and experience, but they still possess the same touring philosophy that they did back then, and now include more destinations, higher quality accommodation, and a wider range of interesting experiences.

Why Back-Roads Touring?

With small group sizes of no more than 18 people, you can expect a more personalised touring experience – and with like-minded travellers at your side, you’ll find that a journey shared is a journey best enjoyed.

Stories waiting to be unravelled. Secrets waiting to be revealed. Fascinating cultures, delicious flavours and unexplored terrain. Feed your curiosity and embark on a voyage of discovery with Back-Roads – and let the new and exciting take centre stage.

Immerse yourself in nature on uplifting journeys through evocative landscapes. From rolling hills and swathes of forest to shimmering coasts, islands and canals, breathtaking views lie around every corner when you take the scenic route.

There’s no better way to understand the essence of a destination than by meeting the people that call it home. Learn traditional crafts, stories and recipes as you venture off the tourist trail and behind the scenes with exclusive local experiences.

Slow the pace and take it all in; there’s plenty of time to enjoy each step of the journey. Whether you’re touring a historic home, enjoying a meal or indulging in a wine tasting session, you can do so safe in the knowledge that you won’t be rushed.

Insightful, attentive and passionate, our Tour Leaders will unlock the experiences that make your Back-Roads tour truly special – from adding personal touches to your itinerary to bringing destinations to life with their local knowledge.

The Small Group Touring Experience

On each and every night of your Back-Roads tour, you’ll bed down in charming boutique accommodation – from idyllic garden resorts in Asia to elegant European châteaux. Much like our carefully crafted itineraries, a lot of thought goes into selecting each property; only the most characterful, authentic properties make the cut.

From luxury mini-coaches to yachts and barges, our range of transport will deliver you from A to B in both comfort and style – and as we only travel along scenic country roads, you can be sure that you’ll see plenty of picturesque sights along the way. With Back-Roads, the journey is often just as spectacular as the destination! 

Travelling with us

Due to COVID-19, we’ve been restricted from exploring the world for some months now. However, as we approach new beginnings and travel plans, we want to reassure you that your health and wellbeing is at the forefront of our operations. As a small-group touring operator, we are well-equipped to ensure you have an enjoyable travel experience whilst keeping safe.

As we navigate through this unprecedented time, we continue to monitor, evolve and adapt our best practices as more information emerges. Once announced, you can be assured all our actions will fall in line with government regulations, World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines and industry best practise.

In the meantime, know that your health and wellbeing is our main priority and we are actively working to ensure your safety when travelling with Back-Roads.

We understand that in times of uncertainty you need some extra flexibility if your situation changes. If you book your 2021 Back-Roads tour now, you’ll receive added flexibility to change the booking to another departure date or different tour up to 40 days before departure with no penalties until further notice. *Terms and Conditions apply.

Our modern and extremely hygienic fleet of mini-coaches are thoroughly cleaned before each tour starts and regularly throughout as standard. Your Back-Roads Driver will now pay meticulous attention to this daily, sanitising all surfaces including handrails, door handles, tables, seats, air-conditioning filters and any overhead lockers.

All our tours start with a full briefing highlighting the experiences you are about to enjoy. This will now include information on how to keep yourself safe and healthy during the duration of your tour. However, to ensure thorough preparation, we ask that you take personal responsibility for your own wellbeing –including hygiene measures as recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO). These include regular hand washing and sanitising, no sharing of products or food and packing a face mask and gloves to be used when necessary. We’ll provide adequate guidance before your tour departure via direct emails or through your travel agent.

We take our supplier and partner relationships very seriously and in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, there are no exceptions. Over the years we’ve built trusted partnerships with our suppliers and we’re working with them to ensure their cleaning protocols, hygiene records, customer ratings and risk assessments are focused on your wellbeing. This is new to us all and while we don’t have all the answers right now, all information regarding changes we implement for your safety, will be readily available ahead of your tour and highlighted in your departure briefing.

As you’d agree, our experienced Tour Leaders are a key ingredient to making your Back-Roads tour so special. We already conduct thorough Tour Leader training to ensure you have the best possible experience – while prioritising your health, safety and wellbeing. In addition to this, all Tour Leaders and Drivers will undergo further training in response to coronavirus risks. We’re committed to ensuring our Tour Leaders are as prepared as possible to keep you safe, protected and ready to answer any questions you may have.

