An insider’s guide to the best cycling in Portugal: where to ride + what to expect

Why go cycling in Portugal?

Portugal is a fantastic cycling destinations in Europe, though we think it’s often overlooked in favour of more famous destinations in Spain, France and Italy. With a mild climate, gorgeous landscapes, mountain climbs and scenic coastal routes, it has something for every rider. Whether you want long days in the saddle or relaxed sightseeing rides, cycling in Portugal delivers.

Climate

One of the main reasons people go on Portugal’s cycling holidays is the weather. Portugal enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. Due to its varying topography, you can always find a good area to cycle in at any particular time of year. For example, the Algarve enjoys mild winters but gets very hot in summer, when mountainous areas of inland Portugal are a better bet. This makes it a great alternative to busier cycling hotspots like Mallorca or the French Alps.

We spent a fantastic week in Viana do Castelo in March with wall-to-wall sunshine and pleasant weather! Find out more in our in-depth guide to Northern Portugal and below for full details.

Routes

The roads are another highlight of cycling tours in Portugal. It’s easy to find smooth asphalt, low traffic, and breathtaking scenery. The Algarve, for example, offers quiet inland roads and dramatic ocean views, while Alentejo is a quieter alternative, and the Douro Valley is known for its rolling vineyards and historic villages. If you prefer tougher challenges, the Serra da Estrela provides some of the toughest cycling climbs in Portugal.

Affordability

Cycling holidays in Portugal offer excellent value for money. Compared to other European cycling destinations, food, accommodation, and bike hire tend to be pretty affordable. You can stay in cyclist-friendly hotels, enjoy fantastic local cuisine, and experience world-class riding without spending a fortune.

Culture of cycling

Cycling is a popular pursuit in Portugal and at weekends you’ll find roadies and mountain bikers out and about especially around the bigger towns. There’s also a strong cycling club scene, but joining them can be tricky if you don’t speak Portuguese. Nonetheless, this appreciation for cycling amongst locals is useful as visitors, as it feeds into the support for cycling you’ll find in the form of bike shops, accommodation, and patience amongst drivers.

History and tradition

Beyond the cycling, Portugal is rich in history and culture. A cycling trip in Portugal is not just about the riding – it is also about discovering charming towns, medieval castles, and UNESCO-listed sites like Sintra and Évora.

Portugal is also known for its rich culture and fantastic food. Portugal cycling tours are the perfect opportunity to sample the country’s fresh seafood and delicious pastel de nata, washed down with a glass of local wine.

Exploring peaceful river valleys in Portugal’s rural interior (photo credit: Portugal A2Z Walking & Biking)

Cycling Portugal: what’s it like from a cyclist’s perspective?

If you haven’t been to Portugal before, you might be tempted to head straight for the famous destinations, like Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve’s coastline. By all means, visit the cities for a night or two if you want to see their buildings, but these are not the best places from which to experience Portugal or base yourself as a cyclist; they’re full of people, traffic and while there may be some bike lanes, you’re never going to have the best ride of your life.

Instead, use ferries and trains to get into the countryside beyond the busy hotspots. Use the notes below to pick the best regions and routes in Portugal to meet your cycling objectives.

Geography of Portugal

South: Coast and rural, rolling interior

Algarve

The Algarve is Portugal’s most famous coastal region, known for its golden beaches, limestone cliffs, and quiet inland roads. While the coastline is busy with tourists, head inland and you will find peaceful countryside with rolling hills, orange groves, and traditional villages. The Monchique Mountains offer challenging bike routes with fantastic views, including the climb to Foia, the highest point in the region.

Read more about cycling in the Algarve below and in this guide.

Interested in gravel cycling in the Algarve? Don’t miss this in-depth article.

Alentejo

Further north, Alentejo is a land of vineyards, cork oak forests, and open plains. It is perfect for long, scenic rides on often rolling terrain, through historic towns such as Évora and Monsaraz. The region has a warm, dry climate and quiet roads, making it ideal for cyclists who want a relaxed but rewarding experience.

Read more about cycling in Alentejo below and in this guide.

North: Vineyard valleys and mountains

Northern Portugal includes the Douro Valley, one of the most stunning cycling regions in Portugal. Famous for its terraced vineyards and winding river roads, it offers challenging climbs and breathtaking descents. The roads here follow the Douro River, passing through picturesque villages and world-renowned wine estates. Beware that as there aren’t that many roads in the valley, you’re likely to end up doing a lot of climbing.

