Italy and Croatia Cycling Tour

On this fantastic trip from Trieste to Pula, you will be a witness to the cultural diversity and richness of the Istrian Peninsula. Trieste and Pula were harbor centers of the Austria-Hungarian empire, Poreč and Rovinj were important trade centers in Roman Empire, and Motovun and Grožnjan were typical medieval fortified hilltop towns. Vineyards and olive groves will follow you during the cycling trip in regions where truffles are domestic food and many other specialties which you can enjoy at the end of the cycling day.

Key information

  • Trip type: Self-guided
  • Lodging: Point to Point
  • Starts in: Trieste, Italy
  • Ends in: Pula, Croatia
  • Total Distance: 181 Miles / 289 Kilometers
  • Type of bikes: Gravel and trekking bikes (not included)
  • E-bike: Available to rent / 250 EUR for 6 day rent

Highlights

  • 6 cycling days
  • Cycling through the beautiful landscapes of Istria
  • Sightseeing of Motovun, Grožnjan, Pula, Rovinj, and Poreč
  • Learning about the cultural heritage and enjoy delicacies
  • Information meeting before you start the tour
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • Tasty breakfasts
  • Luggage transport between accommodations

Skill level

  • Intermediate

6 days with instruction in English

Group size: Minimum of 2 participants
Airport transfer available: Pula Airport (US$ 244 per person)
Airport transfer available: Franjo Tuđman Airport (US$ 466 per person)
Airport transfer available: Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (Ronchi dei Legionari Airport) (US$ 233 per person)
Airport transfer available: Venice Marco Polo Airport (US$ 419 per person)
Airport transfer available: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Brnik Airport) (US$ 303 per person)
Hide all

Accommodation

Night 1: Trieste

  • Classic hotels: Hotel B&B Trieste, Hotel Italia, or similar in Trieste
  • Premium hotels: Hotel Vis a Vis, Urban in Trieste or similar

Nights 2 and 3: Buje

  • Classic hotels: Guesthouse La Parenzana in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac in Kaldanija
  • Premium hotels: Heritage Hotel San Rocco in Brtonigla or San Servolo near Buje

Night 4: Motovun

  • Classic hotels: Hotel Kaštel, Villa Borgo in Motovun, or similar
  • Premium hotels: Wine & Heritage Hotel Roxanich in Motovun

Night 5: Porec

  • Classic hotels: Hotel Poreč in Poreč or similar
  • Premium hotels: BO Hotel Palazzo, Hotel Mauro in Poreč, or similar

Night 6: Rovinj

  • Classic hotels: Baron Gautsch in Rovinj or similar
  • Premium hotels: Hotel Angelo d’Oro, Caasa Garzotto, Villa Tuttorotto, or similar

Night 7: Pula

  • Classic hotels: Hotel Amfiteatar, Galija in Pula, or similar in Pula
  • Premium hotels: Hotel Oasi, in Pula or similar

Preferred hotels to be used on this tour

Classic hotels (three-star)

Hotel B&B Trieste (three-star)

B&B Hotel Trieste is set in a Neo-classical building from the Austro-Hungarian period, in front of the railway station and the airport terminal Ronchi dei Legionari. WiFi is free throughout. Enjoy your breakfast in the comfortable dining room or simply rest in the elegant ambiance of B&B Hotel Trieste after a walk around the city or after a day of work. The hotel services always include an en suite bathroom fitted up with a bidet and shower with an extra-large showerhead.

The room is furnished with a Memory Foam made-in-Italy mattress, a soft quilt, unlimited access to the Internet thanks to the free Wi-Fi and a 32" flat-screen Smart TV to get the most out of free Sky channels. The closest point of interest are the historical city center, the harbor, and the Miramare Castle. Piazza Unità D'Italia is a 10-minute walk from the property. Trieste airport is located 19 miles / 30 kilometers from the hotel.

Hotel Italia (three-star)

Located in the heart of Trieste, Hotel Italia lies only a few minutes from the most important business centers, the congress center, the museums, and the shopping areas. Open all year round, it is only 200 meters far from the Main Railway Station and the terminal for the airport. The hotel is completely accessible for handicapped people and also offers one specially equipped room based on CEE standards. A hearty sweet and savory breakfast can be enjoyed in the morning, and a gluten-free breakfast is available on request.

