Our cycling holidays in Croatia
Experience an adventure between land and sea in the heart of this Mediterranean jewel
Soak up the enchanting atmosphere of medieval towns, follow signposted routes through breathtaking landscapes. Pedal along sandy beaches bathed by the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, and let the gentle sea breeze carry you away.
Discover Croatia by bike
Immerse yourself in the enchantment of a cycling adventure through Croatia, a destination that combines rich history, picturesque cities and varied landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for cycling travellers.
Croatia by bike has a captivating mix of Adriatic coastline and inland mountains. The routes take you through unspoilt medieval towns that bear witness to a turbulent history. Dubrovnik, nicknamed the Pearl of the Adriatic, reveals its centuries-old ramparts, while Split offers the charm of the palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian. Pedal through the narrow streets of Rovinj, imbued with a romantic atmosphere, and discover the ancient town of Zadar with its unique marine organ.
As you travel along, the shores of the Croatian Adriatic Sea reveal breathtaking coastal panoramas. Fine sandy beaches, unspoilt islands and crystal-clear waters invite you to take a refreshing break. The inland plains and hills, meanwhile, reveal hidden treasures, with charming vineyards, picturesque villages and historic sites.
The country and its people
In this land bathed in a Mediterranean climate, olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see, citrus orchards fill the air and sun-drenched vegetables color the horizons, helping to forge an authentic and delicious way of life.
It’s a land steeped in history, a veritable open-air museum where every kilometre you cycle reveals surprising historical monuments. From coastal towns to Roman remains, every stone tells an ancient story, transporting you through the ages. Wander through the medieval streets of the coastal towns, and let yourself be carried away by the historic charm of places like Dubrovnik, Pula and Zadar.
Encounters with the locals, marked by sincere hospitality, add a human dimension to your journey. From informal chats in the villages to warm exchanges at the local markets, every moment offers an immersion in Croatian daily life.
Gourmet stops on your cycling tour are an invitation to savor local cuisine, where Mediterranean flavors and regional influences come together in a gastronomic symphony. Taverns await you to sample Pasticada, a slow-cooked marinated beef stew, or Škampi na Buzaru, shrimps cooked with garlic, white wine and herbs, all accompanied by local wines that reflect the richness of the terroir.
Roads and cycle paths in Croatia
Explore a well-developed cycling network suitable for all levels, with coastal routes offering panoramic views and mountain routes for pass enthusiasts. The Croatian islands, accessible by ferry, add an island dimension to your cycling adventure.
EuroVelo 8, also known as the Mediterranean Route, crosses Croatia by bike, following the Adriatic coast from Spain. This European cycle route offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea as it passes through iconic sites such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Rijeka.
Explore several greenways in Croatia for a unique cycling experience.
- The Parenzana, through the Istrian peninsula, reveals typical villages, viaducts and tunnels.
- The Lika Greenway crosses the mountainous region with wooded landscapes and lakes, including those in Plitvice National Park.
- The Zagorje Greenway passes through green hills, charming villages, historic castles and thermal springs.
- The Međimurje Greenway offers cycling routes through fields and forests in northern Croatia, with bucolic rural landscapes, rivers and richly preserved natural areas.
These greenways, combined with Croatia’s varied cycling network, make the country an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts of all levels, allowing immersive exploration of its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
The Croatian weather
Enjoy pleasant weather from April to October, creating ideal conditions for cycling along the coast or through the hills. During the summer months, enjoy bright sunshine, perfect for combining cycling with refreshing breaks in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic.
Croatia by bike offers an idyllic setting all year round, whether for a spring getaway with colorful blooms along coastal roads, or for summer adventures through islands and historic cities. Mild autumn temperatures add a touch of romance to your excursions, offering a different experience of Croatia by bike.
The 8 must-sees in Croatia by bike
- Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic: Explore the medieval city walls by bike for breathtaking views.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park: Enjoy a picturesque bike ride through the winding paths surrounding the Plitvice Lakes, where lush nature and crystal-clear waters create an unforgettable picture.
- Split and Diocletian’s Palace: Explore the living history of Split’s Diocletian’s Palace by bike, wandering the cobbled streets and discovering the remains of the Roman Empire.
- Island of Hvar: Take your bike on board a ferry for quiet routes through lavender fields and picturesque villages.
- Istria Peninsula:Explore the rolling hills of Istria by bike, where preserved medieval villages and renowned vineyards invite you to enjoy an authentic getaway.
- Krka National Park: A unique cycling experience offering breathtaking panoramas of waterfalls and surrounding nature.
- Zagreb, the Dynamic Capital: Immerse yourself in Zagreb’s dynamic energy by bike, exploring its diverse neighborhoods, fascinating museums and vibrant cultural atmosphere.
- The Kornati Islands: Take a ferry to the Kornati archipelago and explore unspoilt islands by bike, between hidden coves and marine panoramas.