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

Introduction

This comprehensive review covers an 18-day motorcycle adventure organized by MotoGS WorldTours, weaving through some of Europe’s most captivating landscapes. While we haven’t personally ridden this route, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and expert-guided approach suggest it’s a fantastic choice for seasoned riders craving a blend of scenic roads and cultural highlights.

What we love about this tour:

The chance to ride the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes, renowned for its hairpin turns and mountain vistas.
The experience of standing atop Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, where snow-capped peaks seem close enough to touch.
Visiting iconic spots like Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Venice, offering a perfect mix of nature and city life.

One consideration:
The tour’s intensity and long riding days (covering approximately 2205 miles) may be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to back-to-back days on a bike.

Who should consider this tour?
It’s best suited for experienced motorcyclists comfortable with long distances, passionate about landscape photography, and eager to explore multiple countries in a single trip.

Contents show

Key Points

Small Group Setting: Up to 6 motorcycles, ensuring personalized guidance and camaraderie.
Diverse Scenic Routes: From Alps’ mountain passes to Mediterranean coastlines.
All-Inclusive Package: Guided rides, accommodations, and some unique experiences like Jungfraujoch.
Not Just Scenic Riding: Opportunities for sightseeing, ferry crossings, and leisure days.
Premium Motorcycles: New BMW GS models, tailored for comfort and performance.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with options for single room upgrades.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 18-Day Itinerary

This tour is designed to balance exhilarating riding with memorable stops, offering a blend of mountain passes, coastal drives, and cultural excursions. The journey begins in Trogir, Croatia, a charming coastal town, and progresses through four countries, culminating on the glamorous French Riviera.

Looking for more options in Grindelwald? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 0: Arrival in Split and Transfer to Trogir

You arrive at Resnik Airport (SPU) in Split, which benefits from excellent flight connections across Europe. MotoGS guides will meet you at the airport, transfer you to your hotel in nearby Trogir, just a short walk from the motorcycle depot. Here, you’ll have time to settle in and attend a briefing with your guide to review the upcoming days and inspect your bike.

Riding Through Croatia and Italy: The Beginning

Starting in Croatia, you’ll get a taste of the country’s coastal beauty before heading into Italy. This initial segment sets the tone with scenic roads and a relaxed riding pace. The bikes—BMW F750 GS, F850 GS, F900 GSA, R1250 GS, and R1300 GS—are all top-notch, new models, ensuring a smooth start.

The Highlight: The Route de Grandes Alpes

One of the standout features, the Route des Grandes Alpes, is a legendary mountain road crossing the French Alps, famous for switchbacks and jaw-dropping vistas. “The route was a rollercoaster of emotions,” shared an experienced rider, highlighting its technical challenge and panoramic rewards.

More Great Tours Nearby

Swiss Alps and Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

A full day is dedicated to reaching Jungfraujoch, which is often described as an unforgettable highlight. Standing amidst eternal snow, with views over glaciers and peaks, it’s a surreal experience. Riders report that the guides make the logistical process smooth—such as organizing the train ride up and ensuring timing aligns perfectly.

There's plenty more to explore in Grindelwald

Leisure and Cultural Days

While much of the focus is on riding, the tour also includes leisure days, like a swimming day in Menton on the Côte d’Azur, and visits to Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Venice. These stops allow for sightseeing, relaxing, and soaking in local charm.

Coastal France and the French Riviera

As the tour moves into France, you’ll explore the glamorous Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Monte Carlo. The luxury vibe on the Côte d’Azur is palpable, and it’s a chance to stroll, take photos, and enjoy local cuisine.

Ferry Crossing & Scenic Detours

Crossing from Ancona to Split by ferry adds a unique maritime experience, with an overnight stay in a cabin. Reviewers note that this is a relaxing way to recharge and enjoy the sea views, breaking up the long riding days.

