Article Cycling in Croatia

In Croatia, cycling is not only a sport but a way to connect with nature and culture. From mountain trails to coastal promenades, and historic towns to untouched natural parks, Croatia offers an incredible variety of cycling routes that attract adventure enthusiasts and recreational riders worldwide.

Croatia is a paradise for cycle tourists thanks to the success of races such as the Cro Race and 4 Islands MTB, the available trails, and even increasingly popular cycling apps. You can choose from among thousands of routes through beautiful, untouched nature.

Istria, Kvarner, and Dalmatia offer unforgettable landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. The Parenzana in Istria, a former railway line connecting Poreč and Trieste, is now a popular cycling route that winds through vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages. Bicycling is very popular in Istria, and you can discover wonders along about 500km of networked bicycle paths!

For challenge-seekers, the Velebit and Učka mountains offer demanding trails with stunning panoramic views.  Učka Nature Park boasts eight bicycle paths of different degrees of difficulty, totaling 180 km of MTB-category trails. Paklenica National Park is a paradise for hikers and cyclists looking for adventure in the wilderness, with trails particularly suited for advanced and experienced individuals.

In addition to its beautiful coastline, Dalmatia offers exciting routes inland, in Krka National Park and the Cetina Canyon. While some of Krka National Park’s cycling paths are suitable for all ages, others are tailored for mountain bikers who can manage more challenging terrain. The islands of Brač, Hvar, Korčula, and the Pelješac peninsula have networks of cycle routes winding through olive groves, vineyards, and Mediterranean vegetation, offering incredible views of the sea and nearby islands.

Inland regions such as Slavonia and Baranja, Central Croatia, and Zagreb County offer plains, hills, and historic towns ideal for leisurely cycling. Slavonia and Baranja are known for their nature parks, vineyards, and villages where cyclists can explore ethnic heritage, taste local food and wine, and enjoy relaxed rides through pleasant countryside.

With such diverse routes and terrain, Croatia has become a top destination for cycling tourism and keeps developing cycling infrastructure, including marked trails, service centers, and information points. An increasing number of organized cycling tours in Croatia make planning and organizing trips easier. Croatia is also integrated into the EuroVelo network of cycling routes, which connects the entire European continent. These routes allow tourists to travel by bike through different countries and landscapes, exploring various cultures and natural beauty.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a family looking for a recreational activity, Croatia suits  everyone who wants to explore the country’s beauty on two wheels.