Self-guided tour Bike + Surf

When I first heard about the Self-guided tour Bike + Surf in Porto, I was intrigued by how cleverly it combines two very different ways of experiencing the city and coast: cycling along one of Portugal’s most scenic rivers and catching waves at the Atlantic. Priced at around $52.73 per person, with most bookings happening roughly 40 days in advance, this tour offers a flexible way to see Porto’s highlights and enjoy some fun in the surf—perfect for active travelers looking for a memorable day. The activity runs between 3 and 9 hours, giving you plenty of wiggle room depending on how long you want to spend biking, surfing, or relaxing.

Two things I particularly love about this experience are the well-organized route along the Douro River, offering stunning views of bridges and historic neighborhoods, and the surf lesson at Matosinhos Beach, which is suitable even for beginners. The guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and helpful, with reviewers praising guides like Viento and Bento for making the journey engaging and educational. Plus, the inclusion of a delicious Portuguese meal at City Park with drinks rounds out the day beautifully. My only consideration is that, since it’s a self-guided tour, it’s best suited for those comfortable with navigation and outdoor activities—no guided commentary on the move.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Pedaling along the Douro River offers views of bridges, gardens, and vibrant neighborhoods.
• All-inclusive gear: Bikes, helmets, wetsuits, and boards are provided, making the experience hassle-free.
• Flexible duration: You can opt for a shorter or longer adventure depending on your mood and energy.
• Variety of activities: Combining cycling with surfing creates a dynamic day out.
• Authentic local flavor: Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal with drinks, and learn about Porto’s river and beach culture.
• Great for active travelers: Suitable for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits and are comfortable navigating on their own.

Exploring Porto on Two Wheels along the Douro River

Starting at Biclas & Triclas, the activity kicks off with a bike rental and a quick briefing. Expect friendly service and straightforward rentals—reviews describe the company as “easy, efficient, and friendly.” The route along the Douro River is arguably the highlight, with stops at Arrábida Bridge, a marvel of engineering once boasting the largest reinforced concrete arch in the world, and Foz do Douro, a charming riverside area that still feels rooted in its fishing traditions.

The Arrábida Bridge makes for a dramatic photo opp, with its graceful curves stretching over the water. It’s a reminder of Porto’s blend of old-world charm and modern innovation, and a favorite for many travelers. As you pedal past trendy cafes, local fishermen, and riverside gardens like Passeio Alegre, you get a sense of the city’s laid-back yet vibrant character. From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Viento add a layer of knowledge and friendliness that elevates the experience—something you’ll appreciate if you’re new to Porto or cycling in unfamiliar territory.

The bike ride ends at Matosinhos Beach, where the surf part of the tour begins. This is the largest beach easily accessible from Porto, with wide stretches of golden sand and approachable waves, making it ideal for beginners. You’ll be fitted with a wetsuit, and an instructor will give you a lesson—whether you’re a complete novice or just looking to brush up your skills, this part of the experience has garnered rave reviews. Expect lots of laughs and perhaps a few tumbles, but mostly a chance to learn and enjoy the Atlantic’s mellow waves.

Surfing at Matosinhos Beach: Waves and Wetsuits

Once in the surf, you’ll paddle out with your instructor, who will guide you into the waves and help you catch your first rides. Thanks to the included equipment (board, wetsuit, insurance), there’s no need to bring anything other than your enthusiasm. Several reviewers emphasize how much fun the surfing lessons are, especially for families or groups with teens, who find the experience exhilarating and with plenty of opportunities to practice.

Matosinhos Beach’s reputation as a surf spot for beginners means you won’t be fighting crowds or intimidating swells. This makes it a perfect place to try surfing for the first time or improve your skills in a relaxed environment. The lessons seem to be about one hour and a half, which is ample time for learning, practice, and some well-earned laughs. Expect to get wet, and don’t forget your towel and extra dry clothes for afterward.

Relaxing and Dining at Porto’s City Park

After your outdoor adventures, the tour wraps up with a visit to Porto’s City Park—a sprawling, beautifully designed space that’s perfect for unwinding. The park’s features—lakes, flora, and a variety of trails—are a delight for those who want to stretch their legs and soak in some leafy serenity. Pairing this with a hearty Portuguese meal and drinks at Soundwich, located within the park, reviewers say it’s a perfect reward for your efforts. The food is praised as “tops,” and the atmosphere relaxed.

The meal and drinks included in the tour help make this a fantastic value—paying for an active day, a good lunch, and a scenic park experience all in one. It’s worth noting that the tour ends back at the same starting point, making logistics simple and stress-free.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour really shines for active travelers who love combining physical activity with sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits but don’t want to be stuck on a bus or in a guided group all day. The self-guided nature means you can go at your own pace, but a basic level of comfort with cycling and being in the water helps ensure you’ll have fun. Families with teens and groups looking for a memorable experience that combines nature, culture, and a splash of adventure will find this especially worthwhile. Budget-conscious travelers will also appreciate the all-inclusive price, which covers gear rentals, lessons, and a hearty lunch.

