Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Porto to Santiago de Compostela Coastal Path Bike Tour
Cycling from Porto to Santiago de Compostela is a journey that blends history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty into one unforgettable experience. Beginning in Porto, the vibrant “Invicta” city and UNESCO World Heritage site, you will first explore its cobbled streets, ornate churches, and colorful riverside, before setting off north along Portugal’s Atlantic coast. The route reveals sweeping seaside landscapes, charming fishing villages, and small towns where traditions tied to the ocean still thrive. Stops in places like Esposende, Viana do Castelo, and Caminha showcase both maritime heritage and the flavors of coastal cuisine, from freshly caught fish to celebrated seafood specialties.
Crossing into Spain, the scenery evolves yet remains equally captivating. In Bayona and along the Vigo estuary, you will discover historic old towns, lively harbors, and natural beauty framed by sea and forest. Highlights include Arcade, renowned for its oysters and pilgrimage heritage, and Caldas de Reis, famed for its hot springs and local gastronomy. Each stop offers a balance of cultural richness and moments of relaxation, perfectly complementing the rhythm of cycling.
The journey culminates in Santiago de Compostela, one of Europe’s greatest pilgrimage centers. Entering the Obradoiro Square, you’ll be greeted by the majestic baroque cathedral that houses the relics of St. James the Apostle. For many, reaching this sacred destination is more than just the end of a ride—it is a powerful act of accomplishment and reflection. This route from Porto to Santiago is not only a cycling adventure but also a meaningful voyage through history and spirit
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Porto
Santiago de Compostela
moderate
47 km / 29 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
Highlights

Porto’s Cultural Treasures
Begin your journey in Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city, exploring historic landmarks, blue-and-white tiled streets, and vibrant traditions before setting off on your unforgettable cycling adventure

Coastal Beauty and Flavors
Ride along Portugal’s stunning Atlantic coast, passing fishing villages, sandy beaches, and riverside towns. Taste fresh seafood, including Arcade’s famous oysters, while immersing yourself in authentic local traditions

Santiago de Compostela
Finish your ride in Santiago de Compostela, one of Europe’s great pilgrimage centers. Enter Obradoiro Square, admire the majestic cathedral, and celebrate the achievement of completing this unforgettable cycling journey
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Porto | Porto Trindade Hotel (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Esposende | Suave Mar Hotel | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Caminha | Portas do Sol Hotel (4-Star) | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Baiona | Parador Baiona Hotel (4-Star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Pontevedra | Parador Pontevedra Hotel (4-Star) | B | 64 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Caldas de Reis | Torre do Rio | B | 26 km / 16 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Santiago de Compostela | Compostela Hotel (4-Star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Porto
Today your tour begins in Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage city and Capital of Culture. Before setting off towards Santiago de Compostela, you will enjoy a guided walking tour that introduces you to Porto’s rich history, art, and traditions. Stroll through its lively streets and step into the famous bookstore said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter. Admire the grandeur of the Stock Exchange Palace and discover the intricate blue-and-white azulejos that decorate unexpected corners. This short yet captivating tour offers the perfect introduction, immersing you in Porto’s charm before your cycling adventure truly begins.

Day 2: Esposende
From Porto, proudly known as the “Invicta” city, your cycling journey begins with a ride northward toward Esposende, a charming seaside town. Today’s route unfolds along the Atlantic, where you will be immersed in sweeping ocean views, golden sands, and stretches often referred to as small “Portuguese rivieras.” Along the way, you will pass through picturesque fishing villages, each with its own character and centuries-old traditions tied to the sea. Here, life still revolves around fishing, and you will have the chance to taste the region’s celebrated seafood cuisine, a true highlight of the coast.
In Vila do Conde, you will discover the maritime history that made these coastal towns so vital during the golden era of Portuguese Discoveries. The blend of breathtaking seascapes, cultural heritage, and authentic flavors makes this stage the perfect introduction to cycling Portugal’s north coast before reaching the welcoming embrace of Esposende.