On the ground floor, the Italia Hotel offers a small but comfortable bar. Every one of the three floors has a saloon at the guests' disposal for meeting each other and reading. The soundproof rooms, furnished with cherry wood and warm colors, provide a relaxing atmosphere. Trieste airport is located 19 miles / 30 kilometers from the hotel.

B&B Lovac (three-star)

Bed and Breakfast Lovac has located 1.9 miles / 3 kilometers from the center of Buje. This charming property is surrounded by a lush garden and an olive grove. The on-site restaurant serves Istrian specialties. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available. All accommodations units are air-conditioned and feature a wardrobe and a TV. Private bathrooms are fitted with a shower. Breakfast is served daily at the on-site restaurant.

A bike and tool storage is at the guests’ disposal. The restaurant serves local foods such as truffle and fish dishes, wild asparagus, and game specialties. The towns of Grožnjan and Motovun can be reached at 6.2 miles / 10 kilometers, while the coast is 9.3 miles / 15 kilometers away. Pula Airport can be reached in 43 miles / 70 kilometers.

Hotel Casa Romantica La Parenzana (three-star)

The family-owned Casa Romantica La Parenzana is a rugged former farmhouse with thick stone walls, wooden beams, and open fireplaces, offering fine Istrian cuisine and free internet. Located close to Buje in Istria, on the former tracks of the Parenzana Railway Line, the historic towns of Motovun and Grožnjan are just about a few meters from the Casa Romantica La Parenzana.

Traditional local food like Čripnja, roasted meat, or fish and potatoes cooked in a cast iron pot over an open hearth fire, or dishes with truffles are served in the Konoba restaurant. All 16 rooms are heated and have a private bathroom and a TV. Internet access is available for free at reception. Trieste airport is 29 miles / 46 kilometers away, while Pula Airport is 39 miles / 63 kilometers away from the hotel.

Hotel Villa Borgo (three-star)

This B&B, situated close to the main square, the walls, and the main Motovun street filled with restaurants and souvenirs, has the most beautiful view of the natural beauty of the interior of Istria from its terrace. The formerly old traditional stone house (formerly a seashell) is now newly renovated with all together nine rooms with private bathrooms. There is also the neighboring building “Baka Ljubica”, which contains six newly renovated rooms, with private bathrooms and a street view. Pula Airport is 44 miles / 71 kilometers from Villa Borgo, while Rijeka Airport can be reached within 62 miles / 100 kilometers. A bus stops at the foot of Motovun.

Boutique Hotel Kaštel (three-star)

Featuring an indoor swimming pool and an à-la-carte restaurant, the family-run Hotel Kaštel is set at the top of a hill in the center of the medieval town of Motovun. Its guests can enjoy the spa area with a sauna, a relaxing garden, and various massage treatments. The wellness and spa area as well as most of the hotel rooms offer views of the characteristic central Istrian landscape, the valley of the river Mirna and the famous Motovun vineyards.

Amenities in each of the 33 rooms include air-conditioning, satellite TV, a telephone, free Wi-Fi internet, and central heating. All rooms consist of a bathroom with a bathtub or shower and a hairdryer. The distance to the beach is 19 miles / 30 kilometers from the Kaštel Hotel. Pula Airport can be reached within 44 miles / 71 kilometers and Rijeka Airport is at a distance of 62 miles / 100 kilometers.

Hotel Poreč (three-star)

Hotel Poreč, located directly beside the Marina of Poreč, takes only a short walk to the city center or the town beach. The parking is located in front of the hotel, and a garage for motorcycles and bicycles is available for guests. The rooms, 54 of them, are modernly decorated, air-conditioned, and have a balcony and a private bathroom with a shower. Satellite TV, a minibar, a safe, and free WI-FI internet are available. A breakfast buffet is served in a restaurant with the possibility to book lunch or dinner at the reception desk. Pula Airport is 28 miles /44.3 kilometers away, while Trieste Airport is 42 miles / 67.5 kilometers away.

