Bike tours in Puglia

Puglia, with its mild climate, varied landscapes and a road network suitable for gentle mobility, is an increasingly popular destination for cycle tourists. The region offers a perfect mix of nature, culture and tradition, with bike routes that pass through centuries-old olive groves, historic villages, breathtaking coastal stretches and protected natural parks.

In recent years, interest in cycle tourism in Puglia has grown significantly thanks also to public initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable mobility. Numerous cycle routes have been created, many of which are part of large European networks such as EuroVelo, and dedicated services such as bike rental, bike hotels and guided tours have been developed.

In this technical guide we will analyse the most fascinating cycle routes, the best areas to explore and some practical advice on how to tackle a bike trip in Puglia.

Most popular cycling routes in Puglia

1. Apulian Aqueduct Cycle Route

One of the most iconic and fascinating itineraries in Puglia is the Apulian Aqueduct Cycle Route (AQP), which follows the route of the water conduit that supplies the region.

• Length: approximately 500 km
• Most popular section: from Bosco di Mercadante (Bari) to Valle d’Itria
• Difficulty: medium-low (predominance of compact dirt road)
• Attractions along the route: the Alta Murgia Park, Valle d’Itria, villages such as Locorotondo, Cisternino, Alberobello

This cycle route is perfect for those who love contact with nature, offering breathtaking views of woods, farmhouses and endless countryside.

2. Adriatic Cycle Route (EuroVelo 5) – Via Francigena

The Eurovelo 5 route connects London with southern Italy, reaching Brindisi after 2900 kilometers. It is an important north-south route that passes through many notable cities in the heart of Europe. It is no coincidence that it is a route that largely follows the Via Romea Francigena, used for centuries by European pilgrims to reach Rome. It touches six countries: the United Kingdom (130 km); France (145 km); Belgium (260 km); Luxembourg (75 km); France again (340 km); Switzerland (340 km); and Italy (1500 km).

• Total length: about 1,500 km (of which over 400 km in Puglia)
• Most suggestive stretch: from Vieste to Otranto
• Difficulty: medium (asphalt roads with some busy stretches)
• Attractions along the route: Gargano, Salento, Trani, Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Ostuni, Lecce

This route is ideal for those who want to discover the beaches of Puglia and the seaside villages, with numerous detours that allow you to visit the castles of Frederick II and the nature reserves along the coast.

3. Borboni Cycle Route

The so-called Borboni Cycle Route takes us across the Italian peninsula from east to west, starting from the city of Bari on the Adriatic Sea and arriving in Naples on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is a project conceived by FIAB and inaugurated in 2010. It takes its name from the famous Bourbon kingdom of Naples in the 19th century.

• Length: about 400 km
• Difficulty: medium-high (significant differences in altitude in the Gargano and Daunia areas)
• Attractions along the route: Castel del Monte, Altamura, Gravina, Matera, Taranto

The Borboni Cycle Route is perfect for history and archaeology enthusiasts, with a route that passes through UNESCO sites and cities of art.

4. Salento Cycle Route

One of the most popular routes among cycle tourists is the Salento circuit, which allows you to explore the southernmost peninsula of Puglia.

• Length: about 200 km (ring from Lecce to Lecce)
• Difficulty: low (flat terrain)
• Attractions along the route: Lecce, Otranto, Santa Maria di Leuca, Gallipoli

This itinerary allows you to discover some of the most beautiful beaches in the region and cross the typical Salento countryside, with olive groves and dry stone walls.

Technical advice for cycling in Puglia

Recommended types of bikes

• Trekking or gravel bikes: ideal for mixed routes, such as the Ciclovia dell’Acquedotto.
• Racing bikes: perfect for the paved roads of the coast.
• E-bikes: recommended for tackling longer and more challenging routes.

Best time to cycle in Puglia

• Spring (March-June) and autumn (September-November) are the ideal seasons, with mild temperatures and less traffic.
• Summer (July-August): not recommended due to the intense heat, especially in the inland areas.

Safety and maintenance

• Always carry a repair kit and spare inner tubes.
• Wear a protective helmet and breathable clothing.
• Avoid the hottest hours in summer and make sure you always have enough water.

Accommodation and refreshments

• Puglia offers numerous bike hotels, farmhouses and campsites equipped for cycling tourists.
• Masserie often offer hospitality and refreshments with typical local products.

Finally, Puglia is a perfect destination for cycling tourism thanks to its variety of landscapes, favorable climate and growing attention to sustainable mobility. Whether it’s a ride along the coast or an adventure in the hinterland, the region offers itineraries for all levels, with the possibility of discovering authentic villages, archaeological sites and a unique food and wine heritage.

With good planning and the right equipment, moving around Puglia by bike becomes an unforgettable experience, in the name of freedom and respect for the environment.