The Adriatic Coast Deluxe Cycle 8D7N (Ride Three Countries from Venice to Porec), Self Guided

Welcome to the beautiful city of Venice, and one of the few urban areas in the world where commuting within the city means walking or hopping on a boat. There are absolutely no cars, no buses, and certainly no bikes riding in the city traffic. Instead, that famous city buzz is replaced by quiet canals, little bridges, and narrow streets that inspire the hope of a hidden alleyway every time you turn a corner.

Right at the city center is the famous old Rialto Bridge, the oldest of the four bridges that cross over the Grand Canal. It connects the San Marco and San Polo neighborhoods, and since it sits right in the middle of everything, it's also easy to locate while wandering the city or boating down the canal. Stop right at the bridge crossing and enjoy views of the Grand Canal and all its bustle. It’s a great spot to stand, take a breath, and just watch the big boats and sleek gondolas zoom by on the water below.

Certainly, there’s much to see, but as the day unfolds, nothing comes close to coffee for a refresh. There are piazzas tucked almost everywhere. And to be honest, half the fun is just getting lost and stumbling upon them yourself. These spots are the soul of Venice, and they’re exactly what your legs need after a long day of exploring this amazing city.

Retire for the evening to the sanctuary of the Elite Hotel & Spa, where you can unwind in the wellness center's soothing embrace, complete with a sauna and Turkish bath. Nestled near the heart of Venice, this haven offers a tranquil escape with its pristine pool.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Approx. 30 km (19 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Approx. 80 km (50 miles), 4-6 hours biking

Today, much of Venice and the Grand Canal is yours to soak up. Board a scenic local ferry across the lagoon to Punta Sabbioni, enjoying beautiful views of Venice that were hidden from sight the previous day. On arrival, hop on your bike and follow the coastline with its long stretches of golden sand, colorful fishing boats, and relaxed beach cafés. Take advantage of the opportunity to refresh with a drink or even a quick swim in the cool sea.

There’s the option of a longer, quieter ride inland. This route runs alongside the peaceful Sile, winding through calm countryside and past the ruins of Torre Caligo, an old fort that once served as a toll point for anyone entering the Venetian lagoon. The ride is especially calm and peaceful due to the Sile’s slow and natural flow from underground springs. Regardless of the route you choose to cycle on, you eventually end up in the lively seaside town of Jesolo, famous for its wide, sandy beaches that stretch for about 15 km (approx. 9 miles) along the coast.

You’ll stay at Hotel Smeraldo in Lido di Jesolo, where a private beach awaits just steps from your door. Indulge in the exclusive wellness centre, complete with a sauna and Turkish bath, before retreating to the tranquil pool for a final, refreshing dip.

Approx. 62 km (39 miles), 3-4 hours biking

Before you bid goodbye to the quiet Venetian fishing villages today, make one last stop at the classic seaside fishing town of Caorle. Set right on the coast, “little Venice," as it is often called, reveals a bounty of colourful old streets, a charming lighthouse, and its simple and unique casoni huts, once built by fishermen using reeds and wood. It’s a vivid finale to your days wandering the coasts of Venetia.

Now, your path leads inland into the Veneto region, revealing distant peaks of the Julian Alps as you get closer. From this point in Caorle, you continue to Portogruaro, due northwest across the flat, fertile plains of eastern Veneto. What was once a busy river port is now a peaceful, lesser-known town full of character. On arrival, wander through its elegant streets lined with Gothic-style palaces and arched porticoes, which have earned it the nickname “La Piccola Venezia” (Little Venice). As you explore, keep an eye out for the twin watermills along the Lemene River, one of the town’s most photographed spots. The main square, Piazza della Repubblica, is also worth a pause, with its historic buildings and slow-moving atmosphere.

Your evening concludes at the elegant Hotel Spessotto, nestled in the heart of Portogruaro’s historic center. Here, you can unwind in the tranquil wellness area before indulging in an exquisite dinner at the hotel's renowned restaurant, which artfully reinterprets traditional Venetian cuisine.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Approx. 45 km (28 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Approx. 65 km (40 miles), 3-5 hours cycling
Approx. 85 km (53 miles), 4-6 hours cycling

Today, you ride into the historically rich Friuli Venezia Giulia region with its teasing traces of ancient Roman cities, old churches, and wide-open coastal views. Start by heading back down to the coast, and then a short boat ride across the calm Marano Lagoon.

Back on land, you continue to Aquileia. This was once one of the largest and wealthiest cities of the early Roman Empire. Today, it’s a quiet town full of incredible ruins that you’ll get to explore. Be sure to visit the Basilica of Aquileia for its vast, world-famous mosaic floor, also one of the best-preserved anywhere. Then take a walk through the remains of the Roman Forum, which became a World Heritage Site in 1998. It’s a wonderful chance to really feel how important this city once was.

