Two well-designed self-guided tours stand out in historic Portsmouth.
The bike tour offers a practical 3-hour route along the waterfront and past key landmarks – perfect for active travelers who appreciate independence. I especially love how it lets you linger at interesting spots without being rushed.
The haunted walking tour (my favorite after dark) uses a clever audio guide format, packing centuries of spooky history into a compact one-hour experience.
Reasonably priced and well-organized, these tours hit all the right notes.
Let’s look at the specifics of Portsmouth’s best self-guided options.
Key Points
The Portsmouth Self-Guided Bike Tour offers a 3-hour exploration of the city with customizable routes and equipment provided for $50 per person.
The Portsmouth Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour is a one-hour experience focused on the city’s supernatural sites, priced at $6.50 per person.
Both tours offer convenient booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, catering to flexible schedules.
The bike tour accommodates up to 6 participants, while the haunted walking tour provides an affordable option for solo or small group exploration.
The haunted walking tour has received positive reviews, with a 4.6 out of 5 star rating, despite minor directional issues.
Portsmouth: Self Guided Bike Tour
A self-guided bike tour is an excellent way to explore the historic city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The 3-hour experience allows visitors to discover the area’s attractions, restaurants, and scenic views at their own pace.
Participants will receive a 21-speed hybrid comfort bicycle, helmet, bike bag, and safety equipment, as well as a biking map or planned route based on their interests.
The tour can accommodate up to 6 people and is available in English. Guests can customize their route and stop for photos at suggested sites like Prescott Park, Fort Stark State Historic Site, and Wentworth-Gardner House.
Flat kits are included for emergencies, but there’s no pick-up service for broken bikes. The meeting point is the John Paul Jones House Historic House Garden.
Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Prices start at $50 per person, making it an affordable way to experience the best of Portsmouth.
Read our full review: Portsmouth: Self Guided Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Portsmouth: Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour
Immerse oneself in the chilling tales of Portsmouth’s haunted past with the Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour. Priced at just $6.50 per person, this one-hour self-guided experience allows explorers to discover the city’s most haunted locations at their own pace.
The smartphone-guided tour includes an audio guide, map, and entry tickets, providing the flexibility to pause and explore haunted bars or cafes along the way.
The tour takes visitors through sites like the Rockingham, African Burial Grounds, The Huntsman, Sheafe Street Inn, Deadwicks, and Portsmouth Music Hall, while background spooky music and historical accounts add to the eerie atmosphere.
Though some users noted minor issues with the directions, the majority praised the timing of the explanations and the overall interest level of the activity, making it suitable for a variety of travelers.
With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, this self-guided haunted tour offers a unique and captivating way to uncover Portsmouth’s supernatural side.
Read our full review: Portsmouth: Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Portsmouth, New Hampshire offers a variety of self-guided tours that allow visitors to explore the city at their own pace. Whether taking a bike tour or a haunted walking audio tour, these self-guided options provide an immersive and flexible way to discover the rich history and vibrant culture of this charming coastal town. Travelers can easily customize their experience to suit their interests and preferences.