{"id":945,"date":"2017-04-20T00:01:00","date_gmt":"2017-04-20T00:01:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/2017\/04\/20\/a-travelers-guide-to-the-2017-giro-ditalia\/"},"modified":"2025-10-28T09:28:53","modified_gmt":"2025-10-28T09:28:53","slug":"a-travelers-guide-to-the-2017-giro-ditalia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/2017\/04\/20\/a-travelers-guide-to-the-2017-giro-ditalia\/","title":{"rendered":"A TRAVELER’S GUIDE TO THE 2017 GIRO D’ITALIA"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/div>\n

A Traveler’s Guide To The 2017 Giro D’italia<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"GIRO<\/div>\n
Photo credit: <\/span>Pinterest<\/a><\/div>\n
Grit, sweat, speed, pain, and desire; these are what the brave riders of the Giro d\u2019Italia<\/a> embrace as they embark on twenty-one days of racing from southern to northern Italy<\/a>. This year\u2019s \u2018giro\u2019 or tour, starting on May 5th in Sardinia and ending on May 28th in Milan, is the 100th race. The 2017 tagline, \u2018Amore Infinito\u2019 not only embodies the renowned passion of the Italian people, but also the world\u2019s dedication to cycling. During its first years, only a few Italian cyclists competed. Now, after an immense growth in popularity and prestige, it entices top international teams. Along with the Tour de France and Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a, the Giro d\u2019Italia is considered one of the three grand tours. <\/span><\/p>\n

The riders race close to 200 kilometers per day which translates to several hours in the saddle. The beginning stages are flatter and geared toward the sprinters, who can drop out when they need to, usually before heading to the mountains. Cyclists are forced to abandon each year, because of physical necessity, painful injuries, or if they don\u2019t make the time cut at the end of each stage. Even for the climbers, it\u2019s a fight for survival. <\/span><\/p>\n

For spectators, the mountain stages are truly thrilling to watch. Italian locals come out of tiny villages to cheer on the racers with bright banners and yelling, \u2018Vai, vai!\u2019. The precarious roads snake up steep faces of impressively tall snowcapped mountains. Along with flat, hilly, and mountain stages, there are two individual time trials, where cyclists race against the clock rather than side by side, and three rest days. <\/span><\/p>\n

Cyclists compete together as teams, but after the final stage, one individual team member is the overall winner. Typically, only a few individuals from top teams fight for the general classification, while the others compete in the points, mountains, and young rider classifications. At the end of each stage the classification leaders are announced and awarded designated jerseys to be worn during the next day of racing. <\/span><\/p>\n

The general classification leader, which is determined by a combination of the lowest overall time and the most points accumulated, is awarded the pink jersey. The rider who holds onto the \u2018maglia rosa\u2019 after the final stage of the Giro is the overall race winner. Why pink? The \u2018maglia rosa\u2019 pays homage to the race\u2019s founder, \u2018La Gazetta della Sport,\u2019 an Italian sports journal which was originally printed on pink paper. <\/span><\/p>\n

\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: Velo News<\/a><\/div>\n

Points are awarded for stage wins as well as to the riders who come in second to fifteenth place. Riders can also accumulate points by being the first of several to reach designated spots on each route. Full of fire and spirit, the points classification leader wears red with the \u2018maglia rossa.\u2019 <\/span><\/p>\n

In the mountain classification, points are awarded to the first several riders who reach the top of substantial, predetermined climbs. The \u201cking of the mountains\u201d is always the first to see the sky at each peak, so he wears blue with the \u2018maglia azzurra.\u2019 <\/span><\/p>\n

The young rider classification applies to the fresh, bold riders under the age of twenty- five. The leader is determined in the same way as the general classification and because of their innocence and inexperience compared to race veterans, this rider is awarded the white jersey or \u2018maglia bianca.\u2019 <\/span><\/p>\n

Not only is the 2017 Giro going to be one of the toughest, most exhilarating competitions, it is the perfect backbone for a one-of-a-kind trip to Italy. Whether you are a keen cyclist, general sports enthusiasts, or curious soul, yearning to experience something new and utterly gripping, the Giro is the perfect way to explore the entire country. <\/span><\/p>\n

