Italy and Portugal Tours and Trips

A brilliantly organised and executed tour - this was our first time doing a group cycling trip and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Our leader, Davide, had done over 70 trips on this route which meant that almost nothing was left to chance. The hotels were excellent, food stops were delicious and well timed and the support offered by Sebi was reliable and always delivered with a smile. The cycling itself was fun and just the right length and difficulty for a mixed group. Gorgeous scenery and amazing smells of fig, pine, lemons and oranges as we cycled through the countryside. And there were plenty of swim stops when we were by the sea. Highly recommend this tour especially if it is led by Davide.

Why isn’t the southwest coast of Portugal talked about worldwide as a gorgeous destination? The scenery was spectacular day after day. This trip, just completed yesterday (Sept 13, 2026) was easily one of the best cycling trips we’ve ever taken. Our guide João Colaço and support man-of-many-skills Vitor delivered a perfect, memorable experience with every minute detail organized and managed with forethought and professionalism. The riding had its challenges, and I would encourage anyone waffling between e-bike or regular bike to opt for the ebike, which made the climbs very comfortable. Our e-bikes were the best e-bikes we have ever ridden, with ample power and comfort, while taking a beating on some of the gravel roads. The food, organized by João and Vitor, was as amazing as you might imagine, from fresh fish to octopus to lamb, shellfish, and fruits and pastries. Accommodations were lovely and uncrowded, all locally owned and very charming. João’s daily briefings included expectations for the next day as well as updates on weather and wind, and cultural and historical notes. He has a vast knowledge of Portuguese history and culture and entertained us with his orientations to all the local spots. He and Vitor are truly exceptional guides, and I can’t commend them highly enough.

This was our first ‘cultural’ Exodus holiday although we’ve done lots of Exodus cycling holidays. We went not knowing much about the area so it was wonderful to find it so enjoyable. There was a good mix of learning about the region, relaxing, and tours of caves, olive groves and some of the more important towns in the area. Transfers weren’t too long (usually under an hour) and accommodation was excellent for the most part. The nature of the accommodation meant that we all had different style rooms in most locations, which was good fun comparing.

Fantastic trip. Lots to see and do. It is very busy, however you can choose what you wish to do. This itinerary covers a lot of miles and there is a fair amount of time on the bus. A warning though if you can’t walk a lot this may not be the trip for you. Southern Italy and Sicily are very hilly, lots of up and down hills. I would have preferred to see some vineyards or working farms that produce the olives or lemons.

Explore Leader Susi was amazing! The pace of the trip was excellent and we covered so much. Disappointment was the hotel in Lisbon - “Empire” - too corporate and the location was awful.

It was a wonderful trip - did not feel the need to see Parma ham or Parma cheese. Would have rather had opportunity for more time in Cinque Terra.