What equipment do I need to bring?

The basics include sturdy hiking boots, a comfortable backpack, weather-appropriate clothing, and a water bottle. For some tours, you might also need specialized equipment like hiking poles, which you can find recommended in the What To Bring section on each of our tours.

How do I get to the starting point of the tour?

Most of our tours begin in locations that are easily accessible via public transportation. Whether in Europe, the Americas, or other regions, the starting points are typically near major airports, train stations, or bus stops. We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to reach the start of your tour using public transport options. If you prefer more convenience, we can arrange private transfers directly from the airport or train station to your starting location for an additional charge.

Is accommodation included in the tours?

Yes, accommodation is included in all of our tours. We carefully select hotels, guesthouses, and mountain huts that offer comfort and a welcoming atmosphere after a day of hiking.

What is the accommodation like on a walking tour?

Typically, you'll stay in comfortable 3-star hotels, guesthouses, or mountain huts in more remote areas. Please note that in the mountain huts, accommodations are often shared, with dormitory-style rooms, though some huts offer private rooms if booked well in advance.

Can I upgrade the accommodations?

Yes, accommodation upgrades are generally possible for most hotels or B&Bs. In the case of mountain huts, there are usually no other options nearby. However, you can book a private room instead of a dormitory if you are early enough. Please note that upgrading accommodations will affect the final tour price.

What is the tourist tax?

Tourist tax is a small fee charged by some destinations, ranging from €0.50 to €2.50 per night. It is commonly included in your final accommodation bill. However, in some cases, it may need to be paid in cash on-site.

What is luggage transfer?

Luggage transfer means your baggage is transported from one accommodation to another throughout the tour. It comes convenient on most of our tours except the location-based ones, as it lessens the burden on your back during the hike and allows you to bring additional luggage. Please note that luggage transfer is not possible on all treks.

Will my luggage be transported?

Luggage transfer is not possible in every location, especially on high-altitude treks. Therefore, we don't include it by default. However, you can optionally add it to your booking on the tours where it's doable. Please note that adding the luggage transfer affects the final price of the hiking tour.

What is the luggage allowance?

Each transfer allows only one bag per person, which must be soft. The maximum weight permitted is 15 kg. Additionally, bags must not contain food, beverages, medicines, valuables, money, or official documents.

What does a typical day look like on a walking tour?

Every day on a hiking tour begins in the same way: with breakfast. Then, it differs between the tour types. On hut-to-hut or inn-to-inn hikes, you must leave the accommodation early enough to reach your next lodging within the check-in window. On center-based hikes, you can leave and return anytime (barring any additional instructions from the accommodation). You can even opt out of hiking and stay in. On travel & hike tours , you might initially have to drive or take public transportation to the hike's starting point before moving on to your next accommodation. After hiking, you can spend the rest of the day as you please.

What if the weather changes unexpectedly during my hike?

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in mountainous areas. We closely monitor conditions and will inform you if changes are necessary. As long as you dress accordingly, you can do most of our hikes in light rain. In case of severe weather and storms, we’ll advise you on alternative routes, suggest less strenuous hikes, or offer public transport options.

What happens if I need help on the trail?

Our support is available to solve minor issues. Additionally, your digital guidebook will include a contact for the local emergency services in the case of a severe crisis.

Can you accommodate my food restrictions?

Buffet breakfasts in hotels or guesthouses offer enough variety to accommodate vegetarians and vegans. Mountain hut meals are more limited but usually include at least one vegan option. For strict dietary restrictions, you should consider bringing your own food. If you have particular dietary expectations, you must inform us in advance.

Can I extend my trip?

Absolutely! You can extend your holiday by adding extra lodgings to your booking before, during, or after the tour. We will book the additional nights of accommodation and provide recommendations to make the most of your extended stay.

Are meals included in the price?

Aside from some exceptions in remote places, your booking encompasses half-board accommodation in mountain huts and accommodation with breakfast in hotels, guesthouses, or B&Bs. We provide lunch and dinner recommendations for the latter, allowing you to experience the local cuisine according to your taste instead of eating at the hotel.

Will I have cell reception in the mountains?

It varies, but as a rule of thumb, you should expect poor mobile reception on our high-altitude hikes. Nonetheless, our travel material and GPS-navigation app can be used offline, ensuring you are fully prepared for any situation.

Of course. We even curated a selection of hiking tours most suitable for solo travelers .

