The city of Porto came alive on the night of June 23rd, as locals and tourists alike took to the streets to celebrate the annual São João Festival. This vibrant and deeply rooted tradition, honoring Saint John the Baptist, filled the city with music, dancing, and a unique blend of ancient and modern customs.

The air was thick with the aroma of grilled sardines, a staple of the festival, as revelers strolled through the streets, their heads adorned with colorful plastic hammers. These iconic "martelinhos" are a playful symbol of the festival, used to gently tap friends and strangers on the head in a gesture of good luck and renewal.

As the sun set, the Douro River shimmered under the glow of a full moon, setting the stage for a spectacular fireworks display. While the location of the fireworks was slightly altered this year due to river conditions, the dazzling show still captivated the crowds gathered along the Ribeira.

The night sky was further illuminated by a cascade of glowing balloons, released into the air by people of all ages. This enchanting spectacle added a touch of magic to the already festive atmosphere.

Throughout the city, the rhythmic beat of traditional music filled the air, as impromptu street parties erupted in every corner. From the historic Ribeira district to the trendy bars and clubs, the city pulsed with energy and excitement.

The São João Festival is a testament to Porto's rich heritage and a vibrant display of Portuguese traditions. As the night drew to a close, the streets of Porto were left buzzing with the memories of a truly unforgettable São João.

The city came alive with music, grilled sardines, and the playful tapping of "martelinhos." A dazzling fireworks display and glowing balloons illuminated the night sky.

St. John's 2024: Tradition, Revelry, and Vibrant Celebration

Embracing this honor on behalf of the Municipality of Porto, the Councilwoman for Tourism and Internationalization, Catarina Santos Cunha, emphasized the city's ongoing commitment to elevating tourism standards in a sustainable and harmonious manner. She spoke of the Confiança Porto program, a steadfast effort supporting economic operators to attain and acknowledge levels of excellence, particularly in the realm of tourist accommodations.

Cunha passionately articulated Porto's dedication to maintaining its reputation as a warm and inviting city, tailored to meet the diverse demands of tourists. In line with this commitment, she unveiled the Tourist’s Manifest on World Tourism Day, celebrated on the 27th of September. The manifesto aims to engage and enlighten tourists about the commendable practices to uphold while exploring the vibrant city.

The esteemed World Travel Awards ceremony unfolded in Batumi, Georgia, uniting global leaders in the tourism sector for an evening of recognition and celebration. This initiative serves as a beacon, honoring and applauding outstanding contributions to the world of travel and tourism, adjudicated through the discerning votes of industry professionals, media, and discerning consumers.

In the 2022 edition of these distinguished awards, Porto triumphed, seizing the titles of Europe’s Leading City Destination and, on the global stage, World’s Leading City Destination. This triumph follows a previous accolade in 2020, when the city was hailed as Europe's Leading City Break Destination, cementing Porto's legacy as a prime destination for travelers seeking an enriching and captivating experience.

Porto's undeniable allure once again triumphs at the prestigious World Travel Awards. After securing the title of Europe’s Leading City Destination in 2022, the resilient city of Porto has yet again shined on the grand stage, earning the esteemed recognition of Europe’s Leading City Break Destination for 2023 in the renowned "Tourism Oscars."

Porto: Leading City Break Destination 2023 (Europe)

Porto's travel and gastronomy are once again on the lips of the world: it is the "City of the Year" in the awards decided by the readers of the British magazine Food and Travel.

“This is yet another award that recognizes the value of the Porto brand in the international context", comments, in a statement, Luís Pedro Martins, president of Turismo do Porto e Norte de Portugal.
"The city of Porto is once again to be congratulated", underlines the official, referring: "it reinforces our position in the world".

Food and Travel, based in London, has an international footprint and has a 25-year publishing history. Its aim is to take readers "on a gastronomic journey around the world". It is published by Green Pea Publishing, a "small independent publisher".

In the "race" for City of the Year, the most famous cities were nominated, which may have played in favor of Porto: certainly many votes were shared by Barcelona, Edinburgh, London, Melbourne, New York, Paris, Vancouver and Vienna, but Porto achieved primacy.

In the awards of the magazine dedicated to gastronomy, wines and travel, Porto beat the candidates Barcelona, London, New York or Paris. “The city of Porto is once again to be congratulated”.

Porto: City of the Year, by Food and Travel

Despite relentless rain and an earlier power outage that delayed preparations, the excitement among Porto’s students remains unshaken for Queima das Fitas, one of Portugal’s most iconic academic festivals. Marking the end of the academic year and honoring graduating university students, the event blends age-old traditions with modern celebrations, drawing thousands of participants from across the country and abroad. This year’s festivities kick off at midnight on Sunday with the Monumental Serenata, a moving academic fado concert on Avenida dos Aliados, followed by the Blessing of the Folders Mass, a special ceremony led by Porto’s bishop to honor graduating students.

The week-long celebration culminates at the Queimódromo, near the city park, where nightly concerts and student parties take place. Notably, 30% of this year’s festival budget has been allocated to security measures, including medical teams and increased police presence, reflecting the scale of an event that attracts over 400,000 people. Public transportation will run extended hours, and free shuttle buses will be available, ensuring safe and easy access for everyone wishing to join what locals proudly call the country’s biggest academic party. The highlight for many is Tuesday’s Academic Parade, where students march through the city in traditional capes and colored ribbons representing their faculties.

Queima das Fitas has deep historical roots, dating back to the 1920s as a rite of passage for Porto’s university students. The name, which means “Burning of the Ribbons,” refers to the symbolic burning of colored ribbons that represent each faculty, marking the transition from student life to professional adulthood. Although the tradition was interrupted during Portugal’s dictatorship, it was revived and has since become a cornerstone of Porto’s cultural identity.

For international visitors, Queima das Fitas offers a unique glimpse into Portuguese student life, featuring academic fado music (distinct from Lisbon’s fado), local food and beer festivals, and a vibrant atmosphere that takes over the city. Rain or shine, the students’ determination embodies the resilient spirit of Porto’s academic community, making this festival a must-see for anyone wanting to experience the city’s youthful energy and traditions.

  The city’s biggest student festival overcomes weather setbacks. A week of music, rituals, and academic pride awaits locals and visitors alike.

Porto’s Queima das Fitas: Tradition and Resilience Amid Rain

The FC Porto women’s team has secured promotion to the Portuguese Second Division after an emphatic 8-0 victory over Varzim, clinching the achievement with two matches left in the season. In their very first senior season, the Dragons have recorded 22 wins in 22 games, boasting impressive numbers: 204 goals scored and only 7 conceded, demonstrating total dominance in the Third Division.

Coach Daniel Chaves expressed his emotion at achieving this milestone in the club’s debut season, highlighting the significance of making history for FC Porto. He also emphasized that the team’s ambition remains high, with the next goal being to secure the division title and maintain their unbeaten record until the end of the campaign.

The immediate success of FC Porto’s women’s project fulfills the management’s objective of rapid progression, with sights already set on reaching the top tier, Liga BPI, in the coming years. The club is reinforcing its commitment to the growth of women’s football, investing in a solid structure and a highly competitive squad.

The team’s promotion has been officially recognized by the Portuguese Football Federation and is drawing increasing support from fans, as seen in the historic match at Estádio do Dragão, which set a new national attendance record for women’s football. FC Porto is determined to keep growing and to establish itself as a leading force in the women’s game in Portugal.

Blue and white team makes history in their debut season. A perfect campaign signals ambitious plans for the future of women’s football.

FC Porto Women Promoted to the Second Division

On April 15, 2025, Casa da Música celebrated its 20th anniversary with a series of “Flash Concerts” throughout Porto, bringing music to unexpected places like the São João Hospital, the Bolhão Market, the Trindade metro station, and the University of Porto. These free performances featured various ensembles, from string quartets to brass and vocal groups, surprising passersby and creating a festive atmosphere across the city. The day also included special educational activities for children and culminated in an evening concert by the Casa da Música Baroque Orchestra, presenting works by Pergolesi (arranged by Bach), Carlos Seixas, and Vivaldi.

The anniversary celebrations are not limited to a single day. Throughout April, Casa da Música is hosting a rich and diverse program, including performances by national and international artists, symphonic concerts, jazz, digital music, and special events like the Clubbing night, which offers free entry and music until dawn. These events highlight the institution’s commitment to innovation and community engagement, reflecting on two decades of cultural impact with over six thousand concerts and millions of visitors.

