Cycling Route – Santa Iria to Praça do Comércio
A riverside ride through contrasts
A riverside ride through contrasts, the Ciclovia from Santa Iria to Praça do Comércio is more than just a cycling route—it’s a journey through Lisbon’s ever-evolving landscape. Beginning in the northern suburbs, the path winds its way along the banks of the Tagus, where nature thrives in unexpected harmony with the urban sprawl.
Keep an eye out for flamingoes wading gracefully in the river shallows, alongside a variety of bird species that call this estuarine habitat home. The ever-changing light over the water creates a cinematic backdrop, setting the perfect rhythm for a leisurely ride.
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By the time you reach Parque das Nações, the legacy of Expo ‘98 comes alive in a vibrant mix of waterfront terraces, contemporary sculptures and some of the city’s finest restaurants—perfect for a mid-ride pause with a riverside espresso or a leisurely lunch. Further along, the Campo das Cebolas area offers another tempting stop, with its charming traditional eateries set against the backdrop of historic Lisbon. Or, if you prefer to complete the ride before unwinding, Praça do Comércio awaits at the journey’s end, where grand arcades house elegant esplanades ideal for a well-earned drink as you take in the sweeping views of the Tagus.
Notes
No bike? No problem. Lisbon’s bike-sharing program offers a convenient way to hop on and ride, while several local rental shops provide classic and electric options for those looking to tailor the experience to their own pace.
As you pedal southward, the scenery shifts from raw industrial heritage to sleek contemporary design. The towering Vasco da Gama Bridge—Europe’s longest—stretches dramatically across the Tagus, a symbol of Portugal’s maritime ambition and modern engineering prowess. The route takes you past vast urban parks, where joggers, skaters and families gather, and past the dynamic event spaces that host everything from music festivals to international exhibitions.
The blend of old and new is unmistakable—former warehouses now house startups, art galleries and stylish lofts, breathing new life into the district’s industrial past. The ride culminates in the grandeur of Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s historic gateway to the world, where golden façades and sweeping arcades welcome cyclists to the heart of the city.
Address
Avenida Isidoro Assunção Antunes da Costa 6
2625-112 Póvoa de Santa Iria
Open map
Photos from the Vila Franca de Xira and Loures Municipalities websites
Last modified: March 21, 2025