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 monument "À Grei," located in the Jardim de António Cálem in the Lordelo do Ouro neighborhood of Porto, recently underwent a comprehensive restoration to preserve its historical and artistic significance. This project, led by the city, included a series of meticulous steps to restore the monument's original splendor: the stonework was cleaned and treated, all metallic inscriptions (316 characters) were fully replaced, and the map illustrating Portugal’s maritime discovery routes was re-engraved and repainted.

Created by the sculptor Lagoa Henriques, "À Grei" was erected in 1960 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the death of Prince Henry the Navigator. The installation was enhanced by a carefully planned urban design by architects Luís Cunha and Vasco Mendes, highlighting the monument’s significance and the historical importance of the site.

The bronze sculptural ensemble consists of three male figures representing the shipyard workers and citizens of Porto who contributed to building, provisioning, and manning the first fleet sent by Prince Henry in 1415. This tribute honors those who, through their labor and courage, supported the initial Portuguese maritime expeditions, which were crucial to the Age of Discoveries.

In addition to the bronze figures, the monument features a stone mural. One side of the mural illustrates the maritime routes explored by Portuguese navigators, while the other side displays a transcription of the "General Chapters of the City of Porto in the Courts of 1436," acknowledging Porto’s vital role in supporting maritime ventures of that period.

With this restoration, "À Grei" regains its original aesthetic and symbolic value, allowing for a full appreciation of its significance. It reaffirms its place as an essential piece in Porto's Public Art Collection.

The "À Grei" monument, located in Jardim de António Cálem in Porto, has undergone extensive conservation work to restore its historical and artistic integrity. Created in 1960 by sculptor Lagoa Henriques, this tribute commemorates the contributions of Porto’s shipyard workers and citizens who supported Prince Henry the Navigator's first maritime expeditions. The restoration included cleaning the stonework, fully replacing 316 metallic inscriptions, and re-engraving the map of Portugal's discovery routes. This project, part of Porto’s Public Art Collection, brings renewed appreciation for this monument’s rich cultural and historical symbolism.

"À Grei": Restoration of a Monument Honoring Porto’s Maritime Legacy

The 4th edition of the International Festival of Organ and Sacred Music (FIOMS) is taking place from October 19 to December 1, offering 38 free concerts in 33 churches across 11 municipalities in the Greater Porto and Northern Portugal regions. With the participation of over 400 musicians from 10 countries, the festival celebrates the rich tradition of sacred music and the majesty of the organ, featuring performances by renowned international artists and choirs.

The festival officially kicked off on Saturday, October 19, at 9:30 p.m. in Porto's Cathedral, with a special concert marking the 39th anniversary of the Grand Pipe Organ. Dutch organist Leo van Doeselaar inaugurated the event, performing works by masters such as Bach, Pepping, and Distler. The concert drew a large crowd, and programs quickly ran out due to high attendance. In an informal conversation afterward, van Doeselaar described the organ as “special.” It was a strong opening, but there is much more to come.

Over the next six weeks, FIOMS will extend its reach to different cities in the region, with Porto serving as the main hub, hosting 15 concerts in iconic churches like the Cathedral, Igreja da Lapa, and Igreja de São João Novo. Additionally, the festival will take place in municipalities such as Maia, Vila Nova de Gaia, Gondomar, Valongo, Espinho, Arouca, Felgueiras, Vila do Conde, Amarante, and Oliveira de Azeméis. These locations will feature unique concerts where the powerful sound of historic organs blends seamlessly with the unique acoustics of the churches.

Among the invited artists are internationally acclaimed organists such as Cameron Carpenter (USA), Winfried Lichtscheidel (Germany), and Sophie Magnanini (Australia/Italy). A major highlight will be Verdi's 

, with performances scheduled across multiple dates and venues.

FIOMS 2024 stands out not only for the diversity of its performers but also for the variety of its venues, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience sacred music in churches that are themselves historic monuments.

For more information on the full program, locations, and artists, the public can visit the festival's 

The 4th edition of the International Festival of Organ and Sacred Music (FIOMS) runs from October 19 to December 1, featuring 38 free concerts in 33 churches across 11 municipalities in the Greater Porto and Northern Portugal regions. Over 400 musicians from 10 countries will perform, with renowned organists and choirs showcasing sacred music in historic venues.

International Festival of Organ and Sacred Music Brings 38 Free Concerts to Northern Portugal

The SAHE (Hybrid and Electric Car Show) is back in Porto for its 8th edition, running from October 11th to 13th at the Alfândega do Porto Congress Center. The event will showcase the latest trends and innovations in electric and hybrid vehicles, featuring both established brands and newcomers to the Portuguese market.

Highlights this year include the debut of brands like XPeng and Forthing, alongside new models from well-known names such as the Alfa Romeo Junior, Audi SQ6 e-tron, MG HS PHEV, and the luxury SUV from BYD, the YangWang U8. As in previous years, visitors will also have the opportunity to test drive several vehicles. Last year, over 2,500 test drives were completed, and this edition aims to break that record.