This year\u2019s course will take us through seventeen of Italy\u2019s twenty-one regions. Follow the bike race from the islands of Sardinia and Sicily to Italy\u2019s \u201cboot,\u201d then head north to Florence and Turin, climb up through the Alps and Dolomites, and eventually finish in the spectacular city center of Milan. Below the perfect Giro-Italy trip is laid out for you as well as some useful Italian vocabulary. <\/span><\/p>\n

Sardinia <\/span><\/h3>\n
\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: Sardegna in Blog<\/a><\/div>\n

The first three stages of the Giro are in Sardinia. May 5th starts the riders off on a hilly first day of racing. \u2018La partenza\u2019 or the start in Alghero is a must-see; the riders will have those pre-race jitters and the whole country will be on edge, anticipating a spectacular tour. Stage two is likely to have our first exciting finish, as the route is flat or downhill, perfect for a sprint finish. Head to Tortol\u00ec to catch the sprint live. <\/span><\/p>\n

Stage three will be relatively flat, which may not sound exciting, but watch out for those \u2018fugue\u2019 or breakaways from riders looking to gain some time in the general classification. During stage three, take a break from the race to take in the Sardinian sunshine and scenery. The next day, May 8th is a rest day, so use this day to follow the tour to Sicily.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sicily<\/span><\/h3>\n

<\/p>\n

\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: Giroditaliaciclismo<\/a><\/div>\n

Head to Palermo, Sicily\u2019s capital and enjoy the Arabic-inspired architecture, outdoor markets, and as much fresh fish and \u2018granita,\u2019 a refreshing frozen treat, as you can. On the morning of stage four take the train from Palermo to Cefal\u00f9, one of Sicily\u2019s most visited beaches, usually full of brightly coloured umbrellas and street vendors, where the stage starts. <\/span><\/p>\n

The riders will need extra encouragement as this day is the first high difficulty stage with lots of climbing. They will gain about 3,500 meters in elevation as they climb from the shore up the slopes of Mount Etna, Europe\u2019s tallest active volcano. This will be the first mountain top finish of the Giro. Spend an hour or two at the beach, but then get to Etna to see the racers grind those pedals up the volcano. <\/span><\/p>\n

Stage five from Predara to Messina is a relatively flat stage, so spend the day as you wish in Sicily. However, if you want to catch the likely sprint finish, make your way to Messina. As Sicily\u2019s third largest city, you can also visit the cathedral and wander around its many beautiful churches, fountains, and \u2018palazzi.\u2019 <\/span><\/p>\n

Calabria <\/span><\/h3>\n
\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: La gazzetta dello sport<\/a><\/div>\n

Hop on a plane to the sun-kissed region of Calabria on the morning of May 11th. In stage six riders face an ever-changing route with two long climbs, a flat portion along the coastline, and then three short climbs just before the \u2018traguardo\u2019 or finish line in Terme Luigiane. <\/span><\/p>\n

The next stages that meander through the south and up central Italy are worth skipping. Stage seven in Calabria is flat. Stage eight and nine are hilly, but we have more exhilarating climbing to come and there is a rest day in-between these two. Stage ten starting in Umbria is the first of two individual time trials. <\/span><\/p>\n

Take a few days to explore the \u201cboot\u201d and coastlines of Italy. Visit Calabria\u2019s \u2018Museo Archeologico Nazionale\u2019 and the breath-taking beaches with turquoise waters and stunning cliffs. Go to Puglia to see some of the most beautiful Mediterranean coastline containing bleached white walled houses with colourful roofs. Even better, head north to spend a day in paradise on the idyllic Amalfi Coast and as you continue upwards, stop in Naples for a perfectly baked, doughy, tomato, mozzarella, and basil topped pizza.<\/span>

<\/span><\/p>\n

Florence and San Gimignano<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: Musement<\/a><\/div>\n

On May 16th, make your way to Florence<\/a> by train or car. Prepare to indulge in rich Tuscan food, warming glasses of \u2018Chianti,\u2019 and endless classical art and architecture. Stage 11 on May 17th begins in this medieval town, once the jewel of Italy, at Ponte a Ema and ends in Bagno di Romagna near Bologna. The route is a little more than a hilly stage with mild climbs. Watch the riders as they set off and then explore Florence\u2019s \u2018Ponte Vecchio<\/a>,\u2019 \u2018Il Duomo,\u2019 the statue of David, and the many historical museums and galleries. <\/span><\/p>\n