That said, since it’s a self-guided tour, you’ll need to be comfortable with navigation and outdoor activities, and weather can always change quickly—be prepared for a rainy day or wind on the coast. But with most reviews praising the reliable organization and friendly guides, it’s likely to go smoothly.

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Starting Point at Biclas & Triclas

Your day begins at R. Nova da Alfândega, where bikes and helmets are ready. The staff’s efficiency gets the day off to a good start, and reviews mention how smoothly things go. The company even provides a city map, which is helpful since this is a self-guided adventure. The location is near public transit, making it easy to reach without a car.

Stop 2: Arrábida Bridge and Riverside

As you ride towards the Arrábida Bridge, you gain a sense of Porto’s engineering prowess and its scenic riverfront. Be sure to stop and admire the view, as this bridge once had the biggest reinforced concrete arch globally. It’s a striking landmark that encapsulates the city’s blend of tradition and progress.

Stop 3: Riverside Neighborhoods and Beaches

Passing through the fishermen’s harbor and riverside neighborhoods, you’ll see locals still practicing their fishing routines and harboring small boats. The area’s natural beauty remains intact, with a harmonious mix of old and new. The Praia da Foz region, including Ourigo, Ingleses, and Luz beaches, offers a taste of Porto’s seaside charm—perfect for a quick break before heading to the surf.

Stop 4: Matosinhos Beach – The Surfing Hub

The surf itself is the highlight for many. The beach’s reputation as a surf haven for beginners is well-earned, and the provided wetsuit and board make it accessible. Expect your instructor to help you catch your first wave, with plenty of encouragement along the way.

Stop 5: Porto City Park

Post-surf relaxation at Parque da Cidade reveals a different side of Porto. Designed by Sidónio Pardal, it’s a vast space perfect for some peace and quiet after your active morning. The park’s lakes and flora are particularly beautiful during spring and summer.

Stop 6: Fuel and Refresh at Soundwich

Within the park, Soundwich offers a variety of dishes crafted by renowned chefs. The reviews rave about the quality of the food and the casual atmosphere. It’s a lovely way to complete your day, with a hearty meal and a refreshing drink, whether it’s a beer or lemonade.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: You can tailor your experience from a few hours to nearly a full day, depending on your energy level and interests.
• Pricing: The $52.73 covers everything—bike rental, surf lesson, gear, lunch, and drinks—making it excellent value for the variety of experiences packed into a day.
• Weather considerations: Since this involves outdoor activities, check the forecast. The tour can be modified or canceled if conditions are poor, with options for a different date or a full refund.
• What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes for the biking and park, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen for the beach.
• Who’s it for: Active types, families, or curious travelers eager to combine city sightseeing with seaside fun.

The Sum Up

This Bike + Surf tour in Porto offers a lively, authentic way to experience Portugal’s vibrant landscape—whether you’re pedaling past historic bridges or catching your first wave. The mix of scenic cycling, beginner-friendly surfing, and relaxing park time creates a day full of variety and enjoyment. The guides—like Viento and Bento—are often lauded for their helpfulness and local insights, ensuring you’ll not only have fun but also learn a bit more about Porto’s character.

Thanks to the all-inclusive setup, the flexible timing, and the balance of activity and relaxation, it offers excellent value. It’s a particularly good pick for active travelers, families, or anyone wanting more than just a typical sightseeing tour. If you’re comfortable outdoors and eager to try something different, this combo adventure promises a memorable day in Porto that combines natural beauty, local flavor, and a splash of adrenaline.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Many reviews mention teens enjoying the surfing lessons, especially since the waves are gentle and beginner-friendly. The bike ride is suitable for most teenagers, especially if they’re comfortable cycling.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No. All gear, including bikes, helmets, wetsuits, and surfboards, are included in the tour.

How long does the surfing lesson last?
The surfing session lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing enough time to learn and practice catching waves with an instructor’s help.

Can I customize the duration of the tour?
Yes, the tour duration varies from about 3 to 9 hours, so you can tailor it to your interests and energy levels.

Is this a guided or self-guided experience?
It’s a self-guided tour, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace, but with the reassurance of all necessary gear and instructions.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly specified, good weather is essential, so spring and summer are ideal times for outdoor activities like biking and surfing.

Does the tour include transportation back to the start point?
The tour ends at the same location it starts, so no additional transport is needed unless you plan to explore further on your own.

Are there any age or fitness restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but a reasonable level of fitness helps, especially for the biking and surfing components.

This bike and surf experience in Porto is a captivating way to discover the city’s scenic beauty and Atlantic coast in one memorable day. Perfect for those who love an active holiday with authentic local flavor, it offers a fantastic blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.