
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!

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
Portugal Day, celebrated on June 10th, honors national identity, the legacy of Luís de Camões, and the unity of Portuguese communities worldwide. The day features cultural and military events that highlight Portugal’s history, literature, and maritime heritage.
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,