Lisbon: Segway Food Tour of Alfama and Old Town Lisbon

Exploring Lisbon on a Segway Food Tour: A Friendly Review

So, I’ve come across a pretty neat experience in Lisbon that looks perfect for anyone wanting to see the city from a different perspective. It’s a Segway Food Tour of Alfama and Old Town, offered by Boost Portugal, and it’s gotten some fantastic reviews — an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from over 770 travelers. If you’re into exploring urban charm, enjoying some local bites, and donning a helmet while zipping around scenic streets, this might be just what you’re looking for.

What really caught our eye are the mix of sightseeing and tasting—you get to glide through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and sample authentic Portuguese delicacies. Also, the small-group size promises a more personal experience, which can really make a difference when you’re discovering a city’s hidden gems. However, a quick consideration: since it’s a beginners-friendly tour on hilly terrain, being comfortable on a Segway and following safety instructions is a must.

This tour suits travelers who love a bit of adventure, are eager to learn about Lisbon’s neighborhoods, and enjoy tasting local food and drinks. It’s ideal whether you’re new to Segways or experienced, and especially good for those who want to combine sightseeing with a taste of Lisbon’s culinary culture without the hassle of walking or public transport.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Balanced mix of sightseeing and gastronomy makes this tour engaging and tasty.
• Expert guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• The small group setting creates an intimate and interactive experience.
• Easy-to-use Segways make navigating Lisbon’s hills effortless and fun.
• The tour includes five local delicacies and two beverages, offering a genuine taste of Portugal.
• It’s beginners-friendly, but participants need to meet certain safety and weight requirements.

Discover Lisbon’s Charm on a Segway

If you’re like us, the idea of seeing a city from the saddle of a Segway sounds both fun and practical. Lisbon’s hills can be a challenge on foot, but on a Segway, you get to cover more ground comfortably. Plus, the added bonus? You get to learn about the city’s history and culture from a guide who clearly loves sharing their knowledge.

This particular tour highlights some of Lisbon’s most beloved neighborhoods: Alfama, Mouraria, Bairro Alto, and Baixa. Each area has its own story, and with the guide’s storytelling, you’ll leave not just with a map of sights but with a sense of the city’s soul.

The Itinerary and Stops: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off at Boost – Urban Thrills, the dedicated start point in Baixa. From there, you’ll glide around several iconic spots:

• Commerce Square — Lisbon’s grand central square, where you’ll pass by the riverfront and admire classic architecture. It’s a great starting point that sets the tone for the tour.
• Fado Museum — Not just a sightseeing stop, but also a chance to taste some local flavors. According to reviews, guides often take you to hidden cafes for food and drinks, which adds a layer of authenticity.
• National Pantheon of Santa Engrácia — Passing by this impressive monument, you’ll get a sense of Lisbon’s historical grandeur.
• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte — One of the best viewpoints in the city, perfect for photos and taking in Lisbon’s sweeping views.
• São Jorge Castle — You’ll spend around 15 minutes here, soaking up the atmosphere of this historic fortress with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Praça da Figueira — A lively square, passing through or stopping briefly to soak in the local vibe.

Throughout the ride, guides share stories and insights that make each stop meaningful. Many reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and passionate guides are, making the tour not just about the sights but also about the stories behind them.

Food and Drink: Tasting Lisbon’s Flavors

A highlight of this tour is the food and beverage tastings. You’ll enjoy five Portuguese specialties—including Ginjinha Licor, Pastel de Nata, cheese, bread, and olives. Many reviewers rave about the quality and authenticity of these treats, often describing them as delicious and well-chosen by the guides.

You also get two drinks, which can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic, adding a relaxing element to the experience. It’s a great way to sample local flavors in a casual setting. One reviewer mentioned that the tour felt more like a “tour with food” rather than solely a food tour, but the inclusion of snacks and drinks definitely enhances the experience.

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The Experience on the Ground: Riding and Safety

Don’t worry if you’re new to Segways — the tour starts with an adaptation lesson and safety briefing. Guides are praised repeatedly for their patience, especially with first-timers or nervous riders. As one reviewer put it, “Peter provided so much history and made us feel comfortable on the Segway,” which is exactly what you want when trying something new.

The terrain in Lisbon can be hilly, but thanks to the Segway’s design, climbing those slopes is surprisingly easy. Several reviews mention how effortless it was to navigate the streets, even with the city’s characteristic inclines.

Participants need to meet weight and height requirements (45-118 Kg and minimum height of 1.5 meters). Helmets are mandatory, so expect to wear one throughout the tour. The guides are attentive to safety and make sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.

Duration, Cost, and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable chunk of time for most travelers. It’s priced at $90 per person, which, considering the combination of sightseeing, guided storytelling, tastings, and the fun of riding a Segway, offers good value. Many reviews point out that it’s a great way to see a lot in a short amount of time.

You’ll start and end at the same location, in Baixa, near Rua dos Douradores. The meeting point is accessible, and the tour operates in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, and German — so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What We Loved and What to Keep in Mind

The guides truly make this experience special. Their enthusiasm and knowledge shine, turning the tour into a fun learning experience. Several reviewers have highlighted guides like Peter, Julie, and Romain for their friendliness and storytelling skills.

The views and neighborhoods are stunning, especially when visiting Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or passing through Alfama’s winding streets. The combination of sightseeing and tasting is well-balanced, providing a full sensory experience.

On the downside, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those under 4’9”, or over 260 lbs, and strict safety rules mean you need to be comfortable wearing a helmet and signing a waiver.

Some travelers mention that the food element might feel light for those expecting a full meal, but it’s enough to give a taste of Lisbon’s flavors. Also, the tour is weather-dependent — if rain is heavy, the guides provide ponchos, but rescheduling might be necessary if conditions are unsafe.

Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

If you’re craving a fun, active way to explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, this Segway tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who want to cover more ground than walking allows but still enjoy a personal, guided experience. The combination of sightseeing, storytelling, and local tasting makes it a well-rounded option for curious travelers.

Travelers who appreciate local culture, scenic views, and a bit of adventure tend to rate this tour highly. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable on a Segway or eager to try something new, and it offers a practical way to see Lisbon’s hills without tiring out physically.

And with the positive reviews praising guides and the overall value, it’s clear this experience leaves many visitors happy and eager to recommend it. Just remember, if you’re cautious about riding or have specific health concerns, check the requirements first.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to ride a Segway?
No prior experience is needed. The tour starts with a safety and adaptation lesson, so beginners can quickly get comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum height is 1.5 meters (about 4’11”), so it’s more suited to teens and adults. It’s not explicitly recommended for very young children or those under the height limit.

What is included in the price?
The price covers Segway equipment and instruction, an expert guide, five Portuguese delicacies, two beverages, insurance, taxes, and a poncho if it rains.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, entrance fees are not included, nor are additional food or drinks beyond what’s provided. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are also not included.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time to see key sights and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID is needed for safety checks. Dress comfortably and be prepared for the weather — rain gear is supplied if needed.

Is there a group size limit?
It’s a small group tour for a more personal experience, but exact group size isn’t specified. Private options are available if you prefer exclusivity.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour can be rescheduled for later the same day if there’s availability. Ponchos are provided to help keep you dry.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, tours are available in English, Spanish, French, and German.

In all, this Lisbon Segway Food Tour offers a unique way to see the city’s historic neighborhoods, learn fascinating stories, and enjoy some authentic local flavors — all while feeling the breeze on a fun ride. Perfect for curious explorers, food lovers, and adventure seekers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: