Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a city that offers much more than its charming streets and historic buildings. It’s a place where you can get a real sense of its maritime character, eclectic neighborhoods, and even a touch of the spooky. We love how many of these tours give you a chance to see the city from different angles—whether on a bike, a boat, or even through a self-guided scavenger hunt. For example, the Islands & Harbor Sightseeing Tour provides a lively way to explore the waterfront, learn some local lore, and enjoy stellar views that you might miss on foot.
Portsmouth’s diverse options include outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, and even unique tasting experiences. Many tours have high ratings, like the Small Group Bike Tour with a perfect 5-star rating from 111 reviews, and private options for a more personalized day. Whether you’re a history lover, active traveler, or someone eager for a bit of ghostly fun, this list will help you find a tour that fits your style and schedule.
1. Public| Small Group | Islands & Harbor Sightseeing Tour | 2-2.5hr
This 2-hour 15-minute boat tour is a fantastic way to see Portsmouth’s coast and islands without breaking a sweat. It departs from Portsmouth and whisks you across the Piscataqua River to visit New Castle, the Isle of Shoals, and other scenic spots. The tour combines stunning vistas of the Atlantic, fun storytelling, and local history, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed yet engaging experience.
What makes it stand out is the small-group format, which ensures your guide can share insider tips and answer questions. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge, with one calling Marcus “an awesome guide with a lot of knowledge.” The trip also offers more sightseeing than a walking tour, especially around the islands and harbor. At $80 per person, it delivers good value given the personalized attention, scenic views, and interesting commentary. Perfect for families or couples wanting an easy, memorable introduction to Portsmouth’s coastal beauty.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a relaxed, scenic cruise with expert storytelling—great for first-timers or those who prefer sitting back while taking in the sights.
2. VIP Private & Custom Group Bike Tour | 2-2.5 hrs.
For travelers looking for a more personalized experience, the VIP Private & Custom Group Bike Tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for groups wanting to explore at their own pace, with the option to customize the route and visit landmarks like Prescott Park, the historic Wentworth by the Sea, and Fort Stark.
The tour lasts roughly two hours, with the choice of a standard bike or e-bike, making it accessible for different fitness levels. The guide provides valuable local insights, and the tour is limited to just your group, ensuring a more intimate and flexible adventure. One reviewer highlighted Dawn’s enthusiasm and detailed stories, making the experience memorable. The price is $150 per person, reflecting the private, tailored nature of this tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or families wanting a private, flexible way to see Portsmouth’s highlights with expert guidance.
3. Luxury Semi-Private 4 Guest Seaside & Coastal eBike Tour |3-3.5Hr
If you’re comfortable on a bike and want to cover more ground, the Luxury Semi-Private eBike Tour offers an active yet scenic exploration of New Hampshire’s coastline. This 3-hour 15-minute tour takes you through charming villages, past historic sites, and to viewpoints overlooking the Isle of Shoals.
Designed for intermediate or experienced cyclists, it’s a great way to see more of the natural and coastal scenery. The ride includes up to 23 miles of cycling, with all necessary gear provided. Highlights include North Hampton State Beach and Odiorne Point, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy a more vigorous ride and want to learn about local history along the way.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting to explore the coast at a faster pace, with the option to go at their own speed on a comfortable e-bike.
4. Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth APP/GPS/EMF Reader
For those intrigued by ghost stories and spooky tales, the Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour offers a fun, flexible way to explore Portsmouth’s darker side. Using a GPS app, you can walk your own pace through landmarks like the Old Red Light District and the African Burial Grounds, hearing tales of hauntings, witches, and murderers.
This tour is especially popular for its easy-to-follow audio guide and the ability to customize your pace, making it ideal for night owls or those wanting an intimate experience. It costs just $7.75 and takes about 40 minutes to an hour, making it a quick, fun addition to your itinerary. Reviewers enjoyed the mix of history and spooky stories, with one calling it “very informative and fun.”
Bottom Line: An entertaining way to experience Portsmouth’s eerie side, perfect for ghost enthusiasts or history buffs who enjoy a little spine-chill.
5. Self-Guided Portsmouth Scavenger Hunt: Pretty Portsmouth
If you prefer interactive exploration, the Self-Guided Portsmouth Scavenger Hunt offers a playful way to uncover the city’s art, landmarks, and hidden corners. Using an app, you’ll follow clues, answer trivia, and complete challenges around Market Square, Prescott Park, and more, all at your own pace.
At $12.31 per person, it’s a cost-effective way to learn about Portsmouth’s culture and architecture while having fun. Families and groups have enjoyed the game format, especially as it includes Portsmouth’s Black Heritage Trail stops. Reviewers say it’s a “nice walk in town” that combines sightseeing and activity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active families or friends who want a mix of sightseeing and play, with the flexibility of self-paced discovery.
