Guide to cycling the Portuguese Camino: Porto to Santiago de Compostela 

Part 1: An overview of cycling the Portuguese Camino

Cycling the Portuguese Camino offers a historically significant journey with deep religious roots. See more on this below.

However, you do not need to be religious to enjoy it!

People cycle this route for many reasons – for the culture, for a fun challenge, or simply for the joy of travelling through northern Portugal and Spain by bike. Find out more reasons why this is a must-do ride below.

The full Camino Portuguese route from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela is around 620 kilometres.

From Porto to Santiago de Compostela, it is around 250 to 300 kilometres (depending on your route). It is usually completed over six or seven days of riding, depending on your pace and the daily distances. The route begins in Porto, one of Portugal’s most charming cities. It ends in Santiago de Compostela, across the border in Spain. Along the way, you pass through coastal towns, ancient villages and rural countryside.

See below a map featuring key places mentioned in this article. Hover over the map pins to see the place names.

Route variations

There is more than one way to cycle the Portuguese Camino, and the route you choose can shape your entire experience. From Porto, there are two main options – the Coastal Route and the Inland Route.

Top Bike Tours Portugal offers both variations as bike tours – you can find out more detailed information on the popular coastal route below.

Here is a brief breakdown of the two main options for cycling Porto to Santiago de Compostela:

The coastal route: 300 kilometres

The Coastal Route is the most popular Camino Portugues option and the one we focus on in this article.

• The first few days follow the Atlantic Coast, offering peaceful seaside riding, flat terrain and a scenic, relaxed start to your journey.
• You pass through fishing villages, seaside towns and lively cultural spots before heading inland to join the traditional Camino trail in Galicia.
• Compared to the Inland Route, the Coastal Route is more scenic, less physically demanding. It’s better suited to those who want to enjoy the ride as well as the destination. It suits recreational cyclists and those looking for a more comfortable experience than the inland route.
• It is Top Bike Tours Portugal‘s most requested option.

Find out more about cycling the Portuguese Camino Coastal route below.

The inland route: 248 kilometres

This is the original Camino trail through Portugal, and it offers a more traditional pilgrim experience.

• The terrain is hillier, especially in the early stages, with more frequent climbs and descents.
• Be aware! Because it is more physically challenging, Top Biketours Portugal rarely offers this route. Most of our customers are leisure cyclists, and they tend to prefer the smoother profile and sea views of the Coastal Route.

Be aware! This article focuses on the Coastal Route (except where specifically indicated).

Terrain

When cycling Porto to Santiago de Compostela, the terrain varies depending on the route variation you choose.

Sticking to the Coastal Route includes flatter, coastal landscapes during the first few days, changing to hillier terrain as you head through Galicia to Santiago de Compostela.

In comparison, the terrain on the inland Portuguese Camino features hillier terrain earlier on, with several steep climbs. This makes it a great option for anyone looking for a more challenging route.

Surfaces

Top Bike Tours Portugal Camino tours follow the traditional Camino trails wherever possible. About 70% of the route uses original rural paths.

You can expect a mix of riding surfaces. You’ll cycle on quiet paved roads, gravel tracks, bike paths, dirt tracks, and occasional forest trails and rocky paths.

The rest of the route avoids sections that are too technical or rocky – parts that even some walkers choose to skip. This approach makes the experience smoother and more enjoyable while keeping true to the Camino’s spirit.

Be aware! One of the trickiest surfaces appears on the first day, which includes sections with old Roman cobblestones that can be uneven and bumpy. However, these do not last long and are part of the historic character of the route.

Signposting

The Camino Portugues is well marked with the traditional yellow arrows that are easy to spot along the way. These signs help guide walkers and cyclists towards Santiago de Compostela.

However, Top Bike Tours Portugal also provides cyclists with GPS routes. These routes are carefully planned to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Since we follow around 70% of the official Camino trails, our version avoids some of the rougher or less suitable sections. We also include access to a navigation app, Ride with GPS, which makes it easy for you to follow the route using your phone or GPS device.

History of the Camino Portugues

The route’s history is closely linked to Saint James (Santiago), one of Christ’s twelve apostles. This story blends legend and historical memory, and it shapes the spirit of the Camino even today. One of the most famous tales is the Legend of Cayo Carpo.

The Portuguese Camino follows the path taken by Saint James’ body after his martyrdom in 44 A.D. According to legend, his disciples sailed his remains to Galicia, where they buried him near the Ulla river, in what is now known as Santiago de Compostela.

On the same day, Roman lord Cayo Carpo rode his horse into the sea during a wedding celebration near Porto. He met the disciples’ boat, converted to Christianity, and returned to shore covered in scallop shells – now the Camino’s symbol.

Eight centuries later, Saint James’ tomb was rediscovered. King Alfonso II of Asturias confirmed its authenticity, sparking the tradition of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.

You can read more details about this legendary story in the Top Bike Tours Portugal rider’s roadbook, which brings the route’s origins to life.

Part 2: Why is cycling the Camino Portugues a ‘must do’?

According to statistics, the Camino Portugues has grown steadily in popularity over the past decade. Today it is the second most popular Camino route, behind the Camino Francés (source).

Here are a few reasons why we think you should add it to your wish list:

A culturally significant route

As mentioned above, the Camino Portugues is known around the world for its historical and religious importance. But cycling it also gives you the chance to discover the culture and traditions of both Portugal and Spain.

The cycle route from Porto to Santiago de Compostela takes you through medieval towns and quaint villages, ride along Roman roads and discover beautiful, historic bridges; churches, chapels and roadside shrines also line the route, with many of them linked to the story of Saint James and the pilgrims who came before you.

Here are just a few of the cultural highlights you can expect along the way:

• Porto: A UNESCO World Heritage city and the starting point for many riders. Its historical centre, Ribeira, is packed with tiled churches, medieval streets and views over the Douro River.
• Viana do Castelo: is a coastal city rich in historic architecture, from elegant Manueline buildings to the striking hilltop basilica of Santa Luzia, offering a beautiful backdrop for coastal and inland rides.
• Caminha: is a peaceful riverside town where cobbled streets and medieval towers meet grand Renaissance facades—perfect for a scenic ride through Portugal’s architectural past.
• Baiona: is located just over the border in Spain, is famed for its impressive 12th-century fortress, which overlooks a picturesque old town filled with stone buildings and arcaded streets.
• Caldas de Reis combines cycling-friendly countryside with a historic centre full of elegant 19th-century villas, ancient thermal baths, and charming stone churches.
• Santiago de Compostela: The final destination. Its impressive cathedral forms the beating heart of the city and is one of the most important religious sites in Europe. It’s a powerful place to reflect on your journey.

A coastal, border-hopping journey

The Camino Portugues offers the unique opportunity to cycle across two countries in one trip.

The first three days on the Coastal Route follow the Atlantic coast, and these stages are generally flat and easy. This makes it a great option for cyclists seeking a coastal cycling route; it is also ideal for riders who are looking for a gentler start to their Camino journey. More on this below.

An accessible Camino option

Not everyone has the time to walk the full Camino route.

Cycling the Camino route lets you cover the distance more quickly without missing the highlights. As such, it appeals to busy travellers.

In particular, the Camino in Portugal offers a great introduction to cycling the Caminos, with several days of easy terrain.

We’ve had some customers take on both variations; we have also had guests take on this route in Portugal first and then tackle the tougher Camino Francés. Find out more about the differences between the Camino routes below.

Part 3: Cycling the Portuguese Camino vs Camino Francés

If you are choosing between cycling Porto to Santiago de Compostela and one of the more well-known routes, such as the Camino Francés , there are some key differences to be aware of.

In addition to the Camino Portugues Inland Route being a gentle Camino route with coastal scenery, you can also expect:

Fewer crowds, more comfort

The Portuguese Camino is generally quieter than the Camino routes that arrive in Santiago de Compostela from the north or east of Spain. You will still meet other cyclists and walkers, but the experience feels more relaxed and personal.

