Exploring Florence by bicycle is not just an ecological way to get around, but a true sensory journey.
The scent of flowers in the gardens, the gentle breeze caressing your face, the sounds of the city blending into an uninterrupted symphony-every detail contributes to an unforgettable experience.
Pedaling along the banks of the Arno, admiring the Ponte Vecchio reflected in the water, getting lost in the narrow streets of the Oltrarno district, means experiencing the city firsthand, breathing in its vibrant atmosphere and capturing its deepest essence.
But the possibilities are not limited to the historic center.
Florence’s surroundings offer breathtaking landscapes, hills dotted with cypress trees, medieval villages and Renaissance villas, all easily accessible by bicycle. Imagine pedaling through the vineyards of Chianti, admiring the view from the hill of Fiesole, and discovering the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, savoring the freedom and tranquility that only a bike ride can offer.
In this article, we have selected some bike routes designed to meet different needs and levels of physical fitness.
From the simplest routes suitable for the whole family, to more challenging tours for experienced cyclists, you are sure to find the perfect itinerary to experience Florence and its surroundings in a new and unforgettable light.
Get your bike ready and head out on an adventure!
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Cycling in the historic center of Florence
Distance: 5 km
Duration: 1-2 hours
Start your tour from Florence Cathedral, with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi.
Continue to Piazza della Signoria, passing the FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli and arrive to admire the Palazzo Vecchio and the famous Neptune Fountain. From here, head to the Ponte Vecchio, one of the symbols of the city, famous for its goldsmith stores.
Cross the Arno and reach the Boboli Gardens, a great place for a break; among its flower beds and fountains, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Conclude your itinerary by heading back toward the center, passing by the San Lorenzo market, where you can sample some local specialties.
Lungarno bike route
Distance: 10 km (round trip)
Duration: 1-2 hours
This route follows the Arno River, offering a unique opportunity to see the city from a different perspective.
Start at Ponte alla Carraia and pedal along the banks of the river, enjoying the view of historic buildings reflected in the water.
Stop at the Cascine Park, the largest park in Florence, where you can relax, picnic, or just enjoy nature.
Continuing on the other side of the Arno, head to Piazzale Michelangelo, where you can stop at the Iris Garden, an enchanting place especially in spring when the irises are in bloom.
Cycling in the Florentine hills
Distance: 15 km (round trip)
Duration: 3-4 hours
For the more adventurous, a route in the hills around Florence offers a combination of challenges and spectacular views.
Very picturesque places that have enchanted many artists and writers such as Virginia Woolf.
Starting from the FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo, start climbing toward Fiesole and reach the Roman Theater and the Archaeological Museum.
After a morning of cycling, we recommend lunch at Serrae Restaurant Villa Fiesole, awarded a Michelin Star 2025 and located just 800 meters from the center.
Once you have recharged your energy, it’s downhill to Florence.
Cycling to the Murals of Florence
Distance: 8 km
Duration: 2 hours
Florence is not only Renaissance art but a popular destination for street art lovers with murals by major international artists.
Start with Florence’s largest mural dedicated to Nelson Mandela, designed and created by the talented Jorit, a Neapolitan artist considered one of the leading exponents of contemporary street art internationally.
This tribute to Mandela, a symbol of the struggle for freedom and equality, stretches fourteen meters in height and nine meters in width, dominating the facade of a building in Piazza Pietro Leopoldo.
It continues in the west side of Florence on Via Canova where there are two important murals.
The first is dedicated to Antonio Gramsci, a symbol of free and independent journalism, a mural also created by Jorit.
While the other is dedicated to Davide Astori, the unforgettable captain of Fiorentina, who died prematurely in 2018. The work is signed by Sicilian artist Giulio Rosk, and is located on Via Canova at number 166.
Bike route from Florence to Chianti
Distance: 20 km (round trip)
Duration: 4-5 hours
For those who wish to venture beyond the city center, the route to Chianti is perfect.
Starting in Florence, follow the signs for Strada in Chianti, a scenic road that offers spectacular views of the Tuscan hills.
Along the way, stop to visit some of the local wineries, where you can sample the famous Chianti wines.
Don’t forget to take a map or GPS device with you, as the roads can be winding.
This route is ideal in spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the colors of nature are vibrant.
Useful tips for bike routes in Florence
- Bike Rental: There are several bike rental outlets in Florence, including bike share services. Be sure to check schedules and availability.
- Safety: Always wear a helmet and obey traffic laws. Some roads can be crowded, so be careful, especially in tourist areas.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go. Spring and fall are the best times to ride because of the temperate weather.
- Water and Snacks: Bring a bottle of water and some snacks with you to stay hydrated and have energy during your tour.
Where to stay for a bike route in Florence
FH55 Med Guesthouse represents an interesting new addition to the FH55 Hotels offer, designed for a more independent and dynamic stay experience. Nestled in a cozy atmosphere, the property boasts a pleasant communal garden, ideal for relaxing and socializing, and a solarium where you can enjoy the Florentine sun.
To encourage urban exploration, FH55 Med Guesthouse provides a bicycle rental service, inviting guests to discover hidden corners and charming glimpses of the city at a slower pace.
A significant added value is the ability to access the services of the nearby FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo.
Within walking distance of the Guesthouse, guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast, sample the restaurant’s culinary offerings, find well-equipped work spaces, park conveniently in the garage, and use the laundry service.
This synergy between the two facilities offers flexibility and comfort, combining the freedom of independent lodging with the advantages of a superior hotel.
For those, on the other hand, looking for an uncompromising experience of luxury and hospitality, FH55 Med Executive Hotel in Florence presents itself as the ideal choice.
This new property, strategically located close to the beating heart of the historic center, offers a stay marked by elegance and comfort.
The rooms and suites, elegantly furnished and equipped with every modern comfort, promise a rejuvenating rest.
The 4-star hotel stands out for the personalized services and unique privileges offered to its guests, guaranteeing attention to detail that makes all the difference.