8 Days
From US $1,295
Self-guided Ljubljana to Piran Bike Tour
This picture-perfect cycling journey leads you from the heart of Slovenia’s lively capital, Ljubljana, to the sun-kissed Adriatic shores of Piran. Along the way, you’ll experience a mosaic of landscapes and cultures—lush marshes, limestone plateaus, wine country, and Venetian coastlines. Ride through pastoral plains and forested hills, visit Slovenia’s world-famous cave systems, and roll through hilltop villages that seem frozen in time.
Each day offers its own treasure. From the peaceful Ljubljana Moors to the dramatic cliffs of Predjama Castle, from the vineyards of the Vipava Valley to the regal white Lipizzaner horses of Lipica, your route is filled with memorable stops. You’ll pedal peaceful roads and scenic trails, and your nights will be spent in a mix of family-run guesthouses and comfortable hotels, where local hospitality shines.
The final stretch along the Adriatic coast offers a spectacular finish, with seaside paths, elegant resorts, and a fairytale arrival in the Venetian port town of Piran. Whether you're wandering cobbled squares, exploring ancient karst caves, sipping wine under stone arches, or enjoying fresh gelato by the sea, this tour combines the best of Slovenia’s cultural and natural wonders.
Perfect for leisure cyclists with a spirit of adventure, this self-guided tour is a rich journey through the soul of Slovenia—where every pedal stroke reveals a new story, and every stop invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Ljubljana
Piran
moderate
41km / 25mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 10
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Trieste Airport (TRS) or Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
Highlights
Predjama Castle’s Cliffside Drama
Perched halfway up a towering limestone cliff, Predjama Castle feels like a setting from a legend—and it nearly is. Discover tales of knightly rebellion, secret tunnels, and a dramatic siege. This surreal fortress, built into a cave, is as unforgettable as the story of its boldest resident, Erasmus.
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_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Ljubljana | M-Hotel (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Vrhnika | Hotel Mantova (4-star) | B | 42km /26mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Postojna | Hotel Kras (4-Star) | B | 43km / 26mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Štanjel Area | Guesthouse Hiša Posebne Sorte | B | 32km / 20mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Divača | Hotel Malovec | B | 50km / 31mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Muggia | Hotel San Rocco (4-Star) | B | 39km / 24mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Piran | Hotel Piran (4-Star) | B | 35km / 21mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Ljubljana
Welcome to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital! After settling into your hotel, explore the old town with its pastel facades, Baroque churches, and lively cafés along the Ljubljanica River. Ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views or relax with a drink by the water.
Day 2: Vrhnika
Begin your ride across the lush Ljubljana Moors, a vast wetland surrounded by distant peaks. The road is gentle, winding through sleepy hamlets and open fields. Climb to the Church of St. Ana for sweeping views. Visit the Borovnica viaduct ruins and finish at Bistra Castle, home to an intriguing technical museum and Tito’s car collection.
Elevation: +150m / -160m
Day 3: Postojna
Today, you leave the plains behind as you climb further into wilder landscapes. Choose a scenic detour to Predjama Castle, wedged spectacularly into a cliffside. Learn about its legendary rebel knight, Erasmus, and his clever escapes through secret tunnels. Descend into a peaceful valley and arrive in Postojna, a small town famous for its jaw-dropping caves.
Elevation: +760m / -510m
Day 4: Štanjel Area
Today, you begin your day with a journey through Postojna Cave, a subterranean wonderland of stalactites, halls, and the mystical olms. Then trade underground beauty for vineyard-covered hills as you enter the Vipava Valley. Here, stone villages, dry karst landscapes, and sunny vineyards hint at the Mediterranean ahead. Enjoy cycling through this beautiful landscape.
Elevation: +240m / -630 m
Day 5: Divača
Set out through a rustic patchwork of vineyards and dry stone walls as the Karst Plateau unfolds beneath your wheels. Stop at hilltop churches for sweeping views and roll through sun-drenched villages where time feels slower.
Your destination is Lipica, home to the famous white Lipizzaner horses. These graceful animals have been bred here for over four centuries and are known for their poise, elegance, and charm. Take a guided tour, watch them train, or even enjoy a ride in a traditional carriage through the leafy estate. Nearby, a quirky war museum tucked inside a Venetian tower offers unexpected insights into the region’s turbulent past.
After a relaxed stop, the final stretch to Divača takes you through tranquil countryside dotted with stone farmhouses and the scent of pine. It’s a day that mixes movement, majesty, and a touch of old-world charm.
