Self-guided tour Bike + Surf

Experience Porto with a Bike and Surf Combo Tour
This self-guided adventure in Porto offers a perfect blend of outdoor activity and coastal relaxation. For $52.73 per person, you get a chance to pedal along the scenic Douro River, explore vibrant neighborhoods, and then hit the waves at Matosinhos Beach with a surf lesson. The tour lasts between 3 to 9 hours, making it flexible for your schedule.

What we love about this experience are the spectacular river views as you cycle past the Arrábida Bridge and riverside fishing spots, and the fun, beginner-friendly surf session that’s included. It’s a rare chance to combine city sightseeing with the thrill of catching your first wave without needing prior experience.

One potential consideration is that this tour is self-guided after the initial instructions. While that offers flexibility, travelers who prefer a guide’s insights might miss out on some local stories. Still, it’s ideal for those who enjoy setting their own pace and discovering Porto at their leisure.

This experience suits active travelers, families with teens, and anyone looking for an authentic Porto adventure that mixes urban charm with seaside fun. If you enjoy being outdoors, trying new sports, and sampling local food, this is a well-rounded option.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of city and coast with cycling along the Douro and surfing at Matosinhos
• All-inclusive gear for both biking and surfing, simplifying logistics
• Flexible timing offers options for a full day or a shorter outing
• Authentic local experiences including lunch at City Park and surfing lessons with gear
• Highly rated guides and smooth rental process, according to reviews
• Ideal for active travelers seeking varied ways to explore Porto

A Deep Dive into the Porto Bike + Surf Tour

Starting Point: Bikes and the Porto Skyline

Your adventure kicks off at Biclas & Triclas, located at R. Nova da Alfândega 108, right in the heart of Porto. The company is praised for being easy, efficient, and friendly, with reviews highlighting how smoothly everything runs from bike pickup to riding off into the cityscape. For around $53, you get your bike and helmet, and you’re set for a day of exploration.

What makes cycling along the Douro River so appealing is the stunning scenery. Pedaling past the Arrábida Bridge, once home to the world’s largest reinforced concrete arch, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the river and city. The route also passes historic sites and riverside fishing areas, where locals still launch small boats and fetch water from ancient fountains.

Why the Riverwalk is a Highlight

One reviewer describes Porto’s riverside as “an area of riverside fishermen that still maintains its tradition,” which is true — this is not just a tourist trail but a lively, working waterfront. The lush Passeio Alegre garden, classified as a Property of Public Interest, offers a peaceful detour with scenic views and historic monuments.

Cycling along Porto’s scenic neighborhoods, you’ll get a sense of local life, with plenty of cafes and shops to observe along the way. The route is easily navigable even for those new to city biking, though you should be comfortable with some urban traffic and cobblestones.

Transition to the Beach and Surfing

After a scenic ride through Porto’s charm, you’ll make your way to Matosinhos Beach — Portugal’s largest accessible beach just outside the city. Here, a surf instructor will outfit you with a wetsuit and board, and provide a 1.5-hour surf lesson.

Matosinhos is renowned for its manageable waves, perfect for beginners, and the shallow sandy bottoms make it safe for first-timers. Reviews confirm that the surf sessions are “a huge hit with teens,” and one reviewer calls their guide “fantastic.” You’ll be in good hands, learning to paddle, catch a wave, and maybe even stand up for the first time.

Lunch and Relaxation at City Park

After surf, the tour concludes with a delicious Portuguese lunch in the City Park, which is the largest urban park in Portugal. Designed by Sidónio Pardal, the park features lakes, flora, fauna, and peaceful walking paths.

The menu at Soundwich, located within the park, includes creations from 14 renowned Porto chefs — reviews rave about the excellent food and sandwiches. It’s a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink, and reflect on your morning adventures.

End of the Day: Flexibility and Comfort

The tour ends back at the starting point, allowing you to continue exploring Porto or head to your accommodation. The entire experience is self-guided, with detailed instructions and gear provided, giving you the freedom to set your own pace.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the smooth bike rental process. One even called it “the best part of the holiday,” emphasizing how enjoyable and accessible the bike and surf combo is.

The surf session receives glowing feedback for being fun and beginner-friendly, and the combination of city sightseeing with beach activities makes this tour stand out. Travelers mention that it’s ideal for families, with teenagers especially loving the surfing lessons.

Value and Practical Tips

At just over $52, this tour offers great value. It combines active exploration with relaxing beach time, and the included gear and lunch make it straightforward for travelers. Since it’s self-guided, it’s best suited for confident cyclists and independent adventurers who enjoy setting their own itinerary.

Be sure to arrive early for your start, and remember that weather conditions can influence the surfing and cycling parts. The tour offers free cancellation, so if weather turns sour, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combined bike and surf experience is perfect for active travelers eager to discover Porto beyond the usual sightseeing spots. Families with teens who want to try surfing in a safe, guided environment will appreciate how approachable and fun it is. It’s also suitable for those who love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and sampling authentic local food.

Those looking for a flexible, engaging day that mixes city culture with seaside fun will find this tour a memorable highlight. If you don’t mind a bit of physical activity and enjoy a curated experience that balances guided elements with independence, this tour is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The surf lesson is designed for beginners, and the bike route is manageable for most. The guides are helpful, and gear is included to make learning easier and more comfortable.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 3 to 9 hours, giving you flexibility to choose how much time you want to spend on each activity.

Do I need my own transportation to the meeting point?
No, but you should plan to arrive at the starting location, R. Nova da Alfândega 108, early enough to start on time. It’s near public transportation, making it accessible from most parts of Porto.

What’s included in the price?
All day bike rental, helmet, surf lesson with gear (board, wetsuit, instructor), and lunch at City Park are included. Souvenir photos and hotel transfers are not part of the package.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this activity appropriate for children?
Yes, especially for teens who enjoy outdoor activities. The reviews mention that surfing lessons are fun for all ages, and the bike ride is suitable for most people comfortable with urban cycling.

To sum it up, this Porto bike + surf tour offers a fantastic combination of urban exploration and seaside adventure, all at a reasonable price. You’ll get to see some of the most scenic parts of the city, enjoy a relaxing lunch, and learn to surf in a safe, friendly environment. It’s best suited for active, independent travelers and families looking for a memorable, hands-on experience that captures the essence of Porto — lively, beautiful, and full of surprises.