What do groups do in… Porto?

Porto is an excellent destination for large groups, offering a range of activities that combine culture, adventure, and relaxation. If you’re planning an outing for a group of 30 or more people in Porto, here are 10 fun activities to consider:

1. Private Wine Tasting and Tour in the Douro Valley

Porto is famous for its port wine, and no visit is complete without a wine tour. For a large group, consider booking a private wine tasting and tour in the Douro Valley, where port is produced. Many vineyards can accommodate large groups, offering tours of the vineyards, wine cellars, and tastings of various port wines, along with stunning views of the valley.

• Best for: Wine lovers, scenic experiences.
• Tip: Book a private bus for transportation to the Douro Valley to make the journey even more convenient for your group.

2. Private Boat Cruise on the Douro River

A private Douro River cruise is a relaxing and scenic way to experience Porto. You can charter a large boat for your group, complete with a guide, snacks, and drinks. Cruises typically last 1-2 hours and provide excellent views of Porto’s historic skyline and the famous Dom Luís I Bridge.

• Best for: Group relaxation, photography, and sightseeing.
• Tip: Consider adding live music or a catered meal to make it even more special.

3. Porto Food Tour

Take a guided food tour of Porto with your group to experience the city’s rich culinary offerings. These tours often include stops at local markets, traditional restaurants, and bakeries to sample iconic Portuguese dishes like francesinha, bacalhau (salt cod), and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). Private tours can be arranged to cater to large groups.

• Best for: Food enthusiasts, cultural immersion.
• Tip: Customize the tour to include specific dietary preferences for your group.

4. Walking Tour of Porto’s Historic Center

Explore Porto’s UNESCO-listed historic center on a private walking tour. A local guide can lead your group through landmarks such as Sé do Porto (Porto Cathedral), Ribeira (the riverside district), Clérigos Tower, and São Bento Railway Station, known for its stunning azulejo (tile) artwork. This is a great way to learn about the city’s history and architecture.

• Best for: History and culture lovers.
• Tip: Divide the group into smaller sub-groups if you prefer a more intimate tour experience with multiple guides.

5. Visit the Livraria Lello

Often regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, Livraria Lello is a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts. For a group of 30 or more, you can arrange a private visit to avoid the usual crowds. Explore the stunning neo-Gothic design, the intricate wooden staircase, and the stained-glass ceiling.

• Best for: Literature and architecture fans.
• Tip: Consider pairing the visit with a walking tour of Porto’s literary landmarks.

6. Escape Room Challenge

For an interactive and exciting experience, consider booking an escape room for your group. Porto has several escape rooms that can accommodate large groups by dividing participants into teams. It’s a fun way to encourage teamwork and problem-solving while enjoying a thrilling adventure.

• Best for: Team-building, adventure lovers.
• Tip: Check for escape rooms that offer a variety of themes to keep everyone entertained.

7. Surfing Lessons at Matosinhos Beach

For an active day out, take your group to Matosinhos Beach, just a short drive from Porto, for surfing lessons. The beach is known for its surf-friendly waves, and local surf schools offer group lessons that can be tailored for beginners and experienced surfers alike. It’s a fun and energizing way to enjoy the Atlantic coast.

• Best for: Adventure seekers, outdoor activities.
• Tip: Combine surfing with a beach picnic or barbecue for a full day of fun.

8. Fado Night with Dinner

Experience traditional Portuguese fado music with a private group dinner at one of Porto’s fado restaurants. Fado is an emotional and haunting music genre, often performed live while guests enjoy a meal of Portuguese cuisine. Some venues can accommodate large groups and offer a memorable evening of music, food, and cultural immersion.

• Best for: Culture lovers, evening entertainment.
• Tip: Arrange a private performance for your group to make the evening even more intimate.

9. Private Tram Ride and Tour

Porto’s historic trams are an iconic part of the city’s charm. For a unique group experience, book a private tram ride along Porto’s scenic routes. The trams run along the River Douro and through the city’s narrow streets, providing a relaxing and nostalgic way to see Porto’s sights.

• Best for: Large groups, sightseeing with a historical twist.
• Tip: Combine the tram ride with a walking tour of one of Porto’s charming districts.

10. Private Tile Workshop (Azulejos)

Learn the art of azulejos, Portugal’s traditional decorative tiles, by participating in a tile-painting workshop. This hands-on activity is perfect for groups and provides an opportunity to create a unique souvenir. The workshop usually begins with a short history of azulejos before participants get to paint their own tiles under the guidance of an expert.

• Best for: Art and craft enthusiasts, cultural activities.
• Tip: Arrange for your tiles to be fired and delivered after the workshop, so everyone can take home a lasting memory.

DormSquad – Group Travel Agency – Málaga, Spain