What's the best season for cycling in Portugal?

Spring: Great across most regions, might rain in the north Summer: Too hot inland, best in the north and on the coast Autumn: Ideal in the south, rain returns in the north by November Winter: Ride in the Algarve or Madeira, avoid inland and north For a more in-depth rundown on the best time to plan your cycling holidays in Portugal, check this guide .

What if the weather forecast is unfavorable?

Tours in Portugal can continue in light rain with the appropriate clothing. Summer frequently witnesses afternoon thunderstorms , making early tour starts recommended. If challenging weather conditions are expected, we’ll strive to adjust the tour beforehand. Make sure to always check the forecast before setting out for a ride - here are the most reliable weather apps for Portugal.

How does luggage transfer work?

On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.

Do you transfer bikes too? How does it work?

Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.

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Silver Coast Cycling Holidays

6 days / 5 nights

Journey along Portugal’s stunning Silver Coast on coastal trails from Porto’s iconic bridges to Costa Nova’s striped houses and Coimbra’s historic charm.

Starting point

Porto

Finish point

Coimbra

Fitness level

1/5

Season

From April to October

Journey along Portugal’s stunning Silver Coast on coastal trails from Porto’s iconic bridges to Costa Nova’s striped houses and Coimbra’s historic charm.

Starting point

Porto

Finish point

Coimbra

Fitness level

1/5

Season

From April to October

Highlights

Witness breathtaking ocean vistas and serene lagoons that define the Silver Coast
Discover the iconic striped houses of Costa Nova
Enjoy scenic coastal paths, lush pine forests, and peaceful riverbank trails
Savor local delicacies like fresh seafood, convent sweets, and traditional bread-cakes
Explore Aveiro’s colorful canals and Coimbra’s ancient university
Immerse yourself in Portuguese culture with visits to charming fishing villages

Itinerary of the trip

Welcome to Porto! As you settle in, you may want to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Livraria Lello or the São Bento train station with its intricate tilework. The colorful Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers winding cobblestone streets and picturesque views of the Douro River. Take the day at your leisure and prepare for the journey ahead.

Gallery

Your adventure will begin with a ride over the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge into Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the famous Port wine cellars. You will cycle along scenic coastal roads, encountering highlights such as the Senhor da Pedra Chapel, dramatically perched on Miramar Beach. The route will take you through the bustling town of Espinho, where traditional fish dishes will provide a delicious lunchtime pause. As you approach Furadouro, the fishing town of Ovar will charm you with its pão-de-ló cakes, convent sweets, and the Chapel of the Steps, a National Monument.

Gallery

Senhor da Pedra Chapel reflected in tidal pool on sandy beach with large rocks.

Cycling

46.5 km and 200 m of elevation gain

The ride will continue through picturesque fishing villages and past the tranquil São Jacinto Natural Reserve. You will witness the diverse birdlife and serene landscapes that make this reserve a haven for nature lovers. A ferry crossing will take you to Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal,” where you will have the chance to admire the city’s network of canals and brightly painted boats. You can end the day with visits to the historic Jesus Monastery and the tiled beauty of Aveiro’s train station, immersing you in the city's cultural richness, or relax and prepare for upcoming days.

Gallery

Sand dunes with tall grasses leading to the ocean under a cloudy sky at Sao Jacinto Natural Reserve.

Cycling

35 km and 8 m of elevation gain

You will set out toward the charming town of Ílhavo, celebrated for its centuries-old tradition of crafting Vista Alegre porcelain. The journey will lead you to Costa Nova do Prado, a unique coastal area where you can marvel at the vibrant haystack houses with their distinctive striped facades. The meeting of rural charm and coastal beauty creates a truly enchanting atmosphere. As you approach Praia de Mira, the sandy beaches and the tranquil sound of waves will provide a peaceful conclusion to your day.

Gallery

Cycling

39 km and 90 m of elevation gain

This leg of your journey will take you past the serene Barrinha Lagoon, a natural sanctuary fed by the Ria de Aveiro. You will ride through aromatic pine forests, where the mingling scents of trees and ocean air offer a refreshing backdrop. The coastal scenery will shift as you approach Figueira da Foz, a bustling seaside resort known for its vast beaches and lively atmosphere. The day will end with the sight of the majestic Mondego River flowing into the Atlantic, framing the town’s natural beauty.

Gallery

Wooden walkway curving through green coastal vegetation toward the ocean at Barrinha.

Cycling

42.5 km and 220 m of elevation gain

You will leave the coast behind as the route follows the tranquil Mondego River inland. The journey will feature rolling countryside and scenic views of the river, renowned for its purity and clarity. You'll even pass the majestic Montemor-o-Velho castle. The ride will culminate in Coimbra, a city steeped in history and academia, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Here, you will discover cultural landmarks, fado music, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the city’s intellectual heritage.

Gallery

Cobblestone cycle path beside river near Coimbra with clear blue sky.

Cycling

50.5 km and 185 m of elevation gain

Your journey along the Silver Coast will come to a close today in the historic city of Coimbra. After a week of pedaling from Porto through coastal villages and past the vibrant canals of Aveiro, you will take this final morning to explore this ancient university town. Depending on your departure time, you will have the chance to visit the Old Cathedral, stroll through the historic center, or enjoy a final pastry by the Mondego River before you will head home.

Gallery

Botanical garden of the university of coimbra

FREE ITINERARY

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What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

5 nights in 3* hotels with breakfast

Digital guidebook with detailed itinerary and route instructions

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

Tour design and organization

Service and support during your tour

Luggage transfer

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Accomodation upgrade

Airport transfer

E-bike

Gravel bike

Regular bike

Road bike

Single supplement

From the vibrant streets of Porto to the historic charm of Coimbra, the Silver Coast Cycling Holidays will be an experience of a lifetime.

The Silver Coast is famed for its variety – its terrain gently transitions from flat coastal paths to rolling countryside, making it accessible yet rewarding for cyclists of all levels.

With each day offering new discoveries, you will enjoy a perfect balance of leisurely rides and enriching explorations.

As you cycle southward, you will traverse scenic coastal routes, cross iconic bridges, and pass through charming fishing villages. The São Jacinto Natural Reserve will enchant nature enthusiasts, while the vibrant canals of Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal”, promise a delightful experience.

Each destination, from Praia de Mira to Figueira da Foz, offers a mix of natural wonders and authentic Portuguese culture. The tour culminates in Coimbra, a city rich in history and academia, where ancient architecture and fado music create an atmosphere of timeless charm.

With seamless logistics, thoughtfully planned accommodations, GPS routes and round-the-clock support throughout your journey, you can focus entirely on the joy of the ride.

TOP Places You’ll See

From natural wonders to authentic local culture, the route is packed with memorable sights—these are our absolute favorites.

Porto, Portugal Old City Skyline on the Douro River

Porto’s Ribeira District

The Ribeira district is Porto’s historic riverside quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for its tightly packed colorful buildings, medieval alleyways, and proximity to the Dom Luís I Bridge. The area has been a hub of trade and daily life since Roman times and is home to traditional restaurants, wine cellars, and city landmarks along the Douro River.

Street with colorful houses in Costa Nova, Aveiro, Portugal. Street with striped houses, Costa Nova, Aveiro, Portugal. Facades of colorful houses in Costa Nova, Aveiro, Portugal

Costa Nova striped houses

Costa Nova is a small coastal village known for its iconic “palheiros”—wooden houses painted in bright vertical stripes. Originally used by fishermen in the 19th century to store gear, they have become a national symbol of Portugal’s seaside culture. The houses line the main avenue and create one of the most recognizable visuals along the Silver Coast.

Colorful Buildings And Boats - Aveiro, Portugal

Aveiro - Venice of Portugal

Aveiro is known for its network of canals that cross the city center. These canals were traditionally used by moliceiros—flat, decorated boats that transported seaweed and goods. Today, the city is nicknamed the “Venice of Portugal” and features tiled Art Nouveau buildings, pedestrian bridges, and a mix of historic and modern architecture surrounding the water channels.

