Venice is famous for its winding canals, historic architecture, and art-filled piazzas. But what many travelers overlook is that cycling offers a fantastic way to see more of this unusual city and its surroundings. While the city itself isn’t perfectly suited for bikes—gondolas and narrow alleys aren’t bike-friendly—the nearby Veneto region, Riviera del Brenta, and Lido provide ideal terrain for two-wheel adventures. An example we love is the Venice Countryside Bike Tour, which takes you beyond the crowds to charming villages and historic villas, giving you a glimpse of authentic Venetian life. Check it out here.
On the other hand, some tours are perfect for those who want to explore Venice’s islands or enjoy a relaxed day on a bike. For instance, the Lido Bike Tour offers a scenic ride through Venice’s famous film festival setting, highlighting the island’s beaches, art nouveau architecture, and local spots here. Whether you’re after countryside tranquility or island charm, Venice’s bike tours open up a whole new way to experience this city and its lagoon.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of biking experiences: from city bike rentals, day-long adventures, and guided tours of the mainland and islands, to unique options like birdwatching and visiting vegetable gardens. Prices range from just over $15 for full-day rentals to more immersive experiences costing around $180. Many tours are rated 5 stars, ensuring quality and enjoyable guides. Whether you want to rent a bike for your own explorations or join a guided tour with expert commentary, there’s something for every preference and fitness level.
Now, let’s explore the 12 best bike tours in Venice in detail.
1. Bike rental in Venice
At number 1, the Bike rental in Venice provides an excellent way to explore not just Venice but the wider Veneto region and Riviera del Brenta. While cycling through Venice’s narrow streets isn’t practical, this rental service offers city bikes, touring bikes, mountain bikes, and road bikes for periods from one to seven days. Bikes come equipped with locks and lights, with helmets and panniers available for an extra fee.
This option is ideal if you want the flexibility to plan your own route — perhaps cycling along the canal paths to Lake Garda or through historic towns. The rental shop supplies detailed information on local itineraries and attractions, making it easier to customize your trip. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 32 travelers, praising the quality of bikes and helpful staff. A good choice for independent riders who prefer to explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: Practical, flexible, and perfect for those comfortable with navigating on their own. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the starting price of just over $28 for several days of exploration.
2. Venice Countryside Bike Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Venice Countryside Bike Tour, which takes you away from the tourist crowds to discover the tranquil Veneto countryside. This guided half-day trip lasts about four to five hours and costs around $104.11 per person. The tour leads you through charming villages along the Brenta River, past historic estates like Villa Foscari, designed by Palladio, and into the town of Doro, known for its local culture and traditional cuisine.
The small group setting and knowledgeable guide ensure a relaxed experience, with plenty of opportunities for photos and cultural insights. Reviewers highlight the balanced mix of riding and sightseeing, as well as the delicious lunch in Doro. Notably, one guest said, “It was an easy ride along canal to our villa stop and a good introduction to local life.”
This tour is perfect for those who want a peaceful escape from Venice’s bustling streets while gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s history and architecture.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to combine moderate cycling with cultural discovery, ideal for history and architecture lovers eager to see the real Italy outside the city.
3. Bike tour with honey and artichockes on Sant’Erasmo island
Number 3 is the Bike tour with honey and artichockes on Sant’Erasmo island, which offers a 4-hour journey into Venice’s largest lagoon island. This tour truly stands out, with a focus on natural beauty and local agricultural traditions. Starting with a 30-minute Vaporetto ride, you’ll explore the vegetable gardens and artichoke farms that once supplied Venice’s markets.
Highlights include biking along island banks and fields, tasting unique honey produced locally, and enjoying the quiet scenery from a very different vantage point. The guide shares insights into the island’s history as a rural retreat for aristocrats and its current role as a peaceful refuge. The reviews praise its authenticity and relaxed pace, with one guest noting it’s “a rare view of Venice from a peaceful, natural setting.”
This tour is perfect for nature lovers and those curious about Venetian agriculture, offering a blend of cultural and natural discovery.
Bottom Line: An immersive experience that combines local food, natural scenery, and less touristy island life, ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
4. Full Day Venice Bike Rental
Number 4 is the Full Day Venice Bike Rental, offering total freedom to explore Venice’s hidden corners. For just over $15, you get a full day of bike use, complete with lock and key, allowing you to venture beyond the main tourist areas. This is perfect for independent travelers who want flexibility — whether it’s looping around the lagoon dam walls, visiting the Fort of St. Andrew, or relaxing on the Lido beaches.
Many reviewers appreciate the ease of use and the opportunity to see less-visited locales. One said, “Seek out lesser-known locales during this full-day, self-guided adventure.” It’s suited for those comfortable navigating with a map and eager to craft their own itinerary. Child seats are available, making it family-friendly.
Bottom Line: Best for confident explorers wanting a budget-friendly way to cover Venice and surrounding areas at their own pace.
5. Riviera del Brenta Bike Tour
Number 5 on our list is the Riviera del Brenta Bike Tour, a leisurely ride through a scenic region filled with villas, small towns, and river views. You can choose between a morning tour from Vigonovo or an afternoon ride starting from Dolo, each lasting about four hours. The tour includes stops at Villa Widmann, with its beautiful gardens, and the Squero Monumentale di Dolo, the historic boatyard.
Rated 5/5 from 13 reviews, riders enjoy the relaxed pace and picturesque scenery, making it suitable for all fitness levels. One reviewer notes, “The guide showed us around lovely villas and shared stories about Venetian life.” It’s perfect if you’re interested in architecture and want a gentle introduction to Italy’s countryside.
This tour offers excellent value at around $83, blending cultural sights with scenic cycling.
Bottom Line: A well-priced, scenic tour ideal for those interested in villas and river landscapes with a relaxed riding pace.
6. Lido Bike Tour: With a Local on the Island of Cinema
Number 6 is the Lido Bike Tour, which reveals the glamorous side of Venice’s film history. Over 4.5 hours, an expert guide leads you through Lido’s beaches, art déco architecture, and the famous film festival site. You can choose bikes like city bikes, tandems, e-bikes, or fat bikes—making it versatile for all preferences.
The tour includes scenic stops at the lighthouse, abandoned islands, and fishing villages, with breaks to take in the views. Reviewers mention how the guided exploration helps avoid busy roads and provides insightful stories. One said, “Massimo led us with enthusiasm and shared great details about Lido’s film fame.” It’s perfect for film buffs and those wanting to combine cultural sights with outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, story-rich ride that adds a cinematic touch to your Venice experience, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
7. Venice Bike Tour
Number 7 is another Venice Bike Tour that offers a 2-hour escape from the crowds on the Lido. Led by a guide, you’ll cycle past Art Nouveau villas, the San Nicolò Abbey, and Nicelli Airport, with enough time for a relaxing swim afterward.
Rated 5/5 from eight reviews, travelers love this tour for its easy pace and local insights. One wrote, “Massimo gave a great overview of Lido & its history,” highlighting the guide’s knowledge. It’s ideal for those short on time but still wanting to see a different side of Venice.
This tour balances sightseeing with free time at the beach, making it great for families or sun-seekers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, relaxed taste of Lido’s best sights and beaches with a knowledgeable guide.
8. Lio Piccolo: Flamingos & Birdwatching Bike Tour in the Lagoon
Number 8 is the Lio Piccolo Birdwatching Bike Tour, which combines cycling with nature watching. Over five hours, you’ll explore wetlands near Venice, home to flamingos, herons, and ducks. This small-group tour caps at eight travelers, ensuring plenty of personal attention.
Starting from Fondamente Nove, you take a water bus to Treporti, then bike through saltmarshes and lagoons. The highlight is spotting flamingos, which are surprisingly common during winter. Reviewers praise the peaceful scenery and bird sightings, with one noting, “We saw many birds, including flamingos, even outside the best season.” It’s perfect for nature lovers and avid birdwatchers.
