Guided Highlights of Istria in Style Bike and Boat Tour
Explore Croatia's largest peninsula on this 8-day guided bike and boat adventure through Istria and the surrounding islands. Departing from Omišalj on the island of Krk, you'll cruise and cycle through a sun-drenched region wedged between Kvarner Bay and the Gulf of Trieste.
Each day brings a new destination — from the Roman amphitheatre of Pula and the medieval lanes of Rovinj to the truffle-rich hinterland villages of Grožnjan and Vižinada. Your home base throughout is the elegant deluxe motor yacht Andela Lora, which sails you between destinations while you relax on deck.
With e-bikes provided and expert guides on hand, this PLUS program tour balances active cycling with cultural discovery, excellent onboard cuisine, and the timeless beauty of the Adriatic coast.
Guided
moderate
39 km / 24 mi
6
Casual+ Inns (4★)
Min. 1, Max. 14
Highlights

Cruise the Adriatic on a Deluxe Motor Yacht
Your floating hotel for the week is the elegant Andela Lora, a 40-metre steel motor yacht with 17 air-conditioned cabins, a top-deck salon, sundeck, and swim platform at the stern. Each evening you moor in a new harbour town, combining the freedom of island-hopping with the comfort of a premium vessel.

Discover the Hidden Heart of Istria
Ride through medieval hilltop villages, truffle-rich hinterlands, and coastal vineyards on a reliable e-bike. From the Parenzana trail to the Limski Canal, each day's route is carefully chosen to balance scenic beauty, cultural depth, and manageable challenge — all made easier with electric assist.

Iconic Towns & UNESCO Heritage Sites
The tour takes in some of Istria's most celebrated destinations: the Roman amphitheatre at Pula, the UNESCO-listed Euphrasius Basilica in Poreč, and the romantic old town of Rovinj — plus lesser-known gems like the artists' village of Grožnjan and the pebble-beached bay of Rabac.
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 | Omišalj – Cres | D | |||
| DAY 2 | Cres – Pula | B, D | 28 km / 17 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 3 | Pula – Vrsar – Poreč | B, D | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 4 | Poreč – Novigrad | B, D | 66 km / 41 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 5 | Rovinj | B, D | 16 km / 10 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 6 | Rovinj – Fažana – Rabac | B, D | 37 km / 23 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 7 | Rabac – Njivice – Omišalj | B, D | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling | |
| DAY 8 | Omišalj (Disembarkation) | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Omišalj – Cres
Make your own way to Omišalj, a picturesque harbour town on the island of Krk. Parking arrangements and transfers from Zagreb can be organised in advance. Board the yacht from around 2pm and settle into your cabin before the ship sets sail for Cres. Spend the evening wandering the Venetian-influenced old town of Cres — its winding alleys and historic churches make for a memorable first night.

Day 2: Cres – Pula
Enjoy breakfast on board during a leisurely morning cruise to Pula. Once ashore, take to your e-bike and ride through the area via Galižana and Vodnjan, passing through the charming fishing village of Fažana before looping back into Pula. The day wraps up with a guided city tour of Pula, leaving you free to explore this ancient Roman port town at your own pace in the evening.

Day 3: Pula – Vrsar – Poreč
Another relaxing breakfast cruise brings you to Vrsar — reputedly a hideout of the legendary Casanova. From here, your ride follows the scenic Limski Canal through the countryside to the lively coastal town of Poreč. Explore the famous Euphrasius Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with stunning early Christian mosaics, and enjoy free time for swimming and a stroll along the promenade.

Day 4: Poreč – Novigrad
Today's route follows the Parenzana, a converted abandoned railway line, leading you up into the Istrian hills to the enchanting hilltop artists' village of Grožnjan. Stone alleyways, flower-adorned squares, and galleries housed in ancient buildings define this medieval gem. In the afternoon, you continue by bike through the rural landscape via Buje, finishing in the coastal town of Novigrad for the evening.

