Cycling in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik offers a different kind of adventure for active travelers: exploring its stunning surroundings by bike. While the very old part of the city has its challenges for cyclists, the wider area around Dubrovnik offers a number of interesting options. These range from tough climbs for experienced road cyclists to easy, relaxed routes perfect for electric bikes and family trips.

Cycling lets you go at a pace that helps you discover more. You can stop at amazing viewpoints, meet local farmers and truly feel the atmosphere of this special part of Croatia. Here we’ll explain everything about cycling in Dubrovnik area and provide helpful information if you’re thinking about using a bike to see the beauty of this city and its lovely countryside.

Is Dubrovnik bicycle friendly?

The Old Town’s narrow cobbled streets, stone staircases and pedestrian-only rules make it impractical, and often prohibited, for cycling. The main coastal roads in and out of the city can be busy, particularly during summer and there are very few dedicated bike lanes.

Within the city limits, expect plenty of steep climbs and winding streets. Even fit cyclists will find it tiring. Short trips are possible, but for sightseeing, walking or public transport is often the better choice.

The picture changes entirely once you leave the urban area. The Konavle Valley and rural Dubrovnik-Neretva County offer quieter roads, more space and landscapes made for cycling. Traffic is light, the views are rewarding and, with an electric bike, even the hills become manageable. It’s in these areas that cycling truly becomes one of the best ways to tour the region.

Renting a bike in Dubrovnik

If you want to explore Dubrovnik and its surroundings on two wheels, you’ll find many places to rent bikes. These services offer different types of bikes to suit various needs, from regular mountain bikes and road bikes to the very popular electric bikes (e-bikes).

Types of bikes available:

• Mountain bikes (MTBs): ideal for rougher trails and countryside tracks, offering good suspension and grip
• Road bikes: lightweight and built for speed on tarmac, perfect for long-distance riders with experience
• Electric bikes (E-bikes): motor-assisted pedaling makes hills much easier and allows more relaxed exploration
• Hybrid bikes: a mix for both paved roads and light off-road trails

You can rent bikes by the hour, day or week. E-bikes generally cost more but open up more routes for riders of different fitness levels. It’s a good idea to book your bike ahead of time, especially during the busiest tourist seasons, to make sure you get the bike you want. Some rental services can even bring the bike to your hotel and pick it up later, which makes planning your cycling trip even simpler.

When you pick a rental, think about the kind of ground you’ll be riding on. For easier, flatter routes or if you prefer a less tiring ride, an e-bike is a great choice. If you’re an experienced cyclist looking for tough climbs and long rides, a good road bike or mountain bike would be better. Always ask about the condition of the bikes and if they offer help if your bike breaks down.

Routes for cycling in Dubrovnik

The peaceful Konavle Valley

Southeast of Dubrovnik, the Konavle Valley is the “green heart” of the region, with vineyards, olive groves and small villages lining well-kept roads. The terrain is mostly flat to gently rolling, which makes it ideal for families, relaxed rides and e-bike tours.

You can follow the Ljuta River past historic watermills, visit the 15th-century Franciscan monastery in Pridvorje or stop at local taverns in villages like Gruda and Čilipi. Biking & Wine Tasting tour (20 km) combines a leisurely ride with visits to vineyards and tastings of wine, liqueurs and dried figs in a traditional stone cellar.

For an even richer cultural day, some tours combine cycling with a cooking class at a local farm, where you pick vegetables from the garden and prepare traditional dishes before sitting down for a shared meal.

Coastal and mountain challenges

For more experienced riders, the surrounding coast and hills deliver some of Croatia’s most scenic and demanding routes. The Road Bike Tour from Dubrovnik to Konavle (about 60 km, 950 m elevation gain) mixes endurance stretches, rolling hills and coastal descents. It’s a guided, private ride with options for carbon-frame bikes and custom distances, but you can also follow this route on your own or with your friends of family.

Adventurous cyclists can tackle climbs to Mount Srđ for panoramic views of the Old Town or take on longer-distance challenges like the historic Ćiro Railway Trail (53 km) which links Herzegovina and Dubrovnik. Multi-day routes, such as the EuroVelo 8 Mediterranean Route or bikepacking journeys from Slovenia or Serbia, are possible for those prepared for long distances and heavy climbs.

