Guerin® Blog
Explore the best destinations: Guerin
São João in Porto: complete guide to the biggest folk festival in the North.
Share
If there’s a magical time to visit Porto, it’s the night of 23rd to 24th June. São João in Porto is much more than a folk festival. It’s an explosion of colour, tradition and joy that transforms the city into a true open-air stage.
Shall we explore the highlights that make this festival so special? Then you'd better start thinking about which of our rented cars to choose, you won't want to miss a moment of the Invicta’s biggest celebration!
São João in Porto: traditions, food and fireworks.
The São João festivities peak on the night of 23rd June and carry on into the early hours of the 24th. However, the celebrations begin as soon as June arrives, with street parties popping up all over the city.
The heart of the celebration is the riverside area of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, especially the Luís I Bridge, which offers a prime view of the fireworks display.
In 2025, the firework show will stretch from the historic centre to the Arrábida Bridge, allowing for better crowd distribution and offering a stunning visual spectacle.
Key traditions of São João.
São João night is full of unique rituals. The most iconic ones include:
- Plastic hammers: used to (gently!) tap fellow partygoers on the head.
- Leek stalks: an old symbol of fertility and good luck (though not the nicest scent!).
- Manjericos (basil plants): always accompanied by a witty verse.
- Hot air balloons: light up Porto’s skies with hopes and wishes.
- Grilled sardines: cooked on the street and served with cornbread and wine, the taste (and smell!) of the festival.
Where to watch the fireworks?
The firework display begins at midnight and lasts around 16 minutes. Top viewing spots include:
- Porto Ribeira
- Gaia Quay
- Luís I Bridge (note: it may be closed to traffic)
- WOW – World of Wine, in Gaia, offering a privileged view and special dinner packages
- Douro River cruises: a unique experience with onboard dinner and live music
What and where to eat?
Food is at the heart of São João, and the street stalls are the true stars! Besides sardines, make sure you try:
- Caldo verde (kale soup)
- Papas de sarrabulho (meat porridge)
- Pork steaks in bread
- Vinho verde (young wine)
- Roasted peppers
- Chorizo bread
Restaurants with terraces and a view of the festivities (booking essential!):
- Casa d’Oro: relaxed vibe with views over the Douro.
- Barão Fladgate: located in WOW – perfect for fireworks viewing.
- RIB Beef & Wine: sophisticated dishes and prime location in the Ribeira.
Where to stay?
The city fills up fast, so book early. Some great options include:
- The Yeatman Hotel: luxury and breathtaking views.
- Pestana Vintage Porto: in the heart of Ribeira.
- Moov Hotel Porto Centro: modern and budget-friendly.
Experience São João in Porto with Guerin.
On São João night, traffic in the city becomes very limited, and the centre is nearly inaccessible by car. The best solution?
Hire your car with Guerin to reach Porto, then park outside the busiest zones. Afterwards, take advantage of the reinforced public transport (buses and metro) to reach the centre safely and comfortably.
Feeling tired? Add an additional driver to your booking, that way, you won’t be the only one behind the wheel that night.
Discover Guerin’s 100% digital process.
São João in Porto is an unforgettable experience. But to ensure everything goes smoothly, plan ahead – book your stay and meals in advance. Then count on Guerin to guarantee your mobility with ease and flexibility.
With us, you can cancel your booking for free up to 48 hours in advance. We’re available nationwide, so you can pick up your car in one city and drop it off in another.
At Guerin, we’re pioneers in offering a 100% digital booking process. With your smartphone or computer, you can manage every step of your rental, from your details to pick-up and drop-off. It couldn’t be easier. Happy São João!
Share