Looking ahead, Casa da Música invites everyone to continue celebrating this milestone year. The anniversary month is packed with unique concerts and activities, and the season’s program promises even more surprises and musical discoveries. Whether you are a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, there are many opportunities to experience world-class music and join in the festivities — so keep an eye on the schedule and don’t miss the next events at Casa da Musica 

The anniversary festivities continue throughout April with a vibrant program of concerts and special events. Don’t miss the chance to experience more unforgettable music in the coming weeks!

Casa da Música Celebrates 20 Years with Citywide Flash Concerts

Bolhão Market in Porto is marking the arrival of spring with a packed schedule of events throughout April, blending gastronomy and culture. Highlights include cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs and wine experts, such as Rui Ribeiro, Anselmo Mendes, and Josy Delgado, who will showcase traditional Portuguese and vegetarian recipes, as well as tastings of the famous Alvarinho wines. Families are invited to participate in creative workshops, making paper carnations and posters to honor Portugal’s Carnation Revolution, a symbol of freedom.

On the cultural front, the market launches the "Bozes Boadoras do Bolhão," a new monthly literary event giving a platform to emerging authors outside the mainstream. Music lovers can enjoy mini-concerts by a brass quartet from the Porto Casa da Música Symphony Orchestra, celebrating the institution’s 20th anniversary, and the weekly "Há Fado no Mercado" sessions every Wednesday in the market’s restaurants.

The program also features a culinary journey through Italian cuisine with expert Stefania de Sena and a contemporary dance performance as part of the Dias da Dança Festival (DDD), taking place on the market’s grand staircase. With this diverse agenda, Bolhão Market reaffirms its role as a cultural and gastronomic hub, inviting locals and visitors alike to celebrate Easter, spring, and freedom in a lively and authentic setting.

Porto’s iconic Bolhão Market welcomes April with a vibrant program of culinary workshops, cultural events, and family activities, celebrating Easter, spring, and Portuguese traditions. Visitors can enjoy food tastings, live music, creative workshops, and innovative literary gatherings throughout the month.

Enjoy Easter at Bolhão Market

MEO Marés Vivas returns to Vila Nova de Gaia from July 18 to 20, 2025, with a stellar lineup that reaffirms its status as one of Portugal’s top summer music festivals. Having reported from Marés Vivas in recent years, we can assure you: this is always a vibrant experience, filled with unique moments and an infectious energy that brings together music lovers of all ages.

The opening day, July 18, features legendary acts like Scorpions and Xutos & Pontapés, joined by American blues-rock sensation Marcus King, recognized as one of the brightest talents in contemporary music. The night also includes Hybrid Theory, a world-renowned Linkin Park tribute band celebrated for their faithful and electrifying live performances.

On July 19, the festival celebrates both Portuguese and international music. Thirty Seconds to Mars headline the day, alongside national favorites Miguel Araújo and Os Quatro e Meia. The lineup is enriched by Luís Trigacheiro and Buba Espinho, leading voices of the new generation of fado and traditional music, and the "Dois Pares de Botas" project, which brings together Nena and Joana Almeirante in a fusion of pop and country.

July 20 brings global rhythms and contemporary sounds, with performances by Pedro Sampaio, Ozuna, and Calema, as well as rising hip-hop and R&B star Nenny. Tickets are already on sale at MEO stores and meoblueticket.pt, and are expected to sell out quickly. If you’re looking for a festival where music, diversity, and excitement come together, Marés Vivas is truly an event not to be missed!

Scorpions, Thirty Seconds to Mars, Ozuna, and top Portuguese artists headline three days of music in Vila Nova de Gaia. We’ve reported from Marés Vivas in recent years and can confirm: this is a summer event you don’t want to miss!

MEO Marés Vivas 2025: Festival Unveils Full Lineup

On March 24, 2025, the University of Porto celebrated its 114th anniversary by bringing together 247 participants for the traditional University Day Run and Walk. Students, professors, staff, and alumni joined in, traversing some of Porto’s most iconic locations—including the Ribeira, D. Luís Bridge, Cais de Gaia, Jardim do Morro, the Cathedral, and the Bolhão Market—in a lively and festive atmosphere.

Participants could choose between a run, with 96 entrants, and a walk, with 151, highlighting the university’s focus on community and healthy living. The event also had a charitable dimension: all registration fees, totaling 1,430 euros, were donated to the “Os Resistentes” project of the Portuguese League Against Cancer – Northern Regional Center, with further contributions planned from the upcoming U.Porto Active Week.