While we can’t wait to explore with you again, we know this is just the beginning. Our Operations Team are working tirelessly to ensure we’re as prepared as possible for when we can run tours again. And our Customer Service Team is on-hand to help with any questions you may have. We’ll continue to evolve our operations to ensure full compliance with government regulations and will keep you updated as the situation progresses. Be sure to continue checking the Travel Alerts page on our website for up-to-date information.

Back-Roads Touring Guides

Flavio Lazzaretto

Questions & Answers

What is not included in the tour price.

Unless otherwise specified in the listed inclusions, airfares are not included in the tour price. Driver/tour leader gratuity is optional. Lunches (unless otherwise stated), social drinks, meals on free nights,’ items of a personal nature and entrance fees when not listed in the schedule of inclusions. Occasional optional evening theatre/festival visits and entrances not detailed in the tour inclusions. Incidental expenses, such as room service incurred at hotels. All expenses are to be settled prior to leaving the accommodation. Laundry costs and any shipping charges for the return of purchases made on tour, or for the return of property lost on tour. Pre and post tour accommodation. Unless otherwise listed in the inclusions, transfers are not included in the tour price.

What type of clothing is recommended on the tour?

Back Roads suggest packing for variable weather conditions, or if you are travelling through Italy, Spain or Southern France in summer, make sure you pack a hat and sunscreen.

How much luggage is allowed on the tour?

Back Roads travel in mini-coaches and so boot space is limited. Travellers are only entitled to one piece of main luggage of a standard size of no more than 158cm (when the length, width and height is added together) and not weighing more than 20kg. In addition travellers may bring one small carry-on bag per person.

What kinds of tour leader and driver does Back Roads have on the tour?

Their driver/tour leaders have all passed a stringent government test which allows them to drive vehicles and conduct tours. On some tours in mainland Europe (e.g. Italy, Spain, Croatia etc.) they will often use a driver in addition to a tour leader as this makes for better operation of the tour in these particular areas.

How much spending money is recommended on the tour?

Apart from meals and entrance fees within the price of the tour, travellers will need to bring spending money for any other meals, drinks and activities. Back Roads recommends a budget of £70 or 90 Euros per person per day.

Is it possible to do other things like getting my hair done, do laundry, go to church or synagogue while on the tour?

Yes. There is generally sufficient free time to incorporate all such functions, though it is not guaranteed in every country.

Are entrance fees included in the price of the tour?

Back Roads include a selection of entrances fees depending on the tour and these are outlined in the "what's included" section of the tour page.

Can Back Roads cater to travellers with dietary restrictions?

Back Roads will do their best to cater to the dietary needs of the travellers. This should be made clear upon booking, so we can pass on the requests.

What meals are included on the tour?

Breakfast is included daily. Lunches and dinners are also included, either in the hotel or in a local restaurant. Travellers will also have some free evenings to try the local cuisine independently. One thing to remember, dinner times in Europe are likely to be later than the usual: 7.30pm at the earliest and often later in France and Italy.

What are the benefits of travelling in a small group?

With a maximum group size of 18 people on our Europe tours (22 on our French barge tours) and 14 people on our Asia tours, we pride ourselves on ensuring that each guest has a personalised holiday experience. An intimate group allows our expert Tour Leaders to dedicate time to each and every one of their guests. We encourage you to ask questions and share their immense knowledge and passion for the destinations you visit.

How much time is spent in the vehicles while on tour?

Back Roads design tours that have little wasted time as possible on the bus. There are days when travelling between locations may involve freeway driving and more mileage. Generally, a typical day's driving would be anywhere between 110 and 170 miles. There are at least three major attraction stops, 'comfort' and meal stops.

Is tipping allowed on the tour?

Tipping your guide/ driver is entirely at your discretion and is not mandatory. It is common to leave a small gratuity in restaurants and cafes if you have received good service (typically 12% on top of the bill).

Is there time to do shopping while on tour?

Yes! But Back Roads will NOT be taking travellers to 'commission' stops. Their guides are not permitted to profit from your shopping.

