Beginning in the lovely former Habsburg seaport town of Trieste, this is the perfect tour for lovers of sun, sea and history. Under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Trieste flourished as a busy and affluent port (4th largest in the empire), the remnants of which are still visible today in the main square and narrow streets.
After your stay here, you will cycle southwards out of Italy, through Slovenia and into Croatia. The sunny Istria Peninsula will present you with a multitude of picturesque little fishing villages, small towns atop karst hills, sparkling vineyards and fertile valleys. Indulge yourself in the charms of a landscape rich in contrast and colour.
Highlights of the Parenzana Trail:
– Muggia and Trieste (Italy): Start your journey in the historic port town of Muggia, just outside Trieste. Both locations offer a charming introduction to the Adriatic coastline, with Trieste\’s rich history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
– Slovenian Coast: You’ll cycle through scenic towns like Koper, Izola, and the Venetian-influenced Piran, known for its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and coastal charm. Don’t miss the picturesque Tartini Square in Piran and the nearby resort town of Portorož.
– Croatian Istria: Crossing into Croatia, explore the heart of the Istrian Peninsula, visiting towns like Umag and Poreč, both rich in medieval history. In Poreč, the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica is a must-see.
Overview
Cycle Italy, Slovenia & Croatia on this Parenzana Trail cycling holiday. Ride from Trieste in Italy to Porec in Croatia.
Itinerary
Parenzana trail itinerary: Cycle Italy, Slovenia & Croatia.
Day 1: ARRIVAL IN MUGGIA
Your day trip starts in the charming town of Muggia, just south of Trieste. After checking in unwind with a delicious gelato in the town's historic center or relax on one of its inviting beaches. If you arrive early, consider a quick bus or boat trip into Trieste, a vibrant Italian city renowned for its rich history, cosmopolitan vibe, and captivating atmosphere. (Accommodation in 4* hotel.)
Day 2: MUGGIA - PIRAN (↔ 35 km, ↑ 230 m, ↓ 240 m)
After covering a few kilometers in Italy, you'll cross the border into Slovenia. Your morning ride will follow the coastal cycle path, leading you through the charming port town of Koper and onward to the picturesque Venetian villages of Izola and Strunjan. Wander through their narrow streets and explore the historic churches. Continue your journey to Portorož, a luxurious spa town on the Slovenian Riviera. Finally, arrive in Piran and enjoy a coffee in Tartini Square, surrounded by stunning Venetian architecture. (Accommodation in 4* hotel.)
Day 3: PIRAN - UMAG (↔ 38 km, ↑ 250 m, ↓ 250 m)
Today you will cycle past the vast salt pans of Sečovlje. Get there early enough to catch the beautiful morning light. From here you head across the border to Croatia and into the heart of Istria, across a slightly hilly terrain to the village of Umag. Once a Roman colony, within its town walls and across its gated drawbridge lies a town steeped in history. Take a tour through the medieval center and visit the beautiful city tower. (Accommodation in 4* hotel.)
Day 4: UMAG - POREČ (↔ 43 km, ↑ 340 m, ↓ 340 m)
Once again you cycle across some low hills to Novigrad (Cittanova), another medieval walled town. As well as its rich history, Novigrad is also renowned for its gastronomy, and is listed as one of Istria’s top gourmet destinations. Next stop is Poreč, where you can visit the UNESCO listed Euphrasian Basilica, a diverse mix of baroque, Gothic and Romanesque buildings. (Accommodation in 3* hotel.)
Day 5: DEPARTURE
Provider Information
Gallery
What's Included
- Accommodation in hotels 3*/4* in a two-bed room with WC and shower, on a bed & breakfast basis
- Luggage transfer between hotels, one piece max 23 kg / 50 lb per person. Every additional piece 40 EUR per trip, payable on the spot
- Tour description and maps in GUIBO application electronic form
- Welcome meeting and bike handover
- Local tourist and other taxes
- Backup service during the trip
What's Not Included
- Single travelers season A: 295 EUR; season B: 335 EUR; season C 385 EUR. Applies when a person travels alone. Includes single room supplement.
- Single room season A: 195 EUR; season B: 235 EUR; season C 285 EUR. Applies when a person is traveling together with other persons in a party.
- Standard touring bike rental 75 EUR. Bikes have 27 gears. Included are: one pannier per bike, helmet. One repair set per pair of bikes – includes: one long lock, one spare inner tube, one set of Allen keys, tire levers and a basic puncture patch set. Every additional rental day: 30 EUR per bike. Bike rental period starts 9:00 of day 2 of the tour and ends at 18:00 of day 4.
- Electric bike rental 150 EUR. Every additional day 50 EUR.
- Printed information package, including route notes and detailed maps, delivered upon arrival - 30 EUR.
