Product image 0
Product image 0
Product image 1
Product image 2
Product image 3
Product image 4
Product image 5
Product image 6
Product image 7
Product image 8
Product image 9
Product image 10
Product image 11
Product image 12
Product image 13
Product image 14
Product image 15
Product image 16
1/18

Best of Istria Bike Tour

8 days / 7 nights

|

Experience the Northern Adriatic on cycling holidays, exploring the iconic Parenzana trail as it winds from Trieste across Slovenia and Croatian Istria.

Starting point

Trieste

Finish point

Pula

Fitness level

3/5

Season

From April to October

Google ReviewsTripAdvisor Reviews

Highlights

  • Pedal through the picturesque coastline of Italy, Slovenia, and Croatian Istria
  • Traverse the renowned Parenzana cycle route, riding on the historic railway path
  • Explore charming seaside villages such as Trieste, Piran, Rovinj, and Pula
  • Uncover the rich variety of the Northern Adriatic coastal area on a bike
  • A year-round adventure, suitable for the majority of the calendar year

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

Tour design and organization
Booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions
7 nights in 3* hotels with breakfast
Service and support during your tour
GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app
Luggage transfer

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Airport transfer
E-bike
E-road bike
Gravel bike
MTB
Single supplement

The Best of Istria Bike Tour offers a one-of-a-kind chance to explore the stunning coastline of the Northern Adriatic Sea — journeying from Italy to Slovenia and, finally, Croatia. Imagine yourself pedaling along sun-kissed shores, discovering charming seaside towns, and delving into the rich cultural history that abounds in this idyllic region. 

The ideal Mediterranean climate allows you to cycle almost all year round, with early spring and late autumn offering perfect weather conditions and fewer crowds. If you prefer higher temperatures, summer invites you to cool off with a refreshing dip in the sparkling azure waters along the way. 

The renowned Parenzana cycling path, following the former railway from Trieste to Poreč, provides an effortless and thrilling ride. You'll alternate between well-maintained cycling paths, gravel tracks, and light-traffic roads, all while enjoying the coastal breeze. As you venture through tunnels and over bridges, you'll be captivated by the quaint villages that dot the peninsula. 

Prepare to be swept off your feet by Rovinj, one of Europe's most romantic coastal towns, before concluding your Istria bike tour in the historic city of Pula — Istria's cultural capital. An extra day allows you to fully immerse yourself in the fascinating surroundings. 

This Istria bike tour offers a perfect blend of freedom, autonomy, and support. While we provide a comprehensive itinerary and directions, you have the flexibility to shape your own daily adventures. Our 24/7 support is always on standby to ensure a seamless experience. 

With an option to rent electric or standard bikes that cater to all fitness levels, there's no excuse not to embark on this unforgettable journey. 

Embrace the magic of Istria and create memories that will last a lifetime. The sooner, the better. Let the adventure begin!

Top Places You’ll See

From natural wonders to authentic local culture, the route is packed with memorable sights—these are our absolute favorites.

Miramare Castle image 1

Miramare Castle

Perched above the Gulf of Trieste, Miramare Castle is a 19th-century neo-Gothic residence built for Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria and his wife Charlotte. The castle’s white stone façade contrasts strikingly with the deep blue sea below, while its lush gardens brim with exotic plants collected from around the world. Inside, lavishly preserved rooms tell the story of imperial elegance and tragic destiny. It remains one of Italy’s most graceful seaside palaces.

Piran image 1

Piran

Piran is a coastal gem on the Adriatic, known for its Venetian heritage and narrow medieval streets. The main square, Tartini Square, is named after the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, who was born here. Climb the old city walls for panoramic views of the red-roofed town and the sea, or visit St. George’s Church, which overlooks the harbor from a bluff.

Parenzana Trail image 1

Parenzana Trail

The Parenzana Trail follows a historic narrow-gauge railway built in 1902 that once connected Trieste with Poreč. Today, it’s one of the most scenic cycling and walking routes in the region, running through tunnels, viaducts, and rolling vineyards across Slovenia and Croatia. Stretching 123 kilometers, it’s both a cultural journey and a living monument to the region’s industrial heritage.

Grožnjan image 1

Grožnjan

Perched on a hilltop in Croatia’s Istrian peninsula, Grožnjan is renowned as the “town of artists.” Its medieval stone lanes are packed with more than twenty galleries and studios, and music festivals fill the narrow streets each summer. With panoramic views over vineyards and olive groves, Grožnjan blends history, art, and a relaxed Mediterranean charm that makes it a favorite stop for culture lovers and cyclists crossing the border from Slovenia.

Motovun image 1

Motovun

Just a short ride away, Motovun rises dramatically above the Mirna River valley and is famed for its intact medieval walls and sweeping views across central Istria. The town is at the heart of Croatia’s truffle region, offering everything from simple truffle tastings to fine dining. Its cobbled streets, Venetian architecture, and surrounding forests make Motovun both a culinary hotspot and one of the most atmospheric hill towns in the region.