How much walking is involved on a tour?

In cities, walking tours are offered by your guide. On European mainland tours there is considerable walking as many historic cities prohibit motorised transport and vehicles have to park some distance out of the centre. On most tours there are opportunities for some extended walking, often from the accommodations used.

Does Back Roads offer customized itineraries?

There are certain visits included in the itineraries which are fixed and included in the price. However outside of these there is some flexibility to adapt the itinerary according to such things as the weather, special events and group wishes but this will depend on the agreement of the fellow-travellers and the judgement of the Tour Leader.

What is the typical day out on the tour?

Touring days are conducted at a leisurely pace. Stops are made frequently during the day to avoid extended periods of time on the coach. On a typical day, the departure is at 9am and arrive at the hotel at 5pm.

How many people would be on a typical Back Roads tour?

The maximum number they carry is 18 (22 on Charming Waterways) and the minimum 4 (8-12 on Charming Waterways and minimum 8 on Norway: Fjords & Glaciers). Tours with a separate driver and tour leader will have a maximum of 18 passengers; tours with a driver/tour leader only will have a maximum of 15.

What is the smoking policy on the tour?

All countries in Europe have now implemented a total smoking ban in public places, and the local laws must be followed. Smoking is also not allowed on vehicles.

Is there sufficient leg room for tall passengers?

Yes, several of the seats have sufficient room for even the tallest passenger to stretch their legs. Back Roads also rotate places to ensure that no-one is sitting permanently in any particular seat.

What kind of vehicles are used on the tour?

Back Roads operate a fleet of Mini Coaches. The most common vehicle in the fleet is a 16 seater Mercedes Sprinter. This vehicle is used on all tours that operate in the UK, Ireland and France. In other countries in mainland Europe and Turkey they use models of a comparable standard and the group sizes do not exceed 18 passengers. Where group sizes are 7 or under they may operate the tour using a Mercedes Vito 8 seater.

Are visas required?

Yes, it is the travellers responsibility to obtain any visas which might be necessary to visit Europe. It is recommended to check with your local consular office regarding visa requirements for the countries you are visiting. As a note, you will definitely need a visa to enter Russia.

Are airport transfers included in the tour price?

No, airport transfer are not included in the tour price. Airport transfers can be booked for an additional cost.

Can TourRadar arrange additional nights’ accommodation in the arrival and departure cities?

Yes. You can certainly book extra accommodation with us here with TourRadar so please get in touch for more details.

Is porterage services included on the tour?

In the hotels, Back Roads include porterage wherever possible.

What other things do I need to know about the hotels on the tour?

Many of the traditional properties Back Roads use are in historic buildings which have been converted to hotels from the original function, rather than purpose built hotels. Often the rooms are different shapes and sizes and may be smaller than newer chain hotels. Some hotels do not have lifts: in many cases this is due to regulations concerning protected buildings, but the uniqueness and charm of these places will make it quite memorable.

What is the hotel quality on Back Roads tours?

Back Roads use a 3-star / 4-star standard of accommodation ranging from country inns to town centre hotels and the occasional castle! In all properties the rooms have en-suite bathrooms.

What is the accommodation for solo travellers?

Back Roads do not ‘match up’ solo travellers, But travellers are welcome to travel with a friend, or join the group as a single traveller with sole use of their own room. Single rooms in European hotels can have one single bed, although in some hotels solo travellers will have a double room for their own use. The single supplement is very reasonable, and much less than the total cost of 2 people sharing a room.

What kind of room is the recommended upon booking?

Trevellers should choose upon booking what kind of room they want, whether they want a twin room (two single-sized beds in a room) or a double room (one standard-sized bed for two people).

Where do travellers dine while on tour?

All breakfasts are taken in the accommodations. A minimum of a two-course cooked evening meal is served. But on occasion, to add variety to the tour experience, travellers also dine out at local pubs and restaurants.

Are there elevators in the hotels?

Most properties have a lift, but there are hotels which do not have one. In these instances our guides or the hotel staff will assist with the carrying of your bags to your room. Some hotels are in very old buildings and there may be stairs between the levels in the corridors.

Is it possible to get a ground floor room?