Other areas to explore

Closer to the city, the Župa Dubrovačka Valley offers scenic riding just south of Dubrovnik. For multi-day cycling holidays, nearby islands like Mljet and Korčula combine stunning nature with quiet roads. Both of these beautiful islands are reachable by ferry, and you’ll find many cyclists on your way, especially on Korčula.

Guided cycling tours

If you prefer a planned and guided way to explore Dubrovnik by bike, several tour companies offer many different experiences. These tours are made for different interests and fitness levels. They often give you the bikes and gear and also experienced local guides. These guides can lead you on the most beautiful and suitable routes and share interesting facts about the local culture, history and nature. This can be very helpful for riding in new places and finding special spots you might miss if you were exploring on your own.

Choosing a guided cycling tour in Dubrovnik offers several advantages. First, it takes away the stress of planning your route and navigating unfamiliar roads. Your guide will know the best paths, avoiding busy areas and leading you to scenic viewpoints and hidden gems. Second, guided tours often include high-quality bikes and all necessary equipment, saving you the hassle of renting. Third, and perhaps most importantly, local guides provide valuable insights into the region. They can share stories, explain local traditions, and point out interesting landmarks, enriching your experience far beyond just the physical act of cycling. They also ensure your safety, especially on more challenging routes.

Some focus on multi-day tours that explore the islands or extend further into Croatia, while others might offer specialized tours like mountain biking adventures or cultural cycling routes. When choosing a tour, consider your fitness level, the type of scenery you want to see and whether you prefer a relaxed pace or a more challenging ride. Always check what is included in the tour price, such as transfers, meals and equipment, to ensure it meets your expectations.

Practical tips for cycling in Dubrovnik

To make your cycling trip in Dubrovnik as enjoyable and safe as possible, keep these practical tips in mind:

Best time to cycle in Dubrovnik

The best times to cycle in Dubrovnik are during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is usually pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and less intense sun compared to the peak summer months. The roads are also generally less crowded with tourists, so a riding experience is more relaxed.

Summer (July and August) can be very hot and the main roads are much busier, which can make cycling less comfortable and more challenging. If you do cycle in summer, try to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Gear and road awareness

Safety should always be your top priority. Always wear a helmet, regardless of your age or the law. It’s also a good idea to wear bright clothing, especially if you are cycling on roads shared with cars. Make sure your bike has working lights if you plan to ride in low light conditions.

Be aware of traffic, especially on main roads, and always follow local traffic laws. Croatian drivers are generally accustomed to cyclists, but caution is still advised. Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. If possible, choose routes that are less trafficked or have wider shoulders.

What to bring on your ride

Even for shorter rides, it’s wise to carry a few essentials. Always bring enough water to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days or longer routes. Snacks like energy bars or fruit can help maintain your energy levels. A small repair kit with a spare tube, tire levers and a pump can be a lifesaver in case of a flat tire.

Have your mobile phone fully charged for emergencies or navigation. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are also recommended to protect you from the sun.

Navigating and maps

While guided tours take care of navigation, if you’re cycling independently, it’s good to have a reliable map or GPS device. Many cycling apps offer detailed maps of the Dubrovnik region, highlighting bike-friendly routes and points of interest.

Offline maps are particularly useful in areas where mobile signal might be weak, especially in the mountain parts. Local tourist information centers can also provide paper maps or advice on suitable routes. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions or recommendations; they often know the best hidden paths.

Unique experience of cycling in Dubrovnik

Cycling in Dubrovnik offers a side of the region most visitors never see. While the Old Town isn’t suited to bikes, the valleys, coastlines and rural backroads beyond it are perfect for exploration on two wheels.

From easy e-bike routes in the Konavle Valley to demanding coastal climbs and historic trails, there’s something for every rider. With plenty of rental options and well-organized guided tours, it’s easy to add cycling to your Dubrovnik itinerary. So, choose your route, pick your bike and set out to experience the landscapes, flavors and traditions of this beautiful part of Croatia, one turn of the pedal at a time.

Photography: Pexels

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