B&B Villa Baron Gautsch (three-star)

Set in a quiet residential area of Rovinj, Villa Baron Gautsch provides air-conditioned units and free WiFi. Guests can benefit from the sun terrace and a common lounge area with a fireplace. Each room at this bed and breakfast is air conditioned and has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. All rooms have a private bathroom with a shower. Ecomuseum Casa della Batana and St. Euphemia Church can be reached within a short walk. A variety of dining options, bars, and shops can be found in the vicinity. Main Bus Station is only 50 meters away. The nearest airport is Pula Airport, 25 miles / 40 kilometers from the property.

Hotel Amfiteatar (three-star)

A few steps from the Pula Arena amphitheater and Pula Marina, this hotel offers stylish, air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and free internet. Mediterranean cuisine is served in the restaurant. Hotel Amfiteatar’s spacious rooms are decorated in bright lime green and beige colors. Each of the 18 rooms has a mini-bar and a large, modern bathroom with a rain shower. A breakfast buffet is provided each morning. Guests can taste a range of characteristic Istrian dishes or enjoy international cuisine and wines in Amfiteatar’s chic restaurant. A terrace is available in warm weather. The city beach and Pula Airport are each 12 minutes away by car.

Hotel Galija (three-star)

Located in the heart of Pula, the family-run Hotel Galija offers modern three-star accommodation. It is open all year round and features a renowned restaurant with a large terrace. The restaurant specializes in Istrian and seafood dishes, as well as a wide selection of quality wines. Accommodations are provided in modern rooms and suites. All are equipped with air-conditioning, a satellite TV, a telephone, a mini-bar, internet access, a safe, and a hair dryer. The nearest airport is Pula Airport, 4,5 miles / 6,7 kilometers from the property.

Premium hotels (four-star)

Duchi Vis a Vis Hotel (four-star)

Duchi Vis a Vis is a designer hotel in Trieste city center, 46 meters from Piazza Unitŕ d'Italia. It offers modern and elegant rooms with free Wi-Fi. Rooms offer a flat-screen TV with satellite and pay-per-view channels. Enjoy soccer matches for free on Sky. Each room features parquet floors. The hotel is set on the first floor of a historic building on a quiet street. Its hall is decorated in a contemporary style with marble and crystal details.

A buffet breakfast is served 11 meters away, at Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta. Here, guests can access the common areas and Harry’s Grill restaurant, which overlooks the main square. Hotel Duchi Vis ŕ Vis is a five-minute walk from the harbor and half a kilometer from Trieste Train Station. Trieste airport is located 19 miles / 30 kilometers from the hotel.

Hotel San Rocco (four-star)

An award-winning boutique hotel overlooking the quiet village of Brtonigla, this beautifully restored family estate with lush gardens, olive groves, and a renowned restaurant welcomes visitors from all over the world. Each of the 14 double-occupancy rooms is uniquely designed to evoke the local traditions in wood, stone, and wrought iron. Most have views of the park, the swimming pool, and possibly even the distant Adriatic on clear days.

The hotel features a wellness spa with an outdoor and indoor pool. As members of the Association des Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe, San Rocco’s gourmet restaurant is at the pinnacle of Istrian and Croatian cuisine. Pula Airport can be reached at 45 miles / 73 kilometers, while Trieste Airport is at a distance of 56 miles / 90 kilometers. The city of Buje is 3.73 miles / 6 kilometers away.

San Servolo Residence (5-star)

Featuring a restaurant, a wellness center, and free WiFi throughout the property, San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa is set in the Istrian countryside near Buje. This four-star property offers a 24-hour front desk and free private parking. All rooms are air-conditioned and fitted with a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a mini-bar. Private bathrooms include a shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer.

San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa offers a continental buffet breakfast. The wellness area can be used free of charge and consists of a fitness room, a swimming pool, and a Turkish and Finnish sauna. The use of the Beer Spa services is available upon request and at a surcharge. The nearest beach can be reached in 5.6 miles / 9 kilometers. Trieste is 16 miles / 26 kilometers from the property, while Portorož is at a distance of 7.5 miles / 12 kilometers. Pula Airport is 38 miles / 61 kilometers away.

Wine and Heritage Hotel Roxanich (four-star)

Wine and Heritage hotel Roxanich has a restaurant, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a garden in Motovun. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The property has a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property. All 32 rooms come with a closet. Complete with a private bathroom equipped with a hairdryer, the rooms have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and some rooms include a balcony. All guest rooms will provide guests with a desk and an electric teapot.

Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a buffet breakfast. The wellness area features a sauna. Portorož is 24 miles / 38 kilometers from the Wine & Heritage hotel Roxanich, while Poreč is 17 miles / 28 kilometers from the property. The nearest airport is Pula Airport, 42 miles / 68 kilometers from the hotel.

BO Hotel Palazzo (four-star)

Built in 1910, it is the first hotel in the rich cultural and historical heritage of the town of Porec whose guests were aristocrats. Renovated in 2009 with respect for the original architecture, it offers a union of the luxurious architecture of a past era and the comfort of first-rate modern catering. The hotel features 70 elegantly decorated and modernly furnished rooms, as well as 4 luxury and spacious suites, wellness, and a spa with an outside pool. A pleasant and charming interior with discreet secession style details offers a gourmet experience by tasting traditional Istrian specialties and Mediterranean cuisine. It is located 28 miles / 45 kilometers away from Pula airport and 42 miles / 67 kilometers from Trieste airport.

Hotel Mauro (four-star)

Set in the historic building right on the vivid seaside promenade, Boutique Hotel Mauro offers elegantly decorated rooms overlooking the Adriatic Sea or Poreč historic core. The UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica is just 200 meters away. Free WiFi and free private parking are provided. These modern-style rooms are decorated with stone and wooden elements.

Each room is air-conditioned and amenities include a flat-screen TV, mini-bar, and a safe.

The private bathroom consists of a bathtub. An a la carte Mauro Restaurant serves specialties made from fresh local ingredients and fish. There is a beach area and 2 seasonal outdoor pools at guests' disposal. Please note that they are located 1.2 miles / 2 kilometers from the hotel, but a free shuttle service is provided. The main bus station is at a distance of 601 meters. Pula Airport is located 31 miles / 50 kilometers from the property.

Hotel Angelo d'Oro (four-star)

The Heritage Angelo d'Oro, formerly a Bishop`s Palace from the 17th century, is an elegant boutique hotel in Rovinj's historic pedestrian center. The green-shuttered façade on the Via Svalbe street is typically Venetian and inside, vaulted ceilings and exposed stone walls create intimate spaces for dining and relaxation. A tiny rooftop loggia offers stunning views over the rooftops.

Located in a centuries-old building, rooms are unique in size, position, and views, each comfortable and cozy in its own way. Every room has air conditioning, free WiFi, a well-stocked mini bar, and an en-suite bathroom with a bath or shower. All beds are double but also twin set is offered on request. Earth colors and natural materials are signatures of the Angelo d’Oro brand. The nearest airport is Pula Airport, 19 miles / 31 kilometers from the hotel.

Villa Tuttorotto (four-star)

Located in Rovinj Old Town, the boutique Villa Tuttorotto is set in a historic building and features air-conditioned rooms overlooking Rovinj harbor and the Adriatic Sea. Free WiFi is provided in all areas. Tastefully decorated six double and two single rooms and a suite feature antique details and consist of a mini-bar, a safe, and a flat-screen satellite TV. Private bathrooms come with a shower, a hairdryer, and free toiletries. Guests can start their day with a gourmet breakfast in the dining room or on the sunny balcony of the hotel bar. Villa Tuttorotto has a lounge area with comfortable sofas and a wide selection of local and international spirits. Pula Airport can be reached in 24 miles / 39 kilometers.

Casa Garzotto (four-star)

Decorated with stone walls and old-style window shutters, Hotel Casa Garzotto is set in Rovinj's historical center and is 300 meters from St. Euphemia's Basilica. The nearest beach is a 5-minute walk away. All accommodations units are equipped with air conditioning, a safe, and satellite TV. Casa Garzotto provides laundry, ironing services, dry cleaning services, and free bicycle rental. Guests can start their day with a rich and varied buffet breakfast, which is served in the tavern across the street. Casa Garzotto is 19 miles / 30 kilometers away from Pula Airport and 50 miles / 80 kilometers from Trieste in Italy. Rovinj is also connected to Venice by a two-hour ship journey.

Hotel Arupinum (four-star)

Located in the picturesque town of Rovinj, Hotel Arupinium is set 200 meters from the Nature Park Zlatni Rt. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, an à-la-carte restaurant, and a bar with a spacious terrace. Free Wi-Fi and parking are provided. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV, a safe, and a mini-bar. The private bathroom provides a shower and bath, while the room also features a balcony.