Strand Landschaften Portugal: Holzsteg zum breiten Strand am Naturpark Dünen von São Jacinto am Atlantik nahe Ria de Aveiro

São Jacinto Dunes Natural Reserve

This protected nature reserve includes 960 hectares of sand dunes, pine forests, wetlands, and coastal habitat at the end of the São Jacinto Peninsula. The area features wooden boardwalks through the dunes and trails for nature observation. It’s an important habitat for migratory birds, including flamingos, herons, and spoonbills, and part of the Natura 2000 ecological network.

Courtyard galleries of Romanesque cathedral Se Velha in Coimbra, Portugal

The Old Cathedral of Coimbra

The Old Cathedral of Coimbra was built in the 12th century, shortly after the founding of Portugal. It is one of the few Romanesque cathedrals in the country to survive mostly intact. Its fortress-like exterior, narrow windows, and battlements reflect its defensive role during the Christian Reconquest. Inside, it houses Gothic chapels, medieval tombs, and a detailed stone altar.

Our Bikes

To ensure the best possible experience on your cycling adventure, we offer top-quality bikes for rent. Our fleet features the latest models, meticulously maintained for both performance and comfort.

To match each rider with the right equipment, our team will also assist you in selecting the most suitable bike based on your physical profile, personal preferences, and the technical requirements of the tour.

Black road bike with drop handlebars isolated on a white background

Road Bikes

Best for: Paved routes, longer distances, and climbs

Our road bikes are lightweight, fast, and built for endurance. They typically feature carbon or high-quality aluminium frames, smooth gearing, and reliable components—often Shimano 105 or similar. Well-suited for long days in the saddle, they’re perfect for climbs, steady cruising, and covering serious distance on tarmac.

Black and red hybrid trekking bicycle isolated on white background

Trekking Bikes

Best for: Multi-day touring, relaxed pace, and varied surfaces

These high-quality trekking bikes are built for comfort over multiple days. They feature a relaxed riding position, smooth-rolling wheels, and often come with practical additions like an adjustable stem, rear rack, or mudguards. They're not necessarily built for speed, but more for enjoying the ride.

Blue trekking e-bike with rear rack and fenders isolated on white background

Touring E-Bikes

Best for: Comfortable trekking, touring, longer distances, and hilly routes

These pedal-assist electric bikes are designed to make riding easier and more enjoyable—especially on longer or hillier routes. They come with powerful mid-drive motors, long-lasting batteries, and comfortable riding geometry for smooth support across varied terrain. With intuitive controls and quality components, they’re a great choice for riders who want extra assistance without giving up the feel of a real ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Embark on a self-guided cycling odyssey, designed for a tailor-crafted and adaptable getaway on two wheels, unveiling wonders at your own pace while having the freedom to alter your itinerary or path as needed. Our dedicated team meticulously handles all facets, encompassing lodging arrangements, thorough planning, GPS navigational aid, and continuous support, to gift you a tranquil and engrossing journey.

Our tours are segmented into three tiers of difficulty: Leisurely, Moderate, and Challenging, categorized by the usual daily routine, although there may be variations in difficulty throughout the trip.

Leisurely tours are ideal for those in pursuit of a relaxed adventure amidst stunning landscapes, without the challenge of covering long distances or tackling rough terrains. These journeys typically cover 30-50 km each day, with an elevation gain of up to 500 m. This allows plenty of pauses to relish the scenic vistas, enjoy local delicacies, and explore charming villages and towns along the way.

Moderate bike tours are tailored for those seeking a beautiful blend of scenic trails and a dash of challenge. Generally covering 50-80 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 1000 m, these tours traverse enchanting landscapes and delightful villages, featuring a mix of flat and rolling terrains. They not only provide ample chances to stop and explore but also ensure a satisfying cycling workout.

Challenging bike tours are meant for experienced cyclists eager to push their limits. Spanning 80-120 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 2000 m, these tours entail tackling steep ascents and demanding terrains. Though these tours require a high level of fitness and endurance, the exhilarating feeling of accomplishment at the end of each day, coupled with breathtaking views, makes the endeavor thoroughly rewarding.

Our tours can be adapted to any bike type, whether road, gravel, or mountain bike. We are in constant communication with you to find the optimal conditions for your cycling holidays in Portugal.

