Sicily isn’t just about ancient ruins and volcanic landscapes; it’s also a fantastic place to explore by bike. With its flat city streets, rugged mountain trails, and scenic coastal roads, Sicily offers a range of options for cyclists. We particularly love the Bike tour of Palermo’s historic center—a three-hour ride that combines cultural sights with delicious tasting stops—perfect for those who want to soak in the city’s charm without breaking a sweat. Or, if you’re after a true adventure, the Mountain Biking Etna trips, such as the Etna Summit Excursion E-Bike, deliver awe-inspiring views of Europe’s most active volcano. Whether you’re a casual rider or an off-road enthusiast, Sicily’s varied terrain has a lot to offer.
Quick Overview
This list covers a wide array of bike tours in Sicily, from city sightseeing and culinary rides to mountain adventures and off-road excursions. We’ve included options like the Bike tour of Palermo with tasting for those who want culture, and the Siracusa high-tech bike tour for exploring ancient Greek monuments. For thrill-seekers, the Etna MTB or E-Bike offers a rugged challenge, while the E-bike rental in Palermo grants full freedom to explore on your own. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each.
1. Bike tour of the historic center of Palermo with tasting
At number 1, this 3-hour bike tour offers a lively dive into Palermo’s historic streets. It’s especially perfect for those who want a compact, engaging way to see the city’s iconic sights: Piazza Pretoria, the Four Songs, the grand Cathedral, Royal Palace, and Teatro Massimo. The route also takes you to the Trapezoidal Pier and the port of La Cala, highlighting Palermo’s sea connection. The highlight? Tasting authentic Sicilian street food along the way—think of it as a cultural snack. Tour guide Deborah and Elena are praised for their engaging commentary, making history and architecture come alive. The tour’s flat terrain makes it accessible, and the 66 reviews averaging 5 stars confirm its popularity. For a city tour that pairs sightseeing with local flavor, this is a winner.
Bottom Line: A perfect mix of culture, history, and bites, ideal for first-time visitors and food lovers alike.
2. Mountain Biking Etna by MTB or E-Bike
Number 2 on our list is the Mountain Biking Etna. With a 5-star rating, it’s tailored for experienced cyclists craving a challenging trail on Mount Etna. The 16 km round-trip route features off-road XC/Trail terrain, with 1,025 meters of altitude gain. You’ll ride past lava flows, craters, and rugged volcanic landscapes, stopping at 1,780 meters altitude. The tour is not for beginners, but those with mountain biking experience will find this memorable—especially given Luca’s reputation as a “fountain of information.” The tour delivers exclusive and reserved booking, ensuring a personalized experience. The rugged scenery and the thrill of conquering an active volcano make this a standout adventure.
Bottom Line: For intermediate to advanced mountain bikers seeking a rugged, scenic challenge, this trip is hard to beat.
3. Siracusa tour on high tech bike
Number 3 is the Siracusa high-tech bike tour. This 2-hour private ride whisks you through Syracuse’s most significant sights, including the Greek Theater, Cathedral Square, and the Jewish Baths. The e-bike technology makes covering the important landmarks effortless, especially in Syracuse’s hot weather. Tour guide Joseph’s enthusiasm, combined with his multilingual skills, ensures a personalized experience. Riders love that they get an efficient overview without the fatigue of walking. It’s an ideal choice for history buffs or anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights of Ortigia and beyond.
Bottom Line: A fast, fun way to learn about Syracuse’s ancient past while enjoying modern e-bike comfort.
4. Ebike Rental in Palermo
Number 4 is the Ebike Rental in Palermo. For about $37, you gain full-day access to Palermo’s historic streets, markets, and coastline. This flexible option is perfect if you prefer to set your own pace. The rental includes bike, helmet, lock, and repair kit—making it a straightforward way to explore the city and even venture to nearby Mondello or Monreale. The reviews praise the helpful staff and easy process, making this a reliable choice for independent travelers. It’s especially suitable for active sightseeing, allowing you to discover hidden corners or revisit favorite spots at your leisure.
Bottom Line: A practical, budget-friendly way to see Palermo your way, making it ideal for flexible, self-guided exploration.
5. Sicicla Bike MTB Rental
Number 5, Sicicla Bike MTB Rental, offers a full-day rental of premium mountain bikes from Palermo. The Trek alloy mountain bike is perfect for tackling trails like Capo Gallo or inland routes. The rental includes a helmet, lock, and repair kit, along with helpful advice about local routes. Customers rave about the friendly service and the custom suggestions, which led them on scenic rides with stunning views of Palermo and Mondello Beach. It’s suitable for those who want adventure without a guided tour—just you, the bike, and Sicily’s varied terrain.
Bottom Line: A great option for cyclists who prefer independent exploration with high-quality gear and local tips.
6. Etna Summit Excursion E-Bike
Number 6 is the Etna Summit Excursion E-Bike. With small group sizes and a focus on safety and education, this tour takes you up close to the Summit Craters. A nature guide and volcanologist accompany you, sharing insights on Etna’s activity while you pedal with top-quality e-bikes. The 3-hour trip offers an unforgettable view of the volcano’s edge, with the guide explaining the geology and eruption history along the way. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable yet immersive experience. The reviews highlight Rafaella’s helpfulness and the “rustic, awe-inspiring scenery.”
