Cycling and enjoying: eating & drinking in Italy

Polenta, pasta and espresso — culinary stops not to be missed during your cycling holiday in Italy

Cycling and enjoying: Italy as a cyclist's paradise

Italy is a dream country for cyclists who enjoy food and drink as much as they enjoy miles of beautiful scenery. Whether you're climbing through the Alps, rolling through Tuscany, or cycling past lakes and vineyards, every ride is rewarded with local specialties. In Italy, cycling and food go hand in hand; a good ride almost always ends at the table.

Start your day with an Italian boost

A cycling day in Italy starts with coffee. A quick espresso at the bar, a cappuccino with fresh brioche, or some bread and jam: simple, yet effective. It's just enough to wake up your legs before tackling those first few kilometers.

Also read: Everything you need to know about your cycling trip with CYCLOsportive

Lunch along the route

Along the way, you'll pass cafés, trattorias, and small village restaurants where you can easily stop for a bite to eat. Pasta, gnocchi, risotto, or polenta will replenish your energy reserves. Local cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables make every lunch typically Italian, nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for cyclists.

Après-ride: enjoying after cycling

After the ride, it's time to relax. A local beer, a glass of wine, or prosecco, paired with antipasti, pizza, or a slice of homemade cake. Just outside the big cities, you'll find those spots where cyclists and locals end the day together.

Helpful tips for food-loving cyclists

Plan your stops wisely, but leave room for spontaneity. Italy invites you to stop, order something, and savor the moment. Sometimes a plate of pasta tastes just as good as a successful climb.

Want to know more about our trip to the Maratona dles Dolomites? Check out the following link: Group trip Maratona