The Giro d’Italia, one of the world’s most prestigious cycling competitions, was founded in 1909. Typically held in May and lasting about three weeks, it includes various stages such as flat, mountainous, and time trials. Each edition features a unique route across Italy’s beautiful and historic regions. The 2024 Giro covers 3,400.8 km over 21 stages with a total elevation gain of 44,650 meters. Here are the stages:
May 4: Venaria Reale – Turin, 136 km
May 5: San Francesco al Campo – Oropa (Biella), 160 km
May 6: Novara – Fossano, 152 km
May 7: Acqui Terme – Andora, 163 km
May 8: Genoa – Lucca, 185 km
May 9: Torre del Lago Puccini (Viareggio) – Rapolano Terme, 194 km
May 10: Foligno – Perugia (ITT), 37.2 km
May 11: Spoleto – Prati di Tivo, 173 km
May 12: Avezzano – Naples, 214 km
May 14: Pompeii – Cusano Mutri, 142 km
May 15: Foiano di Val Fortore – Francavilla al Mare, 207 km
May 16: Martinsicuro – Fano, 193 km
May 17: Riccione – Cento, 179 km
May 18: Castiglione delle Stiviere – Desenzano del Garda (ITT), 31.2 km
May 19: Manerba del Garda – Livigno, 222 km
May 21: Livigno – Monte Pana, 202 km
May 22: Selva di Val Gardena – Passo Brocon, 159 km
May 23: Fiera di Primiero – Padua, 178 km
May 24: Mortegliano – Sappada, 157 km
May 25: Alpago – Bassano del Grappa, 184 km
May 26: Rome – Rome, 125 km
The stages offer a mix of flat, hilly, and mountainous routes, with two individual time trials. Among the most challenging are the mountain stages, including the Stelvio Pass.
The passage of the Giro d’Italia through Padua (only 12 km from AbanoRitz!) is always a moment of great excitement for the city. Padua, with its rich history and culture, offers a spectacular backdrop for cyclists and fans. The arrival or departure of a stage in Padua is accompanied by a city festival that involves residents and visitors, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The streets fill with spectators ready to cheer on the riders, and historic squares become focal points for celebrations and activities related to the event. From May 5 to 26, Padua will be animated by the “Pink Week” with pink illuminations on major monuments, exhibitions, shows, and themed meetings.
On May 23, 2024, the Giro d’Italia will pass through Padua for the finish of the 18th stage, starting from Fiera di Primiero. The route in the city will conclude in Prato della Valle between 17:00 and 17:30. Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe and an iconic site in Padua. The Giro’s passage will highlight its great scenic and historical value.
Prato della Valle is not only a finishing point but also a symbol of Padua, representing the perfect fusion of history, culture, and modern life. In the context of the Giro d’Italia, Prato della Valle represents a scenic and significant milestone. The cyclists’ arrival in this square offers a spectacular backdrop, combining historical and architectural beauty with the energy of the sporting competition. Prato della Valle is a landmark for the people of Padua and hosts numerous events throughout the year, including markets, fairs, and concerts. During the Giro d’Italia, the square becomes the focal point of celebrations.
The square was designed and built between 1775 and 1779 by architect Andrea Memmo, who wanted to transform a swampy area into an elegant public space. The Memmia Island, at the center of the square, is surrounded by a double ring of statues and bridges that connect the island to the four main entrance gates. Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe, with an area of about 90,000 square meters. The square is characterized by an elliptical central island, called Memmia Island, surrounded by a canal adorned with 78 statues depicting illustrious citizens and historical figures.
The Giro d’Italia 2024 will feature numerous prominent riders and various top-level international teams, all equipped with high-end bicycles. Key participants in this edition include:
Geraint Thomas (INEOS Grenadiers), using Pinarello bikes.
Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates), riding Colnago bikes.
Julian Alaphilippe (Soudal Quick-Step), on Specialized bikes.
Nairo Quintana (Movistar Team), using Canyon bikes.
Several Italian riders will participate in the 2024 Giro d’Italia, representing various high-level teams. Notable Italian cyclists include: Davide Ballerini (Astana Qazaqstan Team), Lorenzo Fortunato (Astana Qazaqstan Team), Simone Velasco (Astana Qazaqstan Team), Giovanni Aleotti (BORA – hansgrohe), Andrea Vendrame (Decathlon–AG2R La Mondiale), Andrea Piccolo (EF Education–EasyPost).
Each team brings a combination of young talents and experienced veterans, making the Giro d’Italia an exciting competition for both cycling enthusiasts and new spectators. For instance, UAE Team Emirates will be led by two-time Tour de France winner Tadej Pogačar, while INEOS Grenadiers will field champion Geraint Thomas, both known for their climbing skills. Regarding bicycles, brands like Pinarello, Specialized, Colnago, and Canyon are synonymous with quality and technological innovation in the cycling world.