Approximately 60% of the places Back Roads use will have limited ground floor accommodation available, however they will only be able to provide for one room per tour. When a ground floor room is requested but not available, they will allocate the lowest, most easily reached alternative room available.

Are bathtubs and showers available on the room?

In historic hotels bathroom facilities can vary and some rooms will have a tub, some showers, some both. All hotel rooms have private ensuites.

Is there a triple room accommodation?

There is limited triple availability and often a triple room contains a double bed and one single. There is little, if any, cost saving to be made in booking a triple room unless it is to avoid a 'single supplement' charge.

Are Back-Roads tours suitable for children?

Back Roads tours are designed principally for adults, but they will consider accepting children aged 12 or over on request.

What is the age range of the travellers joining the tour?

Back Roads travellers are typically between 40-70 years old.

When is the perfect time to visit Europe?

There is no doubt summer months are the best time to visit the UK and Europe, due to the warmer climate, however, July and August are the 'peak' months where most of Europe is on holidays. If travellers prefer to travel away from the crowds, May-June and Sept-October can be more pleasant times to visit Europe. The Winter months are great alternatives to experience Europe's festive seasons. November-January being the best winter months to travel and catch Christmas Markets and the best sales.

How long has Back-Roads Touring been in the business and are they ATBA registered?

Back-Roads Touring Co. Ltd was founded in 1986 and are ABTA registered.

Does Back Roads Touring offer customized tours?

Yes, Back Roads Touring operate special customised tours for families, friends wanting to travel together, or any other group. Feel free to contact us here at TourRadar and we can assist in this style of booking.

Does Back Roads Touring allow travellers with health conditions?

If the health problem is manageable without the need for additional care, special facilities, or does not present a risk to any other passengers then you will be allowed on a Back-Roads Tour.

What level of fitness is required on the tour?

Travellers need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, walk to attractions, around towns and villages, walk up and downstairs in some of the hotels and use a shower over the bath.

Are Back Roads tours all guaranteed departure?

Back Roads tours run with a minimum of four people, at which point they will usually guarantee the departure. If the tour is cancelled, travellers will be advised at least 6 weeks in advance and will then have a choice of a full refund of the amount paid for the tour, or an alternative tour. However, for their Charming Waterways programme, which operates with a minimum of 8 people (French Waterways tours operate with a minimum of 12) as well as Norway: Fjords & Glaciers, which operates with a minimum of 8 people.

Who are typical travellers on a Back-Roads Tour?

Travellers are mainly English-speaking and come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Singapore and Hong Kong. Other nationalities join occasionally but all tour commentaries are in English.

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6 beautiful road trips in Italy: drive the country's best routes

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Explore the best of Italy with these scenic road trips Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

The drive along Italy 's Amalfi Coast, preferably in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, is the stuff of travel legend.

And it's just one of dozens of epic road trip routes in this fascinating, richly layered country. Don't be put off by stories of impatient local drivers – the countryside here was made for exploring by road (and stopping every few hundred yards to take another photo).

With an extensive network of well-maintained roads that weave between snow-capped peaks, trace plunging coastlines, and meander through rolling farmland and vineyards to scenic lakes and historic towns, pretty much every journey in Italy is a scenic odyssey, but some road trips stand out as being particularly memorable.

To set the scene, we've chosen six classic road trips ranging from gentle Tuscan jaunts to hair-raising mountain adventures. Some are a little challenging, but they all make for unforgettable experiences! Here are the best road trip routes in Italy.

1. The Amalfi Coast

Best classic Italian coastal road trip Salerno–Sorrento; approx 75km/46 miles, 1 day

Experience Italy's most spectacular coastal scenery on this white-knuckle drive along the Amalfi Coast . From Salerno , the main southern gateway to the coast, strike west to Vietri sul Mare , a small town famous for its ceramics and the start point of the coastal road proper. From here, the driving becomes more challenging as the road narrows, the curves become tighter, and the views become ever more dramatic.

After about 20km (12 miles), you'll arrive in Amalfi , the coast's main hub. Stop here to look around the landmark Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and then head up to Ravello in the hills above. Pause for lunch here, perhaps at the Ristorante Pizzeria Vittoria , and enjoy heady panoramas from the town's lush gardens.