Elevation: +630m / -360m
Day 6: Muggia
Your day begins at the breathtaking Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO-listed wonder of deep canyons and echoing chambers. Wander through vast caverns carved by ancient underground rivers. Then ride up to Socerb Castle, where the entire Adriatic seems to stretch before you.
From here, coast down into Italy, where the vibe softens and the air smells of the sea. Arrive in the colorful port town of Muggia, where pastel buildings lean into narrow lanes and the waterfront bustles with local life.
Enjoy a scoop of gelato by the harbor or watch fishermen mend their nets. The blend of Slovenian charm and Italian flair makes this stop unforgettable.
Elevation: +350m / -780m
Day 7: Piran
Today is the last day of your cycling journey. The day begins with sparkling Adriatic views at your side, pass quiet marinas, fishing boats, and salt pans shimmering under the sun. Stop for a coffee or swim in Portorož, a lively seaside resort. Then pedal into Piran, a jewel of Venetian architecture with terracotta rooftops, old town alleys, and breezy piazzas.
End your day with a seafood dinner overlooking the harbor as church bells ring in the distance.
Elevation: +230m / -240m
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, your cycling journey comes to a close. Consider extending your stay in Piran or hopping on a boat to Venice for more adventure. What a ride it’s been!
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $400
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $220
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).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
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 and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or 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
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
TREK FX 2 DISC MID-STEP GEN 3 or similar
Included in your trip price
TOURING BERGAMONT E-HORIZON TOUR 5 WAVE or similar
Available at a surcharge
TOURING ROCK MACHINE CROSSRIDE or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Ljubjana which is served by Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport. From the airport you can travel to Ljubljana by minivan shuttles or by bus.
From the airport:
Shared shuttle: GoOpti and Nomago offer frequent shared transfers. Duration: approx. 30 minutes.
Bus: Public bus line 28 runs hourly to Ljubljana bus station (takes approx. 50 minutes).
By Train:
Ljubljana’s main train station (Ljubljana Železniška postaja) is in the city center. You’ll find direct or connecting services from:
Vienna (6 hours) via ÖBB
Zagreb (2.5 hours) via Croatian Railways
Trieste (3 hours) via regional train
Munich (6–7 hours) via DB/ÖBB
By Bus:
The Ljubljana Bus Station (Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana) is next to the train station.
Operators like FlixBus, Arriva, and Nomago run direct lines from Venice (3 hrs), Trieste (2 hrs), Zagreb (2 hrs), and Budapest (6 hrs).
Departure
Your tour ends in Piran. From here, you have several convenient options for onward travel by plane, train, bus, or private transfer. Although Piran does not have an airport of its own, there are number of airports around.
The closest airports to Piran are:
Trieste Airport (TRS), Italy – about 80 km away. You can reach it via bus or taxi to Koper, then onward by bus or train to Trieste Airport. For more comfort, a direct GoOpti or Nomago transfer from Piran is a great option.
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) – Slovenia’s main airport is roughly 140 km away. You can take a bus from Piran to Ljubljana via Koper, or arrange a door-to-door shuttle through services like GoOpti, especially if you have a flight to catch.
Pula Airport (PUY), Croatia – around 100 km away. Cross-border taxis and transfers are available, but make sure you have the required travel documents. Bus connections are more limited but possible during summer.
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – about 190 km away. This major hub is accessible by train or FlixBus via Trieste, or by a direct shuttle for a more comfortable and faster ride.
By Bus Piran’s small bus terminal offers frequent service to Koper (45 minutes). From Koper, you’ll find direct buses to Ljubljana, Trieste, Pula, and other destinations. During the summer, additional international buses operate to Venice and Croatian towns. FlixBus and Arriva are the main operators.
By Train While Piran itself has no train station, the nearest are:
Koper Railway Station – 17 km away, connected by local buses or taxis. From here, trains run to Ljubljana and major Slovenian towns.
Trieste Centrale, Italy – around 40 km away. Easily reached via Koper or Portorož, this station connects to Venice, Milan, Rome, and other European cities.
Weather
<u>underlined text</u>Cycling around Slovenia is best between May and October, when summer sunshine and crisp autumn colors make for stunning rides.
Spring (March–May) offers blooming scenery and fewer tourists. Summer (June–August) is warm and lively, ideal for lakeside breaks.
Autumn (September–October) brings golden foliage and cooler, pleasant days.
Winter (November–February) sees snow and icy paths—cycling is limited, but the snow-dusted lake and mountains create a serene, storybook setting.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Good
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
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.
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.
Is proof of travel 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.
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 route is 95% paved, 5% unpaved.
The road type is 75% regional country roads, 15% cycleways, and 5% main road (city approach sections).
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
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.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our 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.
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.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
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.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
