Tuscany & Umbria Frequently Asked Questions

We will send you detailed information about the Adventure in a Pre-Departure Packet once you register.

What is the weather going to be like?
The average high temperature in Tuscany and Umbria in September is a moderate 74 degrees Fahrenheit.  Evenings are nice, with low temperatures of 58 degrees.  It averages only 7 days of rain in September, so while we might get a few showers our chances are excellent for good weather.

Which time of the year is best to go there?
The summers in central Italy can be hot and crowded.  The fall and spring are much better times to visit Tuscany and Umbria.  In the spring, the fields will be green and the colors wonderful. In the fall, the fields have turned a golden brown while the grapes are nearing harvest time.

What is the best way to get to there and where do we meet?
We meet in the town of Siena in central Tuscany.  The two main nearby airports are Florence and Rome.  You can travel to Siena from either of these airports by both train and bus; we will send you detailed information on getting to the tour location in your Pre-Departure Packet upon booking.

What should I do if I want to extend my vacation in the area?
Wow.  Italy has so many things to do it is hard to choose.  If you are interested in ancient monuments, visit Rome for sure.  If you are interested in art, stay after the tour in Florence and see Michelangelo's David sculpture.  If you want to do a little more hiking, head north to the Dolomites.

How much bicycling do we do?
We bicycle every day of the tour. Each day we have from two to four different route options with an average of three.  The three routes average about 35, 50, and 70 kilometers (or 22, 31, or 44 miles).  Our goal is to have short options that everyone can complete and long options that will tire out even avid cyclists.  We have found in the past that non-cyclists who join us in Italy will have to work hard on the Tuscan hills but will appreciate the accomplishment of cycling in Italy - and will love it when we reach the flat plains of Umbria. At the same time, avid cyclists will find our longer hill routes absolutely amazing.

What ability level do I really need to be for this tour?
This Adventure is rated Moderate. We have designed this trip to be a compromise between the rolling hills of Tuscany and the flat of the Umbria Valley.  We also have three routes (and distances) each day, so can accommodate almost everyone's wishes.  However, this is a pedal-powered vacation and so you should have some moderate fitness level prior to arriving.

Can I bring my own pedals and seat?
Yes. You can bring your own pedals and shoes. (For those of you not familiar with this, we are referring to special pedals with clips that fasten to special biking shoes.) However, please be aware you are on vacation and will want to frequently get off your bike to visit towns, etc. Ideally, you should have recessed mountain biking-style clips on your shoes so that you can walk.  You can also bring your own bike seat.

For what type of people would you recommend this trip?
Wine lovers! Pasta lovers! Bicyclists!  Actually, we can recommend this trip for almost everyone.  If you are a serious bicyclist, we have enough distance for you.  If you prefer hanging out in towns, we have more than enough of those to satisfy.

Where can I find more information about the area?
See our hotlinks page or request a detailed Trip Description by email.