Florence in a Half Day by Bike Tour

Take a ride through the city's hidden gems from Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno neighborhood

Travel Flexibly 4.9 / 5 See All 13 Reviews · 2.00h · Florence, Italy

Looking for a fun and active way to discover Florence? Then saddle up for a bike ride that’ll show you the best of the city in just a few hours! With a small group and a friendly local guide, you’ll pedal through Florence’s medieval streets to see famous sites like Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery, as well as local highlights that most tourists miss. After exploring the historic center, you’ll cross the river to the charming Oltrarno neighborhood for one of the city’s best gelatos!

  • Meet your guide in Piazza Mentana
  • Bike ride
  • Duomo and Brunelleschi's dome
  • Piazza della Signoria
  • Piazza Santa Croce
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Gelato stop
  • End in Piazza Mentana

There's a lot to see in Italy's Renaissance city, so discovering the highlights by bike makes it easy to see the best of Florence in just a few hours. After meeting your guide in Piazza Mentana, you'll hop on a professionally-maintained bicycle to begin your journey through the city. Cycling at a gentle pace on largely flat terrain, you'll pass by some of Florence's most famous sites as well as smaller piazzas and side streets that many tourists never see.

At the end of your tour, you'll cycle across the Arno River to the tranquil Oltrarno, where you'll see a different side of Florence and visit one of the city's best gelato shops before returning to the historic center.

Florence Half Day Bike Tour Description

Your 2-hour tour includes:

  • Comfortable city bike rental

  • Bike helmet and basket included

  • Guided tour of Florence's historical center and Oltrarno neighborhood

  • Tasty gelato at one of our favorite spots in the city

  • Friendly English-speaking local guide

  • Earphones for groups over 6

  • Maximum group size of 12

Begin Your Journey in Central Florence

Your day begins in Piazza Mentana, just off the Arno River in the heart of Florence. After your bike has been chosen and adjusted for you, your local guide will lead you off on a fun and carefully-chosen route around the city, stopping for photos and to tell stories of this enchanting city along the way.

The ride is relatively flat and easy, and helmets and baskets are available along with child seats or kids bikes if needed.

Best of Florence by Bike

Head through the alleys and cobblestone streets lined by Renaissance-era buildings, taking in famous sites such as Ponte Vecchio bridge. As you discover the highlights of Florence over the next couple of hours, you'll see where Dante, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci lived, worked, and created some of the world's most important art and literature.

Piazza della Signoria, Piazza Santa Croce, and Florence's Great Squares

Your guide will take you through some of the great public squares of Florence, including the beautiful Piazza della Signoria, home to the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio. Though not as tall as the Dome nearby, the great bell tower of Palazzo Vecchio is a symbol of Florence and the powerful Medici family. In the square you'll see great statues by Donatello, Giambologna, and a copy of Michelangelo's famous David.

Later, in Piazza Santa Croce, take in the hustle and bustle of local life in Florence. The perfect place to people-watch while drinking a cappuccino, it is also ideal to take in by bike. See the statue dedicated to the father of the Italian language Dante, who is buried at the basilica located in the square.

Brunelleschi's Dome and the Duomo

You'll continue past the towering dome that makes Florence's skyline so recognizable worldwide. Filippo Brunelleschi's massive cupola that sits atop the Duomo is still the largest masonry dome ever built. Learn about the impressive feat of architecture as you pedal through Piazza del Duomo. Beyond the dome, you'll stop to admire the intricate stone work of the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore and the Baptistry at the center of Florence's most visited square.

Palazzo Pitti and the Oltrarno Neighborhood

Away from the crowds in the historical center, enjoy the tranquility of the Oltrarno neighborhood. Located directly across the Arno river, this chic part of Florence is perfect for a leisurely cycle and is also home to the grand Pitti Palace. This grand Renaissance palace dates back to the 13th century and was once a home of the Medici family, but now stands as one of the city's largest museums. From this side of the river, you'll have wonderful views of the city and can take photos of the Florentine skyline worthy of a frame.

Cool Off with Delicious Gelato!

Before heading back to center of the city, you'll be treated to an authentic Florentine gelato from one of our favorite spots in the city. Choose your perfect combination of flavors then sit and enjoy the creamy deliciousness!

Returning to Piazza Mentana, you'll wave goodbye to your guide and set off to explore more of the city yourself.

What you get with this tour
Passionate English-speaking guide
City bike rental
Bike helmet and basket included
Florence's historical center and Oltrarno
Gelato
Group size of 12
Food and beverages
Hotel pick up and drop off
Guide gratuities
Tripadvisor Logo

See what people are saying

13 total reviews

Leave a review
4.9/5 (based on 13 reviews)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 stars
14 April 2024
J
Reviewed by
Jill Pila

Fun intro to Firenze
30 December 2023
A
Reviewed by
Anne Kelly

Enjoyed a good intro tour that covered a lot of physical ground and oriented us to Firenze’s history and sites. Frederica confidently navigated our way through busy streets and alleyways and made the experience fun.

Great bike tour!
25 November 2023
J
Reviewed by
Jamie Lee McVeigh

We had an awesome time! Our guide was very knowledgeable and kind (I’m s nervous bike rider)! She even gave us recommendations for the rest of our trip in Italy!

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Some water, clothes and shoes you can cycle in, and a jacket if it looks like rain.

Are helmets available?

Yes. Helmets of various sizes are available, along with bicycle baskets if needed.

Can I bring my kids?

Sure! Kids bikes are available for any youngsters who are confident on two wheels, and child seats are also available.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Florence. They're a specialist company who we know uphold our high standards.

Do I need to be super-fit to join this tour?

No. The route is largely flat and gentle, so you just need to be proficient in riding a bike.

What to bring?

Some water, clothes and shoes you can cycle in, and a jacket if it looks like rain.

Start From: $51.30

available days discounted days

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

Reserve Now $51.30 / per person
$51.30 / per person
You may also like
Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi

Explore Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and so much more

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David

Uncover the best of Florence at the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and skip the line at Accademia

Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb

Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb

Explore the breathtaking cathedral and take in captivating views from Brunelleschi’s Cupola!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Statue of David Evening Tour

Skip the line to see Michelangelo's David on a later tour of the Accademia Gallery with fewer crowds

Day Trip

Day Trip

Tuscany Wine Tour from Florence to Siena & Chianti

Enjoy a luxury Tuscany day trip to visit Siena and San Gimignano then taste food and wine in Chianti

Guided Tour

Guided Tour

Florence Local Food Tour in Santo Spirito

Get an authentic taste of Florence’s exquisite food and wine in a lively local neighborhood

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour

See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery

New Tour

New Tour

Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour

Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb

View this charming city from the terraces of Brunelleschi’s famous dome after touring the cathedral

New Tour

New Tour

Exclusive Florence Duomo and Secret Terraces Tour

Discover Florence's Duomo with our small group, skip the line tour with hidden terrace access

New Tour

New Tour

Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Boat Ride

Visit these iconic fishing villages the easy way on this tour to the beautiful Italian Riviera

New tour

New tour

Pisa and The Leaning Tower Half Day Tour from Florence

Explore the City famous for its Piazza dei Miracoli and enjoy skip-the-line access with this tour

New Tour

New Tour

Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour

Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Florence Private Walking Tour with Michelangelo's David

Explore the famous sites of Florence, with Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and skip-the-line Accademia entry

New Tour

New Tour

Skip the Line Duomo Terraces Tour with Dome Climb

Admire the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, and enjoy breathtaking views

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Wine Tour by Vespa from Florence

Taste the food and wine of Chianti as you ride through the Tuscan countryside on a vintage scooter

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Private Siena Walking Tour

Explore this charming Tuscan city with an engaging local guide to see the Duomo, San Domenico & more

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Uffizi Private Tour in Florence

Skip the line to see Birth of Venus, Medusa, Doni Tondo, and more with your own private art guide

Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence

Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence

Explore the charming towns of Monterosso and Manarola, embark on a coastal hike, and tour Pisa

Vintage FIAT 500 Tour from Florence​

Vintage FIAT 500 Tour from Florence​

Vintage FIAT 500 Self-Drive Tuscany Tour from Florence

Get behind the wheel of an iconic Italian car, cruising to the Tuscan countryside

