Giro d'Italia 2026: Grande Partenza & Week 1 “Ride Every Kilometre” - Bulgaria

by Grand Tours Project
Region
Calabria
Duration
12 days
Guided Status
Guided
Difficulty
Avid
D-Score™
D+ - Extreme

Overview

Experience the historic first-ever Grand Partenza in Bulgaria as the Giro d’Italia begins its 2026 journey! Join us for the official UCI Team Presentation in Burgas and soak up the electric atmosphere before riding the thrilling opening three stages from the Black Sea to the vibrant capital, Sofia. Then, continue your adventure in Southern Italy, starting on the Calabrian coast and riding every kilometre through the dramatic Apennines to gloriously chaotic Napoli. Conquer the legendary Abruzzo climbs where the pink jersey battle ignites, and push through to a summit finish near the Tuscany border. From the Black Sea to the heart of the Italian south - this is a week of Giro history, raw challenge, and unforgettable passion. We’ve been an Official Tour Operator of the Giro d’Italia since 2016 - and in 2026, we’re proud to return as a Premium Tour Operator.

Daily Ride Schedule

Day 1: ARRIVAL DAY Burgas, Bulgaria

20 km 0 m

D1

ARRIVAL DAY Burgas, Bulgaria

Day 2: Stage 1 Nesebar > Burgas

156 km 900 m

D4

Stage 1 Nesebar > Burgas

Day 3: Stage 2 Burgas > Veliko Tarnovo

220 km 2600 m

D+

Stage 2 Burgas > Veliko Tarnovo

Day 4: Stage 3 Plovdiv > Sofia

174 km 1600 m

D4

Stage 3 Plovdiv > Sofia

Day 5: Rest Day & New Arrivals

Rest Day & New Arrivals

Day 6: Stage 4 Catanzaro > Cosenza

144 km 1800 m

D4

Stage 4 Catanzaro > Cosenza

Day 7: Stage 5 Praia A Mare > Potenza

204 km 3950 m

D+

Stage 5 Praia A Mare > Potenza

Day 8: Stage 6 Paestum > Napoli

161 km 1800 m

D4

Stage 6 Paestum > Napoli

Day 9: Stage 7 Formia > Blockhaus

246 km 4600 m

D+

Stage 7 Formia > Blockhaus

Day 10: Stage 8 Chieti > Fermo

159 km 1800 m

D4

Stage 8 Chieti > Fermo

Day 11: Stage 9 Cervia > Corno alle Scale

184 km 2400 m

D4

Stage 9 Cervia > Corno alle Scale

Day 12: Departure Day

Departure Day

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included

Airport transfers
Catering services
Accommodation arrangements
Bike rental
Mechanical support
Support vehicle following all rides

About the Calabria

Read full regional guide