Cycling in Conversano: guide

Conversano, located in the Metropolitan City of Bari, is a charming town that offers a fascinating mix of history and nature. Its hilly position, just a short distance from the sea, makes it an ideal place for cycling explorations. Although there are no extensive bike paths in the historic center, the surrounding territory is still accessible and suitable for cyclists.

The municipality has made significant investments in sustainable mobility, creating shared lanes and low-traffic roads in some peripheral areas. This allows for safe cycling, even though one cannot rely on a structured cycling network like in other cities. The quality of secondary roads and the morphology of the territory still make for a pleasant cycling experience.

Visiting Conversano by bike is a valid option. The historic center is partially pedestrianized, but it is easy to move around the surroundings by bike. During mild seasons, such as spring and early autumn, cycling becomes a particularly rewarding experience. If you are fit or use an electric bike, the short climbs to the center can be tackled without difficulty, and the view from the castle walls is breathtaking.

Among the main attractions of Conversano, the Aragonese Castle stands out for its grandeur. Around the castle, the ancient village unfolds with the Romanesque cathedral and various noble palaces. The alleys, squares, and panoramic views offer suggestive glimpses. Even if you cannot cycle everywhere in the heart of the town, you can easily park your bike and continue on foot to discover architectural and historical details.

Leaving the center, the surrounding countryside is perfect for a quiet ride. Olive groves, dry stone walls, and farmhouses create a typical Apulian landscape, ideal for those seeking direct contact with nature.

An excellent idea is to organize a cycling itinerary that includes Conversano and nearby towns. The distances are short, and traffic is generally low, making the experience even more enjoyable. Polignano a Mare, about 10 km away, is a must-visit destination. This seaside town is famous for its cliffs and historic center, easily reachable in about 30-40 minutes of cycling.

Castellana Grotte, about 8 km away, is another stop not to be missed, known for its underground caves, one of the natural wonders of Apulia. Putignano, about 12 km away, is renowned for its Carnival and offers opportunities for a cultural or gastronomic stop.

Rutigliano and Turi, reachable in less than 15 km, present interesting glimpses of rural Apulia, perfect for those who love to discover new places. For those wishing to cycle in Conversano, there are some practical tips to follow. It is advisable to use a trekking bike or an electric bike, especially if more stops are planned.

Carrying water and sunscreen is essential, as even in spring, temperatures can be high. Checking weather and wind conditions is important, especially during summer. It is preferable to start in the morning hours to avoid the heat and return before sunset.

Finally, using Google Maps in bike mode can help find less trafficked roads, making the experience even safer and more enjoyable. Although Conversano does not have a developed cycling network, it represents an excellent starting point for exploring the southeastern Bari area by bike. With minimal planning, cycling between Conversano and its surroundings can become a sustainable and authentic way to discover this part of Apulia.