We are skipping stages twelve through fifteen to stay in Florence and explore Tuscany. Choose one day to adventure outside of Florence, passed the quintessential vineyards to the small picturesque town of San Gimignano<\/a>. It will feel like you have gone back in time to when people lived in castles and feasted wearing embroidered dresses and shining armor. Walk around the cobbled streets and artisanal shops. Have a long lunch before the sun fades. <\/span><\/p>\n

Turin <\/span><\/h3>\n
\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: La stampa<\/a><\/div>\n

Next, the riders will be heading north, so during stage fifteen drive to Turin. Stop in Modena, a small city known for balsamic vinegar and Italian sports car production, for lunch and to stretch your legs. If you have a need for speed and miss the Giro racing already, go to the \u2018Museo Enzo Ferrari\u2019 to learn about the history of Ferrari. Spend May 22nd, the rider\u2019s second rest day, in Turin soaking up the Baroque architecture. <\/span><\/p>\n

The Alps and Dolomites <\/span><\/h3>\n

<\/p>\n

\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: Holimites<\/a><\/div>\n

Stage sixteen is where the true climbing of the Giro begins. It continues all the way through stage twenty. This is the most exciting point in the Giro! Riders will be battling it out for mere centimeters on the slopes and seconds on the clock. Only stage seventeen has slightly milder climbing, so if you need a break, this ones is best to miss. <\/span><\/div>\n


During stage sixteen, riders will weave through the Alps, even entering and exiting Switzerland, and ascend the highest climb of the Giro reaching an elevation of 2,758 meters. Stage eighteen is predicted to be the most gruelling day of racing. The riders will need your support, so find a spot in the Dolomites to cheer. This stage will have five check points where the top climbers will battle for points in the mountain classification. <\/p>\n

Piancavello in stage nineteen will host the final mountain top finish of the Giro. Go and watch at the top! The last day of climbing is stage twenty and if you can\u2019t make it to a slope, at least see the start at Pordenone. Then head to Milan for the final stage.<\/span><\/p>\n

Milan <\/span><\/h3>\n


<\/span><\/p>\n

\"GIRO<\/a><\/div>\n
Photo credit: Cyclingtips<\/a><\/span><\/div>\n

The last day of racing is a twenty-eight kilometer time trial that begins with a lap around \u2018Autodromo Nazionale Monza,\u2019 a classic car racetrack built in 1922 and ends in the \u2018Piazza del Duomo\u2019 next to Milan\u2019s epic Gothic cathedral. Since riders will be starting one by one, explore the whole route and watch from different places throughout the day. Once all the riders have finished, head to the podium for the official announcements of the overall winner and winners of the classifications. Be prepared to celebrate in a shower of champagne! <\/span><\/p>\n

2017 Giro-Italy Trip<\/span><\/h3>\n
<\/a><\/div>\n

May 3 – 4: Travel to Italy! <\/span>

<\/span>May 4: Arrive in Sardinia <\/span>

<\/span>May 5 – 7: Sardinia <\/span><\/p>\n

Stage 1 Alghero \u2013 Olbia <\/i><\/span>
Stage 2 Olbia \u2013 Tortol\u00ec <\/i><\/span>
Stage 3 Tortol\u00ec \u2013 Cagliari <\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

May 8: Riders\u2019 rest day \/ Travel to Sicily <\/span>

<\/span>May 9 – 10: Sicily <\/span><\/p>\n

Stage 4: Cefal\u00f9 \u2013 Etna <\/i><\/span>
Stage 5: Pedara \u2013 Messina<\/i> <\/span>

<\/span>May 11: Calabria <\/span><\/p>\n

Stage 6: Reggio Calabria \u2013 Terme Luigiane<\/i><\/span>

<\/span> May 12 – 15: Explore Calabria, Puglia, Naples (skip stages 7, 8, and 9, May 15 is a rest day) <\/span>

<\/span>May 16: Travel to Florence (skip stage 10)<\/span>

<\/span> May 17: Florence<\/span><\/p>\n

Stage 11: Firenze \u2013 Bagno di Romagna<\/i><\/span>

<\/span> May 18 – 20: Explore Florence and San Gimignano (skip stages 12, 13, and 14) <\/span>

<\/span>May 21: Travel to Turin – stop in Modena and explore Turin (skip stage 15)<\/span>

<\/span> May 22: Riders\u2019 rest day \/ Explore Turin and travel to the Alps<\/span>

