Distance: 13 kms (8 miles) / Elevation Gain: 15 m (50 feet) / Saddle Time: 1 hour

Set off on your two-wheeled adventure, cycling 1.5km to your first stop: Praça do Comércio, a grand plaza overlooking the Tagus River. Glide along the riverbank, passing under the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, before reaching the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a striking tribute to Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Next, marvel at the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortress and historic departure point for Portugal’s explorers, before glimpsing the grandeur of the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos.

From Belém, a short train ride takes you to Cascais, a former royal seaside retreat now famed for its elegance. Wander the Marina, the colorful Old Town streets, and visit landmarks like Palácio dos Condes de Castro Guimarães. End your day savoring the town’s vibrant dining scene, blending world-class cuisine with the charm of this luxurious coastal gem.

Distance: 77 kms (48 miles) / Elevation Gain: 353 m (3870 feet) / Saddle Time: 4-6 hours

Prepare for the most challenging yet rewarding ride of your journey. You’ll begin westward from Cascais, pausing briefly at the dramatic Boca do Inferno. From there, cycle along Portugal’s most breathtaking bike lane, where endless pristine beaches stretch to the horizon. As you ascend into Sintra National Park, the winding forest roads offer solitude and the majesty of ancient trees. At the summit awaits Palácio da Pena, Portugal’s most iconic landmark, alongside the enchanting Quinta da Regaleira.

Your descent begins with thrilling off-road trails, leading to Ericeira, Portugal’s surf capital, where world-class surfers showcase their skills. The final stretch takes you along gentle country roads, concluding in the charming town of Santa Cruz, a hub for surfers and skaters alike. This ride challenges your limits but rewards you with unforgettable landscapes and experiences at every turn.

Distance: 81 kms (50 miles) / Elevation Gain: 298 m (3340 feet) / Saddle Time: 4-6 hours

Your day begins in the tranquil town of Santa Cruz, where you trade the ocean for the rugged beauty of the mountains. The morning unfolds with a journey through charming rural towns and even a brief detour through a quarry. By midday, you arrive in Óbidos, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. Its cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and postcard-perfect views make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

As you tear yourself away from Óbidos, the next stop is Vinhos Cortém, a boutique vineyard offering a taste of its distinctive wines. With spirits lifted, you press on toward Nazaré. The route is challenging, with hilly terrain and technical stretches, but the reward is extraordinary. Nazaré’s Praia do Norte, home to record-breaking waves and the world’s best surfers, offers a breathtaking spectacle, reminding you why this journey is truly unforgettable.

Distance: 78 kms (48 miles) / Elevation Gain: 368 m (1210 feet) / Saddle Time: 3.5-5.5 hours

Your day begins at Miradouro do Suberco in Nazaré, where sweeping views of the town invite you to capture unforgettable moments. A short ride leads you to the Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo, a striking landmark perched above the Atlantic. From here, you embark north along the EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast route—a gentle, scenic journey with coastal views and mostly flat cycle lanes.

Pause at Praia de Vitória, a serene, local-feeling beach, before pushing onward to Lagoa da Ervedeira for a refreshing break at the halfway point. The final stretch takes you to Figueira da Foz, where the Edgar Cardoso bridge detour includes a brief ferry ride across the river. End your day with a peaceful promenade stroll or test your luck at the Casino da Figueira in this sleepy, charming city.

Take a day to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Figueira da Foz’s old town. Wander through the vibrant flea market by the Mondego River, where treasures and stories await. Stroll to Praia da Figueira da Foz to watch local surfers carve the waves—or try it yourself. Meander through the quaint side streets, uncovering hidden charms at every turn. As the day winds down, let the breathtaking sunset at Cape Mondego fill you with inspiration for the journey ahead. 

Distance: 60 kms (37 miles) / Elevation Gain: 466 m (1530 feet) / Saddle Time: 3-5 hours

Don’t be fooled by the short distance—this stretch is a dynamic journey through diverse terrain, with some technical challenges. Begin with a leisurely ride along Figueira’s promenade and out of the city, where a tranquil cycle path winds through a bird sanctuary along the Mondego River. Cutting through agricultural trails, you’ll join the renowned Camino de Santiago (Portuguese Way) before arriving at Conímbriga, a stunningly preserved Roman settlement.

From there, ascend to the Monastery of Santa Clara-a-Nova for breathtaking views of Coimbra before descending into the city. Far more than a midway point between Lisbon and Porto, Coimbra is alive with history and culture. Marvel at the iconic university buildings, step into the exquisite Biblioteca Joanina, or immerse yourself in a traditional “Fado” performance. Every moment here is a connection to something timeless and unforgettable.

Distance: 75 kms (47 miles) / Elevation Gain: 973 m (3190 feet) / Saddle Time: 4-6 hours

Leaving Coimbra, the journey begins with challenging trails that gradually give way to gentler paths. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a few delightful stops. First, explore the unique winery, vineyard, and olive grove of Prior Lucas. Then, meander through the mountains to Caves De Solar, nestled in the charming village of Ferreiros, where you’ll experience the enchantment of dimly lit cellars where wines age to perfection.

The latter part of your ride takes you along serene, rolling country roads, leading to Aveiro—known as the “Venice of Portugal.” While the comparison may be ambitious, the town’s charm is undeniable. Its vibrant, colorful streets and iconic “Moliceiro” boats cruising the canals and lagoon offer a picturesque and authentic glimpse into Portuguese coastal life.

Distance: 85 kms (53 miles) / Elevation Gain: 241 m (790 feet) / Saddle Time: 4-6 hours

Your day begins with an early start and a scenic ferry ride across the water. From there, you’ll cycle along a peaceful canal, passing the famous salt pans as the canal meets the lagoon. The route takes you across the lagoon to São Jacinto, where you’ll ride alongside wildlife-rich waters and the Jacinto Dune Reserve. Continuing along the coast, you’ll visit Praia da Torreira and Furadouro, your first beaches since Nazaré, before reaching Esphino, a charming beach town near Porto.

As you approach Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the world’s Port lodges, you’ll be treated to a tour and tasting at Cockburn’s, sampling three exquisite styles of port. It’s time to bid farewell to your bike after an incredible 499 km journey. Celebrate your achievement with a stroll along Cais da Estiva and soak in the stunning nighttime views. You’ve truly earned this moment!

 Oporto and Vila Nova de Gaia are enchanting cities, where every glance reveals a breathtaking, photo-worthy view. Begin your day at the stunning Capela das Almas, its exterior adorned with iconic Azulejo tiles. Nearby, the bustling Mercado do Bolhão invites you to explore over 80 stalls offering fresh produce and tempting snacks.

Stroll along the Vila Nova de Gaia Pier and browse the vibrant craft market before boarding a traditional Rabelo boat for a serene hour-long cruise under six historic bridges. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge back to Porto and wander through the steep, winding streets of the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district to the majestic Sé do Porto Cathedral.

End your day at Miradouro da Vitória, where the panoramic sunset view of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and the Douro River’s bridges is unforgettable. Reflect on the unforgettable moments of this incredible journey.