Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Vienna to Trieste Habsburg Trail Three Country E-Bike Tour
Cycle through history on a scenic journey linking Vienna, Graz, Maribor, Ljubljana, and Trieste; five cities once united under the Habsburg Empire. Following the historic south railway route, this self-guided e-bike tour traces the cultural and geographic thread connecting Central Europe to the Adriatic coast.
Begin in Vienna, where imperial architecture and coffeehouse culture set the tone. Ride through the spa towns and vineyards of Lower Austria, the alpine landscapes of Styria, and the wine-rich hills of Slovenia. Explore Maribor’s medieval lanes, the lively capital of Ljubljana, and the remarkable Postojna Caves before reaching Trieste, a seaside city where Central European elegance meets Mediterranean charm.
Each day combines comfortable cycling with cultural discovery, local cuisine, and hand-picked 3- to 4-star accommodations. The tour reveals how the legacy of the Habsburg era still shapes the landscapes, cities, and traditions along this historic route.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Vienna
Trieste
moderate to challenging
62 km / 39 mi
9
Min. 2, Max. 14
Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Trieste Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (TRS)
Highlights

The Historical Habsburg Connection
The cycle connects five former Habsburg cities—Vienna, Graz, Maribor, Ljubljana, and Trieste, along the historic south railway road. This route allows you to experience their rich, shared cultural heritage firsthand.

UNESCO World Heritage Semmering Railway
Includes a scenic ride on the UNESCO World Heritage Semmering Railway, the world's first mountain railroad. The train bypasses the main ascent, taking you through stunning viaducts to your cycle start in Semmering.

Graz and the Mur Cycle Path
Follow the Mur Cycle Path through Styria, the "green heart" of Austria. Arrive in Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for the Schlossberg and its historic old town.

Wine Tasting in South Styria and Maribor
Cycle through Southern Styria, a famous wine region with picturesque vineyards and traditional taverns for tasting local specialties. The stage ends in Maribor, home to the world's oldest vine.

Karst Caves and Predjama Castle
Visit the impressive Postojna Caves, one of the world's largest karst cave systems and a natural wonder. Nearby, explore Predjama Castle, a medieval fortress spectacularly built into a rock face.

The Mediterranean Flair of Trieste
The tour concludes in Trieste, an Italian port city with a blend of Italian and Austrian culture. Enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere and the city's famous architecture and coffee house culture.
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 | Vienna | Hotel Roomz (4 star) | B | cycling | |
| DAY 2 | Wiener Neustadt | Hotel Zentral | B | 61 km / 38 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Bruck an der Mur | Hotel Landskron (4 Star) | B | 63 km / 39 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Graz | Hotel Das Weitzer (4 Star) | B | 61 km / 38 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Maribor | Hotel Orel | B | 75 km / 47 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Lasko | Hotel Thermana Lasko (4 Star) | B | 83 km / 52 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Ljubljana | Hotel City (4 Star Hotel) | B | 83 km / 52 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Postojna | Hotel Kras (4 Star Hotel) | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 9 | Trieste | Hotel NH Trieste (4 Star Hotel) | B | 76 km / 47 mi | cycling |
| DAY 10 | Trieste | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Vienna
Your imperial adventure kicks off in the magnificent waltz capital, Vienna. The entire arrival day is dedicated to your own personal exploration of the city. You might take a peaceful walk through the historic center. Alternatively, settle in at a typical Viennese Heuriger to experience local culinary traditions.

Day 2: Wiener Neustadt
Leave the urban area behind and immerse yourself in the spa region's acclaimed wine production. The route offers glimpses of local wine tavern traditions in the quaint villages. You’ll pass through Baden, a UNESCO World Heritage town recognized for its thermal springs.
The stage finishes in Wiener Neustadt. This town boasts medieval fortress architecture, having been established using the ransom for King Richard the Lionheart. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk through its historic district.


Day 3: Bruck an der Mur
The day commences with a spectacular, included transfer aboard the UNESCO Semmering Railway. This engineering marvel was the world's first mountain railway. It navigates impressive tunnels and viaducts to deliver you to the starting point of your cycle stage in Semmering.
From there, you cycle alongside the phenomenal mountain scenery of Styria. The ride concludes upon arrival in the charming community of Bruck an der Mur. Here you can discover a wonderful fusion of natural beauty and culture, exemplified by its medieval structures.


Day 4: Graz
Pedal along the Mur Cycle Path, following the course of Austria's second-largest river. You traverse Styria, often called the nation's green heart. Witness the distinct shift in topography as the landscape transforms from an alpine setting to the mild climate of the Graz basin.
The stage destination is Graz, the Styrian capital. The city is captivating, famous for the majestic Schlossberg hill and its UNESCO World Heritage historic center.