<\/span> May 23 – 27: The Alps and Dolomites <\/span><\/p>\n

Stage 16: Rovetta \u2013 Bormio<\/i><\/span>
Stage 17: Tirano \u2013 Canazei (best mountain stage to skip) Stage 18: Moena \u2013 Ortisei\/St. Urlich<\/i><\/span>
Stage 19: San Candido\/Innichen \u2013 Piancavallo<\/i><\/span>
Stage 20: Pordenone \u2013 Asiago <\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

May 27: Travel to Milan after watching start of Stage 20 at Pordeone <\/span>

<\/span>May 28: Milan <\/span>

<\/i>Stage 21: Monza \u2013 Milano (time trial) <\/i><\/span>

<\/span>May 29 – 30: Explore Milan <\/span><\/p>\n

May 31: Travel home! <\/span><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Italian to Know<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"speak<\/a><\/div>\n

Cheers:<\/b><\/span>
\u2018Vai, vai!\u2019 = \u2018Go, go!\u2019<\/span>
\u2018Dai!\u2019 = \u2018C\u2019mon!\u2019<\/span>
\u2018Viva!\u2019 = literally meaning \u2018live,\u2019 this is often painted on roads to cheer on cyclists<\/span>
\u2018Su!\u2019 = meaning \u2018up\u2019 this is used to urge riders to catch others in front of them or get up a climb <\/span><\/p>\n

People:<\/b><\/span>
\u2018I tifosi\u2019 = the spectators (you!)<\/span>
\u2018Il gruppo\u2019 = \u2018the peloton\u2019 or the largest pack of riders<\/span>
\u2018La fuga\u2019 = the breakaway<\/span>
\u2018I fugitivi\u2019 = literally \u2018the fugatives,\u2019 these are the breakaway riders<\/span>
\u2018Il gruppo compacto\u2019 = when the riders are together or when the pelaton catches a breakaway \u2018Il gruppo frazionato\u2019 = when the peloton breaks up into smaller groups, \u2018il primo,\u2019 the first, \u2018il segundo,’ the second, and \u2018i gruppetti,\u2019 the smaller groups<\/span>
\u2018Il gruppo spaccato\u2019 = when the peloton has been ripped apart and riders are spaced out <\/span><\/p>\n

Racing:<\/b><\/span>
\u2018La partenza\u2019 = the start<\/span>
\u2018Il traguardo\u2019 = the finish line<\/span>
\u2018Cima coppi\u2019 = the highest climb of the Giro, the rider who finishes first wins this title and points \u2018Volata\u2019 = literally meaning \u2018flight,\u2019 this is for stages that finish in a sprint<\/span>
\u2018Piano\u2019 = \u2018flat\u2019 for when a stage is flat without much climbing<\/span>
\u2018Sali-scendi\u2019 = \u2018rising-falling\u2019 for hilly stages where riders are constantly climbing and descending \u2018Dicesa tecnica\u2019 = \u2018technical descent\u2019 or difficult downhills that call for impeccable bike handling skills so riders can successfully navigate the steep, narrow, twisting roads and don\u2019t crash <\/span><\/p>\n

Pain:<\/b><\/span>
\u2018Perdere le ruote\u2019 = \u2018Lose the wheel,\u2019 when a rider can\u2019t keep up and is dropped from the group \u2018Giornata no\u2019 = a \u2018no day,\u2019 when a rider had a chance, but now won\u2019t win or perform well that day \u2018Crisi\u2019 = literally meaning \u2018crisis,\u2019 also called \u2018bonking,\u2019 it\u2019s when a rider has no energy left either because he initially went to fast or hard, needs more fuel, or simply is exhausted <\/span>

<\/span>Written by: Becky Heeley <\/a>
If you liked this article, read also “THE DAZZLE AND THE BELLEZZA: WHAT MILAN FASHION WEEK HOLDS FOR YOU<\/a><\/b>“<\/span><\/p>\n

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A Traveler’s Guide To The 2017 Giro D’italia Photo credit: Pinterest Grit, sweat, speed, pain, and desire; these are what the brave riders of the Giro d\u2019Italia embrace as they embark on twenty-one days\u2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-945","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-italy"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/945","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=945"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/945\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4597,"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/945\/revisions\/4597"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=945"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=945"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/romancandletours.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=945"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}