Pisa isn’t just about the Leaning Tower — it’s also a fantastic city for exploring by bike. With its flat terrain, dedicated bike lanes, and scenic surroundings, cycling offers a relaxed way to see more of Pisa and its nearby treasures. We especially like the self-guided tour to the Tyrrhenean Sea, which combines independence with stunning seaside views, and the guided half-day tour that uncovers Pisa’s lesser-known spots and stories. For those wanting a more countryside adventure, the ride connecting Pisa to Lucca along the Puccini cycling path provides a peaceful escape into Tuscany’s charming landscape. Whether you’re after a leisurely ride or a guided insight into Pisa’s history, this list covers the best options to suit different interests and travel styles.
Quick Overview
This guide features three top bike tours in Pisa: a flexible self-guided ride to the coast, a guided tour of Pisa’s highlights and hidden corners, and a scenic route from Pisa to Lucca along the Puccini cycling path. Each offers a different way to experience Pisa and beyond — from independent cycling with a GPS app to guided storytelling and countryside exploration. Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.
1. Pisa tour by bike : The Road To The Sea
At number one, this self-guided bike tour offers a relaxed ride from Pisa to the Tyrrhenean Sea, perfect for those who want flexibility and independence. The tour includes bicycle rentals and a smartphone app with GPS, making navigation straightforward. It’s ideal if you prefer setting your own pace and exploring at your leisure.
The route takes you along scenic bike lanes from Pisa out to Marina di Pisa and the wildlife-rich Navicelli channel. Highlights include San Piero A Grado, where you can visit a notable basilica, and then continue along flat, dedicated cycle paths. The reviews praise the bikes for being in good condition, and many travelers appreciate the ease of use of the app and the friendly staff. One reviewer notes, “The route is easy to follow, mostly flat, and the destination is stunning,” which sums up the experience well.
This tour is especially suitable for active travelers comfortable on a bike, wanting to combine sightseeing with some exercise. The cost is around $34.54 per person for about 3-4 hours, making it an excellent value for a half-day adventure.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want the freedom to explore Pisa’s surroundings at your own pace, enjoy scenic seaside views, and appreciate the simplicity of a self-guided ride.
2. Cycling Pisa highlights & hidden treasures – half day tour
This guided half-day bike tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview of Pisa’s main sights and some lesser-known spots. For around $226.99 per person, you get a personalized experience focusing on both famous landmarks and hidden corners, without the hassle of planning your route.
The tour explores more than just the Leaning Tower. Among the highlights are Ponte di Mezzo, Borgo Stretto with its Renaissance loggias and Galileo Galilei’s home, Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, and the lively Piazza delle Vettovaglie. The guide helps you rent a bike if needed and shares engaging stories about the city’s history and traditions. The tour lasts about 3 hours, with several departure times available to fit your schedule.
Reviews mention that the guide’s storytelling adds depth to the experience. One reviewer appreciated that the tour “covered the city’s hidden gems and provided local insights you wouldn’t get on your own.” It’s well-suited for those who want a structured experience and are interested in learning more about Pisa’s lesser-known spots, all while riding a comfortable bike.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to get an insider’s perspective on Pisa’s sights, perfect for travelers who prefer guided tours and want to maximize their limited time.
3. From Pisa to Lucca along Puccini cycling path
Number three on our list is a self-guided cycling journey connecting Pisa to Lucca via the Puccini cycling path, a scenic route ideal for those craving a countryside escape. For about $39 per person, you’ll spend roughly 5 hours exploring Tuscany’s rural beauty along peaceful river paths and medieval walls.
This tour features a dedicated cycling path over the river, linking Pisa’s city outskirts with Lucca’s historic walls. It’s perfect for cyclists who want a relaxed ride without the busy roads, as the route winds through fields and along quiet lanes. Reviewers highlight the friendly staff at Smile and Ride and the quality of the bikes, making this a smooth experience. One guest shared, “We decided to ride to the beach instead of Lucca, and the directions and support were fantastic,” emphasizing flexibility.
The ride offers a chance to see Lucca’s famous medieval walls up close and enjoy a peaceful countryside backdrop. While it’s a longer, more independent ride, it’s manageable for most cyclists with a moderate level of fitness.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking to combine Pisa with a scenic countryside ride into Lucca, blending culture, history, and nature.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bike Tour
When selecting a bike tour in Pisa, consider your budget, time availability, and fitness level. The self-guided options — like The Road To The Sea and from Pisa to Lucca — are great if you value independence and flexibility. These tours let you stop and explore at your own pace and are well-suited for confident cyclists comfortable with navigation.
On the other hand, the guided half-day tour offers a richer context and stories behind Pisa’s sights. If you prefer a structured experience and want to learn along the way, this tour is a solid choice, especially if you want local insights without the hassle of planning.
Booking early is advisable, especially in the busy summer months, to secure your preferred times and ensure availability. Also, check if bike rentals are included or if you need to arrange them separately, which is often the case with guided tours.
Final thoughts
From independent seaside rides to guided explorations of Pisa’s best-kept secrets and scenic journeys into Tuscany, these bike tours in Pisa cover a range of interests and travel styles. For budget-conscious travelers, the self-guided routes offer flexibility and value, while the guided half-day tour provides a deeper dive into the city’s stories. The Pisa-to-Lucca route offers a peaceful countryside escape for those who prefer cycling away from crowds.
If you’re visiting Pisa and want to explore by bike, these tours are a smart way to see more without feeling rushed. Whether you’re riding solo or with a guide, booking early will help you secure the best times and ensure a memorable cycling experience in Pisa and beyond.