3 Stages not to be missed
The Giro d'Italia returns for its 108th edition with a route that combines unexplored territory with iconic terrain. With more than 3,400 kilometers spread over 21 stages, this year's Corsa Rosa starts in Durrës, Albania - for the first time ever - before crossing the Adriatic into Italy and traversing the Apennines and the Alps. With two individual time trials, 13 mountain stages and the traditional finish in Rome, the 2025 Giro is designed to test every dimension of a grand tour cyclist.
Whether you're planning a trip to follow the race in person or organizing a bike ride from home, here are three key stages to mark on your calendar, with context, history and the best places to enjoy it to the fullest.
Stage 14: Treviso - Nova Gorica (186 km)
Saturday, May 24
Cross-border stage to Slovenia.
This stage marks a cultural and geographical change as the Giro moves into Slovenia to finish in Nova Gorica. Undulating terrain gives way to a nervous finish with several steep climbs near the border, making it a possible stage for classics-style attacks or last-minute ambushes.
Key point: The climb to Gorizia Castle, with its cobbled section and a technical descent, will be a key moment before the final circuit in Nova Gorica. For the finish of this stage, positioning will be critical.
Memories: The Giro's last visit to this area was in 2021, on a chaotic and rainy day won by Victor Campenaerts after a successful breakaway. That stage was remembered more for its daring descents and tactical chaos than for the toughness of the terrain.
Best place to see it: The border crossing between Gorizia and Nova Gorica symbolizes the open nature of European cycling and offers a unique atmosphere, with fans from both countries and a panoramic view of the final kilometers.
Stage 15: Fiume Veneto - Asiago (219 km)
Sunday, May 25
Ascent of Monte Grappa
Stage 15 presents a demanding mountain route that begins with a flat stretch before tackling the imposing Monte Grappa. The climb, from Romano d'Ezzelino along the historic Strada Cadorna, extends over 25.1 km with an average gradient of 5.7%, culminating at an altitude of 1,611 meters. After the descent, riders will have to climb to Dori (16.4 km at 5.4%) before the final, leg-breaking section to the finish in Asiago.
Key point: The climb up Monte Grappa, due to its length and gradient, will be a decisive segment that will test the endurance of the climbers and could have a direct impact on the overall classification.
Memories: Monte Grappa has been a key climb in the history of the Giro, especially in 2010, when Vincenzo Nibali demonstrated his talent as a climber, a prelude to his great future successes.
Best place to see it: The summit of Monte Grappa offers panoramic views and a prime location to watch the climbers' efforts. Alternatively, the climb to Dori is another good spot to witness key moments before the final push to Asiago.
Stage 20: Verrès - Sestrière (203 km)
Saturday, May 31
Queen stage with the Colle delle Finestre and finish in Sestrière
No Giro is complete without an epic alpine battle, and this year it comes with Stage 20. It is the ultimate test for the contenders for the maglia rosa, with more than 4,500 meters of accumulated altitude gain and the legendary Colle delle Finestre as the jewel of the day.
Key point: Colle delle Finestre (18.6 km at 9.1%) is one of the most mythical climbs in cycling. Its last 8 kilometers, unpaved, are gravel - a rarity in today's grand tours - and feature 45 hairpin bends that test even the strongest cyclists.
Memories: In 2018, Chris Froome launched a solo attack from Finestre, riding 80 km alone to come back from a 3-minute deficit and win the Giro. It is considered one of the greatest modern achievements in grand tour history.
Best place to watch it: The gravel section of the Finestre, especially near the top, offers a raw and exciting viewing experience. Arrive early, as access is limited and fans throng hours beforehand. Be prepared for chills...and cowbells.
The Giro d'Italia 2025 is more than a race: it's a journey through history, geography and human endeavor. Whether it's the scenic roads of the Gran Sasso, the thrills of the Slovenian borderlands or the high-altitude heroics of the Finestre, this edition promises spectacle at every stage.
Tips to enjoy the Giro
Watching a stage is an incredible experience, but it requires a bit of advance planning. Here are some tips:
- Bike Route: Take advantage of the morning to take a bike route and finish at the point where the stage is going to pass. This way, you will avoid taking a car and parking problems.
- Equipment: Take a small bikepacking bag with food, warm clothes (you are going to be standing around waiting for quite a while) and sneakers (so you don't go with cleats).
- Safety rulesDuring the passage of the runners, DO NOT touch them, DO NOT be too close, DO NOT run next to them and DO NOT tape them with your arm outstretched. The runners are making a tremendous effort and any slight friction or scare could send them to the ground.
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Road Closed: The road will NOT be open until the green flag car passes. Be patient and respect the safety signs.
We hope these tips will help you enjoy an unforgettable experience in Il Giro a Italia 2025.
See you on the roads!