Day 5: Rovinj
The boat delivers you to Rovinj, where a shorter morning ride takes you along an old rail trail toward the Lim Canal. There's an optional detour through the surrounding nature park, with scenic bays perfect for a spontaneous swim. After returning to the ship, spend the afternoon on a guided walking tour of Rovinj — widely celebrated as the Pearl of Istria — discovering its colourful harbour front and hilltop church.

Day 6: Rovinj – Fažana – Rabac
Your morning ride hugs the coastline, mostly along forest tracks, arriving at the charming harbour of Fažana with its pastel-coloured waterfront. Board the yacht for a scenic cruise along the coast to Rabac, situated in a gorgeous bay on Istria's eastern shore. White pebble beaches and clear turquoise water await — and an evening cocktail at a local bar rounds off the day perfectly.

Day 7: Rabac – Njivice – Omišalj
An early-morning crossing brings you to Krk, Croatia's largest island and home of the local Zlahtina white wine. Your final cycling stage runs from Njivice to Omišalj through the island's varied landscapes. Don't miss the bay of Soline, famous for its mineral-rich mud — a fun and memorable experience. Back in Omišalj harbour, the crew welcomes you aboard for a celebratory farewell dinner with fellow travellers and guides.

Day 8: Omišalj (Disembarkation)
After a final breakfast on board, say your goodbyes and disembark by 9am. Continue your journey home or extend your stay to explore more of Croatia at your leisure.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each accommodation 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.

Deluxe Ship Andela Lora
Built in 2012, the Andela Lora is a 40 x 8.5-metre steel motor yacht and one of the largest vessels in the Croatian charter fleet. The ship features 17 spacious, air-conditioned guest cabins (below and above deck), each with a private shower and WC. Guests can relax in the top-deck salon, lounge on the sundeck, or take a dip directly from the swim platform at the stern. An onboard chef prepares fresh meals daily, with catering covering 2 full-board and 5 half-board days. The ship serves as your moving hotel throughout the entire week.

Cabins
The ship features well-appointed cabins ranging from 12 to 14 m², equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms (shower and WC), and comfortable double or twin beds. The cabins are designed for both comfort and efficient use of space, ensuring a restful stay after cycling.

Lounge / Restaurant
The onboard salon and dining area is elegantly furnished and serves as a central social space. Guests enjoy freshly prepared meals here, with large tables and a cozy ambiance, making it perfect for relaxing, dining, and interacting with fellow travelers.

Deck / Open Area
The ship boasts a spacious sundeck with loungers and shaded seating areas, ideal for unwinding and enjoying panoramic sea views. A highlight is the swimming platform at the stern, allowing easy access to the water for swimming during stops.
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?
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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.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
entrance
Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.
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.
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.

