Guided Albania Croatia and Montenegro Three Country Bike Tour
Discover the hidden gems of the Adriatic and Balkan coastlines on this unforgettable cycling and cultural adventure. From the ancient, walled city of Dubrovnik, famously known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, you will journey through fragrant pine forests, charming coastal villages, and peaceful rural roads, crossing seamlessly from Croatia into Montenegro and Albania.
Cycle along quiet country lanes with panoramic views of Lake Skadar, explore historic towns like Kotor, Budva, and Pukë, and soak in the rich history, architecture, and vibrant local life at every stop. Enjoy refreshing swims in the crystal-clear Adriatic, taste local delicacies such as Birra Puka, and experience the warmth of small-town hospitality. Each day balances active adventure with cultural discovery, offering spectacular mountain vistas, winding valleys, and serene landscapes. The tour concludes in Rubik, northern Albania, leaving travelers with lasting memories of the region’s natural beauty, rich heritage, and the joy of exploring it by bike.
Guided
casual hotels
Dubrovnik
Rubik
easy to moderate
49 km / 30 mi
6
Min. 4, Max. 14
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Tirana International Airport (TIA)
Highlights

Adriatic Coastal Cycling
Ride along stunning coastal roads through Croatia and Montenegro, with breathtaking sea views. Enjoy scenic towns like Igalo, Herceg Novi, and the magical Bay of Kotor.

Lake Skadar Panorama Views
Cycle beside the peaceful shores of Lake Skadar, one of Southern Europe’s largest lakes. Expect quiet country roads, fresh air, and unforgettable natural scenery throughout the day.

Mountain Valleys and Villages
Pedal through Albania’s dramatic landscapes, from pine forests to wide open highland views. Discover authentic local life in Pukë and Rubik, with rewarding rides and warm hospitality.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Dubrovnik | Perla Hotel | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Igalo | Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa (4-star) | B,D | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Tivat | Hotel Palma (4-star) | B, D | 31 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Virpazar | Hotel Pelikan (4-star) | B, L | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Shkoder | Hotel Tradita | B, L | 58 km / 36 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Pukë | Hotel Turizmi Puka | B,D | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Rubik | Eko Hotel Marub | B,D | 70 km / 43 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Dubrovnik
Upon arrival and check-in at a hotel in Dubrovnik’s modern city center, there is time to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Widely known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is beautifully positioned on a rocky peninsula, encircled by the clear blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. Its refined Mediterranean character and rich cultural legacy leave a lasting impression.
The historic old town is enclosed by exceptionally well-preserved stone walls, stretching nearly two kilometers and fully walkable, thoughtfully restored after the recent war. Since 1979, this southernmost city of Croatia has held UNESCO World Heritage status, recognized for its remarkable history and timeless elegance.

Day 2: Igalo
After breakfast, take time to explore the timeless beauty of Dubrovnik before heading out of the city. Following a guided tour, you’ll be transferred to Čilipi, where the cycling adventure begins. From here, the ride follows quiet roads through scenic countryside, framed by fragrant pine forests and wide-open views.
The day starts with a gradual ascent to warm up the legs, then eases into a smooth and enjoyable ride. As you approach Igalo, you’ll cross the border from Croatia into Montenegro, marking a change of scenery and culture. If conditions allow, there’s the perfect opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea at the end of the day.
Elevation: 638m


Day 3: Tivat
The day features a scenic cycling stage along the Adriatic coastline, beginning in Igalo and passing through the lively town of Herceg Novi before continuing toward Kotor.
The route leads deeper into the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, where a ferry crossing at its narrowest point offers a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and sea. Along the way, there is time for a refreshing swim before arriving in Kotor. The afternoon is dedicated to discovering the atmospheric old town, known for its medieval streets and historic charm.
Elevation: 289m


Day 4: Virpazar
After breakfast, the day begins with a steady climb toward Obzovica, rewarding the effort with expansive views. From the top, the road drops dramatically, following a narrow, winding descent that leads toward the lowlands. The character of the ride then softens as you follow quiet country roads tracing the shores of Lake Skadar.
This vast freshwater lake, shared between Montenegro and Albania, feels wonderfully untouched, with wide open waters, wetlands, and a rich natural landscape unfolding beside you. The scenery remains calm and unspoiled as you pedal toward Virpazar, arriving in the late afternoon. Set beside the lake, this small town offers a relaxed and atmospheric end to a beautifully scenic day of cycling.
Elevation: 974m


Day 5: Shkoder
After breakfast, the cycling day begins with a long and demanding ascent. Throughout the ride, sweeping views of Lake Skadar accompany the route, offering constant visual rewards. As the second largest lake in Southern Europe, Lake Skadar lies within one of Montenegro’s five national parks and is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty. This panoramic road reveals stunning scenery at every turn.
A coffee stop and lunch provide welcome breaks during this challenging stage, while the support vehicle remains available to assist on steeper sections when needed. By the end of the ride, the journey crosses into Albania by bicycle, followed by a transfer to Shengjen by support vehicle.
Elevation: 1230m