Are these tours kid-friendly?

It depends on their age and experience, but we also picked several tours suitable for families with children of all ages and levels of experience.

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Parenzana Railway Trek

10 days / 9 nights

Trek the historic Parenzana Trail through 3 countries – Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia – exploring stunning coastlines, medieval towns, and Istrian countryside.

Starting point

Trieste

Finish point

Poreč

Season

From April to September

Technical level

1/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Inn-to-Inn

Trek the historic Parenzana Trail through 3 countries – Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia – exploring stunning coastlines, medieval towns, and Istrian countryside.

Choose your style

Self-guided from 1.440 €/person

Cancel in the first 48h for free

Reserve your spot with a minimum deposit

Samo Travel Expert

Book a call

Trek the historic Parenzana Trail through 3 countries – Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia – exploring stunning coastlines, medieval towns, and Istrian countryside.

Starting point

Trieste

Finish point

Poreč

Season

From April to September

Technical level

1/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Inn-to-Inn

Highlights

Trek across three countries in a single journey
Follow the historic path of the old Parenzana railway line
Enjoy the variety of landscapes—from the Adriatic coastline to the rolling hills of Istria
Hike from medieval towns and Venetian architecture to UNESCO-listed landmarks
Explore the scenic hilltop villages of Grožnjan and Motovun
Savor Istria’s culinary delights with local truffles, topnotch wines and olive oils

Itinerary of the trip

Arrive in the historic city of Muggia, where Italy meets the Adriatic Sea. Since Muggia is, a south-eastern regional entity of Trieste, you can spend the rest of the day exploring the city’s Austro-Hungarian architecture, vibrant cafes, and waterfront. Take time to visit the Piazza Unità d'Italia, one of Europe’s largest sea-facing squares, and enjoy local Italian cuisine.

Accommodation

Hotel Sonia

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Begin your hike from Trieste, following the scenic Parenzana Trail towards Slovenia. Cross the border into Slovenia and continue through the picturesque landscapes to Koper. This coastal town, known as Capodistria in Italian, boasts a rich medieval history and beautiful Venetian architecture. Explore Koper’s old town, with highlights like the Praetorian Palace and Tito Square.

Hiking

15.1 km and 110 m of elevation gain and 110 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Hotel Capris Capodistria

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

The trail from Koper to Strunjan is one of the most scenic coastal sections, taking you through the charming town of Izola. You will pass through two significant tunnels, including the 250 meters long Šalet Tunnel, and a beautiful stretch along the Strunjan Nature Reserve. This section offers views of the sea and the Strunjan cliffs.

Hiking

16 km and 110 m of elevation gain and 110 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Bioenergy Resort Salinera Hotel

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

This relatively short but scenic walk takes you through the famous seaside resort of Portorož and the historic town of Piran. The Valeta Tunnel, connecting Strunjan and Portorož, is a highlight, along with the picturesque salt pans of Sečovlje. Piran’s Venetian Gothic architecture and the coastal setting make it one of the most beautiful spots on the trail. Once you soak in the views, you will continue to the resort town Portorož, where you will spend the night.

Hiking

10 km and 110 m of elevation gain and 110 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Hotel Riviera

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Depart Portorož and walk through the Sečovlje Salt Pans, a unique cultural and natural heritage site. Cross into Croatia and head inland toward Buje. This section includes some rolling hills and passes by the old railway station at Buje, where you can still see remnants of the Parenzana railway. The path is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, offering a glimpse into rural Istria.

Hiking

25 km and 310 m of elevation gain and 120 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Casa Romantica La Parenzana

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Hike from Buje to Grožnjan, a scenic hilltop village known for its art galleries and music festivals. This part of the trail is one of the most scenic stages of the Parenzana trail, as it is rich in historical remnants, including viaducts and tunnels. You’ll pass the Kalci Tunnel, the highest point on the Parenzana (293 meters), and multiple viaducts offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Grožnjan, also know as the “Town of the Artists”, is one of the most picturesque villages along the trail, so take time to explore it’s cobblestone streets and numerous artisan shops & galleries.

Hiking

7.2 km and 130 m of elevation gain and 40 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

B&B Artegnana 1798

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Today, your journey will continue towards Motovun, another medieval hilltop town famous for its truffles and well-preserved town walls. This section of the trail includes several tunnels and viaducts, including the Završje Viaduct, and offers panoramic views of the Mirna River Valley. Motovun is a highlight of the trail, with its rich history and beautiful setting.

