Fat Tire Tours Milan

Fat Tire Tours runs guided bike tours in several European cities, and in Milan its rides start a few minutes from the Duomo. The company works with the bike tour operator Unlimited Biking, and the Milan programme includes the Highlights of Milan Bike Tour, a Best of Milan Electric Bike Tour and a private version of the highlights ride for families and groups.

The Highlights of Milan tour lasts about three hours and is led by a local guide. Cycling is an efficient way to see a city whose sights are spread further apart than they first appear: a ride can link the Duomo area with the Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione, the elegant streets around Brera and the fashion district, and other neighbourhoods that would take most of a day on foot. Exact routes vary with traffic, events and the guide, and the stops are a chance to hear the background to each place and take photographs.

The electric bike tour covers more ground with less effort, which is useful in the summer heat or for riders who are less confident about their fitness. Milan is largely flat, so neither tour is physically demanding, but you will be riding in city traffic and on some cobbled and tram-lined streets. Guides brief the group on safety before setting off, and the pace is relaxed.

The tours suit active travellers, couples and families with older children who are confident on a bike. Younger children are better suited to a private tour, where the route and pace can be adjusted. Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes, bring water, and check the weather forecast, as rain can make the cobbles slippery.

The meeting point is under the arcades at Via Giovanni Falcone 7, about three minutes' walk from the Duomo stop on metro M1 and five minutes from Missori on M3. Book online in advance, as group sizes are limited and popular departure times fill up in spring and summer. Check the cancellation terms when booking, and arrive a few minutes early to be fitted with a bike before the ride. If you have a preferred frame size or need a child seat, mention it when you book so the team can check availability.