How to Plan Your Porto Tour: Cálem Cellar Tour, Fado Show & Wine Tasting

Porto, located in northern Portugal, is a city rich in history, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. It’s not only one of the oldest cities in Europe but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re planning a trip to Porto, one of the most enjoyable and entertaining experiences you can indulge in is the Cálem Cellar Tour, Fado Show & Wine Tasting. This tour is for those who love wine, live entertainment, and a bit of history.

Experience

Embark on a guided tour of the Cálem Cellars in Porto, enjoy some of the best wine tasting experiences in the city, and watch an entertaining live Fado show. Fado is traditional Portuguese music that tells stories of love, loss, and romance. It’s a soulful genre that has captured the hearts of so many people around the world. This tour is an excellent opportunity for those who want to explore the local culture, savor some of the best port wine, and indulge in some heart-touching music.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights you can expect from this tour:

Port wine cellar tour at Cálem

Cálem is one of the best-known port wine cellars in Porto. The company’s rich history dates back to 1859 when it was first established by António Alves Cálem. Since then, it has grown to become one of the most respected and prestigious port wine brands in the world. On the tour, a knowledgeable guide will take you through the cellars, explaining the winemaking process and history of the company.

Wine tasting

After the cellar tour, guests can enjoy sipping on some of Cálem’s exclusive port wine. You will be able to sample a variety of port wines, including aged Tawny, White and Vintage.

Fado show

No trip to Porto would be complete without experiencing Fado music. The Fado show is performed live during the wine tasting session, creating a magical atmosphere. The performance is usually performed by talented local artists, and the act alone is worth experiencing. Fado music has a unique style that inspires strong emotions in those who listen to it.

Food

On the tour, you will also be served some traditional Portuguese snacks to pair with the wine.

Transfers

Transfers are not included in the price of the tour, but using a taxi or Uber is advisable.

What’s Included?

The tour includes a wine cellar tour, wine tasting (with four different types of port), and a Fado show. Be sure to book your tour in advance through the following link: book the tour here

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re planning a trip to Porto and want to experience something unique and entertaining, Cálem Cellar Tour, Fado Show & Wine Tasting is a must-try. You’ll enjoy a memorable and informative tour of the port cellar, plus wine tasting, accompanied by delicious traditional Portuguese snacks, all while being entertained by Portugal’s beloved Fado music. Book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment, so you don’t miss out on this fun-filled, unique Porto experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Porto

1. Where is Porto located?

Porto is a coastal city in northwest Portugal, known for its historic architecture, port wine production, and stunning views of the Douro River. It is the second largest city in Portugal, after Lisbon, and is situated in the northwestern part of the country, a region often referred to as the Costa Verde or Green Coast.

2. What is the best time to visit Porto?

The best time to visit Porto is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months. During these times, the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with plenty of sunshine but also more crowds and higher prices. Winter (December to February) can be quite chilly and rainy, but it is a good time to enjoy indoor attractions and cozy cafes.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Porto?

Porto is full of interesting sights and experiences, but some of the must-see attractions include the historic Ribeira district, the Douro River, the Clérigos Tower, the Lello Bookstore, the São Bento Railway Station, and the Port Wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. Other attractions include the Casa da Música concert hall, the contemporary art museum Serralves, and the Foz do Douro beach district.

4. How can I get around Porto?

Porto has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, metro, and trains. The city center is relatively compact and can be easily explored on foot, but the hilly terrain can sometimes be challenging. Taxis and Ubers are also available, but they can be pricey. If you plan to explore outside the city, renting a car is a good option.

5. What are the local specialties in Porto?

Porto is known for its wine production, especially the sweet fortified port wine that is aged in barrels in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. Other local specialties include the francesinha sandwich, a hearty and flavorful sandwich with layers of bread, ham, steak, sausage, and melted cheese, and the bacalhau (salt cod), which is prepared in many different ways.

6. What are some cultural events and festivals in Porto?

Porto has a vibrant cultural scene and hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular ones include the São João Festival in June, which is an elaborate celebration of the city’s patron saint with fireworks, music, and street parties, the Porto International Film Festival in February, the Primavera Sound music festival in June, and the Fantasporto film festival in March.

7. What are some day trips from Porto?

Porto is a great base for exploring the surrounding region, which is full of picturesque towns, historic sites, and natural beauty. Some popular day trips from Porto include visiting the Douro Valley wine region, the medieval castle and village of Guimarães, the beach town of Vila do Conde, and the historic city of Braga.

