The São João Festival is rooted in centuries-old traditions, with origins in ancient pagan rituals celebrating the summer solstice, later adapted to honor Saint John the Baptist. Over time, the festival has embraced new symbols—colorful hammers, paper lanterns, and intricate cascades—while always preserving its spirit of renewal, joy, and togetherness.

On the night of June 23, 2025, Porto once again transformed into one of Europe’s most vibrant stages for the annual São João Festival. This year, the city was graced with warm, pleasant weather—ideal for lively gatherings in the streets. Only a brief spell of rain passed through, adding a touch of excitement as a few paper lanterns were extinguished prematurely in the sky, but never dampening the spirits of the revelers.

By the time the much-anticipated fireworks show began, the skies had cleared and the air was balmy, inviting thousands to line the banks of the Douro River. For the first time, the fireworks display stretched from the Arrábida Bridge all the way to the iconic Luís I Bridge, creating a dazzling spectacle visible from every corner of the riverside. This new, extended format made the experience even more inclusive, with stunning views and a festive atmosphere felt throughout the city.

The traditional sardine grills, accompanied by potatoes and other local delicacies, took place in an atmosphere of pure joy. The scent of grilled sardines mingled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the playful tapping of plastic hammers—martelinhos—on friends’ and strangers’ heads, a hallmark of São João. Neighbors, friends, and visitors shared tables and stories late into the night, embodying the true spirit of Porto.

This year, the brief rain shower only served to highlight the resilience and good humor of Porto’s people. Between fleeting showers and the warmth of summer, the city once again proved why São João remains one of Portugal’s most authentic and unforgettable celebrations. As the last fireworks faded and the music drifted into the early hours, it was clear: rain or shine, São João in Porto is always a night to remember.

A brief summer rain brought unexpected charm to São João 2025, as Porto’s festive spirit shone through. Extended fireworks along the Douro River and lively street celebrations made this year’s celebrations unique..

St. John's 2025: Balloons, Fireworks, and a Touch of Summer Rain

Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia have officially conquered the title of 

, becoming the first pair of Portuguese cities to receive this distinction from the Association of European Capitals and Cities of Sport (ACES Europe). This nomination comes after a joint candidacy from both cities for 2027, which resulted in a defeat by a minimal margin against Buenos Aires' candidacy.

The path to this achievement was peculiar. The two cities initially presented a joint candidacy for World Capital of Sport 2027, but lost the title to Buenos Aires, Argentina. However, due to the "high quality of the work presented" and the minimal difference in the final evaluation, ACES Europe decided to directly award the Portuguese cities the 2028 title. This decision is permitted by ACES regulations, which "allows the designation of the finalist city in the following year if the scoring difference is less than five points". The candidacy was formalized at the end of 2024 under the motto "

The distinction represents the "recognition of the joint effort of both municipalities, the community, clubs, athletes, associations and institutions that, over the years, have contributed to affirming sport as an essential pillar of life in the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia". The municipalities also highlight "the profound sense of responsibility that this nomination entails" for both cities. This is a historic opportunity that marks a new chapter in the history of Portuguese sport.

With this title, both municipalities assume the commitment to, over the coming years, "increasingly encourage and support formal, informal and federated sports practice". The plans include creating new equipment, requalifying existing sports spaces, developing new sports programs and organizing events with the aim of reinforcing the position of both cities as global sports destinations. The joint candidacy is governed by three fundamental vectors: excellence, inclusion and innovation.

For residents of both cities, this distinction promises concrete transformations in the local sports offering. The nomination represents a unique opportunity to expand sports infrastructure and create new programs that benefit the entire population. The title also positions Porto and Gaia as global sports destinations, opening doors for organizing major sporting events and increasing the international visibility of these two cities united by the Douro River.

The two cities secured the title thanks to their outstanding joint bid. The recognition brings a renewed commitment to sports infrastructure, inclusive programs, and major events that will position the region as a global sports destination.

