Giro d'Italia 2025

The Giro d'Italia 2025 is back, and this year, it's making history! From May 9 to June 1, the 108th edition of the race kicks off with a Grande Partenza in Durrës, Albania, before winding through Italy’s landscapes and finishing with a thrilling final sprint in Rome.

As the first Grand Tour of the season, the Giro is a great place for riders to test their early-season form. Here, the legends are made, and the pink jersey – la Maglia Rosa – becomes cycling’s most sought-after prize. With 21 stages, brutal climbs like Colle delle Finestre, time trials, and unpredictable race days, expect the energy to be top-notch all the way to the final stage in the Eternal City.

History of the Giro d'Italia

The Giro d’Italia first rolled onto the scene in 1909, thanks to Italian sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport (hence the iconic pink leader’s jersey). Over the decades, it’s seen Eddy Merckx, Roger De Vlaeminck, Mario Cipollini, and other legends claim victory.

Unlike other Grand Tours, the Giro is famous for its unpredictable weather, strade bianche (white gravel roads), and steep climbs that separate the true champions from the rest. The 2025 Giro promises to uphold this legacy, with its mountain stages and double ascent challenges that will leave riders gasping for air.

What to Expect at Giro d'Italia 2025

Over 21 stages, riders will traverse approximately 3,413 kilometers, culminating in a grand finale in Rome on June 1. Here are the details:

Start in Albania

The race begins with a 164 km hilly stage from Durrës to Tirana, setting an early test for the peloton. The following day features a 13.7 km individual time trial within Tirana and offers the first glimpse of the general classification contenders. The Albanian trilogy concludes with a 160 km loop starting and ending in Vlorë, featuring the significant Llogara Pass climb.

Challenging Climbs

Upon entering Italy, the route intensifies. Stage 7, from Castel di Sangro to Tagliacozzo, introduces a challenging finale with a 12.6 km climb at a 5.4% gradient. The legendary Passo Mortirolo makes its appearance in Stage 17, starting in San Michele all'Adige – a Giro debut – and leading riders over the Tonale and Mortirolo passes.

The final climb on Stage 20 promises excitement with a 203 km mountain stage from Verrès to Sestriere with relentless climbs that could be decisive for the Maglia Rosa.

Diverse Terrain and Challenges

The 2025 route has a balanced mix: six sprint stages for the fast men, two individual time trials totaling 42.3 km, and the much-anticipated strade bianche – 30 km of gravel roads reminiscent of the famed Tuscan race. This variety will make sure that all rider types will face their moments of truth.

Grand Finale

The Eternal City hosts the final week – a flat 141 km route within Rome, which offers a last chance for sprinters to shine and the peloton to parade past historic landmarks before crowning the 2025 Giro champion. Expect stage wins to come hard-earned, as the GC contenders fight for every second.

Weather

In May, Albania typically experiences mild temperatures from 15 C to 25 C (59 F to 77 F), while Italy sees similar conditions, with warmer temperatures as the race progresses south to north. However, mountain stages can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures and potential rain, adding another layer of challenge for the riders.

It’s a battle of endurance, tactics, and sheer determination. Who will rise to the challenge?

How to Watch the Giro d'Italia 2025

The best part? You don’t need a ticket to experience the Giro! Spectators can line the streets for free, enjoying the electric atmosphere. But if you want premium viewing spots, consider a hospitality zone ticket at key locations like stage finishes or major climbs. Keep an eye on the official RCS Sport website for ticketing details.

Giro d'Italia 2025 Bag Policy

Traveling to see the race in person? Make sure you know the bag policy:

• At the start & finish lines – Security checks are in place, and large bags may not be allowed.
• Restricted areas – Some hospitality zones and team areas may have size limits on bags.
• On the route – If you're watching along the race route, travel light to move easily between prime viewing spots.

Giro d'Italia 2025 Bag Storage

Keep Your Hands Free with Bounce

Whether you’re chasing the race through multiple cities or just need a secure spot for your belongings, Bounce has you covered. You can enjoy the event hassle-free with affordable, secure bag storage options near key race locations.

• Affordable rates – Store your bags for a small daily fee.
• Safe & secure – Trusted locations with insurance protection.
• Flexible options – Free cancellations before check-in.

How to Stow Your Bags at Giro d’Italia 2025 with Bounce

Booking is easy:

1. Reserve online – Pick a location near a stage start, finish, or anywhere convenient.
2. Drop off your bags – Show your confirmation and store your belongings securely.
3. Enjoy the race – Pick up your stuff when you're ready, stress-free.

Tips to Make the Most Out of Giro d’Italia 2025

• Plan your viewing spots – Know where you want to be for the most exciting moments: maybe you want to experience the final sprint in Rome or check out the double ascent challenge.
• Check the weather – From sunny coastal routes to cold mountain summits, Giro weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers!
• Try local food – Each stage passes through Italy’s diverse regions: don’t miss out on regional pasta, cheese, and wine!
• Learn the climb names – Knowing spots like Colle delle Finestre or Passo Mortirolo will help you understand race tactics.
• Use Bounce for storage – If you’re following the race across Italy, store your luggage and travel light.

From Albania to Rome, through strade bianche, summit finishes, and breathtaking descents, the Giro d'Italia 2025 promises three weeks of pure cycling adrenaline. This is a race you don’t want to miss!