Final Days and Return

The last stretch takes you back through Switzerland and into Germany (or your departure hub). The entire route clocks in at roughly 2205 miles, with most days packed but balanced with opportunities for rest and exploration.

What to Expect in Terms of Riding and Experience

Riding Dynamics:
You can expect a mix of mountain passes, coastal roads, and city streets. The guides are known for their professionalism and deep knowledge, ensuring safety and optimal pacing, especially on challenging routes like the Route des Grandes Alpes.

Group Size & Atmosphere:
With a maximum of 6 motorcycles, the group remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention and camaraderie. Past riders mention the guides’ expertise and friendliness, making the experience more enjoyable.

Motorcycles & Equipment:
All bikes are recent BMW models, providing reliable performance. The rental price includes comprehensive insurance and taxes. Riders have the option to upgrade to a single room for a fee, which adds comfort if traveling solo or seeking privacy.

Leisure & Extras:
Activities like sightseeing tours, city visits, and the Jungfraujoch trip add layers to the experience. The tour jacket, tour briefing, and city tour options further enhance the value.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $3,967 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package of guided rides, accommodations, some unique experiences (e.g., Jungfraujoch and ferry), and support from professional guides. The inclusion of a full set of motorcycle equipment and daily briefings adds peace of mind.

However, riders should factor in additional costs such as flights to Split or Zagreb, fuel, meals outside breakfast, entrance fees, and personal expenses. The motorcycle prices, which include insurance, are a significant part of the overall value, especially considering the high-quality BMW fleet.

The small group size and expert guidance increase safety and intimacy, making it well worth the investment for seasoned riders wanting a curated European adventure.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is ideal for experienced motorcyclists comfortable with long days in the saddle and diverse terrains. It’s perfect for those who want to combine scenic riding with cultural excursions and iconic landmarks. The tour’s structure caters to riders seeking a well-organized, guided adventure that balances challenge, comfort, and discovery.

It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate small group travel, personalized service, and the opportunity to explore Europe’s highlights from the seat of a reliable BMW motorcycle.

The Sum Up

This 18-day motorcycle tour offers a thorough exploration of some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the sunny shores of the French Riviera. The well-planned itinerary, combined with the expertise of knowledgeable guides, ensures a smooth and enriching experience, especially for seasoned riders eager to cover a lot of ground.

The inclusion of extraordinary highlights like Jungfraujoch, the Route des Grandes Alpes, and scenic lakes makes it stand out from typical European tours. The use of high-end BMW bikes, small group size, and thoughtful accommodations all add to the overall value, making this a memorable adventure for those looking for a mix of thrill, culture, and stunning vistas.

If you love motorcycling as a way to see the world and you’re prepared for some long riding days, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure and your favorite riding gear.

FAQ

How many countries does the tour cover?
The tour crosses four countries: Croatia, Italy, Switzerland, and France.

What is included in the price?
Guided rides, 17 overnight stays with breakfast, motorcycle rental, insurance, ferry crossings, Jungfraujoch trip, and city tours are included.

Can I upgrade to a single room?
Yes, for an additional EUR 750, you can upgrade to a single room.

What kind of motorcycles are used?
All bikes are new BMW models, including F750 GS, F850 GS, F900 GSA, R1250 GS, and R1300 GS.

Are there leisure days built into the schedule?
Yes, there are leisure days such as a swimming day in Menton and sightseeing stops, giving riders time to relax or explore.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, solo travelers can join, especially with the option for a single room, providing privacy and comfort.

What level of riding experience is needed?
Participants should be 23+ years old with at least 3 years of motorcycle riding experience and a valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement.

Are meals besides breakfast included?
No, meals like lunch and dinner are not included but can be purchased separately along the route.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, driver’s license, credit card, international driver’s license (if needed), and appropriate riding gear.

In summary, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of scenic riding, cultural discovery, and high-quality support. It’s perfect for riders eager to explore Europe’s diverse landscapes with a small, dedicated group, guided by experts in the field.