Hiking

22.3 km and 160 m of elevation gain and 320 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Villa Borgo B&B

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

This day takes you from the medieval hilltop town of Motovun to the picturesque village of Vižinada. Starting in Motovun, you will explore its charming streets before heading down through the historic Motovun Tunnel. The hike leads you past scenic viewpoints and through vineyards, offering stunning views of the Mirna River Valley. Along the way, you'll cross the Sabadin and Krvar viaducts, where you can pause to take in the breathtaking landscape. The day concludes in Vižinada, a village rich in history and local culture.

Hiking

12.5 km and 180 m of elevation gain and 40 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Rural Apartments Ritossa

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

Leaving Vižinada, the trail winds through rolling hills and fields dotted with olive groves and vineyards. The route is peaceful, allowing you to enjoy the serene Istrian countryside. You’ll pass by small villages, each offering a glimpse into traditional Istrian life. The day’s journey ends in Višnjan, famous for its observatory and charming old town, where you can relax and enjoy the local hospitality.

Hiking

10 km and 20 m of elevation gain and 110 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Apartment Complex Villa Visnjan with Pool

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

The final leg of your journey takes you from Višnjan to the coastal town of Poreč. The trail descends through lush landscapes, gradually opening up to reveal stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. As you hike, you will pass through a series of small, picturesque villages and scenic viewpoints. Upon reaching Poreč, you can explore its historic sites, including the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, and enjoy the vibrant seaside atmosphere. This day marks a beautiful conclusion to your hiking adventure along the Parenzana Trail.

Hiking

14 km and 20 m of elevation gain and 250 m of elevation loss

Accommodation

Hotel Mediteran Plava Laguna

Note: This accommodation is an example of the type and level you will stay in.

Gallery

It’s time to bid farewell to the beautiful town of Poreč. Depending on your departure time, you might still have some time to explore Poreč’s charming old town or relax by the Adriatic Sea before your departure. Reflect on the incredible journey that took you through Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia.

Gallery

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

9 nights in 3-star hotels with breakfast

Digital guidebook with itinerary, route instructions, and practical information

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

Tour design and organization

Service and support during your hike

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Airport transfer

Extra nights

Hotel upgrades

Luggage transfer

Single supplement

Wine tasting

What to bring to the tour

Hiking shoes/boots
25 to 35-liter backpack
Base layer
Sports T-shirts
Hiking shorts
Hiking water-repellent pants
Waterproof jacket
Midlayer
Sports socks and underwear
Leisurewear for evenings

Shade hat/cap
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hiking poles
ID card or passport
Snacks
Cash
Water bottles or hydration pack
Toiletries

The Northern Adriatic Trekking Tour offers an unparalleled hiking experience through three countries – Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia – along the historic Parenzana railway trail.

This trail is one of the most popular hiking and cycling routes in the region, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. It offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, from stunning Adriatic coastlines to the rolling hills and picturesque Istrian countryside, all while following the path of a historic railway.

The Parenzana Trail, once a narrow-gauge railway connecting Trieste to Poreč, is now a well-preserved and marked trail that showcases the natural beauty and rich history of the Northern Adriatic.

As you hike, you’ll pass through historic tunnels and viaducts, remnants of the railway’s past, offering a journey not just through nature but also through time. Each section of the trail provides something unique, from the coastal charm of Slovenian towns like Koper and Piran to the serene vineyards and olive groves of Istria.

Along the way, you’ll explore medieval towns with Venetian Gothic architecture, visit UNESCO-listed landmarks like the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, and discover the rich culinary traditions of Istria, famous for its truffles, wines, and olive oils. Whether you’re walking through the Sečovlje Salt Pans, enjoying the art scene in Grožnjan, or savoring local delicacies in Motovun, this tour offers a rich and immersive experience that is both physically rewarding and culturally enriching.

Our services are crafted to transform your trek into a worry-free adventure, where all you need to focus on is the journey ahead. We tailor your itinerary to match your pace and interests, ensuring that every step of your trek is as personalized as it is exhilarating. But we don’t stop there. Our local knowledge gives you access to hidden gems and local secrets that you might otherwise miss – whether it’s the perfect spot for a sunset view or a recommendation for the best local dish.

Ready to tick the Parenzana trail off of your bucket list?