Porto and Gaia - World Capital of Sport 2028

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)

As summer peaks in Vila Nova de Gaia, the much-anticipated MEO Marés Vivas festival returns this Friday, July 18, at the old Madalena campsite by the Douro estuary. Over three days, thousands will gather riverside to experience headline acts, up-and-coming artists, and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

While Friday and Sunday are fully booked, a limited number of Saturday passes remain. Saturday’s standout performances include American rockers Thirty Seconds to Mars and a unique collaboration between Portuguese singer-songwriter Miguel Araújo and band Os Quatro e Meia. Tickets cost €50 plus fees and can be purchased through the festival’s official website or partner outlets.

Organizers strongly advise using public transport to dodge traffic congestion and scarce parking near the site. A complimentary STCP shuttle links Porto’s Trindade metro station with the festival grounds, stopping at:

16:00–22:00 → every 25 minutes (Porto → festival)

22:00–02:00 → every 12 minutes (both directions)

02:00–04:00 → every 10 minutes (festival → Porto)

Regular STCP bus line 906 also serves the area on a diverted route after 15:00. For those driving, parking is available at Gaia’s Centro Cívico (near the tribunal), just steps from the General Torres shuttle stop.

Beyond the main MEO Stage, the Moche Stage will spotlight emerging Portuguese and international talent, ensuring a nonstop soundtrack of fresh sounds.

With its return to Madalena Beach, MEO Marés Vivas blends scenic river views, big-name headliners, and local flair—delivering one of Portugal’s premier summer music experiences. Don’t miss out: secure your Saturday ticket before they sell out.

Summer’s biggest riverside music festival returns to Madalena this Friday, with three-day lineup set to thrill thousands. Limited Saturday tickets remain—secure yours now for hit performances by Thirty Seconds to Mars and Miguel Araújo & Os Quatro e Meia.

MEO Marés Vivas is around the corner! (last info)

A new passenger boat service has officially resumed, reconnecting the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia across the Douro River after a six-year pause. Starting this Friday, the ferry will operate hourly between Cais do Ouro (Porto) and Afurada (Gaia), offering a practical and scenic transport alternative for locals and tourists.

Spearheaded by the Porto Metropolitan Transport Company (Transportes Metropolitanos do Porto, TMP), the service is being launched as a four-month pilot project aimed at assessing its long-term viability. The initiative results from a partnership with the Ports Administration of Douro, Leixões and Viana do Castelo (APDL), as well as the Porto harbour authority.

The vessel has a maximum capacity of 20 passengers and will run daily, with each journey lasting approximately 7 to 8 minutes. Aboard the boat, passengers can pay using the 

 transit pass system, with the standard fare set at €1.40. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased on board for €2.25 per trip. Both metropolitan and municipal passes are also accepted.

From Monday to Thursday, the ferry will depart from Afurada between 7:30 AM and 7:30 PM, and from Cais do Ouro between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. On Fridays, the schedule is extended until 8:00 PM from Afurada and 10:00 PM from Porto, with 15 crossings in each direction throughout the day.

: Departures from Afurada run from 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM, and from Cais do Ouro between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM.

: Services from Afurada operate from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM and from Porto between 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

This revived river link is seen not just as a transportation solution, but also as an opportunity to bolster tourism and strengthen the cultural and economic ties between Porto and Gaia.

After a six-year break, Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia are once again linked by a passenger ferry, offering hourly crossings and stunning views of the Douro River. The four-month pilot project aims to gauge demand for a permanent river connection.

Porto and Gaia Reconnected by Hourly River Ferry

This year’s São João festival in Porto is set to make history, as the traditional fireworks display will cover a record stretch of the Douro River — from the emblematic Luís I Bridge all the way to the Arrábida Bridge — for the first time ever. The expanded spectacle, lasting approximately 16 minutes and beginning at midnight on June 23, not only promises a breathtaking sight but also aims to spread out the crowds and enhance safety, allowing thousands to enjoy the event from a much wider area.

Unlike previous editions, where fireworks were mainly concentrated around the city’s historic centre, the 2025 show is designed to be enjoyed from countless vantage points along both Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia waterfronts. Officials are recommending people explore new observation spots to fully appreciate the scale of the show, and public transport will run all night to ensure a safe and easy return.