Accommodation is another difference. In Portugal, there is a wider range of modern and well-maintained places to stay. A lot of investment has gone into tourism here over the past decade, so most hotels are either new or recently renovated.

In contrast, on the Camino Francés, it can be hard to find four-star accommodation, even though it is the most popular route!

Easier travel and route access

Travelling to the start of the Camino Portugues is straightforward.

Porto and Lisbon both have direct international flights.

In contrast, reaching the start of the Camino routes in Spain or France often involves multiple steps and additional transfers. For example, flying to Madrid, then taking a train to León, or flying into Biarritz, Parme for Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.

A route that keeps improving

In the past ten years, Portugal has made big improvements to the Camino cycling experience. New bike paths have been added, making the trails smoother and better marked.

For example, Crossing Vigo city nowadays is very easy because they have made a new cycling path near the boat port. In the city centre of Vigo, no cars are allowed anymore. 10 years ago, when I started the Camino Coast route, there wasn’t a cycling Path from Viana to Caminha; but nowadays there is a 25 kilometre route which most cyclists choose over the “original route” that goes through the mountain that is parallel to the sea.

These changes make the ride more enjoyable and less demanding, especially for those riding the route for the first time.

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Considering cycling the Camino in Portugal?

Top Bike Tours Portugal has helped cyclists bike the Camino for over 13 years.

They offer several self-guided and guided bike tours from Porto to Santiago to Compostela, as well as other cycling holidays in Portugal and Spain.

Head to their website to find out more.

Part 4: Camino Portugues bike tours with Top Biketours Portugal

Top Bike Tours Portugal has been running cycling tours in Portugal for over 13 years.

We offer two Camino bike tours, one easier coastal route and a tougher inland variation. Whilst both cycle routes start in Porto and finish in Santiago de Compostela, the routes between are different (there’s information on the key differences above).

Find out more details on the day-to-day itinerary of our coastal route, below:

Portuguese Coastal Route

Key statistics

300 kilometres

4,121 metres of elevation gain

Overview

This is the more gentle of the two Portuguese Camino routes and it’s our most popular itinerary. It follows a scenic route along the Atlantic Coast for the first three days, before heading inland through Galicia in Spain.

You can choose to ride this route over seven or eight days. The itinerary below is based on our seven-day tour.

Day 1: Arrive in Porto

 

Day 2: Porto to Esposende

60 kilometres

298 metres of elevation gain

Departing from Porto, your journey begins with a coastal ride to the seaside town of Esposende. Expect sweeping ocean views, charming fishing villages, and the chance to sample local seafood specialities. Along the way, you pass through Vila do Conde, a city rich in maritime history from the Portuguese Discoveries era.

Day 3: Esposende to Caminha

50 kilometres

318 metres of elevation gain

Today’s ride takes you to Viana do Castelo, a historic port city central to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries, where ships were once built for voyages to Brazil, India and Africa.

You finish in Caminha, set beside the Minho river and known for its green landscapes, beaches and waterfalls.

Day 4: Caminha to Baiona

40 kilometres

442 metres of elevation gain

Today you cross into Spain and end the day in Baiona, a coastal town with Roman roots and a medieval centre shaped by the church.

Wander its historic streets or enjoy the sea air. In the sixteenth century, Francis Drake famously raided here.

Day 5: Baiona to Pontevedra

64 kilometres

963 metres of elevation gain

Today’s ride follows the Vigo estuary, ending at San Simón Bay with beautiful coastal views.

The highlight is Arcade, famous for its oysters and rich pilgrimage heritage. Visit the Church of Santiago, dating from the twelfth century. If visiting in early April, don’t miss the Oyster Festival!

Day 6: Pontevedra to Caldas dos Reis

26 kilometres

388 metres of elevation gain

Today’s destination is Caldas de Reis, a historic town in the Pontevedra region with roots dating back to pre-Roman times. Its famous hot springs have supported local life for centuries and continue to draw visitors seeking wellness and relaxation.

