Tour de France travel

The 2024 Tour de France is ready for the Grand Départ. And this year, the Tour promises not only a spectacular cycling event, but also an unforgettable journey along a picturesque route. In total, the route leads through four different countries: Italy, San Marino, Monaco and France. From the medieval streets of Tuscany to the enchanting coastline of the French Riviera, travelers can expect stunning scenery throughout the 21 stages of the legendary tour.

The Grand Départ of the 111th edition of the Tour will take place in Florence this year. The Renaissance city, with its medieval streets and numerous museums, is the epitome of culture. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Tuscany, with must-see highlights including the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Boboli Gardens.

Stages 2 and 3 take the riders from Rimini via Bologna to Turin. Along the Adriatic coast and over the mountain peaks of the Apennines and the Italian Alps, these stages also promise to be an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Tour tip: If you want to experience the beauty of Italy before the tour, consider stopping in Cesenatico, a picturesque town situated on the Adriatic coast. Its proximity to major Italian cities like Ravenna and Rimini also allows you to combine the best of a seaside vacation with the Tour de France.

Sustainability tip: Just three kilometers from Florence city center, the river cycle path is a wonderful way to explore the Tuscan countryside by bike.

For the first time in its over 100-year history, the 2024 Tour de France will not pass through Paris. Nevertheless, the route from stage 4 onwards is still full of famous French landmarks. Highlights of the first stage no-doubt include the world-famous wine regions of Burgundy and Champagne.

If you want to experience a sprint finish on a flat stage, consider following stage 6 in Dijon. Beyond sporting excitement, the historic city has plenty to explore, including its famous Dijon mustard and rich culinary tradition. Other highlights include the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, with its impressive art collection and the Place de la Libération, a magnificent square with a monument to Count Philip of Burgundy.

From there, stages 7 to 10 lead the riders to Orléans, where their first rest day awaits.

Tour tip: If you don't need a rest day on your journey, you can use the break to further explore Orléans. The famous city in the Centre-Val de Loire region enjoys worldwide fame thanks to Joan of Arc, but has plenty more than that to offer.

Culinary tip: Treat yourself after a long cycle tour with a first-class Pinot Noir or Chardonnay wine, or pay a visit to the renowned champagne houses in the heart of the French wine regions.

In addition to eight flat stages and four hilly sections, the pros will also have to complete seven mountain stages in 2024. The first significant mountain finish of the race takes place against a backdrop of majestic landscapes at Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla d'Adet on stage 14. The following day, the Plateau de Beille awaits with another high-altitude finish at almost 1,800 meters above sea level.

Tour tip: After the 16th stage, the riders will have their next rest day. This is an excellent opportunity for travelers to explore the beauty of the Occitanie region. Cities like Montpellier and Avignon inspire visitors with their rich history and lively atmosphere.

Sustainability tip: On Friday, July 19, this year's Tour de France reaches its highest point at an altitude of 2,802 meters, following the country's highest asphalted pass road to the Cime de Bonette. The climb may be too much of a challenge for most amateur cyclists, but it can reached before and after the tour by car. However, those hoping to reach the summit will have to do so by foot for the final 60 meters. Appropriate footwear is recommended, as there are often still traces of snow along the way. The climb is well worth it when you reach the top and take in the breathtaking views of the Mercantour National Park.

After 3,492 kilometers, the 2024 Tour de France leads the riders to Nice for the final stage. As well as hosting the Tour finale for the first time, it will also stage a thrilling individual time trial for the first time since 1989.

Situated on the French Rivera, Nice is a must-visit city for all Tour de France tourists. Visitors can enjoy the sun-drenched beaches or stroll along the lively Promenade des Anglais. Nearby, the Principality of Glamor, Monaco, offers a chance to visit the famous Monte-Carlo Casino and experience the luxurious atmosphere.

Sustainability tip: Nice promoted the start of the 2020 Tour de France with the hashtag "#nicecyclingparadise". And for good reason too. The region boasts a variety of cycling routes, from steep climbs and relaxed coastal tours to undiscovered trails along the Italian border. It truly is a cyclist’s paradise.

Culinary tip: If you are visiting Nice or need a snack after a long ride, you should definitely try ‘socca’ – a traditional snack made from chickpea flour, olive oil, salt and water. The delicious flatbread is best enjoyed hot with a sprinkle of black pepper and eaten straight from the hand.

The 2024 Tour de France promises stunning and challenging scenery on its 21 stages, making it perfect for a diverse and memorable tour.