Next, push on to Positano , a chic, near-vertical town where colorful, steeply-stacked houses cascade down the precipitous hillsides. Beyond Positano, the route leads inland, up and across the hilly interior to Sorrento , a lively tourist hot spot overlooked by the dark, brooding bulk of Mount Vesuvius.

Planning tip:  It's a popular drive, so try to come out of season to avoid the traffic. With another day to spare, you can continue north to Naples via the ruins of Pompeii .

2. The Tuscan tour

Best road trip for art and architecture  Florence–Orvieto; approx 210km/130 miles , 2–3 days

Taking in two of Italy's great medieval cities, the wine treasures of Chianti  and swathes of classic Tuscan scenery, this two-day route leads from Florence to Orvieto in the neighboring region of Umbria . Whet your appetite for the road ahead by feasting on fine art and Renaissance architecture in Florence before striking south to Chianti wine country.

Stop for a tasting at the Enoteca Falorni in Greve and to sample the region's celebrated bistecca (steak) at L'Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano. From here, follow the backroads to Siena , a stunning medieval city centered on an awe-inspiring Duomo and a 12th-century square, the famous Piazza del Campo . Recommended overnight options here include the Pensione Palazzo Ravizza .

In the morning, head to Montalcino to stock up on Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy's most revered red wines. A short drive to the east, the Val d'Orcia provides quintessential Tuscan landscapes with its billowing green hills, cypress trees and hilltop towns. Lunch in Pienza, then continue through Montepulciano to Orvieto, a striking hilltop town famous for its remarkable Gothic Duomo .

Planning tip:  While you could easily do this route in two days, consider adding an extra overnight stop to explore the region in more depth.

3. Southeastern Sicily 

Best road trip for exploring Sicily's charming towns Catania–Ragusa; approx 165km/103 miles , 2 days

Hunt UNESCO-listed baroque treasures on this two-day tour of Sicily 's rugged southeast. Start by investigating Catania's grandiose historic center and brilliant fish market. After a seafood lunch, hit the road and make for Syracuse where you can trawl through ancient Greco-Roman ruins at the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis and stroll elegant baroque streets in the Ortygia district. Overnight at the stylish Hotel Gutkowski .

On day two, continue to Noto , home to what is arguably Sicily's most beautiful street, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, which is dotted with churches and charming cafes. Once you've digested this masterpiece of urban design, turn inland to Modica , a bustling town wedged into a deep canyon. Stock up on the town's famous chocolates before pushing on through the rocky hinterland to Ragusa and the handsome historic center known as Ragusa Ibla.

Planning tip:  To round the trip off on a high note, book ahead and treat yourself to dinner at the Ristorante Duomo , one of Sicily's top restaurants with meals prepared by chef Ciccio Sultano.

4. The Great Dolomites Road

Best road trip for stunning mountain vistas Bolzano–Cortina d'Ampezzo; approx 125km/78 miles; 2 days

The Grande Strada della Dolomiti provides some of Italy's most exhilarating driving. Running from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo, it boasts superb scenery as it snakes past craggy, saw-tooth peaks and over lofty mountain passes in the Dolomites.

From Bolzano , head eastwards toward Ponte Nova, where you'll get your first sight of the Dolomite's mighty granite peaks. Continue to Val di Fassa, a magnificent valley framed by forested slopes and gigantic rock summits, and up to the 2,239m (7,345 ft) Passo Pordoi. The descent from here is slow going, but you'll be rewarded with stunning views as you corkscrew down to La Villa in the spectacularly sited Val Badia.

From here, you could push directly on to Cortina d'Ampezzo , the chic resort that marks the end of the road, but for a more relaxed trip, stop for the night at the Dolomit B&B and take some scenic detours around La Villa on day two.

Planning tip:  This is serious country for outdoor activities with superb winter skiing and wonderful summer hiking .

5. The southern shore of Lake Como 

Best springtime road trip Como–Bergamo; approx 112km/70 miles; 1 day

Surrounded by Alpine peaks and wooded hills, Lake Como (Lago di Como) is the most picturesque of Italy's northern lakes. This leisurely one-day drive takes in elegant art nouveau villas and lush waterfront gardens along the lake's southern shoreline.