Transport authorities are reinforcing bus and metro night services, and traffic restrictions will be in place around the central riverfront. Residents and visitors are encouraged to arrive early, avoid bringing cars, and prepare for a vibrant celebration. Whether from the riverbanks, a Douro cruise, or one of the city’s many terraces, this year’s São João fireworks will truly illuminate the Douro from bridge to bridge, creating the largest and most inclusive spectacle in the history of Porto’s iconic festival.

For the first time, Porto’s São João fireworks display will span the entire riverfront between the iconic Luís I and Arrábida Bridges, ensuring the show is visible from every point along both Porto and Gaia banks.

São João fireworks to light up the Douro from bridge to bridge

Porto's tourism industry experienced significant growth in 2024, with revenues from tourist accommodation reaching €492 million—an increase of 12.8% year-on-year. The city recorded over six million overnight stays in larger accommodation units, representing a 6.9% growth. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) held strong at €80, while international visitors spent an estimated €588 million via card transactions. Porto airport also saw record performance, handling more than 15 million passengers, up 4.9% from 2023. The municipal tourist tax alone generated around €20.9 million in revenue.

According to Porto’s City Council, this success stems from a concerted effort to improve the quality and sustainability of the tourism offering. Initiatives included targeted training programmes such as the “Confiança Porto” and strategic partnerships with institutions like the Porto School of Hospitality and Tourism. The Council also implemented measures to redistribute tourist flows beyond the historic centre, encouraging exploration of eight surrounding districts. Projects like Global Kitchen, Curated Porto, and the city’s involvement in the Great Wine Capitals network illustrate a drive to diversify visitor profiles and deepen engagement with local culture.

Looking ahead, the outlook for 2025 remains optimistic. The European Travel Commission forecasts a trend towards longer, higher-budget holidays, with 30% of Europeans planning to spend between €1,501 and €2,500 per trip, and 17% expecting to spend more than €2,500. Councillor Catarina Santos Cunha expects tourism in Porto to continue its upward trajectory, supported by ongoing investments in new accommodation ventures and a continuous enhancement of the visitor experience.

City sees record tourist revenue and airport traffic in 2024. Strategic investments and shifting travel trends set the stage for continued growth in 2025.

Porto’s Tourism Booms in 2024

Get ready for the first big festival of the summer: Primavera Sound is just around the corner. If you’re eager to start the celebrations early, head to the Municipal Gallery of Porto on Tuesday, June 10, for two free “warm-up” shows in the Almeida Garrett Municipal Library auditorium.

Belgian experimental composer Milan Warmoeskerken opens the evening at 5:00 PM, performing intimate yet expansive tracks from his latest 2024 album, 

, which blends guitars, saxophones, and haunting vocals. At 6:30 PM, American singer-songwriter Alan Sparhawk—formerly of the band Low—presents material from his new studio album, 

, released in late May. Sparhawk will return to the main Super Bock stage at Primavera Sound on June 12.

Admission to both concerts is free, but tickets (maximum two per person) must be collected in person from the Municipal Gallery’s box office starting at 11:00 AM on June 10. While you’re there, don’t miss the full Primavera Sound lineup, taking place from June 12 to 15 at Parque da Cidade.

Venue: Municipal Gallery of Porto (Palácio de Cristal Gardens, Rua D. Manuel II)


Date & Time: June 10, Tuesday—5:00 PM (Milan Warmoeskerken), 6:30 PM (Alan Sparhawk)


Admission: Free (ticket collection from 11:00 AM, June 10)

Discover Porto’s vibrant gallery scene with two complimentary evening performances at the Municipal Gallery—your perfect prelude to the summer’s biggest music festival. Belgian composer Milan Warmoeskerken and American singer-songwriter Alan Sparhawk bring their latest works to life on June 10, setting the stage for Primavera Sound’s main event.

Porto’s Municipal Gallery: Free Primavera Sound Warm-Up 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.

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