Camino de Santiago Bike Tour: Cycling the French Way

The Camino de Santiago is one of the world’s most iconic long-distance trails—and cycling it brings a whole new level of freedom and perspective. If you’ve ever dreamed of completing the pilgrimage but worried about time, terrain, or tired legs, a guided cycling tour along the French Way might be exactly what you’re looking for.

This 16-day journey follows the full Camino Francés route—from the charming village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in the French Pyrenees to the sacred city of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. Along the way, you’ll ride through diverse landscapes, explore ancient towns, and share the road with fellow pilgrims from around the world.

At Top Bike Tours Portugal, we make this legendary route accessible, supported, and unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn by the challenge, the culture, or the quiet moments in between, cycling the French Way is a meaningful way to see northern Spain—one pedal stroke at a time.

What Makes the French Way So Special?

There are many Camino routes, but none quite like the French Way. It’s the most popular and well-marked trail, with deep historical roots and incredible variety.

Starting in the Pyrenees, it crosses through wine country, open plains, and lush green hills—connecting medieval cities like Pamplona, Burgos, and León with sleepy villages and timeless countryside. It’s a moving window into Spain’s culture, faith, and regional pride.

And by bike? You get to see it all—up close, at your pace, with the wind on your face and a world of discovery in every turn.

Day One: The Pyrenees Welcome You

Your tour begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a postcard-perfect French town filled with old stone bridges and red-roofed houses. After a bike fitting and overnight stay, the first stage launches you straight into one of the most scenic (and rewarding) rides: the climb into Spain across the Pyrenees.

Yes, it’s a challenge. But it’s also a highlight—offering incredible views and a real sense of achievement. From there, the route eases into a more rolling rhythm as you head toward Roncesvalles and beyond.

What You’ll See Along the Way

Each day on the Camino brings new sights, new terrain, and a deeper appreciation for the journey. Here are some highlights:

Navarre & La Rioja

From Pamplona’s cobbled lanes to the vineyards of Logroño, this section is full of flavor—literally and figuratively. Expect rich cuisine, lively plazas, and gentle vineyard roads.

Castile and León

Here the trail flattens, opening into the high plains of the Meseta. It’s a region of wide skies and hidden gems: Burgos and its towering cathedral, León’s buzzing old town, and the chocolate-box beauty of Astorga.

Galicia

The final stretch into Santiago is green, misty, and spiritual. With rolling hills and Celtic roots, Galicia feels worlds away from the plains. The terrain gets trickier—but by now, your legs are strong and your spirit is flying.

Is the French Way Difficult by Bike?

It depends on the rider—but with the right support, it’s absolutely doable. Daily distances range from 50 to 70 km, with a mix of easy and more demanding days. And thanks to our expert tour design, the hardest climbs are paired with lighter riding the next day.

Worried about hills? Don’t be. E-bikes are available for anyone who wants extra help—and they make a world of difference, especially in Galicia and the Pyrenees. Most of our guests find the tour challenging in all the right ways: engaging, energizing, and incredibly rewarding.

Guided or Self-Guided—Which Camino Tour is Right for You?

We offer both, because every traveler is different.

Guided Tours include a ride leader, support van, daily briefings, and camaraderie with other riders. Great for solo travelers, first-timers, or anyone who enjoys a shared experience with expert backup.

Self-Guided Tours come with GPS routes, pre-booked accommodation, luggage transfers, and 24/7 phone support. Perfect for independent riders who want flexibility but still appreciate having the logistics handled.

Whichever you choose, we’ve got your back.

More Than Just a Bike Tour

Cycling the Camino is about so much more than the ride. It’s about the early-morning sun on quiet backroads, the sound of church bells in tiny villages, the taste of fresh bread and Rioja wine after a long day.

It’s about waving to walkers, chatting with fellow cyclists, and arriving in Santiago with a sense of pride—and maybe even a few happy tears.

This isn’t just a route. It’s a story. One you’ll remember forever.

What’s Included in Our Camino de Santiago Bike Tour

Here’s what you can expect when booking the French Way bike tour with Top Bike Tours Portugal:

16 days / 15 nights in comfortable, bike-friendly hotels
Daily luggage transfers so you can ride light
Bike rental (standard or electric, your choice)
GPS navigation or experienced local guide
Support van with snacks, tools, and a smile
Breakfasts and select meals
Transfers to and from Porto or Lisbon

Our focus is on making your experience as smooth, safe, and enjoyable as possible—so you can focus on the ride.

A Journey That Stays With You

The Camino is not just a destination—it’s a way of moving through the world. And cycling it lets you experience its rhythm, landscape, and soul in a way that few other travel styles can match.

With the support of a trusted Portugal-based operator, a well-planned route, and your own two wheels, you can turn this legendary pilgrimage into a meaningful and memorable cycling trip.

Ready to ride? Let the French Way lead you.