Florence in a Half Day by Bike Tour
Take a ride through the city's hidden gems from Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno neighborhood
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
See what people are saying
13 total reviews
Leave a reviewJill Pila
Fun intro to Firenze
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!
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!
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.
You may also like
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
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
Florence Evening Food Tour with Florentine Steak and Tuscan Wine
Indulge in 14 authentic tastings across 5 local restaurants for the ultimate Florentine food journey
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
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
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
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery
New Tour
Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence
Get off the beaten track across vineyards, castles and Chianti wine and chees on this 4x4 experience
Accademia's David and Uffizi Half-Day Skip the Line Tour
Explore Florence's must-see masterpieces including the Duomo in a small group
Skip the Line
Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb
View this charming city from the hidden terraces of Brunelleschi’s dome after touring the cathedral
Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence
Explore the charming towns of Monterosso and Manarola, embark on a coastal hike, and tour Pisa
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
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
Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class in Florence
Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine
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
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb
Explore the breathtaking cathedral and take in captivating views from Brunelleschi’s Cupola!
New Tour
Pasta Cooking Class and Gourmet Wine Pairing in Florence
Create authentic pasta with a Michelin-star chef and savor Tuscan wines guided by a master sommelier
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa
Maximize your day ashore on this jam-packed private tour with Leaning Tower, David, and more!
Private Tour
Tuscany Shore Excursion: Chianti Wine Country and San Gimignano
A Chianti Wine Tasting Excursion
Skip the Line
Private Siena Walking Tour
Explore this charming Tuscan city with an engaging local guide to see the Duomo, San Domenico & more
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
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!
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
Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!
Chianti Vineyards 3-Course Dinner with Transportation from Florence
Escape to Tuscany for an evening of wine tastings, savoring 4 exquisite wines and local cuisine
New Tour
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour
Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum
New Tour
Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour
Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!
New Tour
Tuscany Winery Tour and Gourmet Bites in Montalcino
Pair irresistible wine with delicious gourmet bites after strolling through picturesque vineyards
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
Brunello di Montalcino Winery Tour & Tasting
Sip wine and stroll through vineyards alongside an expert guide in the hills of Montalcino
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
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
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
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
Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway
Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine
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
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
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!
Sant’Ambrogio Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Local Chef in Florence
Discover Tuscan street food, prepare a 3-course meal with tagliatelle and tiramisù and try 2 wines
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
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
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
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!
