Things To Do
São João de Braga
São João's holiday is the day of our wedding; however, the festivities start a week before! São João de Braga is one of Portugal’s most vibrant and historic summer festivals, filling the city with music, parades, and joyful street celebrations every June. Expect colorful decorations, traditional dances, playful “hammer” festivities, and a lively atmosphere that lasts late into the night. If you’re in Braga around this time, it’s a wonderful way to experience the city’s spirit and local culture. We recommend checking the festival’s schedule closer to the week of the wedding, as the itinerary is updated each year. Music & Folklore: Traditional music plays a big role — expect concertinas, folk groups, philharmonic bands, and “cantares ao desafio” (challenge-singing). Playful Traditions: People carry plastic hammers, hit each other playfully, and also wave leek flowers (alho-porro) — these are iconic symbols of the night. Yes - it is okay to hit people on the head with plastic hammers!!
Porto City Day Trip!
One of the most beautiful cities you'll ever visit - Porto! While you can spend a whole weekend in Porto, here is a one day itinerary of what you should do as a first timer. Morning Recommend taking the train; however you can drive there (just make sure you know where to go for parking). 1. São Bento Train Station – Stunning tilework depicting Portuguese history. 2. Clérigos Tower & Church – Climb for panoramic city views. Midday / Lunch 3. Ribeira District – Explore medieval streets and riverfront squares. 4. Dom Luís I Bridge – Walk across for the best photos of Porto. Afternoon 5. Port Wine Cellars (Gaia) – Tour + tasting at any of the Cellars. 6. Relax at a nice rooftop as you drink a glass of sangria. Evening 7. Dinner in Ribeira or Gaia – Riverside restaurants with great views. 8. Jardim do Morro Viewpoint – Sunset over Porto’s skyline. Wear comfortable walking shoes!
Porto/Douro Valley Water Day!
Spend the day touring one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions, known for its dramatic terraced vineyards, charming villages, and incredible views! After a full day exploring the Douro Valley, we highly suggest unwinding by the ocean at Praia da Luz, a beloved beachfront restaurant in Foz do Douro (Alain & I's favorite place!) It’s the perfect place to relax at the end of the day w/ a sea breeze, and one of the best sunset views in Porto. Whether you go for a drink, a light bite, or a full dinner, Praia da Luz has an easy, coastal atmosphere. It’s a beautiful spot to slow down, enjoy the moment, and take in the Atlantic after a day in the valley. Some days, they even have a DJ.. A Douro river cruise is a wonderful way to experience the valley: Relax on the water while taking in the scenery Enjoy optional wine tastings and local specialties Explore one of the country’s most iconic landscapes There are several tour companies offering half-day and full-day options departing from Porto.
Lisbon
Lisbon is roughly a 3.5 hour drive from Braga so if you're planning to make a trip out of this wedding; we highly recommend driving down! Again, the train is a great method of transportation! Here's a quick day trip itinerary, although we recommend spending a few days down there. Morning: Start your day in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest and most charming quarter. Take a slow walk up toward Miradouro de Santa Luzia or Portas do Sol for beautiful city views. Midday: Head toward the Baixa or Cais do Sodré area and enjoy a relaxed lunch near the river. There are plenty of outdoor cafés where you can watch the trams go by and enjoy the breeze from the Tagus. Afternoon: Take a quick taxi or tram to Belém for Lisbon’s most iconic sights, without needing to pack your schedule. Stroll by the Jerónimos Monastery, pop into the gardens, and visit the Belém Tower from the outside. A MUST TRY: Pastéis de Belém for a warm custard tart. Early Evening – Sunset by the River
Algarve - Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is one of the Algarve’s most charming seaside towns—small, welcoming, and surrounded by some of Portugal’s most stunning beaches. Its dramatic golden cliffs, clear blue water, and sheltered coves make it perfect for both relaxation and gentle adventure. The town itself has a friendly, laid-back feel, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, and coastal walks that are easy to enjoy at any pace. It’s an ideal destination for families, couples, and groups alike: safe swimming beaches, gorgeous viewpoints, scenic boat trips to hidden caves (including Benagil), and sunsets that look straight out of a postcard. Carvoeiro offers all the beauty of the Algarve, without the crowds or rush—just sunshine, sea breezes, and a calm coastal vibe. Alain and I love Carvoeiro and highly recommend adding a few days to your trip down here. Algarve is the most southern part of Portugal, making it a total of 6 hours driving distance from Braga (short drive!).