Booking a Bicycle Vacation on the Web

If cruising your way aboard a ten-speed bike through Italy is your idea of fun, then you are certainly in for a treat. There are dozens of companies that offer packaged bicycle tours throughout this picturesque country. However, to pick one that best fits your interests, you will need to a bit of research.

Begin by asking yourself these questions: Where in Italy do I want to ride? Would do I want to do it in spring or during the fall? At what distance, pace and level of difficulty am I comfortable? How much will I be willing to spend?

Once you have determined the answers to the queries above, make an honest assessment of your riding skills and endurance. Majority of the trips cater to the out-of-shape tourist, which means a lot of waiting around. If you believe yourself to be a much stronger rider, look for more challenging tour operators. On your favourite search engine, key in the words "Italian bicycle vacation" to bring up a list of possible options that you can choose from for this purpose. Browse the selections carefully and narrow them down.

After narrowing down your choices, examine them more closely. Look at what the typical riding day is like in terms of duration and difficulty. Check the accommodation packages and the availability of airport to hotel transfers. Pay attention to what is not covered - this could be meals, bikes or helmets. Inquire if they have marked maps and written road instructions included and the number of the days that the tour actually takes. Finally, allot a budget for tips for your guides along with other trip expenses.