Following the visit to Aquileia, hop back on your saddles and ride to your final stop today. Grado is a laid-back fishing town that is especially unique for its charming historic center and seaside feel. Once you arrive, take absolute reins and wander through the narrow streets of the old town. Look out for early Christian churches, and enjoy the harbour views. Perhaps, you may also want to slow things down: grab a gelato, find a nice spot by the water, and just soak it all in.

After a day of discovery, retreat to the elegant comfort of Hotel Diana, perfectly positioned in the heart of Grado's historic centre and just a stone's throw from the beach. Here, you can unwind in the serene solarium, savour exquisite local cuisine at the hotel's renowned restaurant, or simply relax on the sun terrace, soaking in the tranquil seaside atmosphere.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Approx. 40 km (25 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Approx. 68 km (42 miles), 4-6 hours biking

Your route today leads to Trieste, the lively capital of the region and a major seaport during the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. As you pedal along, the shift in scenery becomes more evident, dramatic even, shifting from rugged, cave-riddled hills to the glittering Adriatic coastline. This route leads along scenic coastal roads and through the charming towns of Duino and Sistiana, where you’ll have the opportunity to stop at the magnificent Castello Miramare, an elegant clifftop palace that was once the beloved home of Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Habsburg.

After a rewarding day of riding and exploring, slip into Trieste’s famous café culture. Also, it would be interesting to know that Trieste stands as an unofficial “coffee capital” of Italy. Today, you’ll not just be a part of that exciting culture; you will walk in the footsteps of James Joyce, who lived and wrote here for more than a decade. Swing into it all by finding a table in Piazza Unità d’Italia, Europe’s largest square that opens directly onto the sea, and simply let the refined, buzzing energy wash over you with a coffee or aperitivo in hand.

Settle into the contemporary elegance of Hotel NH Trieste, conveniently located near the city’s central station and a short stroll from the old city and the sea. After a day of exploration, unwind in your spacious, modern room, or savor authentic Italian and international cuisine at the refined hotel restaurant.

TWO BIKING OPTIONS:
Approx. 35 km (22 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Approx. 65 km (40 miles), 4-6 hours biking

Bid farewell to the stunning Italian coastline. Today, you cross the border into Slovenia, following scenic cycle paths to the historic seaside town of Koper. Climb the charming Bell Tower in Tito Square for sweeping panoramas over the rooftops and the Adriatic. Depending on when you arrive, you can recharge your energy with a relaxed lunch or dinner at one of the many welcoming restaurants around the lively marina.

Satisfied and refuelled, continue along the Adriatic coast for a quick stop in the charming old fishing village of Izola. Here, you can head into the Marine Museum to discover Izola’s fascinating maritime heritage before carrying on to Piran. This coastal gem town is widely regarded as the most beautiful town on the Slovenian coast.

As you arrive, head straight to Tartini Square in the center of the old town. It’s a busy spot right by the pretty harbour. Take a walk through the narrow stone streets and check out the big statue of the violinist, Tartini. Finish with a walk along the city walls. The views from the top are especially amazing, revealing views all the way back to Trieste on clear days.

Retire to Hotel Piran, your sanctuary on the waterfront, where each room offers an intimate embrace with the Adriatic Sea. Indulge your senses with an exquisite spa treatment or ascend to the rooftop terrace, a glass of fine wine in hand, as you witness the sun melt into the horizon.

Begin your day with a beautiful ride to the sea. This path traces the borders of Salina Nature Park, one of the few places in the world where salt continues to be collected through ancient, 700-year-old traditional methods. Upon entering Croatia, the road starts to gently undulate through the Istrian landscape, offering views of picturesque hilltop villages. Conclude your adventure in the stunning seaside town of Poreč, celebrated for its crystal-clear beaches and perfectly preserved Roman architecture. Once the sun sets, the region’s famous flavours await. Seafood here is fresh, and the atmosphere is effortlessly laid-back. Treat yourself to the region’s famous flavours at a local tavern or konoba, where the seafood is fresh, and the atmosphere is effortlessly laid back.

Retreat to the opulent BO Hotel Palazzo, poised majestically on the Poreč waterfront, where you can unwind by the outdoor pool, rejuvenate in the wellness spa, or delight your palate with the exquisite flavours of the Mediterranean at Restaurant Ritzi. As evening descends, allow the hotel's refined elegance to envelop you, creating a perfect sanctuary to reflect on the day's adventures through Istria's enchanting landscapes.

This morning, your Croatian adventure comes to an end. Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey. Bid your farewells for your onward journey.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.