A pebbly beach can be found 500 meters away, while the center of Rovinj is 801 meters from the property. A grocery store can be found 100 meters away, while shops and a green market are reachable at 801 meters. A Wellness and Spa center can be found 100 meters away, while basketball and tennis courts are available 150 meters from the property. Hiking and cycling trails can be found all around the hotel. Main Bus Station can be reached at 2625 feet / 800 m, while Pula Airport is 25 miles / 40 kilometers away.

Hotel Oasi (four-star)

Located in Pješčana Uvala, a peaceful bay just a few kilometers from the busy town of Pula, Boutique Hotel Oasi is surrounded by lush Mediterranean greenery. Featuring an outdoor pool, sun loungers, a covered terrace, and a wellness area, it also offers an on-site bar and restaurant. Free Wi-Fi and parking are provided. The rooms offer a seating area with a flat-screen satellite TV, a mini-bar, and air conditioning. The private bathroom is fitted with a shower, free toiletries, a bathrobe, and slippers. Some rooms overlook the pool or the sea.

The hotel’s restaurant serves traditional specialties, as well as vegetarian and macrobiotic cuisine. Breakfast is served each morning, while the cafe is open all day. A pebbly beach can be reached in 200 meters. The town of Pula is located just 2.5 miles / 4 kilometers away. Local buses stop 100 meters away and drive to the center of Pula, while the Main Bus Station is 3.1 miles / 5 kilometers away. Pula Airport is 5.6 miles / 9 kilometers away.

Park Plaza Histria (four-star)

Only steps from the beach, Park Plaza Histria Pula is four kilometers from Pula’s center. Featuring three restaurants, tennis and racquetball courts, it features an outdoor pool, pool tables, mini golf, and lounge chairs. Providing panoramic views, the accommodations include a balcony, modern furnishings, and an LCD satellite TV. Each unit is air-conditioned and has a private bathroom with a bathtub or a shower.

The wellness and spa area is 5,920 square feet and features an indoor swimming pool with seawater, Turkish bath, Finnish sauna, ice bath, and relaxation zone with heated lounge chairs. There is also a fully equipped gym and an on-site hair and beauty salon with four treatment rooms. Park Plaza Histria has various restaurants serving traditional Istrian cuisine and international dishes. Guests can also enjoy the Adriatic Sea view from the terraces of the hotel’s cafés. Pula International Airport is 6.7 miles / 11 kilometers from the Park Plaza Histria.

Program

This cycling tour from Trieste to Pula is a captivating blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and culinary delights. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and charming towns of the Adriatic region, making it an unforgettable experience for cyclists of all levels. Trieste and Pula were important harbor centers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Poreč and Rovinj were major trade centers during the Roman Empire, and Motovun and Grožnjan are typical medieval fortified hilltop towns.

Vineyards and olive groves accompany you throughout the cycling journey in a region where truffles are a staple food, along with many other local specialties that you can enjoy at the end of each cycling day. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, this route offers something for everyone. Cycling from Trieste to Pula is not only a physical challenge, but also an exploration of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are an avid cyclist or a casual rider, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Pack your bags, hop on your bike, and prepare for an adventure you will cherish forever.

  • Grade: Moderate

This tour is suitable for cyclists with a moderate level of fitness who ride occasionally. Cycling days are longer, and some higher hills can be expected. Daily distances range from 40 kilometers (25 miles) to 66 kilometers (41 miles).

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Trieste

Independent arrival in Trieste. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the city. Overnight in Trieste.

Day 2: Cycling from Trieste via Piran to Buje

At 9:00 a.m., there is a welcome briefing. Guests who have reserved rental bikes will be fitted with their bicycles and equipment. To avoid traffic while leaving Trieste, it is recommended to take a ferry from Trieste to Muggia. Ferry departures are at 10:10 a.m. and 11:20 a.m., with a duration of 30 minutes. The price per person, including the bicycle, is 5.80 EUR. Cycling from Trieste to Buje is a scenic journey through three countries—Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia—each offering its own unique charm. Begin in Trieste, a city shaped by Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian influences.

