Photographic impressions and tips
Colmar
Tips
Have lunch or dinner at Bistrot des Lavandieres.
Bergamo
Tips
In 2016, we were still planning our bicycle vacations with a predefined time-schedule. At that time, we also booked hotels weeks in advance and Bergamo was just one of the pre-scheduled stops after 4 or 5 days of cycling.
It turned out a lucky shot as Bergamo also has a nice old walled part up the mountain, certainly worth a visit.
The train from Bergamo to Milano takes less than an hour and is also very budget friendly.
Modena
Tips
By far, the most popular and well known product of the city is the Balsamic vinegar of Modena.
Less well known and a real surprise to us was the Lambrusco di Modena, a light fizzy red whine which is served chilled. Go for a glass of Lambrusco around apero time and the local cafes will serve you complementary nice Italian appetizers.
Firenze
Tips
Firenze is the Italian name - Florence is the English name
Most of the year, Firenze is overcrowded with tourists. If you want nice photo's, get up at 6 in the morning and enjoy a beautiful city.
Siena
Tips
The Palio is one of the oldest horseraces in the world and takes place twice a year on the Piazza del Campo. There are 10 horses in the race representing 10 of the 17 city wards of Siena. The jockeys are dressed in the colours of the city wards and ride the horses bareback. It's the first horse which crosses the finish who wins the race, even if it's without the jockey on it.
If you want to have a place to watch the race, better make a reservation several months ahead of the race.
Roma
Tips
Roma has a good public transport system, so think about staying a little out of the center but close to public transport.
A must do is climb the stairs of the St Peter's dome to have a nice view over Roma. Do it as one of the last things of your visit and you can retrace from above all the sites you visited before.