Things to do in Porto

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All Portuguese towns have their own festas and the local tourist office should be able to provide a programme of what is taking place in and around the surrounding villages and region during your short break.

Throughout the year in the Porto itself there is a calendar full of events and festivals for everyone to enjoy, especially in the summer, from traditional historical celebrations to relatively modern musical or theatrical entertainment. The city produces a monthly guide highlighting the main events so it would be a good idea to get your hands on a copy when you arrive.

Read more on this destination in the AA KeyGuide to Portugal.

Top Porto events

January
Dia de Reis - Christmas celebrations are brought to an end on January 6th. Make sure you try some of the traditional ‘Kings Cake’ that is produced at this time of the year.

February
Carnival weekend - In the weekend preceding Lent that are celebrations all over Portugal with streamers, firecrackers, water pistols and fancy dress.

Fantasporto - An international film festival featuring blockbusters as well as the more unusual art films.

March
Holy Week - In the week leading up to Easter processions and festivals take place all over Portugal. About 99 per cent of the Portuguese population is Roman Catholic.

May
Serralves Festival - A modern arts festival, where, over a two day period, everyone is invited to enjoy a never-ending display of music, drama, dance along with many of forms of entertainment.

June
Sao Joao (St John) - Porto’s greatest festival coincides with the summer solstice. Bonfires are lit and a huge firework display is staged in the last week of June.

Porto a Subir - This is a running event that takes place from Riberia to Se and up the steep steps of the city. Only 500 people are allowed to take part so if you want to join you must make sure to get your application in on time, or perhaps you can take a seat a café along the route and enjoy the spectacle.

July
Grande Premio Do Porto - A Vintage Race of old Formula One cars takes place every year at the historic Boavista circuit.

August
Assumption Day - On the 15th of the month there is a festival in the city that includes a lively parade with costumed participants and with a spectacular firework display at the end of the day.

December
Christmas Celebrations - Throughout December and in the lead-up to Christmas there are a number of events taking place around the city including parades, religious performances and arts and crafts fairs.