
North of Portugal
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!

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,

Explore the Best Beaches in Northern Portugal
This article explores the best beaches in Northern Portugal, showcasing their unique landscapes, family-friendly atmospheres, and stunning sunsets. From Miramar Beach with its iconic Senhor da Pedra chapel to Leça da Palmeira's famed Piscina das Marés, these beaches offer a mix of cultural landmarks and natural beauty. Perfect for surfing, relaxing, or exploring, Northern Portugal’s coastline is a must-visit destination.
January 17, 2025
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, North of Portugal,

Things To Do in Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal, is a city full of vibrant experiences, from its rich food and wine culture to its historical landmarks and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy delicious local cuisine, taste world-renowned Port wines, or explore the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, Cooltour Oporto offers tailored tours to make your trip unforgettable. Download our Travel Guide App for insider tips and activities to help you plan your perfect Porto adventure!
December 27, 2024
Posted in:Tours & Experiences, North of Portugal, Porto,

Vinho Verde: A Unique and Historic Portuguese Wine Region
Vinho Verde is one of Portugal's oldest and most unique wine regions, celebrated for its fresh, aromatic wines with lower alcohol content. Located in Northwestern Portugal, it features diverse sub-regions and grape varieties, producing both white and red wines with distinct characteristics. Rooted in tradition yet embracing modern techniques, Vinho Verde continues to captivate an ever-growing audience of wine lovers worldwide.
December 12, 2024
Posted in:Places & Landmarks, Food & Wine, North of Portugal,

Best Day Trips from Porto
Discover northern Portugal's culture, history, and gastronomy with day trips from Porto. Visit Guimarães, "The Cradle of the Portuguese Nation," with its UNESCO-listed historic center; explore Braga's ancient sites like the Santuário do Bom Jesus do Monte; enjoy Aveiro's canals and moliceiros boats; see Coimbra's historic Universidade de Coimbra and Biblioteca Joanina; and experience Pinhão's terraced vineyards and Port wine in the Alto Douro Wine Region. For in-depth experiences, consider Cooltour Oporto's tours.
June 12, 2024
Posted in:Tours & Experiences, North of Portugal,

From Porto to Braga: Portuguese Easter Traditions
Portugal is a country filled with traditions, some of which remain virtually unchanged throughout the years. Thanks to its strong Catholic roots, it’s not surprising that many religious celebrations take place every year from the north to the south of Portugal. Among these celebrations is Easter, a time when devout Catholics all over the world…
March 23, 2024
Posted in:People & Tradition, North of Portugal,

Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso: A Pioneer of Modern Art in Portugal
Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, born in Amarante, in the town of Manhufe, in November 1887, is today recognized as one of the most prominent avant-garde artists of the early 20th century. His legacy is intertwined with movements such as Cubism, Futurism, and Expressionism, reaching, at many points, and in a sustained way, a level that is…
March 19, 2024
Posted in:People & Tradition, North of Portugal,

Wine Regions near Porto
Not far from Porto, Northern Portugal boasts diverse wine regions blending tradition with unique flavors. From the terraced Douro Valley, birthplace of Port wine, to Dão‘s rugged terrain with elegant reds, to Bairrada‘s sparkling Baga wines influenced by the Atlantic, to Vinho Verde‘s crisp delights from the northwest, these regions offer a surprising journey through…
February 28, 2024
Posted in:Food & Wine, North of Portugal,

Northern Portugal 2024: New Year’s Eve Highlights
New Year’s Eve in Portugal is celebrated with great importance, marking the end of one year and renewed hope for the next. This celebration takes on a festive dimension throughout the country, with cities, towns, and villages lit up by fireworks displays and lively events. The tradition of welcoming the new year is often associated…
December 30, 2023
Posted in:Events & Festivals, North of Portugal,