Day 3: Caminha
Today’s ride takes you further along the coast toward Viana do Castelo, a historic seaport that played a crucial role during Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. In the 14th and 15th centuries, it was here that many of the ships bound for Brazil, India, Africa, and other faraway colonies were designed and built, leaving behind a rich maritime legacy still felt today. After exploring this remarkable city, you will continue your journey to Caminha, your final destination for the day. Nestled along the banks of the River Minho, Caminha offers a spectacular setting where river, sea, and mountains meet in perfect harmony.
The town is celebrated not only for its cultural heritage but also for its lush green surroundings—scenic viewpoints, tranquil waterfalls, inviting beaches, and forested parks make it a paradise for nature lovers. Arriving here, you’ll be welcomed by the peaceful beauty that defines Portugal’s northern coast.

Day 4: Baiona
Today you will cross into Spanish territory, with your journey ending in the coastal city of Bayona. Politically linked to Pontevedra, Bayona is a place where the salty sea breeze greets you the moment you arrive. Beyond its stunning maritime views, the old town invites you to wander through narrow streets filled with history. Originally founded by the Romans, the city expanded toward the coast during the Middle Ages, heavily influenced by the Catholic Church. Its past is full of fascinating stories—one of the most remarkable being the 16th-century raid by British ships under the command of Francis Drake.
The famed corsair and explorer saw Bayona as a strategic opportunity to establish a commercial and merchant hub, leaving an indelible mark on its history. With its blend of coastal beauty, medieval heritage, and colorful past, Bayona is a captivating stop on your path toward Santiago de Compostela.

Day 5: Pontevedra
Today’s stage follows the shimmering waters of the Vigo estuary, ending in the picturesque San Simón Bay, where the landscape is defined by sweeping coastal views and tranquil horizons. Keeping close to the shoreline, you will ride through Arcade, a small town with a big reputation for its oysters. These delicacies, cultivated in the rich waters of the estuary, are a culinary highlight you simply cannot miss. Beyond gastronomy, Arcade also reveals cultural treasures tied to the Camino de Santiago.
You will encounter monuments and sites dedicated to the pilgrimage, including the Romanesque-Gothic church of Santiago, dating back to the 12th–13th centuries, and paths that have guided pilgrims for centuries. If you happen to pass here during the first week of April, you will witness the lively “Fiesta de la Ostra,” when locals, travelers, and pilgrims gather to celebrate this tradition. Between history, flavors, and scenery, this day is a feast for all senses.

Day 6: Caldas de Reis
Today’s ride leads you inland to Caldas de Reis, a historic town in the province of Pontevedra with roots tracing back to pre-Roman times. The earliest settlers were drawn here by the natural hot springs, which have shaped the identity and evolution of the town across centuries. The very name “Caldas de Reis” is tied to its royal heritage, as it was the birthplace of King Afonso VII. During the Middle Ages, the town gained importance as a key stop along the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, blending history, devotion, and culture.
Beyond its heritage, Caldas de Reis is also renowned for its distinctive gastronomy—lamprey empanadas and freshly baked Spanish bread are local favorites not to be missed. The hot springs remain at the heart of the town’s appeal, now attracting visitors from across the world in search of relaxation and therapeutic treatments. Caldas de Reis is a place where history, tradition, and wellness converge.

Day 7: Santiago de Compostela
Your journey culminates in Santiago de Compostela, one of the most important pilgrimage centers in Western Europe. Alongside Rome and Jerusalem, it stands as a beacon of spirituality, drawing travellers from across the globe who seek meaning, faith, or a deeper connection with themselves. Arriving here after days on the Camino, you will feel the weight of history and devotion carried by countless pilgrims before you.
The heart of the city is the grand Obradoiro Square, where centuries of stories converge in front of the awe-inspiring baroque cathedral. Within its walls lie the revered remains of St. James the Apostle, the very figure who has inspired generations to walk or ride this sacred path. Beyond its religious significance, Santiago enchants with its medieval streets, vibrant squares, and timeless atmosphere. Standing in the square, the sense of accomplishment and spiritual reward is as moving as the journey itself.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to Santiago de Compostela. Depending on your plans, you will transfer to the airport, train station, or bus terminal for your onward journey, carrying with you lasting memories of the Camino and the accomplishment of completing this remarkable cycling pilgrimage.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $840
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $400
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Airport pickup
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport pickup to start your journey. Available only on the tour start date.
Airport drop
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport drop to finish your journey. Available only on the tour end date.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Trek Dual Sport 2 and Trek Dual Sport 1 or similar
Included in your trip price

