July brings with it a packed agenda for you to enjoy the summer in Porto and the surrounding area. From candlelit concerts to open-air movie sessions and the best dives, there’s something for everyone.
If your vacation is only in August, then take advantage of afternoons on the terrace and rooftops to toast the warmer season. In Invicta, there’s entertainment from start to finish.
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The Pirates” immersive fair
From July 11 to 14, all roads lead to the immersive re-enactment of “The Pirates”, taking place in Leça da Palmeira, in the municipality of Matosinhos. This is an event that promises to please kids and adults alike, with a program full of activities.
There are games, performances, acrobatics, a seasonal market and even an assault on the Fort of Nossa Senhora das Neves. In addition, there are itinerant performances with mischievous pirates, epic characters, music, juggling and much more. Admission is free.
Where: Fort of Nossa Senhora das Neves, in Leça da Palmeira
More information: here
Candlelight Concerts
The Candlelight Concerts will continue to shine at various emblematic venues in the city of Porto, such as the Pestana Palácio do Freixo, the Novo Ático and the Palácio da Bolsa, among others.
If you want to take advantage of the summer heat to enjoy an open-air concert and more, then here’s the agenda for July :
Where: Various venues in Porto
Panda Festival
The Panda Festival, the biggest children’s event in Portugal, is back in Greater Porto. More specifically, on July 13 and 14, the Estádio do Mar, in the municipality of Matosinhos, will host a new edition of the event.
This year’s theme is inspired by the world’s most important sporting event, the Olympic Games. For those with kids at home, here’s a tip for an evening full of music, magic and acrobatics.
Where: Estádio do Mar, Sra. da Hora, Matosinhos
More information: here
“We Call It Flamenco”
Alongside the Candlelight concerts, Fever continues to bring original events to brighten up Porto’s cultural agenda even more. Following on from the success of previous editions, “We Call It Flamenco” returns on July 27 (Saturday).
If you want to feel the warmth of Spanish culture up close, you can choose one of two possible times, namely 19:30 and 21:30. What can you expect? A show with professional dancers, singers and guitarists, which showcases six different palos.
Where: Hilton Porto Gaia, Rua de Serpa Pinto 124, Vila Nova de Gaia
More information: Fever
Open-air cinema
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in July in Porto is to attend open-air movie sessions. Between July 12 and 20, the “Oasis” cycle, promoted by Batalha Centro de Cinema, is back in Praça da Batalha.
However, this isn’t the only alternative available to you. In fact, in Greater Porto there are other similar initiatives taking place in other municipalities, in parks, gardens and green spaces, with free access… Everything to liven up your summer even more!
Where: Various places in Greater Porto
Serralves in Light
How about enjoying an open-air exhibition? At “Serralves in Light” it’s possible, from July 4 to November 3. The immersive experience is back for its 3rd edition and brings some new features.
In all, the route covers around 3 km and features 25 installations, in an introspective and colorful journey under the theme “Dreams and Illusions”.
Where: Serralves Park
More information: here
Free pilates, yoga and tai chi classes
Summer is also synonymous with exercising outdoors. So if you’re looking for motivation and/or company, you can always try the “Energy Days”.
This is a municipal initiative that runs until October in various green spaces in Porto. The program includes yoga classes, pilates, tai chi and the practice of the Rose Method. In addition, participation is free.
However, prior registration is required. All you have to do is send an e-mail to desporto@agoraporto.pt by 5.30pm each Friday.
More information: Ágora’s website
Living Van Gogh
Although the heat is on, the truth is that visiting immersive exhibitions doesn’t matter what time of year it is.
“Living Van Gogh” is truly one of the most impressive experiences to have passed through Porto.
With the seal of quality of the Ocubo studio , for over an hour you’ll travel between 360º three-dimensional paintings, giant sunflowers and various interactive installations.
Where: Edifício da Alfândega, R. Nova da Alfândega
More information: on the Fever platform
The best swimming pools
For those who don’t like sand, the swimming pools around Porto are always a good option.
There are pools overlooking the sea and Atlantic waters, others surrounded by idyllic green spaces. So just pick your favorite spot and dive into summer!
Clérigos Immersive Concert: Spiritus of Classical Music
The Clérigos Church, one of the most beautiful in Porto, is the perfect setting to host another “Clérigo Immersive Concert: Spiritus of Classical Music in Porto” on July 25.
In this show, the audiovisual world of “Spiritus” is combined with the melody of classical works enhanced by the sound of the pipe organ. Bach, Vivaldi and Hans Zimmer are some of the artists on the line-up.
Where: Igreja dos Clérigos, Rua de São Filipe de Nery
More information: on the Fever app
Editor’s note: the article with suggestions of what to do in July in Porto will be updated whenever necessary, with the insertion of new plans!