Porto
Portugal
Attractions & Events in Porto
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Porto, Portugal
Top Attractions
Casa da Música
A modern concert hall designed by Rem Koolhaas, known for its unique architecture and diverse musical performances.
Tips: Check the event schedule in advance to attend a concert or guided tour.
Church of São Francisco
A prominent Gothic monument noted for its outstanding Baroque inner decoration, including the 'Tree of Jesse' altarpiece.
Tips: Explore the church's museum to learn about its rich history and artifacts.
Clérigos Tower
A baroque bell tower offering panoramic views of Porto after climbing its 240 steps.
Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Dom Luís I Bridge
An iconic double-deck metal arch bridge spanning the Douro River, offering panoramic views of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia.
Tips: Walk across the upper deck for stunning city views, especially at sunset.
Gaia Cable Car
A gondola lift offering scenic rides between the riverside and the upper part of Vila Nova de Gaia.
Tips: Ride in the late afternoon for beautiful sunset views over Porto.
Livraria Lello
A historic bookstore renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture and intricate wooden staircase.
Tips: Purchase an entry voucher online to skip the long queues.
Mercado do Bolhão
A traditional market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and a glimpse into Porto's daily life.
Tips: Visit in the morning for the freshest selections and to experience the bustling atmosphere.
Palácio da Bolsa
A 19th-century neoclassical building known for its ornate Arab Hall and historical significance.
Tips: Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the architectural details and history.
Ribeira Square
A historic district along the Douro River, featuring colorful buildings, cafes, and a lively atmosphere.
Tips: Enjoy a meal at a riverside restaurant and take a boat tour from the nearby docks.
Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art
A leading cultural institution featuring contemporary art exhibitions, a park, and a villa, exemplifying modern architecture.
Tips: Visit during the annual 'Serralves em Festa' for a 40-hour non-stop cultural event.
Events & Festivals
Essência do Vinho
Portugal's most significant wine festival, offering tastings of around 3,000 wines from 400 producers, along with workshops and masterclasses.
When: February
Tips: Held at the Stock Exchange Palace; consider attending masterclasses for a deeper understanding of Portuguese wines.
Simplesmente… Vinho
A relaxed wine festival featuring small-scale producers from Portugal and Spain, complemented by live music and food.
When: February
Tips: Locations vary; it's an excellent opportunity to explore unique wines and enjoy a casual atmosphere.
Festival Comida Continente
A food festival featuring dishes from renowned chefs, wine tastings, showcookings, and workshops, accompanied by live music.
When: July
Tips: Takes place in Parque da Cidade; it's family-friendly with activities for children and a variety of culinary experiences.
MEO Marés Vivas
A popular music festival held in Vila Nova de Gaia, featuring performances by renowned international and Portuguese artists.
When: July
Tips: Secure tickets early; the festival's seaside location offers stunning views, so bring appropriate attire for coastal weather.
Porto Pride
An annual LGBTQ+ pride event featuring parades, concerts, and cultural activities promoting inclusivity and diversity.
When: July
Tips: Join the celebrations in the city center; check the official schedule for specific event times and locations.
Festa de São João do Porto
A vibrant midsummer festival honoring Saint John the Baptist, featuring street parties, fireworks, and traditional customs like hitting each other with plastic hammers.
When: June
Tips: Join the festivities on June 23rd; expect large crowds and lively street celebrations throughout the city.
NOS Primavera Sound
An annual music festival featuring a diverse lineup of international and local artists, held in Porto's Parque da Cidade.
When: June
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance; the festival spans multiple days, so plan accommodations accordingly.
Porto Beer Fest
A festival celebrating craft beer, featuring over 200 varieties from 30 breweries, along with food trucks and live music.
When: June
Tips: Held in the gardens of the Soares dos Reis National Museum; entrance is free, but tasting requires purchasing tokens and a festival glass.
Serralves em Festa
Portugal's largest contemporary arts festival, offering 50 hours of non-stop artistic performances in various disciplines.
When: June
Tips: Plan your visit to Serralves Park; the event is free and attracts large crowds, so consider arriving early.
Fantasporto
An international film festival focusing on fantasy, horror, and science fiction genres, showcasing films from around the world.
When: March
Tips: Check the official schedule for film screenings and events; some sessions may require advance ticket purchases.
Queima das Fitas
A week-long academic festival celebrating university students, marked by parades, concerts, and various cultural events.
When: May
Tips: Experience the vibrant student culture; the main parade is a highlight, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Porto Marathon
An annual marathon race attracting runners worldwide, offering a scenic route through Porto's streets and along the Douro River.
When: November
Tips: Register in advance; spectators can enjoy various vantage points along the route to cheer on participants.
Port Wine Day
A celebration of Porto's iconic beverage, featuring tastings, tours, and educational events about port wine.
When: September
Tips: Participate in tastings at various wine cellars; some events may require reservations, so plan ahead.
Porto Book Fair
An annual event bringing together literature enthusiasts, featuring book sales, author signings, and readings.
When: September
Tips: Held in the city's gardens; it's a great opportunity to discover Portuguese literature and meet authors.
Feira da Vandoma
A weekly flea market offering a variety of second-hand goods, including clothes, books, and antiques.
When: Year-round
Tips: Held every Saturday; it's a treasure trove for vintage and antique enthusiasts, so arrive early for the best finds.