My Life on a Bike: Moving and Cycling in Italy

My idea of a good life was to exist in a world that allowed me to earn enough for a decent living while maintaining my physical and mental health. As I grew, I noticed the systems around the world would make it a bit difficult to maintain this mindset, so when adjusting the route, I had to make concessions and abdicate from too much. Still, the result was more satisfying than disappointing. This article illustrates how I started my cycling journey around Europe with tips for the ones wishing to follow similar paths and things I’d make differently if I were starting on my bike route today. Get your helmet and come along. 

I Had More Than Just a few Problems Ahead of Me.

It all started when I fell for a road bike. The idea of the lightweight, practicality, speed, and beauty make the case in its favour. I clicked to purchase. It was an investment and an accomplishment. I bought the bike before giving it a good thought. The 350 kilometres of pathways in London gave me the certainty I wouldn’t have a problem with the kind of pavement under my tyres. Little did I know that London wouldn’t be my home any longer. As I searched for bike gears and techniques, I stumbled on a vlog about cycling in Italy, and I must ask, “Have you ever seen how colourful Naples is?“I was head over heels. The next months, all I could think about was leaving all behind for that sunny, warm, relaxed life. Thankfully I made a fair amount of money during my hustle years in London, but not to an exaggeration that was shifting countries out of sudden. I thought it through and started to take action. The number of rules, the accommodation, the language barrier, seeking a new job and most importantly, the roads. My most recent acquisition was not paired to face Neapolitan streets. The time to return the bike had passed and I went through a whole process of selling the new bike to get another, And I did, now a gravel bike. It was the perfect blend for easy roads and steeper trails. So, determine what city you wish to live in before buying your bike.

Is Naples Italy Bicycle Friendly?

Here in Naples, the journey is still ongoing. The city, with its beautiful narrow streets and densely populated areas, presents unique challenges for cyclists, and the tourist seasons can make it even more challenging. But I don’t mind the crowds or the tight spaces. I’m not in a hurry, and the architecture has helped me slow the pace I wished for. I’d like to enforce the narrow roads and heavy traffic to ensure potential expats will be aware of safety practices. Enjoying your ride if you wear your helmet and stay vigilant in busy areas is possible. Slowly but growing, Naples is progressively enhancing its cycling infrastructure, including the development of dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes. Efforts are also underway to improve safety and connectivity, making it easier for residents and newcomers to use bicycles. Despite these improvements, cycling in Naples still requires vigilance due to the city’s bustling nature. Meanwhile, exploring the city’s scenic coastal routes and nearby countryside is the right choice for those looking for a more relaxed route.

What Temperature Is Best to Cycle?

When you can decide whether you want to ride your bike or not, temperatures shouldn’t be a problem, the only thing was I found the best job in this life, delivering flowers. While high temperatures aren’t better or worse than cold ones, it’s preferable to wait until the weather is somewhere between 15°C and 26°C. You know, mild temperatures, not too hot or too cold, it feels about right. But I had to work, so I had to ride. Here in Naples the months during winter hits around 14°C during day and 5°C in the night, my luck is that for better and for worse, I love when it snows, it’s that the city does not experience snow. From November to February, I have to wrap myself up and be brave, but during summer, I have the time of my life. The average temperature goes from 18°C to 30°C. The highs can be a bit too much, I didn’t mind though, after all the cloudy London years, all I wanted was sunny days and blue skies.

What are the Cycling Rules in Italy?

Like in the UK, in Italy, bicycles are considered vehicles, and cyclists must follow the same traffic rules as cars, such as respecting red lights, remaining in the right-hand lane, using their arms to give clear signs when changing directions, etc. Cyclists are allowed on most roads except for SS (Strada Statale) roads and motorways. These roads are marked in blue with white letters signs. These rules are designed to protect cyclists and ensure smooth traffic flow. Familiarise yourself with these regulations to avoid fines and accidents. Here are a few highlights:

• Be attentive to traffic regulations for pedestrians, scooters, and cars
• Always ride on the right side of the road
• Use bike lanes where available
• Equip your bikes with lights for night riding
• Wear a helmet, especially outside urban areas
• Follow all traffic signals and signs
• Don’t check your phone while riding (stop if you need to reply to messages, take pictures or record videos)
• Wear bright clothing and use lights to make yourself visible to drivers
• Assert your presence on the road, but always ride defensively
• Use bike maps or apps to find the safest routes
• Mark bike mechanic spots around the places you ride in case of emergencies

Overcoming Challenges and Adapting Faster

For expats moving to Naples, adapting to the local cycling culture can be facilitated by joining cycling groups or clubs. These communities provide support, local knowledge, and companionship. Additionally, you can hire a local cycling coach to help you get accustomed to the city’s cycling dynamics if this is within your scope. Endurance is something to be conquered, if you’re not used to cycling know that the first two weeks can be quite challenging. Start slow and give yourself a break if you feel like you need it.

VanOne Services: Relocating to Italy

Now the bureaucracy part, roll your eyes as I did, what a fatigue. If you’re planning a move to Italy and need to bring your household items, plus your new bike, like me, know that specialised companies are willing to do the boring parts for you. When I hired VanOne ‘s services it was pretty easy, I said what I needed to move, what I was willing to spend and when I needed the removal to be done. A couple of documents later uploaded to their online platform later and I was clear to go. They specialise in removals to Italy and other European places, plus Brazil. Your belongings are fully insured and safely transported. Whether you’re moving to Naples or any other Italian city, they have ways to work the customs clearance service for you. Here, you can find their website, VanOne International Movers, and generate free quotes. The tools are intuitive and practical. I hope you can find your way to a more positive life and set your goals when you decide to explore this world on your bike.