Frequently Asked Questions

Of course. We aim to make your decision as easy as possible. Therefore, we crafted several selections targeted at particular groups of hikers – Best for Beginners, Best for Advanced Hikers, Mountain Hikes, Pilgrimages, Classic Treks, etc.

If you remain unsure and overwhelmed, you can fill out this form or book a call with us, and we can help you directly.

The sooner, the better! Booking in advance ensures you secure a spot, especially on popular routes where accommodations in remote areas can fill up quickly. For tours like the Tour du Mont Blanc and Alta Via, it's best to book several months ahead, as these areas have limited availability in mountain huts.

However, for some of our less-traveled tours, it's possible to book just a few weeks in advance, though availability and comfort may be more limited, particularly in remote areas with fewer options. To ensure you have the best experience, we always recommend booking early, especially during peak hiking seasons.

Our tours offer flexible starting days, allowing you to begin whenever suits you. However, for some of our most popular routes, like the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) and Alta Via, we have selected departure days due to high demand and pre-booked accommodations. Be sure to check the specific requirements for these tours.

We offer a variety of tours suitable for different fitness levels and technical abilities. Some of them require no prior hiking experience.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, we have the perfect route for you. You can find more information in our Hiking Difficulty Guide, and we also have dedicated sections for Best for Beginners and Best for Advanced Hikers to help you choose the suitable tour.

The fitness level is based on a scale determined by our hiking experts. It varies depending on the tour and defines the selected hiking tour's physical requirements in comparison to others. For a detailed overview, please refer to our Hiking Difficulty Guide.

The technical demands of each hike differ. The technical-level scale defines the technical requirements of each tour in comparison to others, ranging from basic walking to scrambling or using specialized equipment. For a more in-depth explanation of the five levels, please refer to our Hiking Difficulty Guide.

Most of our tours are self-guided, meaning you have the freedom to explore at your own pace without being tied to a group schedule. We provide detailed digital guidebooks that include maps, route notes, and GPS files to ensure a smooth experience.

You can learn more about the concept by reading Self-Guided Tours Explained. We include a guide only for the most challenging treks, like the Triglav Summit Climb.

We provide a comprehensive digital guidebook with maps, route notes, accommodation details, and emergency contacts. Our support will be available during the tour. However, you'll have all the information you need to enjoy your hike independently.

Check out how self-guided tours work in more detail and an example of our digital guidebook here.

Choose your style

Self-guided from 1.440 €/person

Cancel in the first 48h for free

Reserve your spot with a minimum deposit

Samo Travel Expert

Book a call

Ratings & Reviews

5.0 average rating

+59

Carly Leonard

Verified customer

My friend and I went with Triglav Tours for a 3 day, 2 night hike this summer and had the most amazing time!! Our guide, Bine, was awesome and had lots of cool facts to share about the area we were hiking. Additionally, my friend and I had not completed such a technical hike before and the guide and other guests were very patient with us and encouraging, ensuring we felt safe the entire time. The overnights were also such a fun way to get to know Bine, the other guests, and other hikers as well. Cannot recommend Triglav tours enough!!!

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Michael White

Verified customer

I arranged a six-day/five-night trip with Hut to Hut Slovenia. It's the first time I've gone with a tour organizer and I can say it went really well. In the past I've arranged huts myself and it is a huge hassle figuring out how to make the bookings, if the bookings actually exist, and what good/viable routes might be. Having this all sort was, at least to me, totally worth it. The routing is via Ride with GPS, which was great. I'd recommend bringing 1:25,000 scale paper maps as a backup, just in case. The huts themselves differ wildly. Some are really rustic with, ahem, interesting toilet facilities. One was accessible by road and thus had showers, a long menu, and even espresso. All will have some sort of food, but you might only have two options for dinner (one with meat, one vegetarian). The cuisine in the Slovenian huts leans strongly to stews and goulashes with minimal fresh vegetables and/or fruit. Certainly good and hearty but pretty much everyone I talked to said the food was better in the Italian and Austrian huts. Some huts are cash only, some take cards (but the card reader might be down). A 1.5 litre bottle of water is about 6 euro, so if you have a beer with dinner and also buy lunch you need to carry about 25-30 euro per day in cash (assuming you have a booking that includes breakfast). Of the six days of hiking, four were ridiculously spectacular, with the highlight being sunrise from Mt Stol. Getting up to the high mountains, though, can be crazy steep, with switchbacks only sparsely used. Descents are similarly tough, and you have to watch every step. For the first time ever I used trekking poles and my knees thank me. Two days were a bit of a slog, but this is probably unavoidable getting up to or down from the high terrain. Would I do something like this again? Yes, absolutely! But next time it will probably be the Dolomites.

