8 days
From US $2,395
Self-guided Split to Dubrovnik Bike Tour
Croatia’s Adriatic coast has over 78 scenic islands, several of which are home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and historic monuments dating back to the Greek era.
This is a bike tour that enables you to explore the most gorgeous of these islands by both bike and ferry.
Ride through vineyards, olive groves, white sand beaches, and Roman ruins all you want. And when you've had your heart’s fill, hop onto a boat, cross over onto the next island, and repeat.
Visit Diocletian’s Palace in Split, built by the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 3rd century CE as a retreat for himself, ride through fields of lavender in the island of Hvar, and enjoy the finest Croatian wines on the island of Korčula.
Split
Dubrovnik
casual
moderate
50km or 30mi
6
Split
Dubrovnik
Min. 2, Max. 12
Highlights
Diocletian’s Palace
Visit the 1700 Diocletian’s Palace in Split
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Place | casual Inns or similar | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Split | Villa Baguc (4-star) | 17km / 10mi | cycling | |
| DAY 2 | Island of Hvar | Villa Nora Hvar | B | 60km / 36mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Island of Korčula | Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess (4-star) | B | 60km / 36mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Island of Korčula | Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess (4-star) | B | 35km / 21mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Ston | Hotel Ostrea | B | 50km / 30mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Dubrovnik | Hotel Ivka | B | ||
| DAY 7 | Konavle | Koraceva Kuca | B | 65km / 40mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Dubrovnik | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Split
Our tour begins in the historic city of Split in southern Croatia. Split is the second largest city in Croatia after Zagreb and is well connected by air and sea to major European destinations. We meet at our hotel for introductions and bike fitting and you can then head out for a short bike ride along Split’s beautiful Adriatic coast, climbing to the top of the 178m high Marjan hill. The hill is a landmark of the city and is covered in dense pine forests. From its top, it offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic sea on the one hand and the city of Split on the other hand.
With the day’s biking done, head out on a city tour. Founded more than 2000 years ago as a Greek colony, Split’s city center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The highlight of the day is a visit to the 1700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace. Built in the 4th century CE by the Roman emperor Diocletian, the palace was a small fortress that housed an entire military garrison. It is recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 2: Island of Hvar
Today sail off across the Adriatic to bike on the world-famous island of Hvar. Hvar is known for many things, but perhaps what it is known for the most is its field-upon field of lavender that comes alive in spring and early summer, painting the entire countryside a mesmerizing shade of purple. Stop to admire Stari Grad, a Greek village dating back to 400 BC and a UNESCO World Heritage site, before continuing on with the day’s biking through olive groves and vineyards.
Elevation gain: 950 m
Day 3: Island of Korčula
Continue island-hopping on the Adriatic as you board the ferry this morning and sail along with bikes to the lesser-known island of Korcula. The island is covered with thick forests of holm oak and pine that the Greeks used for building ships. It has excellent white sand beaches and great views of the clear blue waters of the Adriatic. But above all, Korcula is known for the excellent white wines it produces, three of which, namely, Posip, Rukatac, and Grk are especially noted among wine lovers. Stop by a small village and have a traditional Mediterranean lunch with a local family before heading to your hotel.
Elevation gain: 820 m
Day 4: Island of Korčula
While you extend your stay in Korcula, seize the opportunity to explore its hidden coves, picturesque old towns, charming small villages, and dense pine forests that blanket the island. Today offers several loop options, each leading you through vineyards, olive groves, and the stunning coastline. Indulge in traditional dishes like homemade gnocchi, macaroni, pasticada, and other culinary delights passed down through generations of locals. Don't miss the chance to savor some of Croatia's finest white wines produced on this island, enhancing the flavors of your lunch or dinner. And let's not forget, Korcula boasts being the birthplace of Marco Polo, where his legendary journey began!
Day 5: Ston
Begin the day with a short ferry ride to the peninsula of Peljesac. Peljesac is famous for producing Croatia’s finest wine — the Peljesac wine. A hilly island dotted with vineyards, Peljesac is also known for producing great oysters and mussels. As you bike through the beautiful countryside, stop at a quaint village called Ston, famous for having the longest fortified wall in Europe built back in the 14th century.
Elevation gain: 550m
Day 6: Dubrovnik
From Ston, enjoy a comfortable van transfer to Dubrovnik, where you’ll have a day to relax off the bike and explore this stunning historic city at your own pace. Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its fine medieval architecture and we suggest you spend some time exploring all the wonders it has to offer.
Day 7: Konavle
Your day begins with a morning car shuttle to Konavle, a fertile farming region nestled between Dubrovnik and the Montenegro border. Here, you’ll set out on a picturesque ride through the lush valley, passing through charming stone villages and farms.
Experience the pristine Ljuta River, its natural springs, and watermills, cycle through the serene Konavle Valley with views of the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery, and visit the historic Sokol Fortress.
Day 8: Dubrovnik
Today we transfer you to the Dubrovnik airport.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $675
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $100
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.
Additional Inclusions
- Assistance: bike fitting, detailed briefing with description of places you will be visiting en route, lunch options and marked map with options for shorter or longer routes
- Private water taxi shuttle between islands: Hvar – Korcula
- Ferry tickets Korcula island – Mljet island – Korcula island
- Day 6 transfer from Ston (Peljesac) to your accommodation in Dubrovnik
- Day 8 transfer to the Dubrovnik airport
- 24/7 emergency number
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.
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.
Cannondale Quick 5 or similar
Included in your trip price
Cube Cross Hybrid One 400 or similar
Available at a surcharge
What to Expect
We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:
A self-guided bike tour offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, but it also requires some preparation. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, here’s what you can expect:
Basic Bike Maintenance: While we provide well-maintained bikes, you’ll need to handle minor repairs, such as fixing a flat tire or adjusting the brakes. We suggest learning basic repair skills and carrying tools like a multi-tool.
Navigation: You’ll be in charge of navigating the route using provided maps, route notes, or GPS. Confidence in following directions is key, and it's important to be able to correct your path if you stray from the route.
Route Difficulty & Fitness: Our tours cater to various fitness levels, but it’s important to choose a route that matches your ability. Be ready for the distances and terrain outlined in your itinerary.
Safety First: Wearing a helmet is essential, and obeying local traffic rules is crucial. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in new or remote areas.
Luggage Transfers: We take care of transporting your luggage from one accommodation to the next, so you can focus on the ride. Simply drop off your bags at the designated time each morning, and they’ll be waiting for you at your next stop.
Weather
The best period for biking in Croatia is late spring (end of April till the end of June) and early autumn (end of August till the end of October). In the period mentioned it is not extremely hot, there is not too much traffic, and if you did not pre-book accommodation you can find it almost anywhere as it is not the main tourist season. It can happen if you have a couple of days of rain (rain showers). Summer temperatures vary from 22°C to 26°C in the continental part of the country, 15°C to 20°C in mountain regions, and 26°C to 30°C in the coastal region. The highest tourist season is from mid-July to mid-August, and usually not so easy to find accommodation (if not pre-booked).
Late November is not recommended for biking in Croatia as many hotels and restaurants are closed and weather is very unpredictable.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Best
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
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 soft-sided medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is on largely paved surface.
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.
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.
You can pack your regular riding gear such as jerseys and shorts. You should also pack a fleece jacket for wearing during evenings and early mornings, and rain jacket/covering just in case it rains.
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.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
