Things To Do in Porto
Festa de São João do Porto
Traditionally a pagan festival turned into a catholic fest, the "Festa de São João" happens every year on the night of 23rd to 24th of June. During the whole weekend, the city will be specially decorated and on the 23rd, most people go out of their way to grill sardines almost literally everywhere. Around midnight, the airspace closes for a bit and there are thousands of balloons being launched, as well firework shows on the city center along the river. Then the tradition is to walk along the Douro river from Ribeira (river shore) to Matosinhos (a neighbour city). There are often several stops to drink beer, dance to portuguese folk music (=austrian schlager), and hit random people with a plastic hammer (harmless, we promise!). As one would hope, June 24th is an official regional holiday. Insider tip: if going to a packed city center is not your thing, you can find a high place to watch the fireworks from far away.
Cruise the Douro river
The Douro river runs deep into Portugal and supplies much of the grapes for Porto's famed Port wine. The Douro vinhateiro (vine-land) of the Douro river has also been designated a UNESCO World heritage site. Traditionally, the wine was taken downriver in flat-bottom boats called rabelos, to be stored in barrels in cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Along the vine-land region of the Douro river, there are small historic towns and viewpoints, many with a great scenic view over the region.
Take your time to enjoy the diverse foods of portugal
During meal time, the Portuguese are either telling stories of something good they ate, planning their next meal or telling people about a good restaurant they went to. So they are quite proud of their food and they have every right to be (Jay wrote this! <3). We hope that our wedding provides an opportunity for you to sample the local food! From heavy meat dishes to great seafood, to vegetarian options, there is certainly an option for everybody!
Walk or bike a portion of the Caminho de Santiago
The portuguese section of the Caminho de Santiago is a historic pilgrammage path that runs through Porto and ends at Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Some of the portions are along the beach so you can walk and swim.
Enjoy some Port wine directly from the Cellars in Gaia
The Port wine cellars are concentrated in the south shore of the Douro river, in Vila Nova de Gaia. And there is a reason for it! Take some time to visit a Port Wine cellar and find out. Many of them offer tastings in addition to the tour itself, so in the end you can sit outside and try out the various types of Port wine.
Wander the historic city and surroundings
Porto (meaning "The harbour") is one of the oldest cities in Europe and its center has been proclaimed an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996. From the narrow roads of the historic city center to the large promenades close to the sea shore, it has much to offer!