Day 5: Maribor
The path takes you through Southern Styria, which stands out as a major highlight. This is one of Austria's most celebrated wine districts. The scenery is defined by scenic vineyards and traditional taverns. This presents a perfect opportunity for a rest stop and a taste of regional delicacies. You cycle into Slovenia to reach Maribor.
The city's claim to fame includes hosting the oldest grape vine on Earth. Be captivated by Maribor's enchanting old town, filled with narrow lanes and historic plazas.


Day 6: Lasko
Cycling continues across the rolling hills of the Slovenian wine region, Slovenska Stajerska. This area is recognized as a vital Slovenian wine-growing district. You’ll find ample places to pause and visit local vintners. The route passes Celje, Slovenia’s third-largest city.
You proceed toward the small resort town of Laško. Laško is renowned for its therapeutic thermal springs and its popular local beer. A stop at the local brewery is an excellent way to conclude your cycling for the day.


Day 7: Ljubljana
Travel through traditional Slovenian hamlets, gaining a close perspective of the nation's rural life. The ascent over the Trojan Pass is a noteworthy part of the route. A brief upward cycle is rewarded with magnificent views of the adjacent mountains and valleys. Don't miss sampling the "Trojan doughnuts," which are filled dumplings, at a nearby bakery.
An optional train ride is available between Hrastnik and Sava to reduce the total distance to 66 or 78 km. Your final stop is Ljubljana, one of Europe's most appealing capital cities. Discover the energetic old town, including the famous Tromostovje bridges and Ljubljana Castle.


Day 8: Postojna
The ride toward Postojna takes you over the distinct karst landscape. This region is characterized by unique rock formations and subterranean waterways. Postojna is internationally acclaimed for its Postojna Caves. This immense system is one of the world's largest karst caves, a true natural wonder.
It provides a unique opportunity to explore a fascinating underground world. Nearby, you can admire the striking Predjama Castle. This medieval fortification is dramatically built right into a cliff face.


Day 9: Trieste
Complete your cycle across the Slovenian karst, then start noticing the first signs of the Mediterranean as you enter Italy. Trieste marks the successful conclusion of your tour. Along the final stretch, you'll be treated to impressive vistas of the Adriatic Sea and the coastline.
Soak up the distinct Mediterranean ambiance of the city. Trieste is a port renowned for its blend of Italian and Austrian traditions. Today, it’s celebrated for its grand architecture and vibrant coffee culture.


Day 10: Trieste
This is the designated final day of your cycling holiday. You should now organize your personal return travel arrangements. Alternatively, you have the option to extend your stay by booking additional nights in Trieste.
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.

Hotel Roomz (4 star)

Hotel Zentral

Hotel Landskron (4 star)

Hotel Das Weitzer (4 star)

Hotel Orel

Hotel Thermana Lasko (4 star)

Hotel City (4 star)

Hotel Kras (4 star)

Hotel NH (4 star)
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $750
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $200
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
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
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.

KTM Macina Fun Unisex or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Fly into Vienna International Airport (VIE), which is well connected to major European hubs such as Frankfurt, Zurich, Paris, and London. From the airport, the City Airport Train (CAT) and ÖBB Railjet offer direct service to Vienna city center in about 15–20 minutes. Airport buses and taxis are also readily available outside the arrivals area. A taxi to most central hotels takes around 25–30 minutes and costs approximately €35–€45.
Departure
At the end of your tour in Trieste, Italy, the nearest airport is Trieste Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (TRS), about 35 km from the city. It offers good connections to cities like Rome, Milan, Munich, and Frankfurt. You can reach the airport via train or airport shuttle from Trieste Centrale station in around 30–40 minutes, or by taxi/private transfer in about the same time.
Weather
The best weather for this Vienna-Trieste cycling tour is found in the shoulder seasons of late Spring (May/early June) and early Autumn (September), offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
The ideal conditions occur when daytime highs are comfortable for sustained physical activity without the risk of extreme heat. Across the route (Vienna, Ljubljana, Trieste), May and September offer maximum average temperatures typically between 19°C (66°F) and 23°C (73°F). Daily cycling temperatures will be comfortably warm, dropping to lows around 10°C (50°F) to 14°C (57°F) at night. While May can bring unpredictable rain, September is often sunnier and drier, providing the most stable conditions. July and August are hot, with highs frequently hitting 28°C (82°F) or more, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion, especially in the valleys and in Trieste.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Best
October
Good
November
Mixed
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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