It is also known as the birthplace of Afonso VII, so the town became an important stop on the medieval pilgrimage route to Santiago. Local cuisine includes lamprey empanadas and traditional breads!

Day 7: Caldas dos Reis to Santiago de Compostela

40 kilometres

680 metres of elevation gain

Your final stop is Santiago de Compostela, one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites. Like Rome and Jerusalem, it draws travellers seeking reflection and meaning. Arrive at the Obradoiro Square to see the baroque cathedral, home to the remains of Saint James.

More information

The bike tour featured above is available to book on the Top Bike Tours Portugal website.

 

Sponsor Message

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Considering cycling the Camino in Portugal?

Top Bike Tours Portugal has helped cyclists bike the Camino for over 13 years.

They offer several self-guided and guided bike tours from Porto to Santiago to Compostela, as well as other cycling holidays in Portugal and Spain.

Head to their website to find out more.

Part 5: Practicalities of cycling the Camino in Portugal

How challenging is cycling the Portuguese Camino?

This depends on which route you opt for!

Coastal Route

• For a gentler Camino option, the popular Coastal Route is best.
• The first three days of this ride are generally flat and easy, with relaxing seaside trails. Day four, through to Vigo, is also manageable. From day five onwards, the terrain becomes more varied, with some climbs and descents, but nothing extreme.
• To balance the effort, Top Bike Tours Portugal includes a shorter day between Pontevedra and Caldas de Reis. This gives riders time to rest, enjoy the surroundings, and make the most of two lovely towns with excellent accommodation.

Inland Route

If you would prefer something more challenging, the Inland Route includes a tougher first few days with more climbing involved.

Top tip! If you are concerned about the daily mileage and elevation, you could consider an electric bike. This bike hire option makes the route accessible to a wide variety of abilities. More on that below.

Is cycling the Portuguese Camino suitable for families with children?

Cycling Porto to Santiago de Compostela is not generally suitable for small children, unless they are experienced and accompanied by a confident adult cyclist. That said, cycling the Camino as a family is not impossible! I have completed the French Route with my five-year-old son. The terrain is not dangerous, but for young or inexperienced riders, it may feel demanding.

Top Bike Tours Portugal offers children’s bike hire on request.

Do I need to train for cycling the Camino way?

If you plan to ride without an e-bike, we suggest some basic training to feel more comfortable. About a month before your trip, try riding once a week – ideally 50 kilometres in one go. It’s also a good idea to do bike rides on consecutive days, so you get used to being in the saddle on multiple days.

Top tip! If you already exercise regularly or go to the gym and have a good level of fitness, you’ll likely be fit enough to complete this route comfortably.

What is the best time to bike the Camino?

The best months to cycle the Portuguese Camino are from March to October.

Be aware! Many people avoid July and August because of the heat. But cycling the Portuguese coastal Camino usually remains comfortable thanks to the refreshing sea breeze. In northern Portugal, even inland, summer nights can feel cooler and more pleasant than in the south of Portugal.

Whilst you may experience warm daytime temperatures in summer, by starting your rides early, you can avoid the hottest part of the day!

There is also a chance for rain showers at any time, especially in the spring and autumn months. So don’t forget to pack your lightweight waterproofs, just in case. More on what to pack below.

Does the Camino trail get busy in summer?

While the Portuguese Camino is one of the world’s most famous pilgrimages, it remains peaceful enough that riders can enjoy the journey without it ever feeling overcrowded.

May and September are two of the most popular months. These are ideal for cycling, but also mean more people on the trail. The route can feel busy during these times, but this rarely affects the overall experience.

In September, there is a section in Spain where the route follows a trail with grapes, and it is possible to pick them from the vines and taste them!

Where to stay on the Camino Portugues?

There is a variety of accommodation on the Camino Portugues, from hotels with beautiful sea views to historic Paradores (converted palaces), and unique rural properties such as a former textile mill transformed into a boutique hotel, complete with private gardens and even a waterfall-fed swimming pool. Just like on the Spanish Camino, you will also find several dedicated pilgrims’ hostels on this route.

