Finding beauty in iconic cities like Rome, London, or Prague is easy—just look around. For travelers who want a different perspective while still enjoying scenic views, U.K.-based cycling tour operator Freewheel Holidays offers an intriguing alternative.
Nicknamed the “Ugly Tour,” the concept is a playful way to highlight less-obvious or less-crowded attractions alongside the major, well-trodden sites. The tour visits popular landmarks but also includes optional add-ons and swap-outs for when the main sights are swamped with visitors. For example, instead of squeezing into a 17th-century house in Antwerp, riders might opt to visit the contemporary Port House and combine that stop with a Belgian beer-focused route.
Florence to Rome
One featured itinerary is an eight-day, self-guided Florence to Rome cycling holiday. This route encourages travelers to explore a different side of Italy’s famous cities—focusing on architecture and sites from less-celebrated periods, including Fascist-era buildings from Mussolini’s rule. The tour offers historical context and interpretation while passing through Rome and Florence, showcasing structures that are often overlooked on conventional itineraries.
The self-guided format lets cyclists set their own pace, choose optional detours, and avoid the busiest spots when desired. It’s a way to experience Italy with fresh eyes: part history lesson, part active holiday, and part local discovery. The trip price starts from $1,048 per person based on double occupancy. For those seeking a memorable variation on the standard European sightseeing circuit, this excursion provides a well-balanced mix of major landmarks, alternative attractions, and cultural insights.