Race Day in Portugal: When and Where to Be

There’s something electric about cycling in Portugal during race season. From the cheering crowds to the blur of pelotons racing past cork trees and coastal towns, the energy is contagious.

Throughout the year, towns come alive with buzzing pelotons, roadside cheers, and that unmistakable thrill of race day. And if you’re touring Portugal on two wheels during that time, these events make for the perfect stop: a front-row seat to the country’s passion for cycling.

Let’s dive into the ones worth putting on your calendar:

Ride Across Portugal

When: May 

Where: Starts in the Douro Valley, ends in the Algarve

Let’s start big - Ride Across Portugal is one of the most scenic and ambitious cycling events in Portugal.

Spanning over 770 km from the vineyards of the Douro Valley all the way to the golden beaches of the Algarve, this six-day, fully supported stage ride combines epic scenery, cultural deep dives, and serious cycling cred.

Want to see it first-hand? Join us on our Douro Valley Bike Tour during this time – you won’t be able to escape the buzz. During this time, you can expect some closed-off roads (but don’t worry, we know just the perfect detour), excited locals, and maybe even a finish-line party or two. The region comes alive and you’ll be right in the middle of it.

Volta ao Algarve + Algarve Granfondo

When: February  

Where: Across the Algarve region, including Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira

If you're the kind of cyclist who loves watching the pros and riding the same roads they do, the Volta ao Algarve is your golden ticket. This five-stage UCI ProSeries race kicks off Portugal’s cycling season each February, attracting teams like Jumbo-Visma and INEOS.

And here’s the twist: you can ride it too. The accompanying Algarve Granfondo lets amateurs tackle a ~100 km route that mirrors the pros’ climbs and coastal sections.

If you prefer to cycle Portugal at your own pace, but still be a part of the excitement, we’ve got a perfect self-guided bike tour for you.  And timing couldn’t be better. See our epic cycling tour through the Algarve region below:

Serra da Estrela Granfondo

When: June  

Where: Covilhã & Serra da Estrela Natural Park (central Portugal)

Welcome to Portugal’s roof — the Serra da Estrela mountains. This granfondo is not for the faint of heart. With climbs reaching nearly 2,000 meters, it’s the ultimate test for anyone who wishes to tackle the elevation gain.

The route winds through the Estrela Natural Park, mixing epic mountain views with challenging alpine switchbacks. 

Granfondo Coimbra Region (UCI Qualifier)

When: March 

Where: Coimbra and Montemor-o-Velho (central Portugal)

Part of the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, this race attracts ambitious amateurs from across Europe. 

It’s held in Coimbra — the final stop on our Silver Coast cycling tour. So, if you're rolling into the city at just the right time, you'll catch the excitement: time trials, bustling plazas, and a whole lot of Lycra. You’ll be there to cheer, snack, sip coffee, and enjoy the show.

More Can’t-Miss Cycling Events in Portugal

Here are a few more worthy additions to your cycling calendar:

• Bragança Granfondo (July): Northern Portugal’s summer ride through historic border towns
• Monção & Melgaço Granfondo (Sept): Wine country, sunflower fields, and cross-border charm
• Lousã Granfondo (Sept): Mountain forests, ancient schist villages, and lung-busting climbs
• Tavira Granfondo (Sept): Ride through the Algarve’s lesser-known eastern coast
• Portimão Granfondo (Nov): Coastal cruising with perfect autumn sunshine

Who Can Join These Cycling Events?

Most of Portugal’s cycling events — especially granfondos and sportives — are open to amateur riders of all levels. You don’t need a racing license or a professional background. If you can ride the distance and love a good challenge, you’re welcome to join.

Events With Pro Participation (Like Volta ao Algarve)

These include elite races you can watch live, and sometimes ride the same route the next day in the public granfondo.

You won’t ride with the pros, but you’ll share the same climbs, crowds, and finish-line buzz.

Want to Be Part of the Buzz?

We’ll help you plan your cycling holiday in Portugal to align with the country’s most exciting cycling events — no racing required!

Chat with our travel advisor and let’s find the perfect trail, region, and race-day vibe to add a burst of energy to your bike tour in Portugal.