Highlights include Piazza Unità d’Italia and Miramare Castle. The coastal ride offers spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea. You will cycle along the historic Parenzana route, a former narrow-gauge railway that once connected 33 Istrian towns from Trieste to Poreč. As you cross into Slovenia, the landscape becomes increasingly rural, with vineyards and picturesque villages. The day ends near Buje, a town that embodies the spirit of Istria with rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. Explore the historic center and enjoy local specialties such as truffles and Malvasia wine. Overnight in the Buje area.

Shorter option from Muggia

  • Distance: 46 kilometers (29 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 697 meters / minus 558 meters (plus 2,286 feet / minus 1,830 feet)

Longer option from Trieste

  • Distance: 58 kilometers (36 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 708 meters / minus 576 meters (plus 2,322 feet / minus 1,889 feet)

Day 3: Cycling from Buje via Novigrad or Umag to Buje

The tour begins with an easy downhill ride to the northernmost point of the Istrian Peninsula. Visit the Savudrija Lighthouse, built in 1818 and reputedly constructed by Count Metternich as a romantic retreat. It stands 36 meters (118 feet) tall and remains inhabited by a lighthouse keeper. Continue south toward Umag, a small coastal town with approximately 45 kilometers (29 miles) of shoreline. Founded as a Roman summer residence, Umag’s Venetian houses, preserved city walls, and Renaissance and Baroque buildings reflect its rich past. Vineyards and olive groves dominate the surrounding landscape, creating a classic western Istrian atmosphere. Overnight in the Buje area.

  • Distance: 48 kilometers (30 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 443 meters / minus 442 meters (plus 1,453 feet / minus 1,450 feet)
  • Terrain: Begins with an easy downhill ride
  • Day 4: Cycling from Buje to Motovun

After breakfast, enjoy panoramic views of terraced vineyards reminiscent of Tuscany. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints and visit the medieval towns of Grožnjan and Oprtalj. Grožnjan is known for its art galleries and hilltop vistas—perfect for a coffee break at a local café. Continue through rolling countryside before arriving in Motovun, a striking hilltop town perched 277 meters (909 feet) above sea level. Motovun features narrow cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and stone houses. Famous for its truffles, the town is a culinary highlight, especially during the annual truffle festival. Overnight in Motovun.

  • Distance: 37 kilometers (23 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 693 meters / minus 585 meters (plus 2,273 feet / minus 1,919 feet)
  • Terrain: Rolling hills and scenic countryside

Day 5: Cycling from Motovun to Poreč

Depart from Motovun’s historic center and cycle toward the coast. The route passes through Višnjan, home to one of the five most renowned observatories in the world. From an elevation of 246 meters (807 feet), enjoy sweeping views of the western Istrian coastline and Poreč. Visit local wine cellars offering Malvasia wines before continuing through Tar and Nova Vas near the Baredine Cave. Upon arrival in Poreč, visit the Euphrasian Basilica, a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy dinner in the old town. Overnight in Poreč.

  • Distance: 40 kilometers (25 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 367 meters / minus 614 meters (plus 1,204 feet / minus 2,014 feet)

Day 6: Cycling from Poreč to Rovinj

Ride along quiet local roads through villages such as Sveti Lovreč, Kanfanar, and Svetvinčenat. Svetvinčenat features the impressive Morosini-Grimani Citadel, a parish church, a municipal loggia, and Renaissance houses surrounding a historic cistern. The town is also known for hosting one of Istria’s rare witchcraft trials in the seventeenth century. Continue on paved roads to Bale, where you can visit Bembo Palace and the town museum.

From Bale, cycle along a combination of gravel and paved roads following the coast to Rovinj, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Rovinj is famous for its colorful Venetian-style buildings, vibrant harbor, and the Church of Saint Euphemia, which offers panoramic views from its bell tower. Overnight in Rovinj.

  • Distance: 66 kilometers (41 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 860 meters / minus 860 meters (plus 2,821 feet / minus 2,821 feet)
  • Terrain: Mixed gravel and paved roads

Day 7: Cycling from Rovinj to Pula

After breakfast, cycle along the coast toward Pula, passing through Fažana, a charming seaside town sheltered by Brijuni National Park. Enjoy views of the Brijuni Islands or explore Fažana’s old town. Pula, built on seven hills, is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Explore the Sergii Triumphal Arch and the Arena, dating back to the first century before Christ. Overnight in Pula.

