For the first—and probably last!—time in my life, I got what felt like VIP service, because the amazing and honorable company that Exodus is, let this trip run even though I ended up being the only guest! From what I could tell, the trip was run almost exactly how it would have had there been a full complement of guests, and I think I even got a few extra perks that I may not have been afforded otherwise. The cycling was fantastic with great routes, and only a handful of stretches that really tested my limits, otherwise it was mostly very manageable. There were a few cultural stops during the rides and in the evenings that were a nice change of pace and provided interesting insight into Romania’s past. The guesthouses ran the gamut but always provided nice cozy places to rest each night. Finally, food was perfect for me—breakfasts were pretty consistent, and lunches and dinners had a nice range of soups, sandwiches, salads, main courses, and desserts that hit the spot after a nice day of cycling!
Croatia Bike Tours
Our Best Croatia Bike Tours
Top 5 Croatia Cycling Highlights
1. Hvar Island
Cycling in Hvar offers the thrill of riding along ancient Roman roads and scenic coastal routes, with stops in charming villages like Vrbovska and Jelsa. The journey includes a challenging hill climb to a viewpoint with breathtaking views of the island of Brac, followed by the exploration of Hvar’s marbled streets and gothic architecture. You’ll also enjoy picturesque landscapes, passing through olive groves, vineyards, and small villages with stunning views of the turquoise waters and mountainous mainland.
2. Korčula Island
Korčula Island, often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik,” is renowned for its medieval architecture, charming narrow streets, and interesting cultural heritage. This lush island is dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and quaint villages, offering a picturesque backdrop perfect for cyclists to explore. Its pristine beaches and clear blue waters, along with vibrant local traditions and culinary delights, make Korčula a dream destination in the Adriatic.
3. Dubrovnik
Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” boasts stunning medieval architecture, with its iconic city walls and historic old town earning UNESCO World Heritage status. The old town, or Stari Grad, is filled with cobblestone streets, fountains, churches, palaces and museums — all built from the same light-coloured stone. There are no motor vehicles in the quiet city, but at night the streets come alive as people take an early evening stroll along the Stradun, the main street, which is covered in smooth shiny marble. The city’s marble streets, baroque buildings, and beautiful seaside setting create a magical atmosphere that attracts cyclists from around the world.
4. Split
Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern life, centered around the remarkable Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its bustling waterfront promenade, lively markets, and stunning coastal views, Split is the starting point for our Cycling Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast adventure.
5. Mljet Island
Mljet Island, often considered one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, is renowned for its lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and tranquil beaches. The island’s National Park, which covers its western part, features the stunning saltwater lakes of Veliko and Malo Jezero, along with a picturesque Benedictine monastery on the islet of St. Mary.
Belinda Oh Cycle Romania
Christopher Mather Cycle Indochina & AngkorThis was a good adventure through three countries, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Starting with Thailand, the first day’s cycling had a mix of temples to see as well as cycling but I felt that day 2 and 3 we were just cycling to get out of Thailand with not much to see and was a bit boring. Cambodia was amazing with not just the amazing Angkor complex, but also the more sombre sights of Phnom Penh, S-21 and the Killing Fields, where our local guide’s personal stories really made you think. Vietnam was different again, with much better scenery for cycling and a lovely stay in the Mekong Delta. Saigon, you are left to explore on your own. I visited the War Remnants museum and the Independence Palace, which both were an interesting visit. The local teams who organised the cycling, were well organised with a special shout out to the Vietnam team, though their roads were the bumpiest.
Is Croatia good for cycling?
Whether you’re seeking leisurely rides along the Adriatic coastline or more challenging routes through rugged hills and historic towns, Croatia has something for every cyclist. Plus, the country’s mild Mediterranean climate and stunning scenery make cycling here a truly enjoyable experience. With its well-maintained roads, extensive network of cycling paths, and numerous organized tours and rental services available, Croatia is a paradise for cyclists of all levels.
How do I plan a Croatia cycling tour?
Take advantage of Exodus’ over 50 years of experience in active travel by embarking on one of our small group guided cycling tours, and we’ll do all the planning for you! Our travel specialists have designed incredible itineraries in Croatia, so all you need to do is book one and we’ll take care of all of the logistics. From route planning and accommodations to support vehicles and luggage transfers, our tours include it all.
FAQs on Croatia Biking Tours
On an Exodus Croatia biking tour, you can expect an exhilarating journey through some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes, combining adventure, culture, and relaxation. You’ll cycle through diverse terrains, including scenic coastal roads, rolling hills, and charming villages, with carefully planned routes that cater to various fitness levels. Each day offers unique experiences, such as exploring historic towns like Dubrovnik and Split, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, and discovering the natural beauty of islands like Hvar and Korčula. Along the way, you’ll enjoy local cuisine, sample exquisite wines, and stay in comfortable accommodations that reflect the region’s character and hospitality.
We offer the option to upgrade to an e-bike on our cycling vacations in Croatia for an added fee. These electric bikes offer added assistance, making cycling more accessible while allowing for longer distances with less physical effort, making tougher routes more enjoyable. For those traveling with partners or friends with different fitness or cycling experience, it can be a great option to even the playing field and make a specific trip more suitable.
Leading up to your departure, training on a bike is essential! You’ll want to increase your endurance and comfort level while getting your body used to the physical demands of long rides. Pay attention to the activity level rating of your trip for guidance on the intensity of the rides, and check our fitness guides for more advice on how to prepare physically for your adventure.
Check your tour’s trip notes for a complete packing list specific to your tour to Croatia, but some basics include padded cycling shorts, cycling gloves, sturdy cycling shoes, and a compact close-fitting bag or fanny pack. Feel free to also pack your own gear, such as SPD or clipless pedals, your preferred saddle (excluding the seat post), or a gel saddle cover.
High-quality, locally rented bikes are provided on all Exodus cycling trips, with only a few exceptions. The bike type (hybrid or mountain) is tailored to the trip’s nature, and you can find detailed information about your ride in each trip’s essential info.
Biking in Croatia offers a range of difficulty levels, making it accessible to both novice and experienced cyclists. The terrain varies from flat coastal roads to hilly inland routes and challenging climbs, especially on islands like Hvar and Korčula. Our tours provide support vehicles and options for shorter rides or alternative routes, allowing you to tailor the difficulty to your comfort and ability. Check the trip notes of your tour for more information, including the activity rating, to ensure that the tour is right for you.
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