Porto: Segway City Tour with São Bento & Lello Bookstore

Summary

Segway along Porto’s tiled streets past towers, bookstores, river views and old cafés

You’ll glide through Porto’s winding streets by Segway with a local guide, pausing for tiled marvels at São Bento station, riverside views in Ribeira, and stories outside Lello Bookstore. Expect lively neighborhoods, quick lessons (and laughs) on two wheels, plus plenty of chances to soak in city life up close — even if your helmet sits crooked.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out from the shop just off Aliados Avenue, helmets slightly askew (well, mine was), and I could already hear our guide Pedro chatting away in that relaxed Porto way — half history lesson, half neighborhood gossip. The Segways felt weird at first, but after a few wobbly turns we were gliding past pastel buildings and laundry flapping above tiny balconies. There’s this moment when you first see the Douro River below Ribeira — the air smells faintly of grilled sardines and river mist, and honestly, I grinned like an idiot.

Pedro steered us right up to São Bento train station. He nudged us inside to see the blue-and-white tiles — azulejos — that cover every wall. I tried to count the scenes but got distracted by a group of schoolkids giggling in Portuguese. It was loud in there, echoey with announcements and footsteps. We zipped over cobbles toward Clérigos Tower next (don’t try to text while riding these things), dodging locals who barely glanced up. At one point I nearly clipped a café chair; some old guy just winked at me like he’d seen it all before.

The private Segway tour kept surprising me — especially when we stopped outside Livraria Lello. There’s always a line for the bookstore but Pedro had stories about its Harry Potter connection that made waiting feel less annoying. Sunlight caught on the stained glass above the door and for a second it felt like stepping into another century. My hands were cold from the handlebars but I didn’t care much; too busy watching street artists set up along Cândido dos Reis street. By the end my legs buzzed from balancing so long, but also from laughing at myself trying not to crash into anything expensive.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Porto city highlights Segway tour

• Start Segway tour in Porto
• Pass by Porto Cathedral
• Pass by Clérigos Church and Tower
• Pass by Sao Bento Railway Station
• Pass by Carmo Convent
• Pass by Portuguese Centre of Photography
• Pass by Lion Square
• Pass by Livraria Lello bookstore
• End the tour

Top questions

Is this Porto Segway tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, there’s a briefing and adaptation lesson before starting so beginners can join safely.

What main sights are included on the 2-hour Segway tour?

You’ll see São Bento station, Clérigos Tower, Livraria Lello bookstore, Ribeira district and more.

Is pickup included in this Porto city highlights tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the starting point near Aliados Avenue.

Can children join this Segway tour in Porto?

The minimum age is 12 years old; minors must be accompanied by an adult who signs a responsibility statement.

Does this tour operate in rainy weather?

Yes, tours run rain or shine; ponchos are provided if needed.

Are entry tickets included for attractions like Livraria Lello?

No entry tickets are not included; you visit sites from outside unless otherwise stated.

How many people are needed for the public tour to run?

A minimum of two participants is required for public tours to operate.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided Segway ride through central Porto with live commentary from a local storyteller-guide. All equipment — Segway and helmet — is provided along with an adaptation lesson before heading out. Liability and personal injury insurance are covered too so you can focus on navigating those winding streets without worry.