  • Distance: 40 kilometers (25 miles)
  • Elevation gain and loss: plus 309 meters / minus 320 meters (plus 1,013 feet / minus 1,050 feet)

Day 8: Departure from Pula

After breakfast, departure.

Bikes

Bicycle rental is not included in the tour price. The following bicycles are available for hire.

1. Gravel aluminum bike

  • Rental price: 230 EUR for six days | 35 EUR per additional day

Specifications

  • Lightweight aluminum frame
  • 28-inch wheels with 38c tires
  • Gears: 2 × 11 GRX
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes

Included equipment

  • Cycle computer
  • Water bottle holder
  • Saddle bag with spare tube and tire levers
  • Hand pump
  • Lock
  • Phone holder
  • Helmet
  • Available frame sizes: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL
  • Pedals: Flat pedals included; toe cages or clipless pedals (SPD, SL, LOOK) available for an additional charge

2. Electric gravel carbon bike

  • Rental price: 380 EUR for six days | 60 EUR per additional day

Specifications

  • Full carbon frame
  • 28-inch wheels with 45-622 tires
  • Motor: Bosch Performance
  • Battery: 400 watt-hours
  • Gears: GRX 1 × 12
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Weight: 14.2 kilograms

Included equipment

  • Cycle computer
  • Water bottle holder
  • Saddle bag with spare tube and tire levers
  • Hand pump
  • Lock
  • Phone holder
  • Helmet
  • Available frame sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
  • Pedals: Flat pedals included; toe cages or clipless pedals (SPD, SL, LOOK) available for an additional charge

3. Electric trekking bike – low entry

  • Rental price: 250 EUR for six days | 40 EUR per additional day

Specifications

  • Lightweight aluminum frame
  • Front suspension with 100 millimeters of travel
  • Wheel sizes: 27.5 inches and 28 inches
  • Integrated rear rack
  • Light-emitting diode lights
  • Motor: Bosch Performance or Shimano
  • Battery: 625 watt-hours
  • Gears: Shimano Deore, 11-speed
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes

Included equipment

  • Cycle computer
  • Water bottle holder
  • Saddle bag with spare tube and tire levers
  • Hand pump
  • Lock
  • One waterproof side pannier
  • Phone holder
  • Helmet
  • Available frame sizes: S, M, L, XL
  • Pedals: Flat pedals included; toe cages or clipless pedals (SPD, SL, LOOK) available for an additional charge

4. Electric trekking bike – high bar

  • Rental price: 250 EUR for six days | 40 EUR per additional day

Specifications

  • Lightweight aluminum frame
  • Front suspension with 100 millimeters of travel
  • 28-inch wheels
  • Integrated rear rack
  • Light-emitting diode lights
  • Motor: Giant SyncDrive Core
  • Battery: 500 watt-hours
  • Gears: Shimano Alivio, 9-speed
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes

Included equipment

  • Cycle computer
  • Water bottle holder
  • Saddle bag with spare tube and tire levers
  • Hand pump
  • Lock
  • One waterproof side pannier
  • Phone holder
  • Helmet
  • Available frame sizes: M, L, XL
  • Pedals: Flat pedals included; toe cages or clipless pedals (SPD, SL, LOOK) available for an additional charge

5. Custom-built trekking bike

  • Rental price: 130 EUR for six days | 20 EUR per additional day

Specifications

  • Lightweight aluminum frame with rigid fork
  • 28-inch wheels
  • Brakes: V-brakes
  • Integrated rear rack
  • Dynamo-powered lights
  • Gears: Shimano Alivio 3 × 9
  • Chainrings: 28–38–48
  • Cassette: 11–32

Included equipment

  • Cycle odometer
  • Water bottle holder
  • Saddle bag with spare tube and tire levers
  • Hand pump
  • Lock
  • One side pannier
  • Phone holder
  • Helmet
  • Available frame sizes: Men’s: S (49 cm), M (52 cm), L (55 cm), XL (58 cm), XXL (61 cm); Women’s: S (43 cm), M (48 cm), L (53 cm)
  • Pedals: Flat pedals included; toe cages or clipless pedals (SPD, SL, LOOK) available for an additional charge

Assistance during the tour

Full assistance is provided throughout the tour. You will meet a Fiore Tours representative upon arrival and receive contact details for ongoing support. Assistance is available by telephone, electronic mail, messaging applications, or through hotel reception staff.