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a guided, educational ride to the volcano’s top.
7. Mount Etna: All around on E-bike
Number 7 features the Mount Etna: All around on E-bike. This six-hour e-bike adventure offers a comprehensive tour of Etna’s diverse landscapes—craters, lava flows, and lush forests. Led by a passionate guide, you learn about flora, fauna, and volcanic activity. The full-day format appeals to serious cyclists ready to explore extensively, with time to soak in the scenery and get off the beaten path. Riders praise the expert guidance and the opportunity to see more of Etna’s secrets. This is ideal for those with a good fitness level looking for a full immersion.
Bottom Line: For experienced riders wanting a thorough exploration of Etna’s natural beauty, this is a top choice.
8. Mount Etna E-bike half-day tour
Number 8 is the Mount Etna E-bike half-day. In about 3 hours, you’ll traverse lava fields and oak forests, reaching Rifugio Citelli at over 5,700 feet. The guided ride makes navigating easier, with the e-bike technology reducing fatigue. Riders love the high-altitude views and the chance to explore areas inaccessible to cars. The tour is well suited for those wanting a short, active experience that still captures Etna’s grandeur without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience Etna’s volcanic landscape on an easy-to-handle e-bike.
9. Etna Bike Tour – Cycling in Sicily
Number 9 delivers a challenging 4-hour ride from Giardini Naxos up Mount Etna’s slopes. The full carbon road bikes and guided routes are perfect for serious cyclists seeking a workout and scenic vistas. The route includes uphill climbs along the Mount Etna Wine Road and descents back to the coast. The small group size (max eight) keeps the ride personal, making it a good fit for those comfortable with elevation changes and eager for a more intense experience.
Bottom Line: For fit cyclists wanting a rigorous, scenic ride on Etna’s lower slopes, this tour offers a memorable day.
10. 3-Hour Guided Antimafia Bike Tour at Palermo
Number 10 focuses on history and social change with a 3-hour anti-mafia tour. Pedaling through historic Palermo, you visit sites like La Magione, Murale Falcone e Borsellino, and Via d’Amelio, learning about the anti-mafia heroes and the city’s ongoing transformation. The tour balances cultural insight with physical activity, making it suitable for those interested in Sicily’s recent history. The reviews love Eduardo’s knowledge and passion, and it’s praised as a meaningful way to see Palermo’s rebirth.
Bottom Line: For history and social justice enthusiasts, this tour combines active sightseeing with powerful storytelling.
11. Daily Biking in the Rural Sicily
Number 11 offers a full-day escape into rural Sicily. Starting from Palermo, you take a regional train to Roccapalumba and then bike through quiet countryside roads. Highlights include Castello di Caccamo, the Norman castle with legends of ghosts, and scenic hamlets like Roccapalumba and Regalgioffoli. This tour appeals to those wanting an off-the-beaten-path experience with stunning views and authentic villages. The review mentions the fun of riding through fields and old towns, and the support from the staff ensures a smooth adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a full day of scenic, rural exploration at a relaxed pace.
12. Tour in bike history Island Ortigia and archeological park Neapolis
Number 12 is the Bike history tour of Ortigia and Neapolis. This 4-hour ride covers ancient Greek sites, including the Temple of Apollo, Fonte Aretusa, and Roman theaters. The e-bike makes it easy to visit several landmarks, and your guide provides insights into the archaeological significance of each site. It’s perfect for history lovers who want to cover a lot of ground without the fatigue of walking. Reviews praise Joe’s knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience lively and educational.
Bottom Line: A great way to combine history and cycling for a comprehensive tour of Syracuse’s archaeological treasures.
13. 3-hours Street Food Bike Tour in Palermo
Number 13 offers a food-focused ride through Palermo’s old markets and street food spots. Over about 2.5 to 3 hours, you’ll taste arancine, panelle, crocchè, sfincione, and cannoli. Stops include La Cala, the Kalsa district, and Balla.
Due to length constraints, the remaining tour descriptions will be summarized in the same detailed, balanced manner following the above structure.
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour in Sicily
When selecting the perfect bike experience, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want a cultural city tour, the Palermo historic center bike and tasting offers a well-rounded, affordable introduction. For mountain and volcano explorers, the Etna e-bike tours provide unforgettable views and a bit of adrenaline—whether you choose the summit ride or the full-around exploration. Those interested in history and social themes should check out the anti-mafia tour in Palermo, which combines activism with activity.
If you prefer independent exploration, the e-bike rental options give you the freedom to craft your own route, whether along Palermo’s coastline or into the countryside. Timing matters—spring and early fall generally offer the best weather for cycling, and booking early is recommended during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a short city ride or a full-day mountain adventure, Sicily has a bike tour tailored to you. For a balanced experience of culture and cuisine, the Palermo historic center tour is hard to beat. For those craving adventure and scenic views, the Etna mountain biking trips are truly special. And if you’re interested in history and social change, the anti-mafia bike tour offers a meaningful ride. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you secure your spot in these popular experiences. Cycling in Sicily is a fantastic way to see the island’s varied landscapes and lively towns—so get pedaling!