Croatia-Italy-France: 18-Days Motorcycle Tour 03. – 21.09.25

Introducing the Croatia-Italy-France Motorcycle Tour: An Epic 18-Day Ride

If you’re a motorcycle enthusiast craving a blend of breathtaking scenery, iconic routes, and authentic stops across Europe, this 18-day tour from MotoGS WorldTours might just be what you’re looking for. Starting in the historic town of Trogir, Croatia, and looping through Italy, Switzerland, and France, the journey covers around 2,205 miles on stunning BMW GS bikes. It’s a carefully crafted route that balances exhilarating riding with ample opportunities to soak in the charm of each locale.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the inclusion of the legendary Route de Grandes Alpes, which is often considered one of the most scenic mountain roads in Europe. Plus, the chance to stand on Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many riders. Another plus: the small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with just a maximum of six bikes plus the guide, making the whole trip feel more like a shared adventure than a large, impersonal tour.

That said, a potential consideration is that this tour only runs once a year, from September 3rd to 21st. If that window doesn’t fit your schedule, you’ll need to wait a whole year. Also, riding in the Alps and along coastal France requires a certain level of physical stamina and comfort with variable weather, which might not suit everyone.

This tour offers an impressive mix of scenic riding, cultural highlights, and genuine camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re after the thrill of mountain passes or the charm of coastal towns, this trip balances both with a focus on quality and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small Group Travel: Limited to six motorcycles, ensuring personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.
• Iconic Routes: Includes the legendary Route de Grandes Alpes and Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.
• Diverse Landscapes: From Croatian coastlines to Swiss Alps, Italian lakes, and French Riviera.
• Unique Cross-country Adventure: Crossing four countries in 18 days, with highlights like Venice, Lake Garda, and Monaco.
• All-Inclusive Value: Full-day guided rides, hotel stays, breakfast, and some special activities are included, providing great value.
• Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like the tour leader, enhance the experience with local insights and safety.

The Journey Begins: From Split to Trogir

Your adventure kicks off with your arrival at Split Airport, which is well-connected by budget airlines from much of Europe. The transfer to Trogir is just a short 5-minute walk from your hotel, giving you a relaxed start. That evening, you’ll meet your guides and fellow riders, and your bikes—new BMW GS models—will be inspected and prepped for the journey ahead.

The emphasis on detailed preparation and personalized setup (like adjusting the bike for rider height) is a sign that safety and comfort are priorities. Before heading out, there’s also a briefing that helps everyone get ready for the exciting miles ahead.

Exploring Croatia and Italy: Coastal Beauty and Cultural Treasures

Your first days are spent riding along the stunning Dalmatian coast, with stops at historic towns like Split and Trogir. The ride itself is scenic, with the promise of the ferry crossing from Ancona to Split—a highlight for many. As you cross from Croatia into Italy, you’ll get a taste of Mediterranean charm and Italian lakes, with Lake Garda and Lake Como offering spectacular views and perfect photo ops.

A real standout is the stop in Venice, where you’ll have free time to explore the canals and narrow streets—an experience that’s worth every pedal stroke. One rider noted, “I loved the way the tour balanced riding with leisure, giving us enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.”

The Alps: The Crown Jewel of the Ride

The Tour de Alpes stands out as a personal favorite for many. The Route des Grandes Alpes snakes through the French Alps, offering stunning mountain vistas, hairpin bends, and exhilarating descents. As you ride through ski villages and Alpine towns, you’ll appreciate the meticulous planning that ensures the route is both challenging and manageable.

On the day at Jungfraujoch—the “Top of Europe”—you’ll enjoy a train ride up to a station perched at 3,454 meters, where snow is guaranteed year-round. The views are jaw-dropping and make for unforgettable photos. One guide mentioned that this part of the trip is “a true highlight, blending adventure with awe-inspiring scenery.”

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The French Riviera and Glamorous Stops

The final stretch takes you along the Côte d’Azur, hitting glamorous spots like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Monte Carlo. You’ll cruise along coastlines with azure waters, leaving you with plenty of opportunities for leisurely strolls or café stops. The day in Menton offers a chance to relax and enjoy the sun and sea.

A ferry crossing over the Adriatic from Ancona to Split adds a unique maritime flavor to the journey, giving you a brief break from riding and a chance to unwind onboard.

Practicalities and Value

At around $3,967 per person, the tour’s value hinges on the inclusions: guided rides, hotel stays, breakfast, and specific activities like Jungfraujoch and the ferry. The fleet of brand-new BMW GS bikes ensures reliability and comfort, and the small group size fosters camaraderie and personalized attention.

What’s not included? Fuel, meals beyond breakfast, entrance fees, and personal expenses, so budget accordingly. The rental prices for the BMW models range from EUR 1,660 for the F750GS to EUR 2,800 for the R1300GS, which includes insurance and taxes—an important factor when considering overall costs.

The tour is ideal for those with at least three years of motorcycle riding experience and a valid license, including an international license if needed. The guides are fluent in English, German, and Spanish, making it accessible for a diverse group.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This route is best suited for experienced riders who enjoy mountain passes, coastal roads, and cultural sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small groups and personalized guidance over large tours. If you’re craving a structured, yet flexible, adventure that combines riding with sightseeing and authentic stops, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility challenges or those over 75, due to the physically demanding nature of mountain riding and long days on the bike. Also, if your schedule doesn’t align with the September window, you’ll need to wait for next year.

Final Reflections

This 18-day motorcycle tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic riding, cultural highlights, and memorable experiences. The emphasis on small group dynamics and professional guides creates an environment where you can focus on the ride and truly enjoy the journey. The inclusion of iconic routes like the Jungfraujoch and Route des Grandes Alpes is a major plus, making this more than just a sightseeing tour but an adventure full of “pinch-me” moments.

For riders who love exploring diverse landscapes—from Croatian coastlines to Swiss glaciers—and enjoy the camaraderie of a small group, this trip provides excellent value. The meticulous planning and focus on comfort and safety mean you can just enjoy the ride, knowing every detail has been considered.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers 13 guided full-day rides along with about 2205 miles on a rented BMW GS motorcycle, 17 overnight stays with breakfast, activities like Jungfraujoch and ferry crossing, a professional guide, and a tour jacket.

Are all the bikes new?
Yes, the fleet features only brand-new BMW GS models, such as the F 750 GS, F 850 GS, F 900 GSA, R 1250 GS, and R 1300 GS.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, with details indicating a small group of no more than 6 bikes per guide, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I join if I don’t have a motorcycle license?
No, you need a valid motorcycle license with endorsement, plus at least 3 years of riding experience. An international license is recommended for non-EU residents.

What are the accommodation arrangements?
Guests stay in shared rooms with breakfast included. Single room upgrades are available for an additional EUR 750.

What activities are included besides riding?
Activities include a day at Jungfraujoch, a swimming day in Menton, and sightseeing tours, all carefully planned to enhance the riding experience.

Is there a support vehicle?
The tour is primarily motorcycle-based, with no mention of a support vehicle, but the small group size helps with logistics and safety.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Riders should be comfortable with mountain riding and variable weather. The route includes challenging mountain passes and long days on the bike.

When does the tour run?
It takes place once a year, from September 3rd to 21st, 2025.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

This tour offers a rare combination of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and expert guidance, making it a standout choice for seasoned riders eager for a memorable European adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby