Alpe Adria Bicycle Route

Ride from the Alps to the Adriatic on the Alpe Adria Bicycle Route. This cross-border classic links Austria and Italy, threading valleys, rail-trails, and historic towns all the way to the coast. It’s well signed, popular, and doable in stages or as a full end-to-end adventure.

Expect real climbing in the Alpine stretch, then a gentler roll through Friuli toward the sea. Surfaces are mostly paved cycleways and quiet roads, with some gravel, cobbles, and short busier sections—lights are handy for tunnels and galleries. Highlights along the way include Salzburg’s old town, the lakes and rivers around Villach, the scenic rail-trail near Tarvisio with tunnels and viaducts, stone villages like Venzone, and Roman history near Aquileia before reaching seaside Grado.

Best ridden from late spring to autumn. A touring or gravel bike is ideal; road bikes are fine with care on the unpaved bits. E-bikes are common and easy to support in towns along the route. Check local conditions and any short train links through the high mountains. Whether you pick a favorite stage or go all the way from the Alps to the Adriatic, it’s a memorable ride.