Further north from the Douro Valley, Peneda-Gerês National Park offers a very different experience. This mountainous region near the Spanish border is rugged and remote, with dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and forested climbs. It is one of the best places for cyclists who love nature and off-the-beaten-path riding.

Read more about cycling in Porto and North below.

East: Spain’s highest mountain and the remote borderlands

The Serra da Estrela in central Portugal, around 200 kilometres southeast of Porto, is home to the highest mountain in mainland Portugal. The climb to Torre, at 1,993 metres, is a must-ride for anyone looking for a serious challenge. The landscapes here are wild and remote, with high-altitude plateaus, granite peaks, and stunning mountain roads.

The eastern borderlands with Spain, stretching from the north to the south, are less visited parts of Portugal, but they’re full of hidden gems. The roads near the Spanish border take you through ancient walled towns like Marvão and Castelo Rodrigo, offering quiet, scenic cycling with a real sense of history.

West: the Atlantic Coast

Portugal’s Atlantic Coast falls into every region of mainland Portugal. The coast is famous for the Atlantic Coast cycling route between Lisbon and Porto. It offers some of the most spectacular cycling in the country.

If you choose to cycle Portugal’s coast, do your research on the bits you most want to experience. Perhaps the rugged cliffs of the Alentejo Coast or the sweeping beaches of the Silver Coast? The Nazaré and Peniche areas are especially popular with cyclists looking for stunning ocean views and rolling coastal roads. But they do get busy; and also be aware that EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast route is not perfect – so do your research carefully.

Just outside Lisbon, Sintra is a cycling paradise with forests, historic palaces, and winding mountain roads through what is known locally as the Serra de Sintra. Cycling to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, is a fantastic ride with breathtaking views over the Atlantic.

Read more about cycling Portugal’s west coast here.

Cycling Serra da Estrela to Torre (photo credit: John Shell)

What are the roads like?

Portugal offers a fantastic variety of roads for cycling, from smooth coastal highways to quiet rural lanes and challenging mountain climbs. In general, road conditions are excellent, but the experience can of course vary.

Road surface and quality

Portugal has invested heavily in its road network, and most major cycling routes have smooth asphalt with minimal potholes. Inland and mountain roads, such as those in the Serra da Estrela, are generally well-maintained but can be rougher in places, particularly in more remote areas.

Traffic levels and safety

One of the biggest advantages of cycling in Portugal is the low traffic on many rural roads. Inland routes, especially in quieter, less touristy parts of Portugal like Alentejo and the Douro Valley, offer peaceful riding with very few cars. Even in more popular regions like the Algarve, traffic is light once you head inland and away from the coastal resorts.

Portugal doesn’t have the best reputation for its driving (source), but Portuguese drivers are generally respectful towards cyclists, particularly in well-known cycling areas. However, in and around major cities such as Lisbon, Faro and Porto, traffic can be heavy, and urban cycling requires extra caution.

Cycling infrastructure

Dedicated cycling infrastructure in Portugal is improving, but it is still not as extensive as in countries like the Netherlands or Spain. Some cities, such as Lisbon and Porto, have developed bike lanes, but they are often disconnected. The best cycling experiences are found on quiet country roads and established bike routes.

Portugal has a bike-friendly hotel accreditation scheme. This is helpful for finding great places to stay. More on this below.

What are the best regions in Portugal for cycling?

There are lots of ways of dividing Portugal; here we follow the regions the Portugal Tourist Board uses to explain Portugal. We hope it helps you plan your Portugal cycling tour.

Algarve

The Algarve is probably the best known cycling destination in Portugal, thanks to its excellent flight connections, package holidays and cycling events such as the Volta Algarve.

Its reputation for cycling comes from its smooth roads, glorious coastal scenery, and a mild climate that makes it a great option for year-round riding. Many professional teams train here in the off-season to enjoy world-class riding on some of Portugal’s best roads. Many of Portugal’s cycling tour operators are based here and/or run tours here.

Inland

The region’s inland roads are a cyclist’s dream, with rolling hills, quiet lanes, and breathtaking views. The Monchique Mountains provide some of the best climbs in the area, including the ascent to Foia (902 metres), the highest point in the Algarve. Other climbs include Malhão and Alcaria do Cume. There’s more information on these in our Algarve guide – see link below.

Coast

If you’re looking for a Portugal cycling holiday on the coast, check out EuroVelo 1, where you’ll find spectacular ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and smooth tarmac. Do be aware that along the coast, you will also find a good quantity of sprawling tourist developments around beach resorts and you’ll need to pick your route carefully to avoid busy traffic, especially near tourist hotspots.

The Algarve is the most densely population region in southern Portugal – although it’s not really dense by typical European standards.

More information

Guide to cycling the Algarve

The beautiful beach of Praia da Marinha, the Algarve

Alentejo

The Alentejo region is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets for cycling holidays. It’s a rural region with few big towns and a local population that’s in decline; meaning you’re in for lots of wide empty spaces. Alentejo is known for its rolling landscapes, quiet roads, castles and historic towns; it is perfect for riders who enjoy long, peaceful routes away from traffic.

What’s special

The roads in Alentejo are smooth and well-maintained, passing through open plains, vineyards, olive plantations, and cork oak forests. The terrain is mostly rolling, with gentle climbs that make for enjoyable, steady riding. Despite the fact its not overpopulated, there’s lots for cyclists to explore including charming towns such as Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or Monsaraz, a hilltop village with incredible views over the Alqueva Lake.

For those looking for more of a challenge, the roads near Marvão and Serra de São Mamede Natural Park offer tougher climbs and dramatic landscapes. These routes take you through remote countryside, medieval castles, and rugged hilltop scenery.

Coast

The Atlantic Coast of Alentejo also provides stunning cycling opportunities, with scenic roads running past wild beaches and dramatic cliffs. The Rota Vicentina, which stretches along the Alentejo Coast into the Algarve, is a fantastic option for those looking for scenic, undulating terrain.

More information

Guide to cycling the Alentejo region.

Azure seas of Alentejo (photo credit: Turaventur)

Lisbon region

The Lisbon region is one of the smallest administrative districts in Portugal. You’ll find a mix of coastal, urban, and mountain cycling. With its mild climate, diverse terrain, and stunning scenery, it is a great destination for riders looking for both challenging climbs and scenic routes.

Lisbon

Lisbon itself is hilly and busy, so not a first choice for those looking for a base for a Portugal cycling holiday. However, just outside the city, rolling roads through Arrábida Natural Park provide quieter, traffic-free cycling with incredible sea views.

Top tip: If you do decide to cycle in or out of Lisbon, consider riding as early as possible on a Sunday morning when the roads should be at their quietest.

Sintra

Close to Lisbon is Sintra, a UNESCO-listed town surrounded by lush forests and winding mountain roads. A nice route is from Lisbon along the Tagus River, past Cascais to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where dramatic cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean.

Coast

For those who prefer coastal rides, the 10 kilometre bike path from Cascais to Guincho Beach and along the Atlantic Coast offer smooth tarmac and stunning ocean views. The EuroVelo 1 route also passes through this region.

The impressive Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Central Portugal

Portugal’s central region covers a vast area and includes the high peaks of the Serra da Estrela to the rolling hills of Beira Baixa and the Atlantic Coast.

Serra da Estrela

The Serra da Estrela is home to Portugal’s only ski station and Portugal’s highest road, reaching 1,993 metres at Torre. It is a good choice for those looking to incirporate mountain climbs within their cycling tour of Portugal, as there are long ascents, hairpin bends, and great views.

Beira Baixa

To the east, Beira Baixa is perfect for those looking for wild countryside and quiet solitude. The roads around Castelo Branco, Monsanto, and Idanha-a-Nova offer quiet cycling through historic villages, cork forests, and open plains. This area is ideal for long, steady rides with a mix of gentle climbs and fast descents.

Mondego Valley

The Mondego Valley, near Coimbra, is beautiful and the Mondego Eco Roads follow the river, passing through vineyards and medieval towns. Nearby, the Bussaco Forest offers peaceful tree-lined routes and historic monasteries.

Coast

The Atlantic Coast provides a different cycling experience, with flatter terrain and sweeping ocean views. The stretch between Figueira da Foz and Nazaré is particularly scenic, with quiet coastal roads and fishing villages. The EuroVelo 1 route passes through this region, making it a great choice for long-distance cycling.

More information

Guide to cycling Portugal’s Atlantic Ring Route.