The obvious starting point is the town of Como itself. Once you've explored the charming historic center and the nearby Villa Olmo , take the swooping road up to Bellagio . Stop at this charming lakeside village to explore the grounds of neoclassical Villa Melzi d'Eril and have lunch at Terrazza Barchetta .

Suitably refreshed, leave your car and jump on a ferry to Tremezzo, home of the 17th-century Villa Carlotta and its spectacular gardens. Back in Bellagio, pick up your wheels and strike southeast, following the scenic lakeside road down to Lecco and on to historic Bergamo , where you can rest up in style at the Hotel Piazza Vecchia .

Planning tip: Time your visit for April and May when the area is awash with spring color.

6. Highlights of Abruzzo

Best road trip for unspoiled landscapes Rome–Sulmona; approx 240km/150 miles, one day

Just over an hour's drive east of Rome , the little-known region of Abruzzo is a world apart from the big city, with wild, empty valleys and unspoiled mountain landscapes. From the capital take the A24 autostrada to Fonte Cerreto, from where it's a twisting climb up to Campo Imperatore, a highland plain overlooked by the Apennines' highest peak, Corno Grande (2,912m/9,553ft).

Continue on to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a remote, semi-abandoned village high in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga. If you're traveling during the weekend you can lunch at the Locanda Sotto gli Archi ; otherwise, pick up picnic supplies in the village.

In the afternoon, push on to Sulmona, a graceful town set in the shadow of the Morrone massif. Famous for its delicacy confetti (sugar-coated almonds), Sulmona makes a good base for exploring the region's rugged southern reaches, offering good accommodation at the Legacy Casa Residencia and filling food at local restaurants such as Il Vecchio Muro .

Planning tip:  We strongly recommend spending a day or more in Sulmona, exploring the surrounding hills by car or on foot away from the tourist crowds.

This article was first published May 28, 2019 and updated Nov 16, 2023.

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Favorites stage 4 Tour de France 2024 | Gala performance on the Galibier, who's in?

O n day four of the Tour de France, the riders will leave Italy, but before that there will be some serious climbing to do. The first real mountain stage of this Tour de France is on the line, where Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard might want to hit the road again? IDLProcycling.com takes you along!

Route stage 4 Tour de France 2024

After three days of Italy they reached one on day four France. The riders can look back on a tough, exhausting weekend in the Boot, where high temperatures made it demanding days. Add to that the method of racing and the distances (three times over two hundred kilometers) and you're talking about a very tough start. And given the profile of stage four, the riders are not off the hook yet.

Indeed, we start in Pinerolo, in the province of Turin. This time not for two hundred kilometers, but "only" 138 kilometers. The A.S.O. is once again showing that it wants to move away from the traditional principles of a Tour de France: the times when we could first sprint five or six times and then reach the Alps are over;

From the start, the road actually goes straight uphill, officially still uncategorized. After ten kilometers they then begin the forty (!) kilometer climb towards Sestrieres, whose normally relatively easy start the organization has now made a little more difficult by laying an intermediate sprint in Castel del Bosco after eight kilometers of climbing (and nineteen in total).

If, say, Mads Pedersen wants to get the full marks here, his good climbing teammates will have to make it difficult for Jasper Philipsen and co. Not to mention Fabio Jakobsen and Mark Cavendish, who showed in the first days that they have to choose their own pace early.

Towards Sestrieres we reach an altitude of more than 2,000 meters, but it is mainly a runner where the leading group will be formed and sprint for the first real mountain points. After a ten kilometer descent, the Col de Montgenevere, the border between Italy and France, immediately follows. It is 8.3 kilometers long at an average gradient of 5.9 percent and has a particularly steep second kilometer, but is otherwise doable.

We then head into the valley toward Briancon, to begin the Lauteret/Galibier. A name like a bell of course, with its profile of 23.1 kilometers of climbing at 5.1 percent to a whopping 2642 meters altitude. Then again, the center of gravity in terms of gradient is overwhelmingly in the second section, when the riders are now riding at altitude.