New Tour

New Tour

Pisa and Lucca Day Trip from Florence

Book a stress-free trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca's medieval walls in a day

New Tour

New Tour

Oltrarno Local Food Tour in Florence

Take a break from the crowds and eat like a local in the lively neighborhood of Oltrarno

New Tour

New Tour

Chianti Vineyards Tour and Wine Tastings from Florence

See two luxurious wine estates, taste local wine, and sample delicious produce on this half day tour

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany in a Day Tour from Florence

Visit Siena, dine at a Chianti vineyard, explore San Gimignano, and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

New Tour

New Tour

Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia

Walk clifftop trails to discover vineyards, epic views, and famous villages on Italy's magical coast

New Tour

New Tour

Cinque Terre Tour with Locally Produced Limoncino Tasting from La Spezia

Explore the Beaches and Picturesque Peaks in a Small Group

New Tour

New Tour

Authentic Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence with San Lorenzo Market

Create delicious pasta, tiramisu, and more with market-fresh ingredients and an expert local chef

New Tour

New Tour

Semi-Private Cinque Terre Day Trip & Vineyard Tour from Florence

Discover the best of Cinque Terre with seafood lunch, wine tasting, and transportation included

New Tour

New Tour

Florentine Gondola Boat Tour

Sip wine on the Arno River and cruise by Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and more on a classic Barchetto boat

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence

Get off the beaten track to explore vineyards, castles, food, and Chianti wine on this 4x4 day tour

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Wine Making Experience and Gourmet Dinner from Florence

Dine like Tuscan royalty and create your own Chianti wine blend on this small group VIP evening tour

New Tour

New Tour

Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class in Florence

Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine

Skip the Line

Skip the Line

Kid-Friendly Private Florence Walking Tour: David & Gelato

Bring the fun to Florence on this family walking tour that includes a merry-go-round and papermaking

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Wine Day in the Chianti Hills from Florence

Enjoy an intimate day trip tasting wine and organic food from local farms and vineyards in Tuscany

Private Tour

Private Tour

Private Pisa Day Trip from Florence with Lunch in Vinci

Discover Tuscany on this VIP private tour, with Leaning Tower of Pisa, Da Vinci Museum, and more!

Private Tour

Private Tour

Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome

Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines

Private Tour

Private Tour

Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa

Maximize your day ashore on this jam-packed private tour with Leaning Tower, David, and more!

Private Tour

Private Tour

Tuscany Shore Excursion: Chianti Wine Country and San Gimignano

A Chianti Wine Tasting Excursion

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence

Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence

Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting

Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!

500 tour from Florence​
Up to 20% off

500 tour from Florence​

Private Vintage FIAT 500 Chianti Tour with Driver from Florence

Cruise through the hills of Tuscany in style and dine at a Tuscan villa on this exclusive experience

Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence

Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence

Sip on Brunello in Montalcino, wander through Pienza, and savor pecorino cheese in Montelpuciano

New Tour

New Tour

Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in a Tuscany Farmhouse in Florence

Pick fresh ingredients and learn to make authentic, Italian cuisine on an unforgettable day trip!

Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway

Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway

Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine

Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour

Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour

Roam through the lavish apartments and halls that were home to the iconic Medici family in Florence

New Tour

New Tour

San Lorenzo Market Tour and Wine Tasting in Florence

Eat your way through Florence’s historic market, enjoy a wine tasting, and try real Italian gelato!

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscany Winery Tour and Gourmet Bites in Montalcino

Pair irresistible wine with delicious gourmet bites after strolling through picturesque vineyards

New Tour

New Tour

Brunello di Montalcino Winery Tour & Tasting

Sip wine and stroll through vineyards alongside an expert guide in the hills of Montalcino

New Tour

New Tour

Tuscan Countryside Vespa Tour from Florence

Cruise to the rolling hills of Tuscany and taste local food and wine!

E-Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside
Up to 20% off

E-Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside

Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!

New Tour

New Tour

Early Morning Duomo Tour with Exclusive Entry and Brunelleschi's Dome

Be among the first of the day to enter Florence cathedral on this VIP experience

New tour

New tour

Authentic 4-Course Meal at a Local’s Home in Florence

Watch your host’s cooking demo from her own kitchen, then enjoy a family lunch or dinner together!