Portugal: Porto & Aveiro Bike Tour

Six nights, six days exploring northern-central Portugal, experiencing historic cities, vibrant local flavors, long pristine beaches and charming small towns.

"Thanks for a wonderful experience - this was my first solo vacation ever but your tour guides made me feel very comfortable and not the odd person out." - Beth S.

WHY THIS TRIP?

• Discover the UNESCO World Heritage city of Porto and its charming riverside streets.
• Enjoy easy coastal rides along scenic bike paths, quiet roads, and the Douro Estuary.
• Explore Aveiro, the 'Venice of Portugal,' with its picturesque canals and colorful barcos moliceiros.
• Savor local delights, including the famous Pão de Ló de Ovar and fresh regional cuisine.
• Ride through serene maritime forests, beautiful beaches, and peaceful farmland.
• Marvel at dramatic ocean views along a cliffside road before descending into Figueira da Foz, the 'Queen of Beaches.'
• Immerse yourself in Coimbra’s rich history, from Roman ruins to Baroque architecture, overlooking the scenic Mondego River.
• Relax in 4-star accommodations and enjoy delicious local meals at every stop.

ROUTE EXPECTATIONS:

Click here to learn about our difficulty rating system.

A relaxed ride on primarily level terrain, with some hilly sections and one longer day. Expect stretches of bike paths through coastal forest and the constant presence of westerly wind coming off the vast expanse of the Atlantic. The route is approximately 80% on separated bike paths, quiet secondary roads, and boardwalks with sections of dirt and gravel.

---

Daily Distance:

• 1: Introductions to Porto.
• 2: Porto to Furadouro ~45km (+300m / -300m).
• 3: Furadouro to Aveiro ~57km (+215m / -215m).
• 4: Aveiro Loop; or independent walks from Aveiro ~34km (+250m / -250m).
• 5: Aveiro to Figueira da Foz ~42km (+370m / -350m), or ~78km (+530m / -510m).
• 6: Figueira da Foz to Coimbra ~46km (+185m / -185m).
• 7: Farewells.

(Click image to enlarge)

x

Close

 

Activity Levels

x

To help you choose an appropriate level of daily challenge, we use elevation profiles to represent the route, and a challenge-rating system using symbols from the skiing world. Many of you will already be familiar with it; If not, here is a brief explanation. Note that these classifications may vary with weather and/or road conditions, and you should always arrive with a sense of fun and adventure. If you are unsure, choose a guided trip. The vehicle support can help you get over any hill, and can turn even the most difficult trip into an easy one.

 

---

The easiest routes we offer, these are generally flat and cover relatively relaxed distances. You will be comfortable riding a hybrid bike, walking in sneakers, or paddling a light kayak, and will normally have time to take many photos and enjoy extended lunches.

 

This is primarily an easy route, but some days may fall into the moderate category. You can expect time to stop and smell the roses, but some of the rides may be on more hilly terrain.

 

Requiring moderate fitness levels, these cover terrain with hills and valleys, and tend to include distances of 50-80km (30-50mi.)/day cycling, or 3-6 hours of walking per day. Most Freewheeling Adventures fall into this category, and are suitable for most ability levels.

 

This is primarily a moderate route, suitable for most ability levels, but some days may be a little more challenging. You can expect some long distances, and/or some big climbs/descents.

 

The most challenging trips, these include longer distances, bigger hills, long hikes, exposed paddling, and full days of activity. We recommend a higher degree of fitness and training to make the most of the experience.

 

There is also a rare double black diamond, reserved for only the most difficult adventures.

Close