Top tip! You should book accommodation early, especially in the busier months. This generally helps ensure you stay in good-quality, top-choice hotels.

At Top Bike Tours Portugal, we prioritise comfort and quality. Our standard tours include carefully selected four-star hotels, and for those seeking something extra, we offer a Premium package with five-star hotels or room upgrades in our four-star partner properties.

Be aware! While some pilgrim hostels accept cyclists, they usually give priority to walkers, and bike storage is not always guaranteed. That’s why we do not include hostels in our packages. All of our partner hotels are cyclist-friendly, offering secure bike storage and facilities suited to riders.

What is the most suitable bike for cycling the Portuguese Camino?

A mountain bike is the most suitable option for the Camino Portugues. It offers comfort, stability and the right handling for the routes mixed surfaces. A hybrid bike, or electric bike, is also a good choice, especially for those who prefer a more upright position.

Be aware! Road or gravel bikes are not best suited for this route. Gravel bikes can be uncomfortable on sharp corners and uneven trails, which are common on the Camino. The surface conditions, trail width and rough terrain are also not suited to road bikes. However, if you love road cycling and want to take on the Camino, there are some better-suited options in Spain to consider.

Most guests on Top Biketours Portugal Camino tours choose e-bikes. They allow you to enjoy the route at a relaxed pace and take the pressure off on hillier sections. Around 85 to 90 % of our riders complete the Camino on electric bikes. All of our accommodation partners offer charging facilities, so you can recharge your bike each night without worry.

Can you hire bikes?

Top Bike Tours Portugal provides high-quality rental bikes for all our guests, including e-bikes, mountain bikes and hybrids. The bikes are ready at the start of your trip and fully serviced for the journey.

Is mechanical assistance available?

Along the coastal Camino route, there are several bike shops. These are typically found in the cities you pass through.

On Top Bike Tours Portugal guided tours, mechanical support is always available. A support vehicle and guide are on hand to help with any issues that may arise during the ride.

For self-guided riders, we provide a puncture repair kit with all the essentials for quick fixes. If something more serious happens, we will assist you by:

• sharing directions to a local bike shop
• organising a transfer to your next hotel; or
• helping directly, depending on your location and our availability

Be aware! On self-guided tours, we may be one to three hours away, so immediate assistance is not always possible, but we will always find a solution. With this in mind, we always suggest that all self-guided cyclists have basic bicycle repair knowledge, such as knowing how to fix a flat tyre.

What should I pack?

Essential clothing includes padded cycling shorts, jerseys with pockets, arm and leg warmers, a light waterproof jacket, gloves, snood or neck gaiter for neck and ear protection.

Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, a water bottle (provided), a small first aid kit, and a phone charger. You might also want to pack your swimming costume for coastal stretches!

For guests joiningTop Bike Tours Portugal, the hire bikes come equipped with pannier bags for your items. Essential tools like inner tubes, a pump, and lights are also supplied.

For more tips, check our article on packing essentials for cycling holidays.

Are luggage transfers available?

Yes, Top Bike Tours Portugal includes this as part of our services. Find out more below.

Is there public transport along the trail?

It is possible to find public transport connecting some cities along the route, including train connections between the following cities:

• Viana to Caminha
• Vigo to Pontevedra
• Pontevedra to Santiago

Top Bike Tours Portugal usually provides a private transfer in one of our support vans.

When this is not possible, we organise bike collection and bus tickets for you, making the return journey smooth and hassle-free.

Highway code and travel information

As ever, it’s a good idea to check current travel information before you book and travel. For UK visitors, the UK government travel information pages for Portugal and Spain are here.

You should also read and follow Portugal and Spain’s highway codes.

Also, don’t forget to ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all the activities you plan on undertaking.

 

Sponsor Message

Sponsored

Considering cycling the Camino in Portugal?

Top Bike Tours Portugal has helped cyclists bike the Camino for over 13 years.

They offer several self-guided and guided bike tours from Porto to Santiago to Compostela, as well as other cycling holidays in Portugal and Spain.