In addition to vehicle displays, companies specializing in electric mobility and charging solutions will be present, offering insight into the latest advancements in the sector.

The show will be open to the public from October 11th to 13th, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are priced at €10 each, with no exchanges or refunds permitted.

The SAHE (Hybrid and Electric Car Show) returns to Porto from October 11th to 13th, showcasing the latest innovations in electric and hybrid vehicles, including new brands like XPeng and Forthing. Visitors can also test drive various models, with expectations to surpass last year's 2,500 test drives.

Hybrid and Electric Car Show Returns to Porto This Weekend

Last Sunday, the city of Porto marked the 10th anniversary of its iconic city brand, "Porto.", with a groundbreaking light and drone show in one of the city's most emblematic locations, the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal. This celebration, which was free to the public, aimed to honor the brand’s longevity and reputation, positioning Porto as a model of city branding in Portugal and beyond.

It was on September 29, 2014, that the municipality of Porto introduced its first graphic city brand, "Porto.", a modern and dynamic approach to city communication. Over the past decade, the brand has earned numerous accolades and has served as an inspiration for similar projects in other cities, setting a benchmark for urban branding strategies.

To celebrate this milestone, the city prepared a never-before-seen event, where the lush gardens of Palácio de Cristal were transformed into the stage for a spectacular light and drone show. This unique display, the first of its kind in Porto, was a visual treat that showcased the innovation and creativity that have defined the brand's success.

The city of Porto, often referred to as Invicta, has long been recognized for its rich cultural heritage, but in recent years, its brand has become a symbol of modernity and forward-thinking urban development. The event aimed not only to celebrate the past decade but also to project the city's future ambitions, maintaining its position as a leader in city branding and communication.

Porto celebrated the 10th anniversary of its city brand on September 29th with a spectacular drone and light show at the Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, starting at 9:30 p.m. The event marks a decade of innovation and success in city branding, positioning Porto as a leader and inspiration for similar projects globally.

"Porto." Brand Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Drone and Light Show at Palácio de Cristal

This Sunday afternoon, we had the pleasure of visiting Serralves Park during its vibrant Autumn Festival, a weekend-long celebration that brought art, culture, and nature together in perfect harmony. The festival, which ran all day on both Saturday and Sunday, transformed the park into a lively hub for families, tourists, and locals eager to embrace the beauty of the season.

Upon arrival through the gates on Avenida Marechal Gomes da Costa, it was clear that the event had drawn a large and diverse crowd. The steady flow of people entering and leaving the park created a dynamic atmosphere, as new visitors arrived eager to explore the various activities offered. Free admission made the event accessible to all, attracting children, families, and culture lovers alike.

One of the highlights of the afternoon was the live performance by the dynamic trio COLLIGNON, composed of Yves Lennertz, Gino Bombrini, and Jori Collignon. Known for their explosive live shows, COLLIGNON thrilled the audience with a high-energy set, promoting their latest album, 

, inspired by Dutch cycling culture. The trio, who debuted their single in 2023 under Bongo Joe Records, are currently on tour in 2024, performing at festivals across Europe. Families spread out on blankets and enjoyed the concert, while children played freely among the autumn-colored trees.

The festival also featured a permanent animal exhibition, which captivated visitors of all ages. A special focus was placed on Portuguese native breeds, fostering awareness of biodiversity and species preservation.

Hands-on activities and workshops were available throughout the park, providing fun for all ages. From arts and crafts sessions for children using recycled materials to traditional crafts demonstrations like basket weaving and pottery, there were plenty of opportunities for visitors to engage creatively.

Guided tours through some of the park's most iconic areas, such as the Quinta, offered deeper insights into the importance of environmental preservation and sustainable culture—a key message echoed throughout the event.

In a welcoming and family-friendly environment, the Autumn Festival firmly established itself as a must-visit event on Porto's cultural calendar. Serralves Park, with its vibrant autumnal hues, provided the perfect backdrop for a day filled with learning, tradition, and nature.

For those who visited Serralves this weekend, autumn took on a new meaning—an unforgettable celebration where art, culture, and nature came together in perfect unity.

The Serralves Foundation's Autumn Festival transformed the park into a vibrant space of art, culture, and nature for a weekend of family-friendly activities. We visited on Sunday afternoon, enjoying live music by COLLIGNON, interactive workshops, and an animal exhibition showcasing native breeds. This free event perfectly combined creativity, tradition, and environmental awareness in one of Porto's most beautiful green spaces.

Festa do Outono 2024 at Serralves

In the heart of Porto, autumn will be celebrated in a unique way at the 

, an event that promises to captivate both tourists and locals. For two days, the 

 will transform into a vibrant outdoor stage, where art, culture, and nature come together to welcome the golden season.

, this event invites families, friends, and culture enthusiasts to enjoy a weekend filled with activities that highlight biodiversity, craftsmanship, and the region's rich cultural heritage. Admission is free, with access through the gates on Avenida Marechal Gomes da Costa and Rua Bartolomeu Velho.