Vice-Rector Joana Carvalho praised the growing participation over the years and encouraged even greater involvement for next year’s 115th anniversary. Supported by Águas do Porto and Caixa Geral de Depósitos, the event underscored the university’s dedication to health, solidarity, and community engagement.

Hundreds of students, staff, and alumni took to the streets of Porto for the university’s annual race and walk, marking another year of academic tradition and community spirit. The event also raised funds for cancer support, reinforcing the university’s commitment to solidarity and well-being.

University of Porto Celebrated 114th Anniversary

The Rose Garden in Porto, located at the Crystal Palace Gardens, has reopened to the public following a significant renovation project. Visitors are now invited to explore this beautiful space, where iconic features have been carefully restored and the garden’s original charm has been brought back to life.

The refurbishment, funded by a 158-thousand-euro investment by the municipality, included upgrades to the paving, drainage systems, and walls, alongside major work on the pergolas. Several of the garden’s landmarks—such as the Pelican Fountain, two symbolic torches, the goose fountain, and the frontispiece displaying Porto’s coat of arms—were also restored to their former glory.

In addition, new hedges have been planted with resilient species that are better equipped to resist pests and diseases. Subtle design elements have been reintroduced to recapture the garden’s original layout. This revitalized setting offers both Porto’s residents and visiting travelers a tranquil spot to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate the city’s heritage. Come and immerse yourself in the splendid atmosphere of this newly renewed garden.

Bask in the renewed grandeur of this iconic space in the Crystal Palace Gardens. Stroll past restored fountains, revitalized hedges, and welcoming paths that invite visitors from around the world

Porto’s Rose Garden Blooms Again

The Palácio de Cristal Gardens, one of Porto's most iconic settings, has come alive with the start of the highly anticipated Porto Book Fair. Running for 17 days, this event is a vibrant celebration of literature and culture, offering a rich experience for both locals and visitors.


The Avenida das Tílias, nestled within the stunning Palácio de Cristal Gardens, is now home to 130 stands featuring 115 national and international publishers, booksellers, and antiquarians. This diverse selection provides an opportunity for attendees to discover new authors, rare books, and special editions. Beyond the extensive literary offerings, the fair hosts hundreds of activities, including talks, debates, book signings, and workshops designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages.


During our visit today, we experienced firsthand one of the many highlights the fair has to offer: a talk with esteemed guests, coinciding with the launch of the book “A urgência da cidade: o Porto e 100 anos de Fernando Távora.” This underscored the significant impact of architect Fernando Távora on Porto's urban development, showcasing the level of insightful discussions and cultural content that visitors can expect throughout the fair.


The Porto Book Fair operates with flexible hours to ensure everyone can make the most of their visit: from Monday to Friday, it opens at 12:00, and on weekends, it starts at 11:00. The fair remains open until 21:00 from Sunday to Thursday, extending to 22:00 on Fridays and Saturdays.


More than just a marketplace for books, the Porto Book Fair is a unique opportunity to engage with renowned and emerging authors, participate in literary discussions, and explore the rich cultural diversity that literature brings. The presence of international publishers and booksellers also offers a rare chance to discover works and literary trends from around the world.


Additionally, the fair is an excellent way to connect with the local community and fellow literature enthusiasts. It’s the perfect occasion to find that special book that could become an unforgettable souvenir of your visit to Porto.


Don’t miss out on this remarkable literary event. Visit the Porto Book Fair, discover new worlds through reading, and enjoy the beauty of the Palácio de Cristal Gardens as you explore the vibrant universe of books.

The Porto Book Fair at the Palácio de Cristal Gardens offers a range of books and activities, and talks. Visitors can explore literary works and participate in discussions with authors. It's an opportunity to connect with the local culture and enjoy the setting of the gardens.

St. John's 2024: Tradition, Revelry, and Vibrant Celebration

Porto: Leading City Break Destination 2023 (Europe)

Porto: City of the Year, by Food and Travel

Latest City suggestions

Enjoy Easter at Bolhão Market

Porto’s Rose Garden Blooms Again

Porto Book Fair at Palácio de Cristal Gardens

Latest News

Porto’s Queima das Fitas: Tradition and Resilience Amid Rain

FC Porto Women Promoted to the Second Division

Casa da Música Celebrates 20 Years with Citywide Flash Concerts

Enjoy Easter at Bolhão Market

MEO Marés Vivas 2025: Festival Unveils Full Lineup

University of Porto Celebrated 114th Anniversary