Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a city that begs to be explored on two wheels. Its scenic harbor views, historic neighborhoods, and charming parks make bike tours a fantastic way to experience the city’s character firsthand. We love how easy it is to see the sights without relying on a car — especially with options like the VIP Private & Custom Group Bike Tour that offers personalized itineraries, or the Public City of Portsmouth Bike Tour that takes you through colorful neighborhoods rich in history and art. Whether you’re after a quick city overview or a longer coastal ride, Portsmouth’s bike tours put you right in the heart of the action.
Quick Overview
Our list features three different types of bike experiences: a private, customizable tour perfect for groups seeking a tailored outing; a semi-private seaside ride suited for intermediate cyclists wanting a scenic coastal adventure; and a relaxed city tour ideal for those short on time but eager to see Portsmouth’s highlights. Each offers a unique perspective—more personalized, more adventurous, or more leisurely—so you can pick what best fits your travel style.
1. VIP Private & Custom Group Bike Tour
At number one is the VIP Private & Custom Group Bike Tour, which guarantees a personalized Portsmouth experience. For about $150 per person, you get a private guide leading you for around 2 hours and 15 minutes — a great way to maximize your time in town. The tour includes options for a standard bike or an e-bike, making it accessible whether you’re a casual rider or looking for a bit of extra assistance.
What makes this tour stand out is the customization. Your guide will adapt the route to your interests, whether you want to explore historic forts like Fort Stark State Historic Site or cruise past the Wentworth by the Sea hotel. The tour covers notable sights like Prescott Park and Peirce Island, weaving in stories about Portsmouth’s past along the way. The intimate setting — limited to just your group — allows for a flexible, relaxed pace and plenty of personalized attention. Based on reviews, travelers love this option for its blend of education and flexibility, with one noting, “Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and shared lots of history highlights.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups or families seeking a private, flexible ride with the option to customize the route — a perfect way to see Portsmouth at your own pace.
2. Luxury Semi-Private 4 Guest Seaside & Coastal eBike Tour
Second on our list is the Luxury Semi-Private 4 Guest Seaside & Coastal eBike Tour, which offers a more active, scenic journey along Portsmouth’s coast. Priced at $150 per person, it lasts around 3 hours and 15 minutes, covering up to 23 miles of picturesque shoreline and villages. This tour is perfect if you’re comfortable on a bike and want to explore beyond the city limits, with a focus on New Hampshire’s coastline and historic sites.
The itinerary includes stops at North Hampton State Beach for sweeping views of the Isles of Shoals, and Wallis Sands Beach, a great spot for photos and relaxation. The route also includes Rye Harbor State Park, where you’ll hear about Captain John Smith’s 1614 visit, adding a touch of historic context to the ride. Odiorne Point State Park, once a wilderness inhabited by Native American tribes, rounds out the journey with natural beauty and history.
Gear is provided, and the pace is flexible, catering mostly to intermediate or more experienced cyclists. Travelers mention how the ride offers stunning views and a good mix of history and nature. With a longer duration and more miles than a typical city tour, it’s well-suited for those seeking an active adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for seasoned cyclists who want to take in Portsmouth’s coastal beauty while learning some local history — a more energetic and scenic experience.
3. Public | Small Group | City Of Portsmouth Bike Tour
Last but not least, the Public City of Portsmouth Bike Tour offers a shorter, more relaxed look at the city’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks. For just $70 per person, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 45 minutes exploring Portsmouth’s colorful streets and architectural gems. This is a great option if you’re short on time but want to get a good feel for the city.
The tour covers key highlights like the North End, “Little Italy,” Strawbery Banke, and the Wentworth by the Sea. You’ll also pass by the Frank Jones Brewery and the charming West End neighborhood, with stops to admire art and sculptures in parks and gardens. Reviewers appreciate how guide Dawn makes history engaging and shares stories about the city’s development, with one noting, “We learned a lot of history about the people and the beautiful sites.” This tour is perfect for history lovers who want a quick, well-rounded overview without too much pedaling.
Although the ride is shorter and less intense, it still provides a good sense of Portsmouth’s vibrant neighborhoods and architectural beauty. It’s best suited for casual cyclists or those with limited time wanting a taste of Portsmouth’s charm.
Bottom Line: A solid, budget-friendly option for a quick city overview, especially if you prefer a relaxed pace and want to see Portsmouth’s highlights.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your fitness level, interests, and the time you have available. The private VIP Tour is perfect if you want a tailored experience and value privacy. The Coastal eBike Tour suits active travelers eager to combine history with scenic views, while the City Tour is ideal for a quick introduction to Portsmouth’s colorful neighborhoods.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, since these tours tend to fill up. For those with more time and energy, the coastal ride offers a memorable blend of natural beauty and local lore, while the city tour provides a relaxed, cultural intro perfect for families or first-timers.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a personalized private experience, a robust coastal ride, or a short city tour, Portsmouth offers options that cater to different interests and fitness levels. For a leisurely introduction, the City of Portsmouth Bike Tour is hard to beat for its charm and affordability. For those seeking adventure and history along the shoreline, the Seaside & Coastal eBike Tour provides a memorable journey. If a private, customizable experience is your priority, then the VIP Tour offers the best flexibility and personalized attention.
Whatever your choice, booking ahead ensures a smooth trip — so get your pedals ready and enjoy exploring Portsmouth on two wheels.