Lisbon Sidecar Tour ( the netflix one)

If you’re visiting Lisbon and craving a truly different way to see the city, a guided sidecar tour parked right on your radar. This experience, offered by Bike my Side, combines the thrill of riding in a vintage-inspired motorcycle sidecar with expert local drivers showing you Lisbon’s hidden corners and iconic sights. Known for its personalized approach and authentic vibe, this tour has earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars from 40 reviews that rave about the experience’s fun, educational, and scenic qualities.

What we love most about this tour is how it sidesteps the usual tourist traps—literally. Instead of fighting traffic or climbing hills on foot, you’ll ride comfortably in a sidecar that zips you through parts of the city inaccessible to buses or walking groups. Plus, the knowledgeable Portuguese guides make each ride both entertaining and insightful, adding stories and local secrets you won’t find in guidebooks. The only thing to consider is that the tour is not suitable for young children under 8, or those with back issues or mobility concerns, given the nature of riding on a motorcycle.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a personalized, fun-filled perspective on Lisbon’s unique neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see main sights without the fatigue or a local looking for a fresh take, their flexibility and friendly guides make it a standout experience.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: Ride in a classic sidecar, offering views and access that other tours can’t match.
• Local Guides: Portuguese guides make the experience authentic and educational, sharing little-known stories.
• Customizable Routes: The tour can be tailored to your interests, ensuring a personalized adventure.
• Comfort and Safety: All riding gear and sidecars are included, with hotel or cruise port pickup for convenience.
• Group Size: Up to 10 passengers across 5 sidecars, making it intimate but lively.
• Ideal for those seeking a fun, memorable way to explore Lisbon’s hills and hidden streets.

Why Choose This Lisbon Sidecar Tour?

We loved the way this experience blends thrilling ride with local insight. Imagine feeling the wind as you zip through narrow alleys and panoramic viewpoints—something that’s impossible from a bus or on foot. The sidecars are well-maintained and include all necessary gear, so you’re just left to enjoy the ride.

One standout feature is how flexible the tour can be. Many reviews mention guides like Jorge and Luis, who go out of their way to make the experience memorable, sharing personal stories and recommending local treats like Nata pastries. The reviews also highlight how the guides’ knowledge adds depth to what could otherwise be just a sightseeing ride. For example, one reviewer said, “My guide, Jorge, was very knowledgeable on the history of Portugal,” making the experience not just fun but also educational.

The scenic routes include parts of Lisbon many travelers miss—quiet neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and bustling streets. Riders get a sense of the city’s seven hills, with some reviews mentioning how the tour takes you to areas where only walking or this kind of open-air ride can go.

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

Start Point: The tour begins at a pickup location in Lisbon, with optional hotel or cruise port pickup included. This makes it super convenient—no need to worry about navigating to a meet-up point.

The Ride: Over approximately 3 hours, you’ll hop into one of five sidecars with a driver who’s a local Portuguese expert. The guides speak multiple languages including English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish, which makes this accessible for many travelers.

What You’ll See:
– Hidden Streets and Viewpoints: Unlike bus tours that stick to main roads, this ride takes you through lesser-known streets, offering a more intimate look at Lisbon’s neighborhoods.
– Historic and Contemporary Neighborhoods: Get a feel for Lisbon’s diverse areas, from historic districts to vibrant, modern quarters.
– Local Flavors & Landmarks: Guides often stop to buy Nata pastries or chat about local events, adding flavor to your ride. One reviewer even commented how their guide stopped for treats, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Stops & Personalization:
While the route can be largely customized, some reviewers noted they appreciated the guides’ flexibility. Whether you want to focus on historic sites, viewpoints, or hidden alleyways, the guides are happy to adapt. It’s a more organic, less hurried way of exploring than traditional tours.

End Point: The tour concludes back in central Lisbon or at your hotel/cruise terminal, leaving you refreshed and with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– The sidecar ride with a professional driver and all riding gear
– Hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off
– Up to 10 passengers across 5 sidecars
– Tours conducted in multiple languages including English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish
– An introduction to main Lisbon and Portuguese events, adding cultural context

Not Included:
– Snacks, meals, or refreshments (although guides might stop for local treats)
– Entry fees or tasting fees (if you want to visit specific sites)
– Driver’s meals during the tour

This setup means you pay a fair price for a personalized experience, but if you’re eager for museum visits or specific attractions, you’ll need to plan for those separately.

The Practical Side: Timing, Group Size, and Booking

The tour lasts around 3 hours, with availability depending on demand. It’s a private group experience, so it’s ideal for couples, small groups, or friends traveling together. The ability to reserve and pay later offers flexibility—especially helpful if your plans aren’t set in stone.

The tour is not suitable for children under 8, or for those with back problems or weighing over 220 lbs (100 kg). These restrictions are mainly for safety and comfort reasons, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with family or larger groups.

Authentic Experiences Cited by Reviewers

Readers’ feedback highlights the value of knowledgeable guides. For instance, Anik raved about driver Luis, describing him as “absolutely amazing,” and said his knowledge of Lisbon’s history made the three-hour ride “positive and memorable.” Similarly, Erica complimented her guide Luis for taking them to great spots and stopping for Nata pastries, which added a charming local touch.

Many reviews also mention how guides like Daniel made the tour personal, friendly, and fun—creating an experience that felt more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend than just a tour guide. The flexibility to choose routes or stop for local bites makes this ride stand out in Lisbon’s many sightseeing options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a fun, engaging, and authentic way to explore Lisbon, this sidecar tour hits the mark. The combination of scenic views, local insights, and the thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar makes it a memorable highlight of any trip. You’ll depart with stories and photos that are truly unique—something even locals would be impressed to see.

The value for money is clear when you consider the personalized experience, expert guides, and the chance to see parts of Lisbon most travelers miss. It’s especially good for those who want a more immersive, active sightseeing experience that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or authenticity.

While it’s not for everyone—those with mobility issues or very young children might need to look elsewhere—it’s perfectly suited for curious travelers eager for adventure and rich stories.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to shake up your Lisbon itinerary, this sidecar tour offers an experience you won’t forget, all wrapped in a fun, friendly package.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 8, mainly because of safety and comfort considerations on the motorcycle sidecar.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, guides are happy to tailor the tour based on your interests, whether you want to focus on historic sites, viewpoints, or hidden streets.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and sunglasses are recommended for this open-air ride. Bare feet are not allowed for safety reasons.

How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts approximately 3 hours, but you should check availability for specific timings.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from your hotel or cruise ship terminal.

How many people can ride at once?
Up to 10 passengers can be accommodated across 5 sidecars, making it perfect for small groups or families.

What languages are the guides available in?
Tours are conducted in English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish.

Is the experience worth the price?
Considering the personalized service, expert guides, and unique access to parts of Lisbon, many reviews consider it excellent value.

Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility in your travel plans.

What if I have back problems or other health concerns?
The tour is not recommended for those with back issues or who weigh over 220 lbs, for safety reasons.

Final Words

To sum it up, if you’re seeking an adventurous, authentic, and fun way to see Lisbon, this sidecar experience is an ideal choice. It offers a blend of scenic beauty, local stories, and thrill that few other tours can match. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to explore the city in a personalized and memorable way, this ride promises stories, photos, and experiences that will stand out in your travel journal.

While it’s not suitable for the very young or those with certain health concerns, for most adventurous travelers, this tour is a highlight worth considering. With knowledgeable guides, flexible routes, and the chance to see Lisbon from a fresh perspective, it’s a fun-filled way to make your visit truly special.