Head to their website to find out more.

Part 6: Tips for cycling the Camino in Portugal

Is there a pilgrim’s passport?

Yes, cyclists on the Camino Portugues receive a pilgrim’s passport, just like on the Camino Francés. This passport looks like a small paper booklet with spaces for you to collect stamps from key places along the route.

Top Bike Tours Portugal provides this passport for our guests.

When you get to Santiago, you present your stamped passport at the Pilgrim’s Office near the city’s grand cathedral. The staff there will handle the necessary formalities to issue your Compostela, an official certificate attesting to your completion of the Camino pilgrimage.

Be aware! To receive the official pilgrim certificate of completion at the end of your journey in Santiago de Compostela, you’ll need to collect at least two stamps per day in your passport. Stamps are easy to get along the route. You can find them at cafés, restaurants, hotels, churches and other places that support pilgrims.

Collecting stamps is a simple process and is a fun way to record your journey. Your Compostela certificate is also a great memento of your achievement.

Is there some basic Camino etiquette I should be aware of?

Be aware! The Camino Portugues is a shared trail used by both walkers and cyclists. Respecting the space and pace of others helps everyone enjoy the journey. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Give a friendly warning: Use your bell or voice to alert walkers a few metres before passing. When you pass people on the trail, a simple “Bom caminho!” in Portugal, or “Buen Camino” in Spain, always goes a long way.
• Slow down in busy areas: In villages, towns and more crowded trail sections, it is best to reduce speed and ride with care.
• Respect the shared trail: Walkers have priority. Always pass carefully and avoid splashing through puddles near others.

Research the Camino traditions and follow some of them

Even if you’re not riding the Camino for religious reasons, it’s good to be aware that there are thousands of years of traditions associated with a pilgrimage. It can be nice to know about some of these.

Visiting Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Make time to step inside the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.

Whether you are cycling for spiritual reasons or not, the daily pilgrim mass at midday and 7:30 pm is a moving experience. Many find it a powerful moment of reflection and connection at the journey’s end.

Arrive at least an hour early to get a seat, especially during busy months.

What food and drink can I expect?

In both Portugal and Spain, you’ll enjoy lots of fresh seafood, regional cheeses, and simple, hearty dishes. Some regional dishes worth trying include:

• bacalhau (salt cod)
• arroz de marisco (seafood rice)
• grilled sardines
• lamprey empanadas (pastries filled with fish)
• pulpo a la gallega (octopus with paprika and olive oil) found in Galicia
• Francesinha sanduish (a famous decadent sandwich served in Porto)
• Ovos moles (a sweet treat usually found in nautical designs in Aveiro City)
• Bolas de bermim (Portugeause donuts)
• Pastel de nata with an espresso (sweet custard tarts)

Fresh bread, olive oil, and wine are also commonly found during meals.

Are pilgrim menus available?

In Portugal, while they are not always called “pilgrim menus,” many cafés and restaurants along the route offer affordable daily set meals aimed at walkers and cyclists. These typically include a starter, main, drink and dessert – simple, hearty food designed to refuel hungry travellers.

Once you have crossed the border, in Galicia, pilgrim menus (“menú del peregrino”) are more common. These are available in most towns along the Camino and offer traditional dishes at a fixed price. They’re a great way to sample a filling meal and local cuisine without overspending.

Should I spend additional nights in the cities at the start or end of the ride?

Yes! Both Porto and Santiago de Compostela have a lot to explore.

Porto is a lively riverside city known for its colourful streets, historic charm and world-famous Port wine. Wander through the Ribeira district, visit the Clérigos Tower, and take in the views from the Dom Luís I Bridge. Don’t miss a visit to the Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops. Cross the river to Vila Nova de Gaia to tour wine cellars and enjoy a tasting. Porto’s mix of history, gastronomy and atmosphere makes it a perfect place to explore before beginning your Camino journey.