We are not there yet at the top of this Galibier, as the finish line is nineteen kilometers later in Valloire. The first part of this descent still contains quite a few curves, but all in all many riders have already ridden the Galibier several times. In the last kilometer it flattens out a bit, after which the riders - who still have to pay attention in the technical final kilometer - have reached the finish of this peppered mountain stage;

50.4 km: SESTRIÈRES (39.9 km at 3.7%)

71.1 km: COL DE MONTGENÈVRE (8.3 km at 5.9%)

120.7 km: COL DU GALIBIER (23.0 at 5.1%)

Start: 1:15 p.m.

Finish: around 5:20 p.m.

Weather stage 4 Tour de France 2024

There was brief talk last month that the Galibier might be scrapped due to snow, but in the run-up to the Tour, those claims also disappeared like snow in the sun. Tuesday it will be 11 degrees Celsius on top of the col, while temperatures in Valloire are already heading toward 20 degrees Celsius. The wind is mostly against in the finale.

Favorites stage 4 Tour de France 2024

Everyone - riders, team managers, analysts and so on - was talking in advance of this Tour de France about the damage UAE-Team Emirates and Tadej Pogacar would want to do in the first few days. During the opening weekend in Italy, this coup surprisingly failed to materialize, noting that the Emirates team as a whole did not seem quite on point.

Adam Yates did do a good lead on Sunday - as did Tim Wellens on Saturday - but Marc Soler, Pavel Sivakov, Joao Almeida and Juan Ayuso do not seem to be at their best yet. Possibly they want to keep the last two in the classification for longer and thus opted for a somewhat defensive tactic, although Pogacar did of course attack on Sunday.

One man was swiftly on the wheel: Jonas Vingegaard , Danish Dynamite of Visma | Lease a Bike. A nice touch after the injuries he had to deal with, and then the punchy ride in and around Bologna wasn't even really his area. That's just where we'll get to this Tuesday: the high Alps, where he'll feel right at home.

Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step) and Richard Carapaz (EF Education-EasyPost) joined later on Sunday, also showing that they are in good shape. Behind them, a group of 20 riders clumped together, so they are not yet out of contention either. Primoz Roglic, seen as one of the big contenders on behalf of BORA-hansgrohe, will be looking for revenge;

The first name that springs to mind is Tom Pidcock (INEOS Grenadiers), but teammates Egan Bernal and Carlos Rodriguez as well as Pello Bilbao (Bahrain Victorious) and Giulio Ciccone (Lidl-Trek) also have good downhill skills;

However, everything falls and steels with the tactical choices of the teams of the two top favorites, who may also choose to send people forward. At UAE-Team Emirates they can do so with the aforementioned names like Yates, Almeida and Ayuso, Visma | Lease a Bike also has Matteo Jorgenson high up in the standings. Roglic (Vlasov and Hindley) and Evenepoel (Landa) also have shadow leaders. Other good climbers who are high on their team's behalf alone will have more to choose from.

We shouldn't discount the early breakaway in advance either, as it also had its share on day one and two. Someone like Romain Bardet probably won't get more freedom right away, but perhaps some men who are a bit farther away or don't pose a threat will: puncher Maxim Van Gils (Lotto-Dstny), for example, or guys like Ben Healy, Neilson Powless (EF Education-EasyPost), Tobias Halland Johannessen (Uno-X) and Kévin Vauquelin (Arkéa - B&B Hotels).

Favorites stage 4 Tour de France 2024, according to In the Leader's Jersey

Top favorites: Tadej Pogacar (UAE-Team Emirates) and Jonas Vingegaard (Visma | Lease a Bike)

Outsiders: Remco Evenepoel (Soudal Quick-Step), Richard Carapaz (EF Education-EasyPost), Tom Pidcock (INEOS Grenadiers) and Pello Bilbao (Bahrain Victorious)

Long shots : Primoz Roglic (BORA-hansgrohe), Giulio Ciccone (Lidl-Trek), Carlos Rodriguez (INEOS Grenadiers), Adam Yates (UAE-Team Emirates), Matteo Jorgenson (Visma | Lease a Bike), Neilson Powless (EF Education-EasyPost), Tobias Halland Johannessen (Uno-X) and Kévin Vauquelin (Arkéa - B&B Hotels)

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