Slovenia Cycling Trip: From the Alps to the Adriatic - 6 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Ljubljana

Welcome to Slovenia!

Upon arrival at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, you will get a transfer to your hotel in Ljubljana (30 minutes away).

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia, and with a population of around 300,000, it's also the country's largest city. Ljubljana is so old that it even predates the Romans, but its city center was shaped much later, during the Middle Ages. The area is a pedestrian zone and is very easy to walk around. You can explore the narrow streets or stroll along the banks of the Ljubljanica River.

At the top of the hill above the city, Ljubljana Castle is another great place for a short walk with a beautiful view. Have a drink along the riverbanks or take the funicular up to the castle. Then, have dinner in one of the city's many restaurants, which are run by young talented chefs. 

If you arrive early, you can also join a biking tour and explore Ljubljana on two wheels or have a food expert take you around the best local bars, bistros, and cafes to discover the local food scene. 

Day 2: Bike from Laghi di Fusine to Lake Bled

After breakfast, a 1.5-hour transfer will take you to Laghi di Fusine, a peaceful lake in the northeastern corner of Italy set in a beautiful Alpine landscape. From there, you'll start your bike ride along beautiful side roads and dedicated bike lanes all the way to the shores of Lake Bled. 

Distance: approximately 30 miles (50 km) and 1500ft (0.5 km) elevation gain.

Day 3: Bike around Lake Bohinj & Soča Valley

Start your day with a short shuttle transfer to Pokljuka Plateau to avoid a long uphill ride. Then, bike across alpine meadows and mountain landscape as you bike all the way down to the shores of Lake Bohinj. You can also choose to bike to the west shore of the lake, before continuing along a tranquil bike lane to Bohinjska Bistrica.

From there, catch a short train ride through a series of tunnels to reach the western side of the Julian Alps. After that, follow the Soča River past waterfalls and the region's WWI museum all the way to Kobarid. 

Distance: approximately 40 miles (65 km), 1700 ft (0.5 km) elevation gain

Day 4: Bike from Soča Valley to Goriška Brda

This morning, take another shuttle to reach the Kolovrat ridge. From there, bike south along the ridge that separates Slovenia and Italy until you reach Goriška Brda, known for its rolling hills and vineyards. You can make a loop across the hills and stop at a local winemaker to sample some of their wine. Then, visit the town of Smartno and climb the nearby viewing tower for a panoramic view of the area. 

Distance: approximately 40 miles (65 km) and 2000 ft (0.6 km) elevation gain

Day 5: Bike along the Adriatic Coast

After breakfast, a 1.5-hour transfer will take you to the end of the Slovenian coast. From there, cycle across the hills of Slovenian Istria until you reach your final destination—the charming coastal town of Piran. Make sure to visit the town and take a walk around before having dinner in a nice restaurant to celebrate the end of your trip. 

Distance: approximately 30 miles (50 km) and 2300 ft (0.7 km) elevation gain

Day 6: Drive from Piran to Ljubljana and leave Slovenia

It's time to say farewell to Slovenia! Enjoy your last few hours in the country before driving back to Ljubljana for your return flight home. 

Driving time: 1.5 hours
Driving distance: 80 miles (128 km)