Bottom Line: A rare chance to see flamingos and wetlands with expert guidance, ideal for those wanting a peaceful, wildlife-focused experience.
9. Venice E-bike Rental
Number 9 provides the Venice E-bike Rental, allowing you to explore Venice Lido and its surroundings at your own pace. For around $31, you get access to an electric bike that makes covering larger distances more manageable.
This is especially good for those who want flexibility, whether it’s visiting Malamocco’s colorful houses or relaxing on the beaches. Reviewers love the helpfulness of staff and the bikes’ battery life, with one saying, “The batteries lasted very well for the 40k we did.” It’s a practical choice for active travelers wanting a relaxed day on wheels.
Bottom Line: An easy, convenient way to see Venice’s outer islands and beaches without breaking a sweat.
10. By bike on the Liberty Bridge
Number 10 is a short but interesting bike ride across the Liberty Bridge, which connects Marghera to Venice’s old town. Starting from Marghera, you’ll cycle along the industrial piers before crossing the 4-kilometer bridge over the lagoon.
Rated 5/5 from two reviews, it’s a quick way to see the lagoon from a different perspective. The guide takes you through industrial piers and historic sites, making it ideal for those interested in Venice’s modern and industrial development.
Bottom Line: A quick, scenic crossing that’s perfect if you want to combine cycling with a bit of local history.
11. Pellestrina: Bike Hopping Around the Venice Lagoon Islands
Number 11 is an ambitious bike and ferry tour of Venice’s lagoon islands. Lasting around nine hours, it’s perfect for those with a full day to spare. You start on Lido, exploring historic hotels and vibrant fishing villages, then hop between islands like Chioggia and Pellestrina.
This small group (max 8) explores wetlands, old sea walls, and seaside towns, all while learning about local culture and nature. Reviewers love it for the intimate, in-depth experience, with one saying, “We saw the sea wall, wetlands, and colorful villages, far from tourist crowds.” It’s ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see beyond Venice’s main sights.
Bottom Line: An immersive, full-day adventure for those wanting to explore the lagoon’s islands and villages by bike and ferry.
12. Full Day Venice E-Bike Rental
Last but not least, the Full Day Venice E-Bike Rental offers freedom to discover lesser-known locales. For about $30, you can use an e-bike all day, visiting places like Fort of St. Andrew, Pellestrina Island, or relaxing along the beaches.
It’s ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground effortlessly. The reviews highlight how stress-free it is to explore Venice’s outskirts, with one user saying, “Total stress-free day, beautiful views and deserted beach.” Plus, the inclusion of a map and phone support helps you navigate with confidence.
Bottom Line: Best for independent, active explorers seeking a flexible, all-day adventure off the usual tourist trail.
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour in Venice
When choosing a bike tour, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a full day of independent exploration, the Full Day Venice Bike Rental or the Full Day Venice E-Bike Rental offer great flexibility. If you’re interested in countryside scenery and architecture, the Venice Countryside Bike Tour is ideal.
Want to explore the islands? The Lido Bike Tour or the Pellestrina Island tour give you a mix of beach, village life, and history. For nature lovers, the birdwatching Lio Piccolo Tour is perfect.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season (spring and summer). Check the weather, prepare for some sun or rain, and choose a tour that matches your energy level and interests.
Final Thoughts
Venice offers a surprising variety of biking experiences—from self-guided rentals to guided island adventures. For those wanting flexibility and independence, the bike rentals provide excellent value and freedom. If you prefer guided insights and cultural context, Tours like the Countryside Bike Tour or Lido Island ride deliver memorable stories and scenic views.
Whether you’re a family with kids, a history buff, or a nature enthusiast, there’s a bike tour in Venice suited to your style. Don’t forget to book ahead, especially during high season, and get ready to see Venice from a whole new angle—on two wheels.