Maia might not be as famous as nearby Porto or Lisbon, but it’s a surprisingly lively hub for unique tour experiences. Its proximity to Porto means you can combine city sightseeing with some truly memorable adventures. We’re particularly drawn to the indoor skydiving experiences, which let you feel the thrill of freefall in a safe environment, perfect for adrenaline junkies and nervous flyers alike. Plus, Maia offers easy transport options like private transfers, making your trip smoother and more relaxed.
Most exciting of all, Maia is a good launching point for exploring beyond the city, including the stunning island of São Miguel, where a Nordeste tour with a photoshoot and gourmet picnic lets you soak in nature’s beauty while capturing perfect memories. For those who want a taste of local flavor, the Pastel de Nata class with Port wine tasting is a fun, hands-on way to learn about Portugal’s sweet treats and drink local wine. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or scenic relaxation, Maia has a tour for you.
Below, we’ll introduce you to five top tours in Maia, each with its own appeal—from adrenaline-pumping skydiving to scenic island excursions. Here’s what’s on offer:
- Indoor skydiving experiences
- Private transfer services
- Tasty pastry and port wine classes
- Scenic island tours with photoshoots and picnics
1. Porto/Maia: Indoor Skydiving Experience
At number 1, we have the Porto/Maia Indoor Skydiving Experience, which boasts a 4.7-star rating from 19 reviews and a very reasonable price of just $61 per person. This tour offers a 1.5-hour session that’s ideal for those wanting a quick but thrilling adventure. It’s perfect for both adults and children, making it a fantastic family activity.
This indoor skydiving experience is hosted by DreamFly, which guarantees safety and fun. You’ll get a comprehensive briefing before stepping into the vertical wind tunnel, where defying gravity becomes surprisingly accessible. The key highlight is the sensation of flight without jumping out of an airplane — an adrenaline rush in a controlled setting. Guests love the feeling of skill, style, and courage coming together for an unforgettable experience. The “defy gravity” element is what makes this tour stand out, especially since no previous experience is necessary.
The big plus here is the safety aspect combined with the thrill. It’s a great choice if you want a quick adrenaline hit or are curious about skydiving but hesitant about jumping from a plane. The duration, roughly 1.5 hours, and the flexible scheduling make it easy to slot into a busy trip. Plus, reviews consistently mention friendly staff and a well-maintained facility.
Bottom Line: This indoor skydiving tour offers adrenaline, safety, and fun in a compact package. It’s ideal for families or anyone wanting to try skydiving without the plane or parachute.
2. Indoor Skydiving Porto – Maia
For around the same price, Indoor Skydiving Porto – Maia elevates the experience with a perfect 5-star review from five satisfied customers. This 1.5-hour session is similarly focused on making guests feel the thrill of flying — but with a slightly more personalized touch, according to reviewers.
The session includes a detailed training from your flight instructor, who will teach you the basics of body positioning and hand signals. This makes the experience more approachable, especially for first-timers. The emphasis here is on feeling confident and safe while learning the mechanics of flight. The instructor’s guidance ensures everyone gets the most out of their time in the wind tunnel, and many describe it as a “transformative” experience.
What makes this tour special is the focus on instruction, which appeals to those who want to understand the physics of flying as well as the adrenaline. Plus, the small group size means more individual attention. Guests rave about the professionalism of the team, and the environment is described as fun and encouraging.
Value for money is excellent considering the personalized approach and high safety standards. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, beginner-friendly activity that turns dreams of flight into reality.
Bottom Line: If you want a safe, guided, and highly-rated indoor skydiving experience, this tour offers an unbeatable combo of professionalism and fun.
3. Transfer Oporto – Aeroport / Up to 4 passengers
Sometimes the best tour isn’t an adventure but a seamless service — like this private transfer from Oporto to Maia, rated a perfect 5 stars from a single review. Costing just $28.97 per group, it’s an affordable and stress-free way to start or end your trip.
The service includes flight monitoring for delays, so your driver will be waiting with a sign when you arrive. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi, making the 25-minute ride comfortable and connected. The drivers are known locally for their friendliness and knowledge, which can be helpful if you have questions about Maia or Porto. This transfer service is best suited for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of taxis or confusing public transportation, especially after a long flight.