The most versatile option is a gravel bike, even if you are coming on a road cycling holiday. It does not really affect your road performance while allowing you to take some scenic backroads that can be in a slightly worse state than the main ones. A gravel bike is usually more comfortable as well.

We are devoted to discovering the ideal match for you. We collaborate with numerous lodging providers who meet our standards, although their availability may fluctuate, especially during peak demand times. Furthermore, we can customize your vacation to align with your preferences and budget, ensuring we identify the most fitting choice for your needs.
Here, you can see the types of accommodations in Portugal.

We advise booking your tour at the earliest opportunity, especially for popular tourist destinations with limited lodging availability. Prime choices often get snapped up for the summer before spring even arrives.

Addressing dietary preferences can vary based on their complexity. In Portugal, vegetarian options are generally available, but finding vegan meals might be more challenging in rural areas or smaller towns. Notably, lunch stops are often at traditional eateries which may not cater to special dietary needs beyond their standard menu. Keep this in consideration as you plan your adventure.

Wondering what are the most common things on the menu? Check our guides for foodies in Portugal!

If you are not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can certainly arrange that for you. We have a wide selection of bikes at our disposal and we will choose the ones that best fit your tour. All we need from you is your usual bike size and any other relevant information or preferences so we can make sure you will be comfortable throughout your trip.

Spring: Great across most regions, might rain in the north
Summer: Too hot inland, best in the north and on the coast
Autumn: Ideal in the south, rain returns in the north by November
Winter: Ride in the Algarve or Madeira, avoid inland and north

For a more in-depth rundown on the best time to plan your cycling holidays in Portugal, check this guide.

Ratings & Reviews

+85

Katja Bobik

Verified customer · 9 months ago

My self-guided cycling trip in southern Portugal was the perfect way to explore the Algarve. The routes were expertly planned, guiding me along dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches, and through charming inland villages. The provided GPS was easy to use, and I loved being able to stop whenever I wanted to enjoy a view or take a refreshing swim. Accommodations were comfortable and conveniently located, and luggage transfers made it all so simple. Timotej and the team were incredibly helpful, always checking in to make sure I had everything I needed for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This was an unforgettable adventure!

Mystie Pineda

Verified customer · 3 months ago

I found this place with a simple Google search, and I never could’ve expected the custom experience I received. They provided options to help my husband and I hone in on exactly what we wanted to do for our honeymoon. We had perfectly curated GPS-lead rides all across the country, they booked all of our hotels, and planned all of our transportation. Every place that we went was so beautiful. I’m so grateful that we found this company to help us plan our honeymoon, couldn’t have asked for a better experience!

Mountain bikes parked near blue and white crosswalk in European alpine village street

Wet, narrow street in a European town leading to a church spire, backed by a forested mountain.

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River flowing through a European town with historic buildings and forested mountains in the background.

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Bill Wright

Verified customer · 4 months ago

I was able to tailor a bike tour itinerary along the Adriatic coast that suited our group during the shoulder season. We added individual pre and post-trip activities which went smoothly. Our trip included stops in Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. The trip planner, guide and support team were great.

Group posing in front of Pula Arena with a stone wall and parked car.

barney barnhart

Verified customer · 4 months ago

Brilliant planning, great communication, terrific hotels and accommodations, interesting cities and beautiful scenery plus amazing routes.

Black and white cat with green eyes looking up from light gray tiled floor

Maroon gravel bike resting against a low stone wall in grassy terrain

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Gravel bike with rear rack and phone mount resting against a dry-stacked stone wall outdoors.

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John Woeste

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Highly recommend the bike trip from Bled to Pula. It was well planned. We did a small group self-supported. Big fun. Bikes, hotels, route selection and communication with the company was great.

Cyclist riding on dirt path under green leafy archway toward open field

Cyclist with panniers riding up a narrow cobblestone street in a historic town.

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Toasting with white and red wine glasses outdoors with greenery in the background

Alison Booth

Verified customer · 5 months ago

I would highly recommend anyone doing this tour take the e-bike option. There were only 3 of us on our tour who completed this on regular bikes. Four others who started out on regular bikes swapped over to e-bikes after the first day. The climbs are long and steep. There is pretty much only up or down, not much flat or undulating road. It is doable, but very challenging. If you are on an e-bike then this also helps with the group staying together and no-one having to wait too long for others to catch up. The bikes were really good and had great gearing that was capable of handling the steeper climbs. When we booked we were unaware that we would be riding in a group of 20plus at all time. Thankfully our group had prior group riding experience but we did observe other large groups with less than desirable riding behaviours.Others in our group were extremely understanding and supportive. Our guide, David, was very adamant about staying safe on the road. He was flexible with the itinerary and made changes to suit the weather conditions and to ensure we got in as much riding as possible. He was vey knowledgeable about Croatian history and agriculture and taught us lots about the country he is so passionate about. Our captain, Tolma, was also amazing and along with his awesome crew, made our cruise an enjoyable experience.

View from sailboat bow approaching coastal town with white buildings and green hills under blue sky.

Sailboat on the water during a vibrant orange and yellow sunset over the sea.

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Large sailboat named Toma loading bicycles from a dinghy near a forested coastline.

Katja Bobik

Verified customer · 9 months ago

Bill Wright

Verified customer · 4 months ago

John Woeste

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Highly recommend the bike trip from Bled to Pula. It was well planned. We did a small group self-supported. Big fun. Bikes, hotels, route selection and communication with the company was great.

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Mystie Pineda

Verified customer · 3 months ago

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barney barnhart

Verified customer · 4 months ago

Brilliant planning, great communication, terrific hotels and accommodations, interesting cities and beautiful scenery plus amazing routes.

Show all 11 photos

Alison Booth

Verified customer · 5 months ago

Show all 3 photos

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All available guidance options

Self-guided

Those who like good adventure and limitless flexibility should go on a self-guided cycling holiday. It offers complete freedom, multiple detour opportunities, and exploration at your own pace without having to adapt to a group.

Hassle-Free

We take care of route planning, accommodations, luggage transfers, and all logistics, so you can focus purely on enjoying your ride.

Tried & Tested Adventures

Our cycling routes are hand-picked & tested, to ensure breathtaking landscapes, smooth roads, and maximum safety - giving you the perfect ride every day.

Unbeatable Support

Our 24/7 customer support is where we show our passion, ensuring your cycling holiday runs smoothly and your well-being is always our top priority.

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We are a financially protected company, fully bonded and insured, keeping your money safe and allowing you to travel with confidence.

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Silver Coast Cycling Holidays

Highlights

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival in Porto

Day 2: Porto – Furadouro

Day 3: Furadouro – Aveiro

Day 4: Aveiro – Praia de Mira

Day 5: Praia de Mira – Figueira da Foz

Day 6: Figueira de Foz – Coimbra

Day 7: Departure from Coimbra

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

TOP Places You’ll See

Our Bikes

Frequently Asked Questions

What are self-guided cycling tours?

How demanding are your tours?

What kind of a bicycle is the best for your tours?

Why aren't accommodations specified?

How far in advance should I book?

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Do you offer bike rentals?

What's the best season for cycling in Portugal?

Ratings & Reviews

Katja Bobik

Mystie Pineda

Bill Wright

barney barnhart

John Woeste

Alison Booth

Katja Bobik

Bill Wright

John Woeste

Mystie Pineda

barney barnhart

Alison Booth

Similar Products

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Hassle-Free

Tried & Tested Adventures

Unbeatable Support

Book with Confidence

Have questions? Talk to us.

Itinerary of the trip

Day 1: Arrival in Porto

Day 2: Porto – Furadouro

Day 3: Furadouro – Aveiro

Day 4: Aveiro – Praia de Mira

Day 5: Praia de Mira – Figueira da Foz

Day 6: Figueira de Foz – Coimbra

Day 7: Departure from Coimbra

Ratings & Reviews

Katja Bobik

Mystie Pineda

Bill Wright

barney barnhart

John Woeste

Alison Booth

Katja Bobik

Bill Wright

John Woeste

Mystie Pineda

barney barnhart

Alison Booth

Similar Products