Trek X-Caliber 7 or similar
Included in your trip price

SCOTT Sub Cross eRIDE 10 Unisex Bike or similar
Included in your trip price

KTM Macina electric bicycle 500 wh or similar
Available at a surcharge

Cube Acid 500 wh electric bicycle or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Porto. It is served by Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport also known as Porto Airport (OPO). A group transfer to the airport is included in the tour price.
If you're arriving on your own, the easiest option is the metro’s Violet Line (Line E), which connects directly to Trindade station in about 30 minutes. Airport shuttles and buses run frequently too.
For those arriving by train, Porto’s main station is Campanhã, which serves long-distance and international routes. From here, you can take a short metro ride or local train to São Bento Station, right in the historic heart of Porto.
If you are traveling by bus, most long-distance coaches arrive at Campo 24 de Agosto Bus Terminal or the newer Porto Campanhã Bus Terminal. Both are well connected to the metro network, making it easy to reach central Porto within 10–15 minutes. Taxis and ride-shares are also convenient options from the bus terminals.
Departure
Your tour ends in Santiago de Compostela. It is served byPorto Airport (OPO). A group transfer to the airport is included in the tour price.
If you're departing on your own, the most convenient way to reach the airport is by direct bus from Santiago’s bus station, with services operated by Alsa and FlixBus taking around 3.5–4 hours. A private transfer or car hire covers the journey in approximately 2.5–3 hours. Alternatively, you may take a train from Santiago to Porto-Campanhã (4.5–5 hours) and then connect to the airport via Metro Line E, which takes about 30 minutes.
Santiago de Compostela is well connected by both train and bus for onward travel. From the Santiago de Compostela Train Station, located near the city center, regular services operated by Renfe link the city with major destinations such as Madrid (around 5–6 hours) and A Coruña (about 40 minutes). High-speed Alvia trains also provide comfortable and efficient options for longer journeys.
For bus travel, the Santiago de Compostela Bus Station offers frequent services to regional and national destinations, including Porto, Lugo, and Madrid. Long-distance operators like Alsa and FlixBus provide reliable connections.
Weather
The most rewarding time to cycle from Porto to Santiago de Compostela is in spring and autumn. Both seasons bring mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and landscapes bursting with color—spring with its wildflowers and autumn with golden vineyards. These periods offer the best balance of pleasant weather, cultural vibrancy, and scenic beauty, making the journey both comfortable and inspiring.
Spring, from March to May, greets you with fresh, mild days averaging 12°C to 20°C. The countryside blooms with wildflowers, and coastal breezes keep rides invigorating. Though light showers are possible, the longer daylight hours and lush scenery make cycling especially enjoyable.
Summer, between June and August, is warm and energetic, with temperatures from 18°C to 28°C. The Atlantic breeze cools the coastal paths, while inland stretches can feel hotter. Towns and beaches are bustling, and the extended daylight encourages lingering in harbors and villages after a day of cycling. Hydration and sun protection are key.
Autumn, from September to November, offers comfortable temperatures between 14°C and 22°C. The vineyards and forests glow with seasonal hues, and early autumn stays mostly dry, ideal for long rides. As November approaches, showers become more frequent, but the quieter atmosphere adds to the charm of the route.
Winter, from December to February, is the quietest season, with temperatures from 8°C to 14°C. Frequent rain and coastal storms make conditions more challenging, but for those seeking solitude and reflection, the Camino in winter offers a deeply contemplative experience.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Good
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Mixed
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
30% bike lanes and wood walkways, 30% smooth dirt roads. Some cobblestone roads and rough dirt roads, 20% paved secondary roads with low traffic
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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