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Roman Klymenko

Verified customer

Very beautiful hike. I did not expect that Slovenia is so amazing.

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Birgit Kindler

Verified customer

We had a lovely hike today with our guide Klemen. He personalized the tour on our needs and interests, so that we saw places we wouldn't without his experience. The hike was a little bit slippery after the rain from the last days and it went a lot upwards, but it was totally worth it! Thanks again :)

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Dominik Schrotter

Verified customer

We had a great day with Klemen on this hike, he showed us some lesser known spots/highlights of the southern part of the julian alps with a nice viewpoint at the end. 10/10 would book again

Gisela Irion

Verified customer

Tina and her team gave me perfect support on my hut hike through the Triglav National Park in July. In particular, they had to cater to my specific needs twice, which they did for me with no problem. I once had to cancel at short notice before the start of the trip because my father was not feeling well, but then we found a solution and I was able to start the hike. Tina and team first canceled the huts immediately and then reserved them again for me. Even when my condition caused a little tour change again, I immediately had suggestions and these were immediately available in the Trip plans app. I liked this app very much because it was easy to handle and the huttohut-team gave a short overview how the daily tour will be and which highlights – mostly beautiful views – I will see“

Carly Leonard

Verified customer

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Roman Klymenko

Verified customer

Very beautiful hike. I did not expect that Slovenia is so amazing.

Show all 3 photos

Dominik Schrotter

Verified customer

We had a great day with Klemen on this hike, he showed us some lesser known spots/highlights of the southern part of the julian alps with a nice viewpoint at the end. 10/10 would book again

Michael White

Verified customer

Show all 10 photos

Birgit Kindler

Verified customer

Show all 3 photos

Gisela Irion

Verified customer

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Those who like a good adventure and limitless flexibility should go on a self-guided cycling holiday...

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SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL

Explore independently and with confidence while we keep everything running from behind the scenes.

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Since 2014, we have taken care of thousands of happy customers, making it our mission to put your satisfaction first.

OUTDOOR SPECIALISTS

We are a team of outdoor specialists equipped with the knowledge and insight to bring you the best hiking experiences.

from 1.440 € /person

Parenzana Railway Trek

Choose your style

Highlights

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival in Muggia/Trieste

Day 2: Muggia/Trieste – Koper

Day 3: Koper – Strunjan

Day 4: Strunjan – Portorož

Day 5: Portorož – Buje

Day 6: Buje – Grožnjan

Day 7: Grožnjan – Motovun

Day 8: Motovun – Vižinada

Day 9: Vižinada – Višnjan

Day 10: Višnjan – Poreč

Day 11: Departure

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

What to bring to the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

You have too many options. Is there any way I can narrow down the selection?

How far in advance should I book my walking tour?

Do I need to book specific start dates?

Do I need prior hiking experience?

What is the fitness level?

What is the technical level?

Are your tours guided?

I booked a self-guided tour. How does it work?

Choose your style

Ratings & Reviews

Carly Leonard

Michael White

Roman Klymenko

Birgit Kindler

Dominik Schrotter

Gisela Irion

Carly Leonard

Roman Klymenko

Dominik Schrotter

Michael White

Birgit Kindler

Gisela Irion

Similar Products

All available guidance options

Self-guided

HANDPICKED ADVENTURES

VALUE YOUR TIME

SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL

TRUSTED BY MANY

OUTDOOR SPECIALISTS

Have questions? Talk to us.

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival in Muggia/Trieste

Day 2: Muggia/Trieste – Koper

Day 3: Koper – Strunjan

Day 4: Strunjan – Portorož

Day 5: Portorož – Buje

Day 6: Buje – Grožnjan

Day 7: Grožnjan – Motovun

Day 8: Motovun – Vižinada

Day 9: Vižinada – Višnjan

Day 10: Višnjan – Poreč

Day 11: Departure

Ratings & Reviews

Carly Leonard

Michael White

Roman Klymenko

Birgit Kindler

Dominik Schrotter

Gisela Irion

Carly Leonard

Roman Klymenko

Dominik Schrotter

Michael White

Birgit Kindler

Gisela Irion

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