Carrara might be famous worldwide for its marble quarries, but it’s also a fantastic place for bike tours that reveal Italy’s natural beauty and local flavors. What makes Carrara especially appealing is the mix of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and culinary delights—all easily explored on two wheels. Among the many options, we particularly love a guided ride through the marble quarries with a local lard tasting, as well as coastal adventures around the Gulf of Poets. These experiences stand out for their combination of authenticity, breathtaking views, and engaging guides. To help you choose, we’ve rounded up the best bike tours in Carrara, so you can plan an adventure that fits your interests and fitness level.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the types of tours available: from marble quarry excursions to Liguria coast rides and hillside explorations. Each offers a unique way to see this beautiful part of Italy, with detailed insights to help you decide the best fit for your trip.
1. E-Bike Tour to the Carrara Marble Quarries with lard tasting
At number one, this 4-hour guided e-bike ride takes you into the heart of Carrara’s famous marble basins. The tour is perfect if you’re curious about the white gold that built the city and want a close-up look at the massive marble quarries. The ride features scenic views from the sea to the mountains, making it a visual feast. The guide shares insider stories about the extraction process and the region’s history, making it both educational and engaging.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to visit the Carrara marble quarries firsthand, with photo stops and guided explanations. After exploring the white marble pits, you’ll enjoy a local Colonnata lard tasting, a delicacy you won’t find just anywhere. The tour concludes with visits to Carrara’s historic center, where you can soak in the local atmosphere. With a small group of just six participants, the experience feels personalized. The cost is reasonable for the depth of the experience, and reviewers praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides—one calling it “a must-do for marble lovers.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers a deep dive into Carrara’s marble industry, coupled with authentic local food, making it ideal for culture and foodies.
2. Lerici-Gulf of Poets & its Enchanted Landscapes: E-Bike Tour
Number two brings us to the stunning Ligurian coast with a 4-hour e-bike adventure around the Gulf of Poets. This tour is perfect if you’re captivated by seaside villages, panoramic vistas, and charming towns. Starting from the same shop as the Carrara tour, the ride covers an array of iconic spots like Montemarcello, Lerici, and Porto Venere—each with its own story and scenic appeal.
Highlights include a visit to the Roman amphitheater of Luni, a guided tour of Ameglia, and photo stops at viewpoints overlooking the coast. The guide shares insights into the area’s natural and cultural history, helping you appreciate the region’s enchanting beauty. The ride is smooth, with plenty of scenic stops to enjoy the view and take photos. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5-star review, and includes a lunch stop at a local restaurant, giving you a taste of Ligurian cuisine.
With limited spots available, this tour is perfect for those wanting to combine culture, nature, and coastal scenery in a manageable timeframe. Reviewers mention the “breathtaking views and friendly guides” as highlights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for coastal scenery and seaside charm lovers, this tour makes a great day trip for those staying in the region.
3. From the Hills of the Sun to Montemarcello: E-Bike Tour
Our third pick explores the Ligurian hills and the village of Montemarcello over a 4-hour ride. This route takes you through Castelnuovo Magra, with a mix of off-road and paved paths, perfect for those who enjoy a more adventurous ride. The tour includes several scenic stops, such as Bocca di Magra, with views of the Gulf of La Spezia and Portovenere.
What makes this tour special is the combination of hilltop views, Roman sites like the Luni Amphitheatre, and the chance to experience the rolling hills of the region. The ride is partly off-road, providing a bit of thrill and variety, and the guide offers insightful commentary on the area’s geology and history. The reviews are not yet available, but the itinerary suggests it’s a well-rounded option for active travelers seeking spectacular scenery.
Designed for those comfortable on a bike and with an interest in rural landscapes, this tour is a great choice for exploring beyond the coast into the Ligurian countryside.
Bottom Line: Perfect for fit, curious travelers who want a mix of nature, history, and coastal views.
How to Choose Your Carrara Bike Tour
When selecting a tour, consider what specific experiences excite you the most. If you’re fascinated by marble quarries and local food, the E-Bike Tour to the Carrara Marble Quarries with lard tasting is a great pick. For coastal scenery and charming villages, the Lerici-Gulf of Poets & its Enchanted Landscapes offers plenty of stunning views and cultural stops. If you’re after a more active ride through hills and historical sites, the From the Hills of the Sun to Montemarcello will satisfy your sense of adventure.
Think about your fitness level and interests: coast and village lovers will prefer the Ligurian coast, while those intrigued by marble quarries and food should pick the first. Booking early is wise, especially for the popular small-group tours that fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Carrara offers a surprising range of bike tours that highlight its marble, coastal, and hillside landscapes. For a unique insight into the marble industry coupled with local flavors, the E-Bike Tour to the Carrara Marble Quarries is hard to beat. If you’re more drawn to sea views and charming Ligurian towns, the Gulf of Poets ride is perfect. And for those craving a hill country adventure, the Sun and Montemarcello route provides panoramic beauty and a bit of physical challenge.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance will ensure you secure a spot—especially during the busy season. These experiences promise more than just riding a bike; they open doors to Italy’s rich landscape, history, and flavors, making your trip in Carrara truly memorable.
