Italy By Boat, Bicycle, Moped, Etc.

Renting a bike is easy in Italy; look for noleggio signs. If you want to bring your own, some airlines will count a bike as your second piece of luggage; many now charge extra (one-way US$80-160). Bikes must be packed in a cardboard box with the pedals and front wheel detached; many airlines sell bike boxes at the airport (US$15). Most ferries let you take your bike for free or for a nominal fee, and you can always ship your bike on trains. Renting a bike beats bringing your own if you plan to stay in one or two regions, and some hostels rent bicycles for low prices. Let’s Go lists bike rental stores in the Transportation section of towns and cities whenever possible. Ciclismo Classico, 30 Marathon St., Arlington, MA 02474, USA (☎+1-800-866-7314; www.ciclismoclassico.com), offers beginner to advanced level trips across Italy, including Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast, Southern Italy, Sicily, Piedmont, and the Veneto.

Scooters or mopeds are available for rent in major cities, as well as in smaller or rural locations. Often a motorino (scooter) is the most convenient method of transportation to reach sights in places with unreliable bus or train connections. Rental companies are required by law to provide a helmet, which the driver must wear. Gas and insurance may or may not be included in the rental price. Even if riding a scooter is exhilarating, always exercise caution; practice in empty streets before you hit the open road and keep with the flow of traffic instead of just following street signs. Drivers in Italy—especially those enthusiastic southerners—are notorious for ignoring traffic laws.

Some of Italy’s grandest scenery can be seen only by foot. Let’s Go features many daytrips, but native inhabitants and fellow travelers are the best source for tips. Professionally run hiking and walking tours are often your best bet for navigating la bell’Italia. Hiking tours generally range from six to nine days long and cost from US$2800-4000. Check out Ciclismo Classico (see above) for hiking options along the Amalfi Coast, and through Tuscany or Cinque Terre. The Backpack Europe website (www.backpackeurope.com) provides links to great hiking, walking, and kayaking options throughout Italy.