8. What is the nightlife like in Porto?

Porto has a lively and diverse nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, music venues, and restaurants. The Ribeira district is a popular spot for nightlife, especially on weekends, but there are many other neighborhoods such as Cedofeita and Foz that offer different vibes and atmospheres. A typical night out in Porto involves socializing over drinks (Port wine, of course!) and maybe some petiscos (tapas-style snacks) before hitting the dance floor.

9. Is Porto safe for tourists?

Porto is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes can occur in tourist hotspots, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

10. What is the currency used in Porto?

The currency used in Porto (and in Portugal in general) is the Euro (€). There are many ATMs and currency exchange offices throughout the city, and credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Book Your Tour Now

Porto is a fascinating and beautiful city that deserves to be on every traveler’s itinerary. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, wine, or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Porto has something to offer. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your visit to this enchanting city and create unforgettable memories.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Porto

Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal, is a beautiful and vibrant coastal city that has much to offer tourists. If you’re planning a trip to Porto and not sure how to spend your time, this guide will provide you with some excellent ideas. From sightseeing and tours to wine tastings and beaches, there is something for everyone in Porto. Here are our top recommendations on how to spend your time as a tourist in Porto.

1. Take a City Walking Tour

One of the best ways to explore Porto is by foot. Book a walking tour to learn about the city’s rich history and architecture while also getting a feel for the local vibe. Some of the best walking tours in Porto include:

• Porto Sights and Street Art Tour: This two-hour walking tour takes you through Porto’s historical center to see some of its iconic landmarks and urban art.
• Secret Sites of Porto: On this three-hour tour, you will explore the city’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track locations that regular tourists rarely discover.
• Porto Food Tour: Experience a combination of sightseeing and delicious food in this three-hour tour that takes you to some of the city’s best food spots.

2. Sample Porto’s Delicious Cuisine

Porto is famous for its cuisine, and you can’t leave the city without sampling some of the delicious dishes it has to offer. Here are some of the most popular dishes you should try:

• Francesinha: This sandwich is a meat lover’s dream – layers of meat, cheese, and a special sauce served with fries.
• Bacalhau: Portugal’s national dish is a salted and dried cod that is used in various recipes across the country, including Porto.
• Caldo Verde: A traditional Portuguese soup made with potatoes, kale, and slices of spicy sausage.
• Pastéis de Nata: These egg custard tarts are a popular dessert in Porto and can be found in most bakeries.

3. Visit the Ribeira District

Ribeira is Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed district, and it is a fascinating place to visit. The area is full of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the Douro River. Here are some things to do in Ribeira:

• Take a River Cruise: Experience the beauty of Porto’s historic Ribeira district from the water on a relaxing river cruise.
• Explore the Architecture: Walk around the district, admire the stunning architecture, and visit some of the museums, such as the Casa do Infante Museum, the Porto Wine Museum, and the Alfandega do Porto Congress Center.
• Shop and Dine: Ribeira is home to some excellent restaurants and traditional shops where you can pick up souvenirs to take home.

4. Go Wine Tasting in the Douro Valley

The Douro Valley is one of the world’s oldest wine regions, and it’s just a short train ride from Porto. If you enjoy wine, then taking a tour of the vineyards and wine cellars of the Douro Valley is a must-do. Here are some top-rated wine tours you can take:

• Douro Valley Wine Tour: This tour takes you through the stunning Douro Valley, where you will sample wine at several wineries and learn about the region’s history and wine production.
• Port Wine Tour and Tasting: Take a walking tour through the streets of Porto and visit one of the city’s famous port wine cellars for a tasting.
• Douro Valley Train Tour: This tour is perfect for wine lovers who also enjoy scenic views. You’ll get to ride a vintage train through the Douro Valley while enjoying wine tastings at the vineyards along the way.

5. Relax on the Beach

Porto is home to some beautiful beaches that are perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Here are some of the best beaches to visit:

• Matosinhos Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Porto and is known for its excellent surf conditions.
• Praia da Luz: This long and wide sandy beach is perfect for families with children.
• Praia da Aguda: This beach is located in a fishing village and is a great place to watch the locals bringing in their catch of the day.

Final Thoughts

Porto is a fantastic city that offers tourists plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, food, wine, beaches, or just soaking up the local vibe, Porto has something for everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and enjoy your time in Porto to the fullest.