Lim Fjord image 1

Lim Fjord

Also known as Limski Fjord, this narrow, 10-kilometer-long bay cuts deep into the Istrian coast between Rovinj and Poreč. It’s actually a flooded karst valley, known for its oyster and mussel farms and steep forested cliffs. The area is protected for its unique ecosystem and crystal-clear waters, which change color with the sunlight — a true natural wonder of western Istria.
Premantura image 1

Premantura

Premantura is the southernmost tip of the Istrian peninsula, known for the protected landscape of Cape Kamenjak. The cape is dotted with coves, cliffs, and beaches, and its coastline stretches for about 30 kilometers. Cyclists and hikers can explore its trails, while swimmers and divers are drawn to its clear waters and unique rock formations.

Arena Pula image 1

Arena Pula

The Pula Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Built in the 1st century AD under Emperor Vespasian—the same emperor who commissioned the Colosseum in Rome—it could once seat 23,000 spectators. Today, it hosts concerts, film festivals, and cultural events, making it a remarkable blend of ancient history and modern life in the heart of Pula.

Our Bikes

To ensure the best possible experience on your cycling adventure, we offer top-quality bikes for rent. Our fleet features the latest models, meticulously maintained for both performance and comfort.

To match each rider with the right equipment, our team will also assist you in selecting the most suitable bike based on your physical profile, personal preferences, and the technical requirements of the tour.

Each bike rental includes:
 ✔ Transport of the bike to and from the tour start/end point
 ✔ Helmet for safety
Phone holder mounted on the handlebars
Basic tool kit for on-the-go adjustments

Muesing Hybrid Touring Bike image 1
Muesing Hybrid Touring Bike image 2

Muesing Hybrid Touring Bike

Or similar

Type: Trekking Bike
Best for: Everyday cycling, relaxed touring, and longer leisure rides


These custom-designed hybrid touring bikes blend comfort and performance for versatile use. Featuring a lightweight aluminium frame, adjustable stem, and multiple saddle options, they offer a personalized and upright riding position. The wheels with slick tires ensure efficient rolling, giving the feel of a road bike while preserving the comfort and stability needed for touring and casual cruising.

BMC Fourstroke AMP LT THREE image 1

BMC Fourstroke AMP LT THREE

Or similar

Type: E-Mountain Bike
Best for: Trail riding, technical terrain, and all-day e-MTB adventures


This premium full-suspension e-mountain bike is designed for top-tier performance across all terrains. Built with a lightweight carbon frame and progressive geometry, it ensures confident handling on both climbs and descents. It offers smooth pedal assistance while keeping total weight to just 16.90 kg, and delivers power, control, and agility for serious trail riders.

Muesing Crozzroad Lite image 1

Muesing Crozzroad Lite

Or similar

Type: Gravel Bike
Best for: Touring, everyday gravel riding, and mixed-surface adventures


The Muesing Crozzroad Lite is an aluminium gravel bike, built for reliable performance and comfort on varied terrain. It features a carbon fork for improved shock absorption and a 2x11 drivetrain. The bike provides grip and efficiency on both paved and unpaved roads. A rear rack comes as standard and can be removed if not needed, making this bike equally suited for light touring or day rides.



Frequently Asked Questions

Self-guided cycling tours offer a customizable and adaptable way to enjoy a cycling vacation, giving you the freedom to explore at your own speed and adjust your path or timetable as desired.


Our dedicated team handles all the logistical arrangements, such as lodging, detailed schedules, GPS directions, and round-the-clock assistance, ensuring a hassle-free, engaging adventure that emphasizes autonomy, personalization, and genuine interactions with the local community.

Our tours are categorized into three difficulty levels: leisurely, moderate, and challenging. Although each may include both easier and more demanding days, our rating system reflects the average difficulty level for a typical day.


Leisurely tours take place primarily on flat, paved cycling paths, asphalt roads, or easy gravel tracks, and they are suitable for all fitness levels.


Moderate tours may include some uphill climbs or technically more demanding terrain, but they are manageable for individuals of average fitness.


Challenging tours entail either long distances and numerous climbs or technical terrain, possibly featuring downhill sections requiring proficiency with a mountain bike.

If you are not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can certainly arrange that for you. We have a wide selection of bikes at our disposal and we will choose the ones that best fit your tour. All we need from you is your usual bike size and any other relevant information or preferences so we can make sure you will be comfortable throughout your trip.

Our tours can be adapted to any bike type, whether road, gravel, or mountain bike. We are in constant communication with you to find the optimal conditions for your cycling holidays in Croatia.


The most versatile option is a gravel bike, even if you are coming on a road cycling holiday. It does not really affect your road performance while allowing you to take some scenic backroads that can be in a slightly worse state than the main ones. A gravel bike is usually more comfortable as well.

We are dedicated to finding the ideal lodging for you. We collaborate with various lodging establishments that meet our criteria, but their availability can fluctuate, particularly during peak seasons. We can also personalize your vacation based on your preferences and financial constraints, ensuring we locate the best possible option that suits your taste.

