Lisbon Sidecar Tour ( the netflix one)

Lisbon Sidecar Tour (the Netflix one): An Unconventional Way to See the City

Imagine zipping through Lisbon’s historic streets with the wind in your hair, feeling like a local rather than a tourist. This 3-hour sidecar tour is offered by Bike my Side, a Portuguese company founded in 2010, and is celebrated for its authentic, personalized approach to exploring Portugal’s hilly capital. With up to 10 passengers in five vintage sidecars, guided by friendly Portuguese drivers, this experience promises to take you beyond the typical sightseeing trail, revealing hidden corners and viewpoints that even seasoned travelers might miss.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its flexibility. You can customize your route to focus on specific interests or simply sit back and enjoy the ride. We love how the guides are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing stories that even locals might not know. Plus, riding in a well-maintained Ural sidecar adds a dash of vintage charm and thrill that other tours can’t match.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for children under 8, or those with back problems or over 220 lbs (100 kg). Also, since part of the experience involves being on a motorbike, comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended, and bare feet are not allowed. If you’re a fan of feeling the city from a fresh perspective—whether you’re short on time or want to add an adventurous twist to your Lisbon trip—this tour is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Unique Transportation: Explore Lisbon in a vintage sidecar, feeling the breeze and hearing the sounds of the city.
• Personalized Experience: Routes can be tailored to your interests, making the tour more meaningful.
• Knowledgeable Guides: All drivers are Portuguese, offering rich local insights and friendly interaction.
• Convenience and Comfort: Hotel or cruise port pickup included, with all riding gear provided.
• Limited Group Size: A maximum of 10 passengers ensures a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic Photos: Capture striking images and stories that even locals might not know.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon Sidecar Tour

The Experience: What You Can Expect

At its core, this sidecar tour is about seeing Lisbon from a different angle—literally and figuratively. You’ll be riding in one of five vintage sidecars, each driven by a local Portuguese who knows every twist and turn of the city’s seven hills. The three-hour duration strikes a balance between a rundown and a relaxed pace, allowing you to soak in sights without feeling rushed.

Start & End Point: The tour departs from central Lisbon, with hotel or cruise ship pickup included, making it a convenient way to begin your exploration without the hassle of arranging your own transport. As you set off, be prepared to pass through neighborhoods that bus tours tend to overlook, giving you a more authentic taste of Lisbon’s diverse districts.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the route can be customized, reviewers have highlighted certain aspects that make each ride special. Your guides are eager to tailor the experience—whether you want to focus on historic sites, scenic viewpoints, or local hidden gems.

Stop 1: Pickup & Introduction
The adventure begins with a friendly pickup, where your guide explains the plan and gets you comfortable with the gear. Expect some safety instructions and a quick overview of Lisbon’s main events and cultural highlights.

Stops and Highlights:
Your guide will take you to places that only those on foot or in a car could easily miss. You might explore lesser-known viewpoints with sweeping views of the city’s skyline, or winding streets where the colorful architecture and quaint cafes line the way. Several reviews mention that guides like Jorge and Luis are not only knowledgeable but also enthusiastic—sharing personal stories and historical insights that enrich the ride.

Photogenic Moments:
Many travelers rave about how “you’ll get lots of friendly smiles and waves from locals and travelers alike,” as you glide past iconic spots. They also recommend pinning your stops on Google Maps for the return—so you can revisit the hidden spots on your own time.

Additional Stops:
Some reviews mention stops for local treats like nata pastries or a quick sip of Portuguese wine, adding personal touches that make the tour memorable.

The Guides & Their Passion

All guides are Portuguese, offering insightful commentary in multiple languages including English, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and fun.

For instance, Jayine mentions her guide Jorge’s extensive knowledge of Portugal’s history, which made the tour feel like a personal storytelling session. Emily highlighted her guide’s lovely personality and deep historical insights, and Anik raved about Luis’s amazing storytelling and positive energy that created a positive and memorable experience.

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What You Will Love

• The Wind in Your Hair & Stunning Views: The open-air nature of the sidecar means you’re right in the action—feeling the breeze as you pass through Lisbon’s hills and scenic neighborhoods.
• Personalized Routes & Unique Spots: Unlike bus or walking tours, we loved the way guides could modify the trip to suit our preferences—whether focusing on viewpoints, historic districts, or local life.

Possible Drawbacks

The main limitation is that this tour isn’t suitable for young children, people with certain health issues, or those who prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous form of sightseeing. Also, since the tour involves riding on a motorbike, some travelers might find it less comfortable than a car or private van, especially in unpredictable weather.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after an adventurous, authentic way to experience Lisbon, and enjoy personalized, guided storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want to see a mix of famous sights and hidden gems, and don’t mind a little wind and speed. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager for a memorable story to tell.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering it’s a 3-hour private or semi-private experience that includes pickup, all gear, and a knowledgeable guide, the value is significant. You get more than just sightseeing—you gain an insider’s perspective on Lisbon’s streets and stories that many visitors miss. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost or rushed, making the fee a worthwhile investment in a truly unique Lisbon memory.

Final Thoughts

This Lisbon Sidecar Tour offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore the city’s hills, viewpoints, and hidden corners with a local’s touch. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a list of landmarks—who crave stories, authentic encounters, and a sense of adventure. If you love the idea of wind in your hair, photos that tell a story, and guides who are passionate about their city, then this tour will leave you smiling.

While it’s not suited for everyone—those with mobility issues or traveling with small children might want to consider other options—it’s an experience that’s hard to match in terms of fun and authenticity. For curious explorers eager to see Lisbon from a different perspective, this tour offers a memorable blend of thrill, culture, and local charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 8 years old, as the experience involves riding in a motorbike sidecar, which requires some physical coordination and safety considerations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended. Since you’ll be exposed to the elements, sunglasses help shield your eyes, and comfortable shoes ensure you’re ready to hop on and off easily. Bare feet are not allowed for safety reasons.

Can I customize the route?
Yes. The tour can be tailored to your interests, whether focusing on viewpoints, historic areas, or specific neighborhoods. Just let your guide know your preferences.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with availability to check for specific starting times when booking.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise port are included, making it a convenient start to your day.

What languages are the tours offered in?
Guides speak English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Since it’s an outdoor adventure, poor weather could impact the experience. It’s best to check the forecast and be prepared with appropriate clothing.

What’s included in the price?
All riding gear, sidecar with driver, and hotel or port pickup are included. Tasting fees or meals are not included.

How many people can join?
Up to 10 passengers, split across five sidecars, ensuring a personal experience with friendly interaction.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with back problems?
It may not be suitable for people with back issues, as riding in a sidecar can involve some bouncing and movement.

To sum it up, this Lisbon sidecar tour is a lively, engaging way to see the city’s highlights and hidden corners in a short time. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic, fun, and personalized experience, especially if they’re eager to capture unique photos and hear stories directly from local guides. If you’re looking for a memorable adventure that combines sightseeing with a thrill, this is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: