Cycling from Trieste to Pula
A trip that is combining three countries in a week is nothing less than a perfect blend of cultural diversity, natural richness and fabulous local cuisine. Cycling from Trieste to Pula is not just a physical challenge; it’s an exploration of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. HIGHLIGHTS: Cycling through the beautiful landscapes of Istria, Sightseeing of local towns Motovun and Grožnjan, Fabulous Pula, Rovinj and Poreč, Learning about the cultural heritage, Enjoying delicacies
Self-guided cycling adventure combining three countries in a week - Italy, Slovenia and Croatia
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 harbour centres of Austria-Hungarian Empire, Poreč and Rovinj were important trade centres in Roman Empire and Motovun, Grožnjan were typical medieval fortified hilltop towns. Vineyards, olive groves will fallow you during the cycling trip in region where truffles are domestic food and many other specialities which you can enjoy at the end of cycling day. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, this route has something to offer everyone.
Exploration of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes
Cycling from Trieste to Pula is not just a physical challenge; it’s an exploration of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual rider, this route offers an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, hop on your bike, and get ready for an adventure you’ll cherish forever!
Availability
Self-guided Cycling from Trieste to Pula CLASSIC – 8 days / 7 nights
For the classic tour you’ll mainly stay in small, locally-run, guesthouses and 3 star hotels, which reflect the character of the area.
Self-guided Cycling from Trieste to Pula PREMIUM – 8 days / 7 nights
If you choose a premium tour you will be staying at 4* boutique style hotels.
Itinerary
Independent arrival in Trieste. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Trieste. Overnight in Trieste.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel B&B Trieste 3* or Hotel Roma 3* or similar in Trieste
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Vis a Vis 4* or Urban 4* in Trieste or similar
Meals: not included
B&B Trieste
Vis à Vis 4*
At 9am we have a welcome briefing and those who have ordered bike rental will get fitted with our bikes and other equipment. To avoid cycling with traffic in Triest we suggest to take a ferry from Triest to Muggia, departure times are: 10:10am and 11:20, duration 30 minutes, price per person+bike EUR 5.80.
Cycling from Trieste to Buje is a scenic adventure through three countries (Italy, Slovenia and Croatia), each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re seeking stunning coastal views or quaint villages, this route offers an unforgettable experience.
Begin your journey in Trieste, a city with a unique mix of Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian influences. Explore the stunning Piazza Unità d’Italia and Miramare Castle before hitting the road. The initial ride along the coast provides breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, making for a refreshing start.
You will start riding on the legendary route of the Parenzana, the former narrow-gauge railway line which penetrates deeply into the Istrian peninsula connecting 33 Istrian cities and town from Trieste to Poreč (in Italian Parenzo from which the rail road got its name) spanning to the territory of three states. As you cross into Slovenia, the landscape becomes more rural and picturesque. Enjoy a smooth ride through charming villages and vineyards.
Your journey ends near Buje, a town that captures the essence of Istria with its rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. Explore the historic center and treat yourself to local Istrian specialties like truffles and Malvasia wine. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
PREMIUM HOTELS: Heritage Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or San Servolo 4* near Buje
Meals: breakfast
Distance: shorter option from Muggia 46 km / 29 miles
Elevation: +697/-558m, +2286 ft /-1830 ft
Distance: longer option from Trieste 58 km / 36 miles
Elevation: +708 m /-576 m, +2322 ft /-1889 ft
Casa La Parenzana 3*
San Rocco 4*
This tour starts with easy downhill ride to the coast on the northest point of Istrian peninsula. There is a lighthouse which you can visit, according to the legend build by count Metternich as his love nest. Savudrija is one of the oldest lighthouse in the Adriatic, built in 1818. It is also the northernmost Istrian lighthouse. Its building is 36 meters tall and there is a keeper living inside it. The trail continues south to Umag. Umag's history is extremely interesting; it was founded by Roman nobleman who decided to make it his summer residence. The glamour, magnificence and glare of the times can be seen today in the Venetian houses of the old town. City walls and fortification are partially preserved as well as some renaissance and baroque buildings and churches. Vineyards and olive groves will create an atmosphere of typical west Istrian landscape. Overnight in Buje area.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Guesthouse La Parenzana 3* in Volpija or Guesthouse Lovac 3* in Kaldanija
PREMIUM HOTELS: Heritage Hotel San Rocco 4* in Brtonigla or San Servolo 4* near Buje
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 48 km / 30 miles
Elevation: +443/-442m, +1453/-1450ft
Casa La Parenzana 3*
San Rocco 4*
