Porto to Lisbon Coastal Tour

Your journey begins in Porto, one of Europe’s most charismatic cities. Known for its colourful riverside buildings, winding streets, and, of course, its world-famous Port wine, this city is the perfect introduction to Portugal.

You may wish to arrive a little earlier to explore the old town, stroll along the Douro riverbank, or relax in one of the many cafés that line the narrow lanes. Don’t miss a visit to the São Bento railway station, where the tiled murals tell the story of Portugal’s past. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge offers sweeping views over the city and the river, while the riverside district of Ribeira is filled with restaurants serving traditional dishes such as bacalhau and hearty stews.

As evening falls, raise a glass of Port in the city where it was born. Whether you choose a tawny or a vintage, sipping the local wine in its homeland is a memorable way to begin your holiday. Tonight, you’ll stay overnight in Porto before setting out on your cycling adventure the following morning.

After breakfast, you’ll set off from Porto and cross the River Douro, cycling past the historic port wine cellars that line the southern bank. The route quickly takes you away from the bustle of the city and towards quieter roads and paths leading to the Atlantic coast.

The day’s cycling is fairly gentle, taking you through stretches of pine forest and past long golden beaches. Along the way, you’ll find small fishing communities where colourful boats line the shore, reminding you of Portugal’s strong maritime traditions.

Your destination is Furadouro, a small seaside town known for its warm hospitality and excellent seafood. Once you arrive, you can wander along the promenade, enjoy freshly grilled fish in one of the local restaurants, or simply relax by the water.

Today’s ride leads you into an area full of natural beauty. From Furadouro, you cycle south towards the São Jacinto Dunes Nature Reserve. This protected area is home to an abundance of birdlife, so it’s worth stopping to look out for herons, storks, and other species. The reserve also features unique dune systems, lagoons, and tranquil pine woods that create a varied and calming landscape.

The route takes you through the Aveiro lagoon, with water on both sides of the path in places. As you cycle, you may catch sight of salt pans where salt has been harvested for centuries. Eventually, you’ll reach São Jacinto, where you board a ferry across to Aveiro.

Often called the “Venice of Portugal,” Aveiro is a lively university city known for its network of canals and brightly painted Moliceiro boats. These traditional vessels were once used for seaweed harvesting but now serve as a charming way to see the city. In the evening, enjoy a walk through the old town, sample ovos moles (a local sweet made from eggs and sugar), and take in the relaxed atmosphere.

Leaving Aveiro behind, you’ll continue along the lagoon before reaching Costa Nova, a coastal village instantly recognisable for its colourful striped houses. These cheerful, candy-striped buildings were originally used by fishermen but now stand as one of the most photographed spots on the Portuguese coast.

From Costa Nova, the route carries you south through more gentle stretches of coastline, passing quiet beaches and small communities. The pace is unhurried, giving you plenty of time to stop for photos or to dip your toes in the Atlantic. The ride is relatively easy, with mostly flat terrain, making it an enjoyable stage for all levels of cyclist.

Your destination is Praia de Mira, a charming seaside resort with a long sandy beach backed by dunes and pine trees. The town has retained a laid-back atmosphere, and its traditional fishing heritage is still visible in the small wooden boats pulled up on the sand. In the evening, take a walk along the beachfront, enjoy a plate of freshly caught fish, and soak up the calm of this coastal escape.

Today’s ride introduces more variety to the landscape as you leave Praia de Mira and head south through dunes and low hills. The cycling remains comfortable, with only gentle climbs, but the scenery changes noticeably. Pine forests filled with the sound of crickets give way to your first views of cliffs and dramatic stretches of coastline.

The route takes you towards the Cabo Mondego lighthouse, perched on a headland with far-reaching views over the Atlantic. This is an excellent spot to pause, take photographs, and enjoy the contrast between sea and land. From here, you continue towards Figueira da Foz, a lively town situated at the mouth of the Mondego River.

Figueira da Foz has long been a popular seaside destination for Portuguese holidaymakers. The town is known for its wide sandy beaches, elegant promenade, and relaxed café culture. In the evening, explore its narrow decorative streets, choose from a variety of restaurants, and watch the sunset from the shore. It’s a rewarding end to one of the most scenic stages of the trip.

This morning begins with a transfer inland to Sintra, a town renowned for its palaces, manor houses, and lush hillsides. Sintra has long been a retreat for royalty and nobility, and it remains one of Portugal’s most enchanting places. Take time to explore the colourful Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, or simply wander the atmospheric streets lined with cafés and artisan shops.

From Sintra, your cycling route takes you back towards the Atlantic. The descent offers thrilling views of the coast, interspersed with occasional climbs that are well worth the effort for the scenery they reveal. You’ll pass through quiet bays and sandy beaches before arriving in Cascais.

Cascais is a stylish coastal town with a charming old centre and a long promenade perfect for an evening walk. Once a humble fishing village, it has become one of the most attractive destinations near Lisbon, offering a blend of history, culture, and seaside leisure. Enjoy dinner in one of its excellent restaurants and settle in for the night.

Your final day of cycling takes you along the shoreline from Cascais towards Lisbon. The path hugs the coast, passing Estoril, a town famous for its casino and beaches. Soon, the route turns towards the River Tagus, leading you towards the capital.

One of the highlights of today’s ride is the Belém district, home to the famous Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Jerónimos Monastery. This area is also where you can try the iconic pastéis de nata from their original bakery. Cycling further along the river, you’ll pass beneath the impressive 25 de Abril Bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.

The route continues along the banks of the Tagus to the Oriente district, a modern area of Lisbon with striking contemporary architecture. Having cycled the length of Portugal’s central coast, you can celebrate your arrival in one of Europe’s most fascinating capitals. Spend the evening exploring Lisbon’s winding streets, enjoying live fado music, and reflecting on your journey.