Gravel Bike or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo De Ville or similar
Available at a surcharge
Omišalj, Island of Krk, Croatia
Omišalj, Island of Krk, Croatia
Zagreb Airport (ZAG)
Zagreb Airport (ZAG):
Arrival Information
Your tour begins in Omišalj, on the island of Krk.
The nearest major international airport for this tour is Zagreb Airport (ZAG), which offers excellent connectivity with Europe and long-haul international flights.
From Zagreb Airport (ZAG): Omišalj is approximately 2 hours by road. Pre-arranged private transfers are available and are the most convenient way to reach the starting point. Alternative (Closer Airport): Rijeka Airport is located on Krk Island, about 10–15 minutes from Omišalj, but has limited international connectivity. By Car: If arriving by car, parking can be arranged near the harbor upon request.
Boarding Time: Between 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM Departure: Around 3:00 PM
Departure Information
The tour concludes in Omišalj, at the same harbor where it began.
To Zagreb Airport (ZAG): Organized transfers are available in the morning (typically from 8:00 AM), with a travel time of approximately 2 hours.
We recommend booking flights departing after 12:00 PM to allow sufficient transfer time.
The best time for this Istria cycling tour is late spring to early autumn, when temperatures are comfortable and rainfall is low. From May to June and September, expect pleasant conditions around 18–26°C (64–79°F), ideal for long rides without overheating. July and August are warmer at 25–32°C (77–90°F), suitable if you enjoy sun and sea stops, though midday heat can be intense. April and October are cooler, ranging 12–20°C (54–68°F), with occasional rain. The region enjoys over 2300 sunshine hours annually, making it highly reliable for outdoor cycling.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Good
August
Good
September
Best
October
Good
November
Mixed
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
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.
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.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to 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
The surface is 70% paved and 30% unpaved
Traffic is to be expected in and around the coastal towns of Pula and Rovinj. There are only a few designated bike paths in Istria, so the bike tours take place on public roads, preferably on quiet side streets.
A guided bike tour includes a professional local guide who rides with you throughout the trip. The guide handles navigation, manages daily logistics, ensures safety, and shares cultural insights. In addition to the guide, you also have a support vehicle that transfers luggage, provides water/snacks, and offers on-route assistance or a lift whenever needed. You simply follow the guide and enjoy a fully supported experience.
Your guides are local cycling experts, fluent in English, with deep knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and food.
On our guided tours, we ensure you begin your ride feeling comfortable and well-supported. Your guide and local team play an active role in getting your bike properly set up.
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
You’ll receive a full in-person bike fitting with your guide or local representative. This typically includes:
- Adjusting saddle height
- Moving the saddle fore–aft (small adjustments to move the saddle forward or back for better balance and comfort)
- Fine-tuning handlebar height and reach (where adjustable)
- Confirming pedal preference — flat pedals are provided by default. If you bring your own clip-in pedals, our guide will help install and adjust them
- A short test ride to check comfort
Your guide will ensure everything feels right before the tour begins.
During the Tour
Throughout the trip, your guide will make additional adjustments whenever needed. This is especially helpful if you discover new comfort preferences after a few hours of riding.
What to Expect
Our guided tour bike fitting is hands-on, comfort-focused, and practical, ensuring you ride safely and enjoyably each day. It’s not a detailed workshop-level fit, but it covers all essential adjustments for multi-day touring.
For guided tours, we do not provide GPX files separately, as navigation is handled by your guide. On certain occasions, if you prefer more independence, we may offer app-based navigation access with the daily routes loaded. However, please understand that this may not always be possible and depends on the specific tour setup.
Our support vehicle is always close by to make your ride worry-free. It carries your luggage, water, snacks, and spare parts, and is there if you need a quick lift or just want to rest for a while. You’ll see it at regular intervals along the route and during meal or refreshment stops. The vehicle is also used for scheduled transfers and to ensure safety and comfort along the route.
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.
We’ve carefully planned the route so that most rides follow peaceful countryside roads, scenic bike paths, and quiet lanes well away from heavy traffic. On rare occasions, short stretches on busier roads may be necessary, but your guides will ensure these sections are managed safely.
While your tour price covers most of the main expenses, including accommodations, daily breakfast, and many meals, you may wish to budget for a few lunches or dinners not included in the itinerary, as well as drinks, snacks, or personal treats along the way. As a general guide, allow around US $20–40 per person per day for these additional expenses.
Our guided bike tours typically have 6–14 guests, allowing for a personalised experience.
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.
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.
Tours run rain or shine, but we may adjust the route or schedule for safety. The support vehicle is always available.
Popular tours can sell out months ahead, especially in summer. Booking at least 9 months in advance ensures best availability.
We require a 10% deposit at booking. The balance is due 60 days before departure.
For full details, please see our cancellation policy here.
Yes. About 4 weeks before your trip, you’ll receive a Pre-Departure Information Pack with daily ride profiles, packing tips, meeting locations, and detailed itinerary.
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.