We advise that you make your reservation as soon as possible. Numerous routes pass through well-known tourist areas where lodging choices may be restricted. Often, the most desirable accommodations get reserved for the summer season before spring even arrives.


Especially our bike and boat tours get sold out really quickly, as the boats can only accommodate a certain amount of people.

The ability to accommodate dietary restrictions varies depending on their severity. In Croatia, vegetarian meals are generally available, but finding vegan options in rural areas or smaller towns may be difficult.


Additionally, please be aware that lunch breaks frequently take place at conventional establishments that may have difficulty accommodating special requests outside their standard menu. We recommend that you take this into account during your journey. The boats usually offer vegan and vegetarian options.

The best season for cycling in Croatia is generally from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season. July and August can be hot and crowded, making cycling more challenging.


However, if you are comfortable with higher temperatures and busy areas, you may still enjoy cycling during this time. Winter months can be quite cold and wet, making cycling less desirable. Therefore, the best time for cycling in Croatia is during the spring and fall seasons.

Ratings & Reviews

Google Reviews

5.0 average rating

José Walter Nogueira's profile photo
Angie Osborne's profile photo
Greg Martin's profile photo
Chris Pyne's profile photo
Diane Flynn's profile photo
+21
Top Rated Brand
José Walter Nogueira's profile photo

José Walter Nogueira

Verified customer · 11 months ago

Wonderful cycling tour through Dalmatian islands.

Review 1
Review 2
Show all 6 photos
Angie Osborne's profile photo

Angie Osborne

Verified customer

This tour met and exceeded our expectations. It was certainly challenging cycling for seniors but most of us did it all seven days. Scenery and culture of the islands was glorious. Guide and crew was superb!

Review 1
Greg Martin's profile photo

Greg Martin

Verified customer

Great holiday. Really easy to follow routes, good choice of hotels and the en route places to eat and visit was really helpful. Super responsive to questions during my holiday. Would definitely use them again.

Review 1
Review 2
Chris Pyne's profile photo

Chris Pyne

Verified customer

First class company with a well planned route, great accommodation and simply outstanding support in time of trouble. We did a two week ride from Bled to Pula in September 2023. Fair to say we hit a lot of problems courtesy of BA with rescheduled and diverted flights, lost bags, problems with our own bikes, returning rental bikes and more. Daja was simply amazing in helping us sort all of them out and was so accessible at all hours. She even managed to source and buy a forgotten Thru-axle and deliver it personally to our hotel, which is far and above any service i would reasonably expect. Thank you !! Our accommodation was fantastic and far better than expected in all but one location. The route planning in Slovenia was great but due to our decision to bring road bikes from the UK and the nature of the roads in Croatia, our second week was a bit tricky route wise and it would have been good to have had a discussion about this section beforehand. A Gravel bike is far better suited to Croatia although this was our decision to bring road bikes. Transport arrangement and logistics were flawless. Overall, i would change very little and we will definitely be returning to Slovenia. Daja was fantastic and I absolutely recommend Slovenia Cycling Holidays and will be using their services again.

Review 1
Review 2
Show all 11 photos
Diane Flynn's profile photo

Diane Flynn

Verified customer

We had a wonderful cycling trip, starting in Trieste, then onto Slovenia and Croatia. Before the trip, Klemen was extremely patient with our many questions and addressed our concerns very satisfactorily- even changing the original bike route to meet our needs. The bikes we used ( e-bikes) were in great condition, and easy to use. The hotels were very satisfactory- and included big breakfasts to start our days. The towns we visited were charming. All in all- a first class experience!!

Review 1
Review 2
Show all 4 photos
Andy Wood's profile photo

Andy Wood

Verified customer

We had an amazing trip from Bled to Pula. Everything was thoughtfully curated from the route to dinner suggestions and accommodations. So much beauty and diversity in such a relatively short distance. They were very responsive when we had a few issues along the way with our bikes. Highly recommend!

Review 1

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Those who like good adventure and limitless flexibility should go on a self-guided cycling holiday. It offers complete freedom, multiple detour opportunities, and exploration at your own pace without having to adapt to a group.

Hassle-Free

Hassle-Free

We handle itineraries, accommodations, and anything else you prefer not to deal with, so you can enjoy carefree cycling holidays.

Handpicked Adventures

Handpicked Adventures

Only the best bike tours in Croatia, cherry-picked by our team with an in-depth knowledge of the region.

Trusted by Many

Trusted by Many

Since 2014, we have taken care of thousands of happy customers, making it our mission to put your satisfaction first.

Value Your Time

Value Your Time

With everything on your plate, let us handle the vacation planning, so your valuable time stays exactly where you need it.

Unbeatable Support

Unbeatable Support

Our round-the-clock customer support is where we show our passion, bringing you a better experience by making your well-being our number one priority.

from 1.795 € /person