Figueira da Foz (photo credit: Portugal A2Z Walking & Biking)

Porto and North

Portugal’s northern region is a fantastic destination for cycling trips in Portugal, offering everything from rolling vineyard roads to challenging mountain climbs. With stunning landscapes, quiet roads (once you’re away from Porto), and a rich cultural heritage, it is a great place to explore by bike.

Porto

Cycling in Porto itself is a busy, if pretty, experience, with its historic Riveira district. It’s the gateway to the Douro Valley, one of the most scenic cycling regions in Portugal. The roads along and around the Douro River, in places like Alijó, Pinhão, Lamego and Régua, offer rolling terrain with smooth tarmac, short climbs, and pretty vineyard views. It is the perfect place for long, steady rides with a mix of effort and enjoyment.

Pineda-Geres National Park

For those looking for a tougher challenge, Peneda-Gerês National Park offers remote, mountainous terrain with dramatic landscapes and winding roads. This area, near the Spanish border, is ideal for cyclists who love climbing and adventure.

Coast

Coastal routes near Porto, and Esposende provide an alternative to the mountains. The Porto to Lisbon cycle route, which is part of the EuroVelo 1 route, follows the Atlantic coastline, offering spectacular ocean views and flatter roads. More on this below.

About 75 kilometres north of Porto is the region of Viana do Castelo, which is right on the Atlantic coast; the surrounding area is known for its lush green hills, river valleys, and Atlantic beaches. I enjoyed a fantastic five-day holiday here in spring 2025 with my family. Find out more in our dedicated region guide.

Cycling the Camino Portuguese is also popular in this region, with many legendary Camino signs leading the way to Santiago de Compostela in Northern Spain. Take a look at our in-depth guide to find out more.

Porto (photo credit: John Shell)

Azores

Compared with mainland Spain, not many people think of the Azores when they think of a Portugal cycling holiday. We think that will start changing over the coming years. The Azores is home to magnificent volcanic landscapes, quiet roads, and challenging climbs. This archipelago of nine islands in the Atlantic Ocean is perfect for cyclists who love adventure and dramatic scenery. Oh and also whale watching!

São Miguel

The largest island, São Miguel, is the most popular for cycling in the Azores. Its winding roads offer a mix of scenic coastal routes, lush green hills, crater lakes, and geothermal hot springs. Don’t expect much in the way of flat terrain though!

Mountain bikers are spoiled for choice with a vast network of trails. Meanwhile, tourers will be tempted to tackle a circumnavigation of Sao Miguel. Sete Cidades is a tough, steep climb to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Azores; another highlight is the ascent to Lagoa do Fogo, where cyclists are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The roads here are smooth, but the gradients can be steep, making it an exciting challenge.

Other islands

Other islands, such as Terceira and Pico, also offer great cycling. Pico Island is home to Portugal’s highest peak, Mount Pico (2,351 metres), and has some of the most dramatic coastal roads in the Azores.

Azores, Portugal. Beautiful view of volcanic lake from the mountains on San Miguel Island in the morning

Madeira

Madeira is a dream cycling trip destination for experienced cyclists who love climbing, dramatic landscapes, and thrilling descents. This volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean is famous for its steep roads, stunning coastal scenery, and lush green mountains. With few flat sections, Madeira is best suited to fit riders who enjoy long, challenging ascents and technical descents. Make sure you have lots of gears on your bike too!

One of the most iconic rides is the climb to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s second-highest peak at 1,818 metres. This long and demanding route offers spectacular switchbacks and breathtaking views over the island. The first 2.6 kilometres average 20%!

The roads in Madeira are generally well-paved, though some rural areas have rougher sections. The island’s compact size means you can easily ride from the coast to the mountains in a single ride, passing through lush forests, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs along the way.

Madeira’s lush, tropical natural landscapes

What are Portugal’s best long distance cycling routes?

If you’re looking for a multi-day Portugal cycling tour, Portugal has some excellent long-distance signposted bike routes, as well as other famous touring routes and countless quiet backroads perfect for cycling. Here are some ideas:

N2 (Estrada Nacional 2)

A legendary road that runs the length of Portugal, from Chaves in the north to Faro in the south. It covers a mix of rolling countryside, mountain climbs, and stunning river valleys. In recent years it’s become very popular with cyclists wanting to experience the whole of the country.

More information

Guide to cycling Portugal’s N2 route.

Atlantic Coast Route

EuroVelo 1 in Portugal, along the Atlantic Coast, is one of the most popular cycling routes in Europe. This stunning coastal landscape has been recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the European Union. The stretch between Porto to Lisbon is particularly famous and much of it features dedicated cycle paths. However, there are sections where you are riding with the traffic and even in the sand dunes or on the beach at times! In other sections, the route winds through sand dunes on wooden boardwalks, which is shared with pedestrians. Also be aware that you’ll need a GPS route to follow as the signposting is not always easy to follow.

Atlantic Ring route

This 350 kilometre circular route is not signed, but has been developed by a local cycling tour operator, to provide a fantastic way to experience the quiet, interior of central Portugal. It connects with the Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Coast route and so cyclists can easily combine the two if they wish. It uses a range of ecopistas (cycle paths) and quiet roads and offers a wonderful way to see lesser visited parts of central Portugal, like Aveiro, Coimbra and Viseu.

More information

Cycling Portugal’s Atlantic Ring Route

Ecopista do Dão

This 52 kilometre ex-railway in the Dão Valley in the centre of Portugal, is one of the best easy, traffic-free cycling routes in Portugal. It connects Viseu, Tondela, and Santa Comba Dão, offering a smooth surface, gentle gradients, and stunning scenery. With almost no traffic, it is a great route for a relaxed ride through rolling countryside, vineyards, and river valleys.

Peaceful trails of the Dão Ecopista surrounded by nature (photo credit: Portugal A2Z Walking & Biking)

Minho River Ecopista

The former railway line between Valença and Monção, on the border between Portugal and Spain, offers 22 kilometres of traffic-free cycling through vineyards, farmland, and historic villages. The route follows the Minho River, with highlights including river beaches and the Fortress of Valença, an impressive structure with more than five kilometres of walls. Perched on a hill overlooking the river, it is a must-visit spot for history and scenery combined.

More long distance cycling routes in Portugal

The Ciclovia website is worth a look if you are searching for cycling routes across Portugal. It is entirely in Portuguese, but it includes a comprehensive list of routes, from short beach boardwalks to longer trails. The site is organised by region and town, with links to maps for each route, making it a useful resource for planning rides.

Ecovias de Portugal, is another useful site and is available in both Portuguese and English. It details the country’s planned national greenways network. While the map highlights existing routes, be aware that they may vary in quality and accessibility.

What are Portugal’s best cycling events?

Portugal hosts several exciting cycling events throughout the year, attracting professional teams, amateur riders, and cycling enthusiasts. From high-level stage races to challenging sportives, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the country’s stunning landscapes on two wheels. For those that love a cycling event, why not consider basing your cycling trip in Portugal around spectating (or even taking part in) one of these?

Professional cycling races in Portugal

Volta a Portugal

The Volta a Portugal is the country’s most prestigious professional cycling race. Often referred to as Portugal’s version of the Tour de France, it takes place every summer and covers over 1,500 kilometres across multiple stages. The race typically includes legendary climbs such as Serra da Estrela, where riders battle for victory on Portugal’s highest road.

Volta Algarve

The Volta ao Algarve is one of Portugal’s top professional road races, attracting WorldTour teams each February. This multi-stage race features a mix of sprint finishes, time trials, and tough climbs, including a final day summit finish. In 2025 this was on Alto do Malhāo.

Amateur cycling events in Portugal

Here is a selection of some of the most important amateur cycling events in Portugal.

Algarve Granfondo

The Algarve Granfondo takes place in February each year and is a sportive event that allows amateur cyclists to experience the same roads as the pros in the Volta ao Algarve. The route includes spectacular climbs in the Monchique Mountains, including the famous ascent to Foia.

L’Étape Portugal

Part of the L’Étape by Tour de France series, this event started in 2022. It gives amateur riders the chance to tackle a professionally organised route with closed roads and official timing.

Porto-Gaia Granfondo

The Porto-Gaia Granfondo takes cyclists between these two towns, through some of the most scenic regions in Portugal. The event offers multiple route options, with rolling vineyard roads and stunning river views. Sadly it was cancelled in 2025.

Serra da Estrela Granfondo

The Granfondo Serra da Estrela starts in Vila de Manteigas in 2025 and tackles the south face of Serra da Estrela including the demanding ascent to Torre at 1,993 metres. It is a great choice for climbers, and one of the toughest cycling challenges in Portugal.

More information

This article has more information on cycling events in the Algarve.

What are the best hotels for cyclists in Portugal?

Portugal has a growing number of cyclist-friendly hotels, offering secure bike storage, repair facilities, and tailored services for riders.

A key thing to look for when choosing accommodation is whether the hotel is part of Portugal’s bike-friendly accreditation scheme. This is called Bikotel and it promotes accommodation catering specifically to cyclists. It includes many options, from luxury hotels and historic manor houses to small guesthouses and campsites. Each participating property must provide essential cycling-friendly facilities, including a secure bike garage, bike washing station, a cyclist-focused menu with carbohydrates, fruit, and vegetables, overnight laundry for cycling gear, a basic repair station, and detailed local route information.

Our article on the best cycling hotels in the Algarve should also be useful.

Turaventur’s farm accommodation in Alentejo (photo credit: Turaventur)

Are there places for bike hire in Portugal?

Yes, Portugal has plenty of bike hire options, with rental shops in all major cycling destinations, especially the more touristy ones such as the Algarve, Lisbon region, and Douro Valley.

Cities like Lisbon and Porto have bike hire services for urban and touring cyclists, including services for those looking to cycle Lisbon to Porto.

There are also some businesses that will deliver, which can be useful for cycling in remote parts of Portugal though delivery fees can add up.

Top tip! Many bike-friendly hotels also offer rentals.

What is the best time to cycle in Portugal?

Portugal is a fantastic year-round cycling destination. But the best time to ride depends on the region and the type of cycling you prefer.

Spring (March to May) – Best overall conditions

Spring is one of the best times for cycling in Portugal. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 15-25°C, and the landscapes are lush and green. The roads are quieter than in summer, making it ideal for riding in popular regions like the Algarve and Alentejo regions.

Summer (June to August) – Great for mountain regions

Summer is usually very hot, especially in the Algarve, Alentejo and Lisbon areas, where temperatures often exceed 35°C.

If you do want to ride in Portugal in the summer, prepare for heat. You can try heading for the highest hills and mountains of the Serra da Estrela and Peneda-Gerês, where the altitude provides cooler conditions – but you’ll still be hot!

Coastal routes along the Atlantic Coast also benefit a little from refreshing sea breezes, but again, it’ll be a hot breeze!

Autumn (September to November) – Warm and quiet

Autumn offers warm temperatures (18-26°C) and fewer tourists, making it another great season for cycling throughout much of Portugal. Beware temperatures can still be scorching during September and often don’t tail off until well into October. The Douro Valley is especially beautiful in autumn, with golden vineyards and quiet roads.

Winter (December to February) – Best for the Algarve

While mountain regions can be cold, the Algarve remains an excellent winter cycling destination, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C. Many professional teams train here during the off-season.

(photo credit: John Shell)

Tips for planning a cycling tour in Portugal?

Hydration and nutrition

Temperatures can be high, particularly in summer, so carry enough water and energy snacks. Many small towns have cafés where you can refuel with a pastel de nata and an espresso, but don’t solely rely on these.

This article contains useful tips for fuelling long rides.

Packing essentials

Lightweight, breathable jerseys and padded bib shorts are ideal for warm weather, while arm warmers, a windproof gilet, and a rain jacket are useful for cooler mornings and mountain descents.

A helmet, sunglasses, gloves, and bike lights are must-haves for safety. Carry essentials like a multi-tool, spare tubes, a pump, and hydration bottles, especially in rural areas. Sunscreen and chamois cream help in hot conditions.

Local bike shops tend to carry parts and spares to fix road bikes and mountain bikes; hybrids and tandems are less usual so they may not have your parts.

Check our packing list for more.

Cash and currency

Portugal’s official currency is the Euro (€).

Major credit and debit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and American Express, are widely accepted. European law requires merchants to offer card payment options, so you will rarely need cash. However, it is always a good idea to carry a small amount, especially when visiting local markets, small cafés, or rural areas where some vendors may only accept cash.

ATMs (known as Multibanco) are easy to find, and contactless payment is available in most shops, restaurants, and transport services.

Cycling in the central Alentejo region (photo credit: Turaventur)

Do you need to speak Portuguese when travelling to Portugal?

No, you do not need to speak Portuguese to travel in Portugal, but knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful. In major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, as well as tourist hotspots such as the Algarve and the Douro Valley, English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Many Portuguese people speak excellent English, particularly younger generations and those working in hospitality.

In more rural areas, English is less common, so learning a few simple phrases—such as olá (hello), por favor (please), and obrigado/obrigada (thank you)—can go a long way. Portuguese people appreciate the effort and are usually friendly and patient with visitors.

Road signs, public transport information, and menus in tourist areas often have English translations. However, outside of the main cities, you may find that menus and signage are only in Portuguese. Using a translation app or carrying a small phrasebook can be useful in these situations.

Carry your paperwork

Hopefully, you will never need it, but if you are involved in an accident or have any dealings with the authorities, the first thing officials will ask for is your passport. It’s best to carry it with you – or at the very least, a copy.

If you need medical assistance, rest assured that the Portuguese are incredibly helpful and will never leave you stranded. However, they will ask for proof of insurance. European Union nationals should carry an EHIC card, while other travellers should have their travel insurance details easily accessible. It is always best to be prepared.

Food in Portugal

Portugal’s food is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and traditional recipes passed down through generations.

With its long coastline, it is no surprise that seafood plays a huge role in Portuguese cuisine. Bacalhau (salted cod) is a national favourite, appearing in countless dishes. You will find it grilled, baked, or fried, with every region having its own twist. The smell of dried, salted fish in local markets can be intense, but it is a staple of Portuguese cooking.

No ride in Portugal is complete without a café stop, and that means Pastel de Nata. These small, flaky pastries with a creamy custard filling are dangerously moreish—we challenge you to stop at just one! Pair them with a strong Portuguese espresso, and you have the perfect mid-ride refuel.

Beyond seafood and pastries, Portuguese cuisine offers hearty stews, delicious cured meats, and fresh produce from local markets. For the vegetarians out there, note that typical Portuguese cuisine is pretty light on vegetables. You can often get basic salads or soup but restaurants tend to be heavy on meat, fish and carbohydrates.

Bacalhau dish with cornbread and olives (photo credit: Turaventur)

Try the wine

If you love a glass or two of wine while on holiday, it’s worth knowing that Portugal’s wines are every bit as good as those of its more famous neighbours.

Wine is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture, and whether you are dining in a tiny village café or a high-end restaurant, you can expect top-quality food and drink. The Vinho Verde from Alentejo is known for being smooth and full-bodied red wine, while the Douro Valley is home to world-class wines beyond just port.

Travelling on Portugal’s public transport

Portugal’s public transport system allows bikes on trains, buses, and ferries, but rules vary depending on the service.

Trains

On CP (Comboios de Portugal) trains, bikes are generally allowed for free on regional and IC (Intercidades) routes if space permits (there are often two bike spaces per second class coach). Folding bikes are permitted on all trains. Long-distance trains may require a reservation.

Buses

Most intercity buses do not allow bikes unless disassembled and packed, though we’ve heard Flixbus accepts bikes. Some local buses accept them if space allows, but don’t rely on this.

Taxis

These are available but if you’re going a long distance they can be expensive; best to agree a price before you leave.

Ferries

In cities like Lisbon and Porto, ferries allow bikes for free, making them a great option for crossing rivers and exploring coastal routes.

The Voufa Ecopath on the Atlantic Ring Route (photo credit: Nuno Antunes, Revelamos)

How to get to Portugal?

Portugal is well-connected by air, land, and sea, making it easy for cyclists planning holidays in Portugal.

Flights

The main international airports are Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO), and Faro (FAO). Many airlines allow bikes as checked luggage in a bike bag or box. It’s also good to know that the main Portuguese airports all now have bike assembly areas.

Trains

High-speed trains connect Portugal to Spain, including services from Madrid to Lisbon. Bikes are allowed on some routes but may require reservations.

Ferries

Some ferries connect Portugal to Spain. There are also ferries between the UK and Santander in Spain (from where you’d need to travel into Portugal). Most international travellers arrive in Portugal by air or train.

Driving

Portugal has excellent road links from Spain.

Are you planning a cycle trip to Portugal?

Let us know in the comments below!

Here are some more articles on cycling in Portugal which might be useful for you:

• Cycling in Alentejo
• Cycling in the Algarve
• Cycling the Atlantic Ring Route

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.