6. Public | Self-Guided Rental-5 Speed Bicycle | 3-hrs
For those who want to set their own schedule, the Self-Guided Bicycle Rental provides a flexible way to explore key sights like Prescott Park, Fort Stark, and the African Burying Ground. The hybrid bikes and included gear make for a comfortable ride, and with a 3-hour window, you can customize your route.
Most users find the route easy to follow and appreciate the freedom to explore without a guide. One review notes the route’s quiet roads and scenic views, making it suitable for casual cyclists. It’s an affordable way to see a lot of Portsmouth with minimal planning.
Bottom Line: An excellent option for independent travelers comfortable with navigation who want to shape their own adventure.
7. Tea Blending
For a different kind of experience, the Tea Blending class offers a relaxing, educational session at a Portsmouth tea shop. You’ll learn how to craft your own herbal tea blends using over 250 herbs, guided by a clinical herbalist.
The 1.5-hour private lesson includes sampling herbal teas, and you’ll leave with a custom blend tailored to your preferences or needs. This is perfect for those interested in wellness, aromatherapy, or just looking for a calming activity. The reviews highlight how fun and informative the experience is, with one saying, “I learned that blending teas with intention is enjoyable and useful.”
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for wellness-minded travelers or those looking for a calm, personalized activity.
8. Public | Small Group | City Of Portsmouth Bike Tour | 1.5-2hr
If you want to see Portsmouth’s neighborhoods and architecture on two wheels, this City of Portsmouth Bike Tour runs 1.5 to 2 hours through various districts like Strawbery Banke and the West End. It’s an engaging way to understand the city’s development, with stops at historic homes, parks, and landmarks like the Frank Jones Brewery.
Reviews often mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the tour’s informativeness. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy cycling but prefer a guided experience that covers more ground than walking. Price at $70 per person makes it a reasonable option for a quick, active exploration.
Bottom Line: A lively, informative bike ride suited for travelers who want to combine exercise with local storytelling.
9. Public | Small Group | Nature & Wildlife Tour Rail Trail| 2-2.5hrs
For nature lovers, this 2-hour 15-minute tour brings you into the quiet woods and wetlands of Portsmouth’s rail trail. It’s perfect for family outings or those wanting to enjoy outdoor solitude. As you ride, you’ll experience birdsong, wildlife sightings, and the chance to appreciate the changing seasons.
Rated a perfect 5-stars from one reviewer, it’s a calm, family-friendly ride that emphasizes the natural beauty of the area. The guide leads a group of six to eight riders, covering 6-8 miles at a relaxed pace. The tour is especially good in spring and summer when the trail is lively with bird activity.
Bottom Line: Best for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, scenic ride that’s suitable for most fitness levels.
$150
10. Historical Tastings at the Iconic Rockingham
If you love history and good food, the Historical Tastings at the Rockingham offers a 90-minute experience combining local wines, spirits, and gourmet appetizers in a historic setting. The tour takes place inside the 1785 Rockingham Hotel, where you learn about the building’s past while enjoying a curated selection of drinks and bites.
Though it has no reviews yet, the setting and combination of culinary delights and history make it appealing. This tour suits travelers interested in gastronomy and architecture, or those seeking a relaxed, social experience after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for connoisseurs and history buffs wanting an elegant, laid-back tasting combined with local storytelling.
$80.00 per person
11. Portsmouth Prowl Scavenger Hunt
Finally, the Portsmouth Prowl Scavenger Hunt offers a creative, interactive adventure that guides you through the city’s streets with a live remote host. It’s a unique blend of tour, puzzle, and social challenge, making it ideal for families or groups wanting to turn city exploration into a game.
Costing $27 per person, it lasts about two hours and includes clues that focus on Portsmouth’s architecture and culture. Reviewers emphasize how engaging and different it is from typical tours, especially with the added fun of having a live host.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active, competitive groups looking for a memorable experience that’s both fun and educational.
$27.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When choosing between these options, consider your budget, interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a laid-back introduction, the Islands & Harbor Sightseeing Tour offers scenic relaxation. If you want an active day, the Coastal eBike or self-guided bike rentals are great choices. For a more personalized experience, the private bike tour is hard to beat.
History and culture lovers might prefer the Portsmouth Heritage Tastings, while those craving spooky stories will enjoy the haunted walking tour. Families and groups with a playful streak should check out the scavenger hunts, like the Pretty Portsmouth or Portsmouth Prowl. Booking early is recommended, especially for private and highly-rated tours.
In summary, Portsmouth offers a wide range of tours to match any interest—whether you want to relax on a boat, pedal along the coast, explore haunted sites, or solve puzzles in the city. For history lovers, the small-group bike tours and guided city tours provide deep dives into the past. Active travelers will appreciate the coastal eBike, while families or groups wanting something fun and interactive will enjoy the scavenger hunts.
No matter your style, Portsmouth’s tours promise memorable experiences that reveal the city’s many layers—so book ahead and get ready for a great time exploring this charming New England port.