Santiago de Compostela is a city of deep spiritual and cultural significance. End your journey at the iconic Cathedral of Santiago, where pilgrims gather in Obradoiro Square – it’s a great place to just sit and take in the atmosphere. Explore the narrow stone streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with Romanesque architecture and traditional Galician eateries.

You can visit the Museum of Pilgrimage to understand the city’s importance throughout the centuries. Spend time relaxing in the peaceful Alameda Park, or celebrate your arrival with a meal of pulpo a la gallega and local wine. It’s a fitting and memorable end to your Camino experience!

Do I need cash?

Most places along the Camino Portugues accept card payments, including shops, cafés and hotels. However, we recommend carrying some cash for small purchases or services where cards may not be accepted.

For example, when crossing the Minho River at Caminha by boat taxi, payment is cash only. In 2025, the fare is around 7 to 8 euros per person.

Top tip! Euros are the currency used in both Portugal and Spain. Carrying a small amount of cash ensures you’re covered for any unexpected needs along the way. We suggest guests bring at least 100 euros for their Camino Portuguese trip. However, your card can be widely used for payments along the route.

Do you need to be able to speak the local language?

No, this is not necessary! But learning a few basic phrases, such as hello, thank you and goodbye, is always welcomed by locals.

You also often hear the greeting ‘Bon/Buen Camino’ (depending on if you are in Portugal or Spain) exchanged with fellow Camino travellers on the trail.

Do you need an organised tour of the Camino in Portugal?

You don’t need to join an organised Camino de Santiago bike tour, especially on popular routes like the Portuguese Camino, which are well-marked.

However, booking a bike tour saves time and hassle by handling logistics, bike rental, luggage transfers and accommodation. This removes any stress and lets you focus on enjoying the ride. Discover more about what Top Biketours Portugal offers below.

Part 7: What does Top BikeTours Portugal offer?

Top Bike Tours Portugal has been running cycling tours in Portugal for over thirteen years, since 2013.

We offer two Camino Portugues variations that enable guests to bike the Camino and cycle from Porto to Santiago de Compostela:

• The coastal Portuguese Camino
• The inland Portuguese Camino

We also offer a Camino Francés bike tour in Northern Spain.

Other popular cycling routes we offer across Portugal include Porto to Lisbon, the Vicentine Coast and the Douro Valley.

Guests can choose to ride these self-guided or join guided tours on set departure dates.

What our tours include

• Four-star comfortable accommodations with breakfast
• Luggage transfers
• GPS routes and navigation
• Van support and guides (guided tours only)
• Bike hire, including quality mountain bikes, hybrid bikes and electric bikes
• Airport transfers and return travel, including bus/ train tickets (where needed)
• Pilgrim passport

Local knowledge

What sets our trips apart is the local knowledge, the personal touch, and a genuine passion for cycling, not just tourism!

I (Sergio) started Top Bike Tours Portugal after riding the Camino myself. I’m not from a traditional tourism background, and that’s what makes the experience different.  I have invaluable first-hand experience of cycling the route and fully understand the needs of guests. As some of our customers have said, we have our “feet on the ground.”

Our guides also know the route inside out, from the best detours to the safest paths. Whether it’s a conversation over dinner or a quick roadside tip, you’ll feel looked after every step of the way.

Happy guests

To date, we’ve helped hundreds of cyclists cycle the Camino. Check out these glowing reviews from previous guests with us:

 

How should someone find out more about what you offer?

Head to our website for further information and to find your ultimate Camino bike tour.

What’s next?

A huge thanks to Sergio for these detailed insights!

Do you want to cycle Porto to Santiago de Compostela? Let us know if you have ridden it or have any questions below.

We think this is a great option for anyone looking for a historically significant route cycling through Portugal and Spain that combines scenic coastal paths, beautiful towns and the chance to take on a rewarding place-to-place journey.

• Considering cycling the Camino de Santiago in Spain? Don’t miss this in-depth guide.
• You might also find these Camino de Santiago cycling FAQs useful.
• Or check our in-depth guide to cycling in Portugal, which features some of the best cycling routes in Portugal.
• Take a look at this guide to Viana do Castelo