
Explore Porto & Portugal with Cooltour Oporto
Welcome to Cooltour Oporto's blog – your guide to the heart and soul of Portugal! Embark on an exciting journey through the beauty, culture, and heritage of our country. Discover hidden gems, must-visit landmarks, and off-the-beaten-path experiences recommended by our expert guides. From Porto’s historic center to the Douro Valley, uncover the essence of Portuguese life, including local festivals, ancient tales, and authentic food. Learn insider tips to navigate like a local. All content is prepared with love by Cooltour Oporto, ensuring you experience Porto and Portugal like never before!

Best Places to Stay in Porto and Gaia
Tourism plays a key role in Portugal’s economy, with a thriving hotel industry and a steady influx of international visitors fueling growth. This guide highlights top accommodation options in Porto—from luxury hotels to charming apartments—to help travelers enjoy their stay to the fullest.
June 17, 2025
Posted in:Travel Tips & Transportation, Porto,

Saint Peter Festivals: Living Traditions of Portuguese Culture
In Portugal, the month of June is filled with vibrant and traditional Popular Saints Festivals, deeply rooted in national culture and originating from ancient summer solstice rituals. These festivities, rich in symbolism and devotion, honor three beloved Catholic saints: Saint Anthony (June 13), Saint John (June 24),Saint Peter (June 29).
June 13, 2025
Posted in:Events & Festivals, Portugal,

Rabelo Boats Regatta: A Tradition of Port Wine and River Heritage
Every year on June 24th, the city of Porto hosts the Rabelo Boats Regatta, a unique event that honors the heritage of Port wine and the iconic vessels that once transported it along the Douro River. This lively competition, organized since 1983 by the Port Wine Brotherhood, draws crowds to the riverbanks from near Cabedelo to the Luís I Bridge, offering a vivid spectacle as traditional rabelo boats race along the Douro River through the heart of Porto.
June 4, 2025
Posted in:Events & Festivals, Porto,

Santo António Festival in Lisbon: History, Parades & Street Parties
Discover everything about the Festas de Santo António in Lisbon, the city’s most iconic celebration. Learn about local traditions like colorful parades, popular weddings, and festive street parties that fill the capital with music, grilled sardines, and joy every June.
June 2, 2025
Posted in:Events & Festivals, Portugal, Lisbon,

Braga Celebrates Bracara Augusta: Portugal’s Most Roman Festival
Every year, Braga transforms into ancient Bracara Augusta in one of Northern Portugal’s most anticipated events. With historical reenactments, Roman markets, and themed parades, this is a unique journey to Roman times in the heart of the Minho region.
May 16, 2025
Posted in:Events & Festivals, Braga,

Porto Coastal Walk Itinerary: From Matosinhos to Foz do Douro
Looking for a scenic walk near Porto? Discover the beautiful coastal route from Matosinhos to Foz do Douro — a flat, beginner-friendly path with stunning ocean views, fresh seafood stops, and iconic local landmarks. It’s the perfect half-day escape just a metro ride away
May 9, 2025
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,

15 Unmissable Places to Visit in Porto
Porto is a charming and historic European city known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and famous Port wine. Highlights include Cais da Ribeira, Casa da Música, the Luís I Bridge, and Mercado do Bolhão.
This article presents 15 must-visit spots in the city.
April 18, 2025
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Porto,

Sustainable Tourism Meets Innovation at Cooltour Oporto
Cooltour Oporto is launching a sustainable tourism project co-financed by the European Union under the ST3ER program. Offering eco-friendly experiences across Portugal, the initiative includes unique activities like solar-powered boat tours, e-bike rides, and AI-driven travel recommendations, all designed to promote responsible travel and support local businesses.
April 9, 2025
Posted in:Cooltour Oporto News, Portugal,

Cooltour Oporto Committed to Sustainable Tourism in Portugal
Cooltour Oporto has been recognized by Turismo de Portugal at the Better Tourism Lisbon Travel Market 2025 for its commitment to sustainability. This recognition highlights our active participation in the Empresas Turismo 360° ESG program and the Ser Turismo Sustentável initiative in Porto & Northern Portugal. Our ongoing efforts include responsible tourism practices, eco-friendly transportation, waste reduction, and social impact initiatives.
April 1, 2025
Posted in:Cooltour Oporto News, North of Portugal,

Cooltour Oporto Wins the 2025 Arival Award for Culinary Tours & Experiences
Cooltour Oporto has won the 2025 Arival TourReview Spotlight Award for Best of Europe in Culinary Tours & Experiences, recognizing its excellence in food tourism. This independent, data-driven award highlights the company’s commitment to providing authentic and high-quality gastronomic experiences in Porto and Northern Portugal. With previous accolades like the Viator Experience Award, Cooltour Oporto continues to stand out as a leader in cultural and culinary tourism.
March 26, 2025
Posted in:Tours & Experiences, Cooltour Oporto News, North of Portugal,