Either you are a racer or a runner, Porto has races for you throughout the year, from 5km to the whole Marathon's 42k. I've run them all and it's a unique experience: the runners, the crowd cheering, the views, the streets. It's all worth the effort!
Each race also includes shorter walks, for those willing to simply go for a walk together in a fun atmosphere. All is supported by an efficient and safe organization.
For me there are 3 races I try not to miss: the half marathon (in the middle of September, with late summer weather), the Marathon (early November), and finishing the year, the St. Sylvester (late December, in the evening).
But there are other shorter races throughout the year starting around Carnival.
The half marathon (21k) is run in the river-shore, practically flat, and passes under 4 bridges, crosses to Gaia, with magnificent view to Porto, and then back.
The Marathon (42k) starts at Parque da Cidade, goes to Leixões harbour, then back to Gaia, and back to the ocean, finishing at the Parque da Cidade again. The course is incredible, and finishing is an amazing feeling!
There are also more reachable 15k run and 5k walk.
Recently, night runs in the Parque da Cidade are also organised.
Lastly, the St. Silvester (10k) is the mythical one. It's in the city centre, after dark (usually cold!), and basically starts with a 2km rise, and it's all ups and downs. Crazy and breathtaking!
On your marks...!
Find your way with 136 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"The Portuguese Centre of Photography" in Porto is located in an ex-prison in the centre. Protip: go all the way down the street at the building's left side.
by
"CC Bombard" in Porto is a small "shopping mall" that will surprise you with its originality, concept and products. My favourite shop there is Vertigo.
by
Foz and Porto's seafront is definitely for me my favourite part of the city! In summer it can get crowded, but that's because it's Porto at its best!
by
"Padaria Ribeiro" isn't just a bakery - it's an icon of the city! I imagine they have been perfecting their pastry recipes since the 19th century...
by
Porto is home to Portugal's most well-known and awarded architect, Siza Vieira. You can find his masterpieces sprinkled all over the city.
by
"Porto Belo" (literally: beautiful Porto!) is a traditional flea market located in a beautiful neighborhood. Enjoy the great weather, the sun and the music!
by
"Café Piolho" has been the centre of Porto students' nightlife for over a century. The first cafe to have electricity and TV, it's a living part of history.
by
The "Edíficio Transparente" in Porto is a strange glass building with 4 floors, pleasant restaurant, cafes - and one of my favorite ocean views in the city.
by
"Parque da Cidade" is Porto's Central or Hyde Park, and it's the only one in Europe with a seafront! It's one of my favourite spots to do outdoorsy things.
by
"Café Santiago" serves perhaps my favorite Francesinha (as healthy as it looks) in Porto. And the "only" drink that goes along with it is Super Bock beer!
by
"Bugo Art Burger" was the first restaurant in Porto to cook special burgers. Even after all that time, it still has THAT twist! Mango chutney burger anyone?
by
"Botanic Garden" in Porto's Campo Alegre is a wonderful oasis in quite a busy part of the city. It's really worth discovering, if only as a relaxing refuge.
by
136 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 136 Insider Tips