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

The city of Paredes is set to welcome spring with the vibrant Primavera Festival da Flor, starting on March 21 and running until April 13. This year's edition introduces a new highlight: the Primavera Festival da Flor Light Garden, featuring a tunnel of lights and mirrors, along with illuminated flowers and butterflies in the gardens of the Casa da Cultura. The Light Garden will be open from Sunday to Thursday from 8 PM to 11 PM and on Fridays and Saturdays until midnight.

The festival offers a diverse program of free activities, including concerts, workshops, exhibitions, and horse-drawn carriage rides. The traditional parade of flower-adorned dresses and hats will also take place. The first weekend includes a magic show by Gonçalo Gil and a jazz concert by the Sun7et jazzband. The Flower Market will color the Avenida da República from March 21 to 23.

Additionally, the festival includes workshops for children aged 6 to 10, such as "Constrói o teu vaso de flores comestíveis," "Papagaios de Papel," and "Arte e Flores." The event also features the "Fins de Semana Gastronómicos," showcasing local cuisine at nine restaurants in the municipality.

The Primavera Festival da Flor in Paredes is a celebration of spring with a rich program of cultural and gastronomic activities. This year's festival introduces a unique Light Garden, complemented by traditional events like the flower market and parade of flower-adorned attire. The event aims to engage both locals and visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings.

Paredes Celebrates Spring with the Primavera Festival da Flor

The University of Porto has achieved its best-ever performance in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, being recognized as one of the world's top universities in 31 out of 55 evaluated fields. This marks a significant improvement from previous years, where the university was represented in 28 areas in 2023 and 27 areas in both 2022 and 2024.

The University of Porto consistently ranks among the top 100 globally in three areas: Architecture (51-100), Pharmaceutical Sciences (94th), and Civil Engineering (51-100), with the latter returning to the top 100 after a one-year absence.

Additionally, it excels in 13 areas within the top 200, including Agriculture, Sports Science, Materials Science, Education, and several engineering disciplines.

The university also appears in the rankings for Nursing (151-225) and Geography (201-250) for the first time, highlighting its expanding academic reach. Furthermore, it has improved its standing in subjects like Civil Engineering, Statistics and Operational Research, Management, Modern Languages, and Psychology compared to the previous edition.

The University of Porto has set a new benchmark in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, featuring in 31 fields and leading in 15 areas nationally. Its strong performance underscores its commitment to academic excellence and research, positioning it as a premier institution in Portugal and globally.

University of Porto With Historic Performance in QS Rankings

The construction of the Lavandeira Aquatic Complex in Vila Nova de Gaia is set to commence shortly, following a ceremonial launch event held recently. This innovative and sustainable facility is part of a €10 million investment by the Supera sports equipment company. The complex will be located within the Lavandeira Park, near Avenida João Silva Pinto, and will complement the existing sports infrastructure, including the Center of High Performance, the stadium, and the municipal pavilion.

The municipal council has granted a 40-year concession for the construction and operation of the complex. The council will oversee the social area, ensuring access for local schools and associations. This project aims to provide exceptional conditions for sports practice, particularly swimming, and will enhance the city's recreational and sports offerings.

The Lavandeira Aquatic Complex in Gaia represents a significant investment in sports infrastructure, offering advanced facilities for swimming and other activities. The project, valued at €10 million, is expected to create jobs and enhance the community's access to sports and leisure activities. The complex will be operated by Supera under a 40-year concession, with the municipal council managing social aspects to ensure community engagement.

Lavandeira Aquatic Complex announced in Gaia

French President Emmanuel Macron's official visit to Porto concluded with a heartfelt thank you to the Portuguese for the "extraordinary welcome" he received in the city. After spending more than six hours in Porto, Macron departed at 18:55, leaving a positive mark on the local community.

Upon arriving at the Porto City Hall, Macron was greeted with a Guard of Honor and under strong security, by Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and Porto Mayor Rui Moreira. The French President was awarded the Keys to the City, a prestigious honor that distinguishes individuals who have elevated the name of the city and the country. Following the ceremony, Macron and Montenegro attended a private lunch, and then walked together to the Palácio da Bolsa, where the President was greeted by hundreds of people along the way.

At the Palácio da Bolsa, Macron concluded the Luso-French Economic Forum and signed the guestbook of the Porto Commercial Association. Before departing, Macron addressed the hundreds of people waiting outside the Palácio da Bolsa, distributing greetings for about 15 minutes. He again thanked the Portuguese people and local authorities for the welcome he received in both Porto and Lisbon.

Emmanuel Macron's visit to Porto was marked by a warm reception, including a Guard of Honor and the award of the Keys to the City. He participated in the Luso-French Economic Forum and expressed gratitude for the hospitality received during his time in Portugal. The visit highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between France and Portugal, with Macron's interactions with local leaders and the public leaving a lasting impression on the city.

French President Emmanuel Macron visit to Porto

Boavista Futebol Clube, one of the historic symbols of the city of Porto, is enduring a challenging period both on and off the pitch. The match against Estrela da Amadora, which ended in a 1-0 defeat, highlights the struggles the club is facing in the 2024/25 season.

