Parenzana – a cycling route in Istria
15 September 2026 · by Zorica Ivanović
A former narrow-gauge railway through tunnels and viaducts between medieval towns. Why we love Parenzana.
Parenzana is one of the most beautiful cycling routes I know. It follows a former narrow-gauge railway that once connected Trieste with Poreč.
A little history
The railway operated for a few decades in the early twentieth century. Today it is a cycling route through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia.
What is the route like?
- Gentle climbs – trains could not handle steep hills
- Tunnels (bring a light) and viaducts
- Gravel surfaces on several sections
- The towns of Motovun, Grožnjan and Vižinada
Who is it suitable for?
The gentle gradient makes it manageable for less-trained cyclists. On gravel I recommend a trekking bike or an e-bike with wider tyres.
More cycling in Croatia
Parenzana is not on our current programme, but Croatia is full of other rides. See all our Croatian tours, for example Hvar from Jelsa or cycling and swimming on Krk.
Hvar: island cycling from Jelsa
21 – 29 May 2027
Available spots: 7
