ROME BY BIKE

written by Sergio Caggìa with Paul Gwynne for © Nerone the Insider's Guide to Rome

 

Although it has been said that only those with a death wish cycle around Rome, biking in the Infernal City can be a pleasure if you stay within the historical centre, but can turn into an absolute nightmare if you ride the main roads along which the Roman drivers speed as if they are entered for Italian Grand Prix. In July and August many residents are on holyday. Those who remain wait for the cool of evening to venture out (see the climate page to get an idea of wether in Rome during the year). Only mad dogs and tourists go out in the midday sun. I personally don't have a car and use my bike all the time. Sometimes unpractical, on other occasions it is the only way to travel! I would always suggesting renting a bike. It facilitates seeing a number of sites in a short time. The bike can always be left anytime you feel like walking.   There are many places where you can rent a bike. Here are a few: Roma Bici Centre, Largo dei Lombardi (along Via del Corso); Bici Spagna (outside the matro station Spagna and also at Piazza del Popolo); I Bike Rome, located in the underground car-park of the Villa Borghese (entrance from the escalators at the top of the Via Veneto); Bici Pincio, in the park of the Villa Borghese (near the Casina Valadier and near the Cinema dei Piccoli, not far from Piazza di Siena). To rent a bike generally costs from about 5.000 lire per hour, up to 15.000 lire for one day. I would personally suggest Roma Bici Centre because the bikds are usually new. Also this shop does not close until about 3am and it is also on the flat. Their bikes often are equipped with baskets, while others have special seats for children. Don't forget to ask for a padlock and chain! (or you'll be slave to the bike). Remember also to test the bike before renting it. Also it is a good idea to check the traffic regulations. Always lock the bike in a busy place. To rent a bike you will need some form of identity that you will have to leave at the bicycle-shop. At this point I can just wish you an enjoyable ride around Rome. So, on yer bike and drive safely!