
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!

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,

Michelin Restaurants in Portugal: Prestige or Culinary Trap?
The rise of Michelin-starred restaurants in Portugal has brought international recognition but also raises concerns about the authenticity of Portuguese cuisine. While the Michelin Guide symbolizes prestige, it can also impose constraints that shift the focus from tradition to globalized standards. Does the pursuit of Michelin stars enhance or undermine the true essence of Portuguese hospitality and culinary heritage?
February 27, 2025
Posted in:Food & Wine, Portugal,

Carnival In Portugal 2025
Carnival in Portugal is a vibrant celebration that blends ancient traditions with colorful parades and lively festivities. From north to south, cities like Sine, Torres Vedras, Ovar, and Podence come alive with unique events, where giant-headed figures, Caretos, and extravagant costumes fill the streets. In addition to the revelry, food and social satire are key elements of the celebration, making Carnival an unmissable experience for all ages.
February 20, 2025
Posted in:Events & Festivals, Portugal,

Portugal Day: 10th of June
June 10th marks the Day of Portugal, Luís de Camões, and the Portuguese Communities, celebrating the famed poet Camões and his epic "Os Lusíadas." Once associated with the Estado Novo regime, this holiday now emphasizes global Portuguese unity. This year’s events will occur in areas affected by the 2017 fires and at the University of Coimbra, commemorating Camões' 500th birth anniversary.
June 7, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, Portugal,

Portugal’s Carnation Revolution: 50 Years of Freedom
The Carnation Revolution, also known as the Portuguese Revolution of 1974, marked a pivotal moment in Portugal’s history, signaling the end of the authoritarian Estado Novo regime and the dawn of a new era of democracy. On April 25th, 1974, the country witnessed a peaceful military coup led by the Armed Forces Movement (MFA), initiating profound social, political, and cultural changes.
April 19, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, Portugal,

Portuguese Azulejos: Porto’s Tile Treasures
Portugal is widely recognized today for its gastronomy, climate, hospitality, culture, and its commitment to preserving its history and traditions. One unique way the Portuguese celebrate these is through the art of the famous ceramic tiles, known as “azulejos” in Portuguese. Portuguese ceramics represent a strong expression of cultural heritage and stand as a unique…
January 5, 2024
Posted in:History & Heritage, Portugal,

Portuguese Christmas: A Feast of Tradition and Flavor
Christmas is surely one of the most eagerly awaited times of the year, due to its typical dishes and festive traditions, some of which are centuries old. When it comes to traditional Christmas food, Portugal celebrates it with a gastronomic tradition of authentic flavors. The combination of savory dishes with a variety of delicious sweet…
December 23, 2023
Posted in:Events & Festivals, People & Tradition, Portugal,

Fado in Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto
“Fado” is a word that derives from the Latin “fatum,” which means destiny. However, the origin of this distinctive musical style, highly cherished in Portugal, remains unknown. It is widely accepted that it emerged spontaneously in Lisbon during the 19th century as an expression among the most underprivileged classes in an urban setting. Maria Severa…
October 27, 2023
Posted in:People & Tradition, Portugal,

The Canning Industry in Portugal
The Canning Industry in Portugal has a long-standing tradition and is renowned worldwide, particularly in Europe. Its significance grew during the two World Wars when it played a crucial role in providing food to the troops. Today, the tradition of canned preserves continues, as it offers long-lasting, flavorful products made with high-quality ingredients that are…
September 6, 2023
Posted in:Food & Wine, Portugal,