Breakfast, apart from enjoying the breath-taking landscape of the terrace - styled vineyards which resemble to an image on the front page of a holiday guide to Tuscany, you can indulge the sensation the area of Buje gives, a real polyphony of fragrances and tastes. Along the way you can stop on many fascinating viewpoints from charming medieval town of Grožnjan to Oprtalj until we reach Motovun.Take your time to explore Grožnjan, known for its art galleries and stunning hilltop views. Enjoy a coffee at a local café.Continue from Grožnjan, taking the scenic route through the Istrian countryside. Enjoy the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.Arrive in Motovun, a picturesque hilltop town renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Perched atop a 277-meter-high hill, it features narrow cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and charming stone houses. The town is famous for its truffles, making it a culinary hotspot, especially during the annual truffle festival. Overnight in Motovun.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Kaštel 3* or Villa Borgo 3* in Motovun or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Wine & Heritage Hotel Roxanich 4*, Motovun
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 37 km / 23 miles,
Elevation: +693m /-585m, +2273 ft /-1919 ft
Kaštel 3*
Wine and Design Hotel Roxanich
Begin in the historic town center, enjoying the views before you set off. This part of the trail goes from inland to the coast. It follows the road to Višnjan where you will pass by one of the 5 most famous observatories in the world. The road continues to the town of Višnjan which is on 246m altitude and from there you'll be able to catch a view on west Istrian coast and the coastal town of Poreč. In Višnjan surroundings is possible to visit many wine cellars with wine from Poreč area, especially Malvasia. Tour continues to Tar, a little town on the hill above the sea and to Nova Vas village by the famous Baredine cave. Once in Poreč, visit the famous Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and stroll along the seafront promenade. Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the old town. Overnight in Poreč.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Poreč 3* in Poreč or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: BO Hotel Palazzo 4* or Martis Forum Heritage Hotel 4*
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 40 km / 25 miles,
Elevation: +367 m /-614 m, +1204 ft /-2014 ft
Poreč 3*
Martis Forum Heritage Hotel & Residence
Start riding on a secondary local roads through small villages. Passing vineyards, towns Sv. Lovreč and Kanfanar you will reach Svetvinčenat. With its grandiose Morosini-Grimani citadel with towers, parish church, municipal loggia and a line of 16th century houses of the Renaissance and a town cistern - šterna in the middle, Svetvinčenat really belongs to a range of the most attractive Venetian creations of that period effected in this region which held one of the rare witchcraft trials in Istria during 17th century.
Continue cycling on asphalted road you will reach Bale. You can visit the Bembo palace, city square and museum. From Bale you will be riding on mix of gravel and asphalted roads and trail all along the coast until you will reach Rovinj, the "Pearl of Adriatic“. Known for its picturesque old town and vibrant harbor. With narrow cobblestone streets, colorful Venetian-style buildings, and a bustling waterfront, Rovinj exudes a unique blend of history and Mediterranean charm. The town’s centerpiece is the Church of St. Euphemia, which offers stunning views from its bell tower. Rovinj is also famous for its lively arts scene, delicious seafood restaurants, and beautiful beaches. The nearby islands and nature parks provide opportunities for outdoor activities, making Rovinj a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. Overnight in Rovinj.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Baron Gautsch 3* or Vila Lili 4* in Rovinj or similar
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Angelo d’Oro 4* or The Melegran 4* or similar
Meals: breakfast
Distance: 66 km / 41 miles
Elevation: +860/-860m, +2821/-2821ft
Boutique Hotel Lili 4*
Angelo d'Oro 4*
After breakfast we start riding along the coastline towards Pula. On the way you will pass through Fažana. Situated on a low coast, well protected from the open sea by the enchanting Brijuni National Park and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves in the hinterland. Here you can stop for a drink and enjoy the beautiful view of Brijuni Islands or you can take a walk through one of the most charming old town on the Istrian coast. – Pula!
Which city is situated on seven hills, has a magnificent Amphitheatre and is not Rome? The answer is No, it is not a mistake – you are, indeed, in front of Pula, the largest city in Istria. Pula is an enchantress with thousand appearances which has been casting spell on its visitors for centuries. This day we finish visiting the old city with the Sergius' Triumphal Arch and famous Arena, a Roman amphitheatre (from the 1st century B.C.). Overnight in Pula.
Accommodation:
CLASSIC HOTELS: Hotel Amfiteatar 3* or Galija 3* in Pula or similar in Pula
PREMIUM HOTELS: Hotel Park Plaza Histria 4* or Hotel Milan 4* in Pula or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 40 km / 25 miles,
Elevation: +309 m /-320 m, +1013 ft /-1050 ft
Departure after breakfast.
Meals: breakfast
Map
Here you can find tracks and accommodation.
Conditions
Price includes
- orientation meeting with Fiore representative
- 1 x overnight in Triest
- 2 x overnights in Buje area
- 1 x overnight in Motovun
- 1 x overnight in Poreč
- 1 x overnight in Rovinj
- 1 x overnight in Pula
- 7 x breakfasts
- luggage transport from hotel to hotel
- Information package including detailed route description (map and road instructions), water bottle, luggage tags and vouchers
- Use of Fiore App – offline navigation with voice guidance, info about the POI’s and restaurant recommendation
Not included in price
- travel and bike insurance
- arrival to Trieste and departure from Pula
- transfer from/to airport/bus-train station to hotel and re-tour (can be organized)
- lunches, dinners and drinks if not mentioned in itinerary
