Cycling day trip from Ljubljana to Izola

Get ready for a real adventure as you ride from the lively streets of Ljubljana to the relaxed seaside town of Izola! Starting in Slovenia’s capital—renowned for its charming old town, dragon bridges, and vibrant café scene—you’ll quickly leave city life behind as you pedal southwest. The route winds through rolling hills and lush forests, with some serious climbs along the way (brace yourself for almost 2,800 meters of ascent!). But every ascent comes with a reward, and you’ll cruise down scenic descents, soaking up panoramic views of green valleys and small Slovenian villages.

You’ll be spending most of your journey on quiet roads and tracks, with a fair bit of gravel and the occasional unpaved section adding extra adventure—so a sturdy bike and good tires are advisable! Once you reach the sparkling Adriatic and roll into Izola’s harbor, you can swap your cycling shoes for flip-flops and explore this picturesque fishing town with its Venetian architecture and welcoming seafront.

This is a route for anyone craving a proper cross-country adventure through some of Slovenia’s best scenery—all the way from urban buzz to a blissful coastal vibe.