Kicking off Matchday 22 of Liga Portugal, Boavista hosted Estrela da Amadora at Estádio do Bessa Século XXI. Despite the anticipation surrounding Lito Vidigal's debut as head coach and the introduction of several new signings, the "Axadrezados" (Checkered Ones) could not avoid another loss. The only goal came from Rodrigo Pinho in added time of the first half (45+2), with a header following a well-delivered free kick by Rúben Lima.

This defeat leaves Boavista rooted to the bottom of the table with just 12 points, while Estrela climbed to 15th place with 20 points. The result extends Boavista's winless streak to 12 matches and marks their seventh consecutive loss.

The game marked Lito Vidigal's return to Boavista as head coach after more than five years. It also saw debuts for several new signings, including Layvin Kurzawa, Marco van Ginkel, Steven Vitória, and Sidoine Fogning. While these additions bring experience and depth to the squad, immediate results remain elusive.

Founded in 1903, Boavista is one of Porto's oldest and most iconic football clubs. Known for their distinctive checkered jerseys and their historic league title in 2000/01, Boavista once competed on Europe's biggest stages, including the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Cup. However, the last two decades have been marked by financial and sporting turmoil. Their administrative relegation in 2008 was a turning point that sent the club into decline.

Today, despite being considered Porto's second-largest club with around 30,000 members, Boavista is fighting for survival in Portugal’s top flight. Financial difficulties persist, with mounting debts threatening their administrative stability.

With only 12 matches left this season and a significant gap to escape relegation, Boavista faces an uphill battle to remain in Liga Portugal. The arrival of experienced reinforcements like Kurzawa and Van Ginkel offers some hope, but financial instability and inconsistent performances remain major hurdles.

For Porto’s residents and football fans alike, Boavista represents more than just a football club; it is a cultural and historical institution. Their fight for survival is also a fight to preserve one of Porto’s most iconic symbols.

Boavista FC, a historic symbol of Porto, faces a deep crisis with financial instability and a last-place position in Liga Portugal. Despite new signings and a coaching change, the club's fight for survival grows increasingly uncertain.

Boavista: A Historic Club in Deep Crisis

Porto's coach Anselmi made two changes to the starting lineup compared to the previous match against Sporting: Otávio returned to the defense after serving a suspension, while Gonçalo Borges replaced Pepê in attack. The big surprise was Marcano's return to the bench after a year and a half out due to a serious knee injury. On Roma's side, former Benfica players Mile Svilar and Cristante made their return to Portuguese soil.

The first half was largely dominated by AS Roma, who created several dangerous chances. Porto struggled to find their rhythm and made defensive mistakes that nearly cost them goals. The Italian side broke the deadlock just before halftime when Celik capitalized on a rebound in the box to beat Diogo Costa. Despite some decent ball movement from Porto, their lack of attacking efficiency was evident.

In the second half, Porto responded strongly and equalized in the 67th minute. A quick goal kick from Diogo Costa found Pepê in space, who set up Francisco Moura for a powerful finish from the edge of the box. Minutes later, Roma were reduced to ten men as Cristante was sent off for a second yellow card following a foul on Fábio Vieira. However, Porto failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage.

The home side pushed hard for a winner in the closing stages but lacked precision in front of goal. Gonçalo Borges came closest with a thunderous strike in the 78th minute that narrowly missed the target. Despite four minutes of added time, Porto couldn't break through again, leaving fans frustrated at another underwhelming result.

Individually, Eustáquio stood out as Porto's most consistent performer, excelling both defensively and in building attacks. On the downside, Samu extended his goal drought to seven matches, his longest dry spell since joining the club. The tie remains wide open as Porto heads to Italy for the second leg needing an improved performance to advance.

FC Porto drew 1-1 with AS Roma at Estádio do Dragão in the first leg of the Europa League Round of 32. The goals came from defenders Celik for Roma and Francisco Moura for Porto. The match was highly physical, featuring eleven yellow cards and a red card shown to Cristante in the 72nd minute.

Porto Held by Roma: Europa League Tie Wide Open

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 Serralves Foundation concludes 2024 with a record of 1.24 million visitors, surpassing the 1.1 million recorded the previous year. During the presentation of the 2025 activity plan, Ana Pinho, Chair of the Board of Directors, reflected on her nine years in office, emphasizing the institution's remarkable growth. From 2016 to 2024, Serralves welcomed 7.3 million visitors, nearly double the 3.9 million registered between 2007 and 2015, despite the challenges posed by the covid-19 pandemic.

During this period, the foundation held 185 exhibitions, surpassing the 126 organized in the preceding term. Additionally, Serralves’ collection grew in value to €130 million, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the institution with plans for further expansion. “The collection was a strategic priority for us, with impressive results, and we intend to continue attracting new collections and archives,” stated Ana Pinho, who will soon take on the role of President of the Serralves Board of Founders.

Ana Pinho also highlighted the foundation’s dynamism and its strong connection with the public, expressing gratitude to the team for their efforts. She concluded by affirming that Serralves is now a solid, vibrant institution, ready to embrace future challenges while maintaining its commitment to innovation and serving the cultural and tourist community.

The Serralves Foundation attracted a record 1.24 million visitors in 2024, nearly doubling attendance from previous years under Ana Pinho’s nine-year leadership. With a collection now valued at €130 million and 185 exhibitions held, Serralves solidifies its role as a cultural and tourist landmark.

Serralves with over 1.2 Million Visitors in 2024

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.