Parenzana cycling route from Trieste to Porec
Duration: 3 days - Departure from Trieste (IT) and arrival in Porec (HR) - L= 145km, D = 1770m
A three-day journey starting from the suggestive Gulf of Trieste, in the north-eastern corner of Italy, to discover the heart of Istria. This itinerary flows between the deep blue of the Adriatic Sea and the quiet of the hinterland, where lush vineyards and thick forests alternate with historic hilltop villages and coastal towns carved into the rock.
We will cycle mainly along the track of the old Austro-Hungarian railway, a historic line opened in 1902 that once connected Trieste to Poreč. The railway origins are our greatest advantage: the gradients remain constantly below 5%, allowing us to cross the hills with long, smooth curves and a steady pace. Even though the modernization of the last half-century has transformed some segments of the old "rail road," the current cycling paths have preserved its charm, leading us to remote corners and panoramic views that would have been impossible to glimpse even from the windows of the old locomotive.
The route is simple and rewarding, designed for cycle tourists of all levels who wish to combine sport, history, and nature. The entire trip is guaranteed by the collaboration with the best specialized Tour Operators and Travel Agencies, ensuring an excellent experience supported by my technical assistance and deep knowledge of the territory.
Day 1
From Trieste to the pearls of Istria
The tour starts in the heart of Trieste, right next to the railway station, in a perfectly connected location with convenient parking. Leaving the elegance of the Habsburg city behind, we follow the old railway line, now transformed into a cycling haven. We will venture through the meadows and woods of the Karst region, where gentle slopes on protected paths lead the way, with our eyes always fixed on the brilliant blue of the sea.
Just a few pedal strokes in, we reach the Molo Audace pier for a stunning view of the gulf and the road ahead. After crossing the majestic Piazza Unità d’Italia, we ride along the shores to join the Cottur cycle path toward Val Rosandra. A scenic descent brings us to Muggia, where we cross the Slovenian border onto the official Parenzana (D8). The trail winds through trees and vineyards, touches the lagoon, and crosses Koper, where the seafront is the perfect spot for a break or a dip in the water. The final stretch is pure emotion: a traffic-free road hugging the gulf in total relaxation, eventually turning toward the countryside to end the day in the Mediterranean atmosphere of Portorož.
Technical: 51 km | Elevation gain: + 570 m
Day 2
Into the Wild Heart of Istria
The second day moves from the flat seafront into the hilly charm of the Istrian inland. The route features long but gentle climbs through untouched nature, where the medieval towns of Buje and Grožnjan serve as strategic rest points. After passing the Sečovlje salt pans and crossing the border into Croatia, the smooth asphalt gives way to the authentic gravel of the old railway tracks.
Riding through tunnels and over bridges, we eventually reach a panoramic point overlooking the unmistakable walled town of Motovun, our breathtaking destination.
Technical: 60 km | + 930 m
Day 3
Red Soil and the Blue of Poreč
The final day is the shortest and easiest, allowing plenty of time to explore the finish line. We ride through the famous "Red Soil" district, where the vibrant earth creates a stunning contrast with the green vineyards and woods.
Smooth gravel paths lead us on a gentle descent toward the coast. After a refreshing swim in the Adriatic, we cycle along the historic city walls to the main square of Poreč. A shuttle service will bring us back to Trieste in the evening.
Technical: 35 km | + 270 m | Return: Shuttle to Trieste
In collaboration with
Three days in the saddle discovering the beauty of the Parenzana Cycle Route, crossing two borders and countless landscapes and panoramas!
I provide personal guiding and 24/7 technical assistance for a safe and seamless experience. Logistics, managed in synergy with top Tour Operators, include 3*** and 4**** hotels with breakfast, route transfers, and the return shuttle from Poreč to Trieste. This partnership ensures premium planning while I exclusively handle on-field guiding and safety.