While not a tour in the traditional sense, this service is invaluable for ensuring peace of mind. If you’re arriving at Porto Airport and headed to Maia or vice versa, it’s a practical, reliable choice.
Bottom Line: For a quick, comfortable, and hassle-free transfer, this private service is an excellent option, especially for first-time visitors or those with luggage.
4. Pastel de Nata Class with Port Wine Tasting
Number 4 on our list is a delightful cultural experience — the Pastel de Nata Class with Port Wine Tasting, rated 5/5 by a single reviewer. For 2 hours, you’ll step into a local home in Lisbon (note: this isn’t in Maia, but it’s an experience worth mentioning for pastry lovers).
This class teaches you how to make Pastel de Nata from scratch, starting with the crucial puff pastry, which is the foundation of the perfect tart. The instructor shares traditional recipes passed down through generations, giving you an authentic taste of Portuguese baking. After baking, you’ll enjoy your creations paired with a tasting of white Port wine, which complements the sweet pastries beautifully.
The experience is relaxed and personal, far from crowded cooking schools. It’s a chance to escape the city’s hustle and learn a skill that you can replicate at home. Enthusiasts mention the instructor’s genuine passion and the delicious results. The combination of baking and tasting makes this a well-rounded cultural activity.
Note: This tour is a bit of a departure from the other experiences listed and is better suited for food lovers and those interested in Portuguese traditions.
Bottom Line: If you want to master a classic pastry and enjoy local wine in a cozy setting, this class offers a memorable, hands-on cultural experience.
5. São Miguel: Nordeste Tour with Photoshoot and Gourmet Picnic
Finally, for a full-day adventure on the Azores’ São Miguel island, the Nordeste tour with a photoshoot and gourmet picnic is a standout. While the review score isn’t listed, its detailed itinerary and included activities make it compelling. It’s a 6-hour guided trip that combines stunning scenery, local cuisine, and a professional photoshoot, making it a great choice for travelers wanting both beauty and memories.
The tour begins with a pickup in Ponta Delgada, traveling by jeep or SUV. It visits Ribeira dos Caldeirões for a photo stop and walk, then takes you to viewpoints with scenic vistas. The highlight is the photoshoot at Ribeira dos Caldeirões and the scenic village of Nordeste, where you explore by guided tour. The day includes a secret stop, time at Maia’s natural pools for a swim, and a gourmet picnic featuring local delicacies like cheese and wine.
This experience is ideal for photography lovers and those wanting a deep dive into São Miguel’s natural beauty. The inclusion of a professional photoshoot means you’ll leave with high-quality memories of your trip. The itinerary balances scenic sightseeing with relaxing stops and culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a scenic, full-day experience that combines nature, food, and memorable photos — a true highlight for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts alike.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Picking between these options depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If adrenaline is your thing, the indoor skydiving experiences (Porto/Maia) or the Porto – Maia offers a safe, exciting taste of flight. For seamless airport arrivals or departures, the private transfer provides hassle-free logistics.
If you’re a foodie, the Pastel de Nata class makes learning a local craft fun and delicious. For a full-day scenic tour on São Miguel, the Nordeste experience combines natural beauty, photography, and cuisine — ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a memorable, relaxing day.
Consider your trip timing, interests, and whether you prefer active adventures, cultural activities, or logistical convenience. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like skydiving or the São Miguel tour.
Final Thoughts
Maia offers much more than just a convenient base for exploring northern Portugal. Its selection of adventure, cultural, and scenic tours means there’s something for every traveler. From the adrenaline rush of indoor skydiving to the tranquil beauty of São Miguel’s northeast, each experience provides a different way to enjoy Portugal’s richness.
If you’re after a quick thrill, the indoor skydiving options provide a safe yet exciting rush. For a more relaxed, scenic day, the Nordeste tour offers beauty, culture, and plenty of photo opportunities. And for those arriving or departing from Porto, the transfer service makes travel easy. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences in Maia.