Day 6: Pukë
Leaving Shkodër, the cycling route follows the Drin River, crossing the Ashta Dam on the way toward Vau i Dejës. The reservoir comes into view early, with wide shoulders and scenic pull-outs that offer ideal spots for photos. From the lakeside, the ride transitions into a classic valley ascent, featuring long, steady climbs with gentle recovery stretches in between, making it well suited for groups of varying fitness levels. The final 10 to 15 kilometers leading up to Pukë, at an altitude of around 838 meters, are especially rewarding, passing through pine forests with cooler mountain air and sweeping views of the Northern Highlands.
Lunch or coffee stops can be enjoyed by the lake near Vau i Dejës or at small village bakeries along the way. Upon arrival in Pukë, the day can be pleasantly concluded with a tasting at Birra Puka, a local microbrewery located inside the Hotel Turizëm building on the main square.
Elevation: 1165m


Day 7: Rubik
This stage is designed as a relaxed “flow day,” beginning high in Pukë at around 838 meters and descending gradually to near river level in Rubik, approximately 77 to 80 meters above sea level. The route delivers a rewarding overall descent, shaped by gently rolling terrain and a series of long, smooth downhills rather than one continuous drop, making the ride both enjoyable and confidence boosting.
Elevation: 1547m

Day 8: Departure
Transfer from Rubik to the airport. Depending on the departure schedule, there may be time to enjoy a guided walking tour of Tirana’s city center, offering a final glimpse into the capital’s culture, history, and everyday life before departure.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Perla Hotel
Hotel Perla is a charming hotel set along the lively Lapad Bay promenade, just a short walk from the beach and local cafés, perfectly placed for exploring Dubrovnik and its scenic surroundings.

Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa (4-star)
A stylish 4-star plus hotel perched along the seafront in Igalo, overlooking the stunning Bay of Kotor. Surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, it offers spacious, modern rooms and suites with light-filled interiors and sea or park views.

Hotel Palma (4-star)
Hotel Palma is a well-rated 4-star hotel located in the heart of Tivat Bay, offering spectacular views of the sea and immediate access to its own beachfront, perfect for relaxing after a day of cycling.

Hotel Pelikan (4-star)
Hotel Pelikan is a comfortable, family-friendly hotel located in the heart of Virpazar, Montenegro, just a short walk from the shores of Lake Skadar, offering air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a relaxed garden terrace.

Hotel Tradita
Hotel Tradita in Shkodër is a charming traditional boutique hotel known for its authentic Albanian character and warm hospitality.

Hotel Turizmi Puka
Hotel Turizmi Puka in Pukë, Albania is a charming hotel, offering comfortable basic accommodation with amenities like air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and easy access to the town and nearby lake.

Hotel Marub
A charming eco‑friendly hotel located in Rubik, Albania, set in a peaceful forested valley in the Mirdita region. It’s known for its warm, family‑run atmosphere, comfortable rooms with mountain views and balconies.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
trip leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Specialized CrossTrail Bikes or similar
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Travelers will arrive at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), Croatia’s main international airport, which is well connected with flights from major European cities including London, Frankfurt, Rome, Vienna, and Amsterdam. Upon arrival, travelers have several options to reach Dubrovnik city center or nearby hotels:
Private Transfer / Taxi: The fastest and most convenient option. Travel time to Dubrovnik city center is around 30–40 minutes.
Airport Shuttle / Bus: Regular shuttle buses connect the airport to Dubrovnik city center and nearby towns like Cavtat. The journey takes around 40–50 minutes.
Car Rental: Available at the airport, ideal for travelers who want to explore the surrounding region or drive along the scenic Adriatic coast at their own pace.
**Departure **
The tour concludes in Rubik, northern Albania. Travelers have multiple options to reach Tirana International Airport (TIA) or other destinations:
Private Transfer / Taxi: The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Tirana Airport, taking 2–2.5 hours.
Bus: Regular buses run from Rubik or nearby Shkodër to Tirana. The journey takes around 2.5–3 hours.
Car Rental: If travelers prefer self-drive, the route is straightforward on main highways, passing scenic landscapes through northern Albania.
Weather
Albania enjoys a varied climate, from the Mediterranean warmth along the coast to cooler, mountainous inland regions, making the choice of travel months important for outdoor activities.
The best months to visit are May, June, and September, when the weather is stable, days are warm (20°C to 28°C / 68°F to 82°F), and rainfall is minimal, creating perfect conditions for cycling, sightseeing, and exploring.
April and October are also good months, with mild temperatures (15°C to 22°C / 59°F to 72°F) and occasional showers, suitable for travelers who prefer fewer crowds.
March and November are mixed months, with temperatures between 12°C and 18°C (54°F to 64°F) and unpredictable weather, including a mix of sunshine, clouds, and rain.
July and August are considered off / not ideal months for active travel; temperatures often reach 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), making long rides and outdoor activities challenging despite dry, sunny conditions.
The off-season from December to February brings colder weather (5°C to 12°C / 41°F to 54°F), increased rainfall, and snow in higher elevations, while coastal areas remain milder but wet, making winter less suitable for cycling tours and outdoor adventures.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Offseason
August
Offseason
September
Best
October
Good
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Reviews from our friends
You may also like

Popular