Among the many activities, visitors can look forward to 

, and traditional crafts. This meeting of contemporary and traditional expressions will be further enhanced by 

, visitors will have the chance to explore the park’s autumnal beauty, particularly in the Quinta area, where innovative artistic expressions will emphasize the importance of fostering an environmentally responsible culture.

 is an invitation to experience Porto in a new way, within a welcoming and family-friendly environment, where memories will be as rich and warm as the colors of the season. For those seeking an event that combines leisure, education, and culture, this is a not-to-be-missed opportunity.

Come celebrate autumn at Serralves and discover the wonders of the season in the enchanting setting of one of Porto’s largest green spaces. 

The Autumn Festival at the Serralves Foundation offers a free, two-day celebration of art, nature, and tradition in the heart of Porto. With workshops, performances, and hands-on activities, it's a perfect opportunity for families and visitors to experience the beauty of the season in Serralves Park.

Celebrate Autumn at the Serralves Foundation

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.

Porto Book Fair at Palácio de Cristal Gardens

The Catacomb Cemetery began construction in 1746, following a fire that destroyed a poor brother’s hostel. The Venerable Third Order of São Francisco decided to create a cemetery and, above it, a house for Dispatch and Secretariat. Initially, the first 12 tombs were designated for the administrative body of the Order.

The first phase of the cemetery featured ground-level tombs with walls above and small urn vaults, as well as an altar for funeral rites. In 1795, with the construction of the current Church of the Third Order of São Francisco, the Order began building a new cemetery beneath the church’s pavement. The third phase, in 1802, expanded the space with a new extension beneath the pavement of the Chapel of Santo António, linking the new and old cemeteries.

The last burial in the Catacomb Cemetery took place in 1866, after which the Order began using the Agramonte Cemetery. The exact number of bodies interred in the Catacomb Cemetery has never been counted, but today the site attracts around 1,500 visitors daily, making it a popular part of the museum's tour.

The Catacomb Cemetery is particularly intriguing to international visitors. The museum director notes that while Brazilians initially find the space uncomfortable, they are often pleasantly surprised to discover familiar names. In contrast, French, Spanish, and Mexican visitors, due to their cultural and religious perspectives on death, tend to exhibit a more natural curiosity about the cemetery. 

In addition to the tombs, the museum displays interesting items such as old alms boxes and processional litters. Analdina Rocha assures that the experience of the Catacomb Cemetery is both enriching and satisfying, leaving visitors intrigued by the rich history of this remarkable location.

The Museum of the Order of São Francisco, which includes the church of the former convent, the Church of the Third Order of São Francisco, and the House of Dispatch, harbors a true hidden gem beneath the ground: the Catacomb Cemetery. This subterranean space, which has recently piqued the interest of visitors, is managed by Analdina Rocha, the museum's technical director who has dedicated 25 years to this unique site.

Discover a Hidden Treasure: The Catacomb Cemetery

This summer, visitors to Porto have a new must-visit destination: the recently opened Time Out Market in the southern wing of São Bento Station. The market features 12 diverse restaurants, two bars, and the unique A Vida Portuguesa store, all set within a beautifully restored historic space.

Designed by renowned architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, the market occupies 2,000 square meters of indoor space and an equal area outdoors, offering seating for 690 guests between the interior and the terrace. The transformation of the old warehouses, originally designed by Marques da Silva between 1896 and 1916, includes a striking new iron and glass tower standing 21 meters tall, inspired by traditional water reservoirs.

The Time Out Market Porto promises a gastronomic adventure with 12 restaurants, including three led by Michelin-starred chefs: Rui Paula, Ricardo Costa, and Vasco Coelho Santos. Other highlights include the traditional Portuguese fare of Casa Inês, vegetarian dishes from Fava Tonka, and innovative luso-Brazilian cuisine from Rafaela Louzada. Seafood lovers will enjoy Meia-Nau, while those craving baked goods can visit Padaria Ribeiro. The market also features Okra for pizza, Brusco Burger for gourmet hamburgers, and Tábua Rasa for a selection of Portuguese cheeses and cured meats.

Adding to the unique experience, the market's tower houses A Vida Portuguesa store, offering a curated selection of traditional Portuguese products. The tower also includes a wine tasting room, providing an exceptional opportunity to sample local wines while enjoying breathtaking views of the iconic Torre dos Clérigos.

The Time Out Market at São Bento Station is set to become a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists. Whether you're a foodie looking to explore high-quality cuisine or a visitor wanting to soak in the local culture and history, this market offers an unforgettable experience. Make sure to include this culinary hotspot in your Porto itinerary this summer.

Porto welcomes visitors to its newest attraction: the Time Out Market at São Bento Station. The market features 12 diverse restaurants, including establishments led by Michelin-starred chefs, two bars, and the charming A Vida Portuguesa store.