Navigation

You will receive a detailed road book with maps and daily descriptions. The Fiore Tours mobile application with offline maps is also provided.

Luggage transfers

Luggage transfers are included on all tours. Your luggage will be transported to your next accommodation and must be ready in the hotel lobby by 9:00 a.m. All details will be explained during the welcome meeting.

Location

You will start this trip from Trieste, Italy, and end in Pula, Croatia. You will learn about the importance of the harbor and trade centers of the Austrian-Hungarian and Roman empires by visiting Trieste, Pula, Poreč and Rovinj. Challenge yourself by cycling the hilltops of Motovun or Grožnjan, typical medieval fortified cities with some magnificent views. Enjoy your cycling days by allowing yourself to taste local wines, olive oils and truffle specialties in local restaurants, making friends like locals do.

Food

You will be served daily breakfast included in the price.

The following meals are included:

  • Breakfast

The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:

  • Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation

What's included

  • Cycling tour
  • Orientation meeting with Fiore representative
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 7 breakfasts
  • Luggage transport between accommodations
  • Use of Fiore App (offline navigation with voice guidance, info about the POI’s and restaurant recommendations)
  • Information package in digital form (PDF) including detailed route description, maps, hotel vouchers, GPX files, pre-trip information, and a country guide
  • 24/7 emergency number
  • Textile bag containing a water bottle and luggage tags

What's not included

  • Airfare
  • Travel and bike insurance
  • Arrival to Trieste and departure from Pula
  • Transfers from and to the airport, bus, or train station
  • All lunches, dinners, and drinks
  • Bike rentals with equipment
  • Shuttle service during biking
  • Printed route description and maps with marked routes - 25 EUR per set

How to get there

Arrival by airplane

Fiore tours is offering private transfers from airports or towns (Venice, Trieste, Treviso, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Pula) on request and for an extra charge. The prices are net in EUR per vehicle and one-way.

From Pula - Pula airport

  • 50 EUR for up to three persons
  • 60 EUR for four to eight persons

From Pula - Trieste airport

  • 300 EUR for up to three persons
  • 320 EUR for four to eight persons

From Pula - Trieste train/bus station

  • 240 EUR for up to three persons
  • 270 EUR for four to eight persons

From Pula - Venice airport

  • 430 EUR for up to three persons
  • 460 EUR for four to eight persons

From Pula - Zagreb airport /bus/train station

  • 430 EUR for up to three persons
  • 460 EUR for four to eight persons

From Pula - Ljubljana airport /bus/train station

  • 320 EUR for up to three persons
  • 350 EUR for four to eight persons

Arrival by bus

  • From Pula, you can take a bus to Trieste central station. From Mestre or Venice, you can take a bus to Trieste central station.
Airport transfer available: Pula Airport (US$ 244 per person) Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport transfer available: Franjo Tuđman Airport (US$ 466 per person) Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport transfer available: Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (Ronchi dei Legionari Airport) (US$ 233 per person) Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport transfer available: Venice Marco Polo Airport (US$ 419 per person) Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport transfer available: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Brnik Airport) (US$ 303 per person) Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.

Cancellation Policy

  • A reservation requires a deposit of 30% of the total price.
  • The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
  • The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.

Reviews

Rated: 5/10 1 review
Value for money
Accommodation & facilities
Food
Location
Quality of activity
8 days / 7 nights
from --
Availability

This program is available from March 1 to November 15, 2026. Please select an arrival date below. Prior and later dates are exclusively on request since not all hotels are open. For more information, please send an inquiry.

Minimum group size

This trip requires a minimum of 2 participants

Select your package:

For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through Tripaneer.com. All major credit cards supported.

Why choose Tripaneer.com

Largest Selection
Friendly Customer Service
Offers for every budget
Best Price
 

Change language & currency

Language

Currency

Don't miss out! Join our mailing list to get inspiration, tips & special offers sent directly to your inbox.
Served by www:8000

Logging out

of Tripaneer websites