News

Galeria da Biodiversidade – Centro Ciência Viva
6 February, 2018 / , , , ,

Entirely dedicated to biodiversity, the Galeria da Biodiversidade – Centro Ciência Viva is so much more than a museum. This modern space, which combines science and art, is made to create unforgettable memories.  It hosts the photographic exhibition Photo Ark up until the end of April

The center integrates the Museu de História Natural e da Ciência da Universidade do Porto (MHNC-UP) (Natural History and Science Museum of the University of Porto), which along with the Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden) represents one of the hubs connected to the University of Porto.

Located in the legendary Casa Andresen – which inspired the renowned Portuguese poet Sophia de Mello Breyner – the Galeria da Biodiversidade is also surrounded by the Botanical Garden, an equally mandatory stop for science lovers, It is a place where art meets biology and natural history, stimulating interactivity and sensorial experiences. The permanent exhibition integrates 49 very unique narrative modules and installations, organized by 15 main themes that approach several aspects within biological and cultural diversity. From mechanical models to multimedia platforms, there are several ways of bringing together the visitor and the stories told through science, literature and art.

 

 

Photographic Noah’s Ark

Until the 29th April, the Biodiversity Gallery hosts the National Geographic Photo Ark, based on a project from Joel Sartore.  This photographer set a goal 10 years ago: photograph all existing species held in captivity, to create one of the largest archives of biodiversity in the world. This “Photographic Noah’s Ark” is intended to create public awareness towards the conservation of vulnerable animals. The exhibition already pictures over 7000 species and you do not want to miss on seeing its greatest pictures here.

 

Information:

Galeria da Biodiversidade (Gallery of Biodiversity)

Rua do Campo Alegre, n.º 1191, Porto

Schedule: from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm

Regular Ticket: 5€

 

 

 

 

Essência do Vinho: a toast to Portuguese wine
6 February, 2018 / ,

From the 22nd to the 25th of February, the Palácio da Bolsa welcomes about 400 Portuguese wine producers that will introduce over 3000 wines from all around the country. The Essência do Vinho, now onto its 15th edition, is an unmissable event for wine lovers.

Portuguese wines are becoming more esteemed and internationally recognized. Many centuries ago the way to fame was paved by Port Wine however, from Minho to the Algarve through the Azores and Madeira, there are countless quality wines that are worth getting to know.

The broadcast of Portuguese wines is the main goal of an event that has already become a mandatory stop for the residents of Porto and all visitors to the city during those days.

The 15th edition of Essência do Vinho presents the “TOP 10 Portuguese Wines”, gathering a selection of the highest scored wines by a specialized magazine. A specialized jury of several nationalities will assess and then select the 10 best wines.

 

The event has 50 simultaneous activities, including gastronomy, with the presence of Michelin starred chefs and tapas harmonization. The last edition of the event welcomed over 20.000 visitors, where 30% were foreign.

 

Information:

Advance ticket sale at www.essenciadovinhoporto.com (daily entrance and a tasting glass: 20€). On the day sales will have a cost of 25€.

22nd February / 3pm – 8pm
23rd February and 24th February / 3pm – 9pm
25th February / 3pm – 8pm

 

The Porto of Catarina Beirão
15 January, 2018 / , ,

She is 17 years old and the beaches of Porto and Matosinhos are almost a second home for this promising Portuguese surfer and female regional champion in the U-18 category. Her passion for surfing surfaced five years ago and has already led to many national and foreign beaches, but it is in Porto that are some of her favorite places.

The athlete of Porto Surf Club does not hide her passion for the sea and the beaches of Porto, and shares with the readers of Hey Porto some of her suggestions for days well spent in the city.

Bar: Bonaparte, Avenida Brasil

I like the environment. I like it because it is a traditional bar in the area where I have always lived, because there are great “pregos” (pork steaks), and because I go there with family and friends.

 

Restaurant- Picaba – Edifício Transparente – Healthy food, in front of the ocean and the beach where I started to surf. The employees know us and make us feel at home. It has a Surf menu and because, no matter how many times I go there, I never get tired of it.

 

Stroll:  seaside walkwayl from the mouth of the Douro River to the Ribeira – walking for me has to be on the shore with the ripples caressing my feet. I am fortunate to live in a unique area of ​​Porto, almost in front of the sea, where I can take this particular stroll very regularly. A walk that is never the same, because the uniqueness of the sea is what makes us always see it differently. There is an unmistakable scent of the sea, and even on foggy and cold days the “whistle” sound (sound coming from the lighthouse to warn the boats on foggy days) makes this tour unique.

 

Ideal place for surfing: Maceda beach (Ovar, Aveiro)

I love the access through the middle of the forest, dunes and cliffs that constitute the beach. Looks like a dream surf spot!

 

A secret of the city: Jardim das Virtudes (Garden of Virtues) – has been less known … but remains a place with some magic. I remember the first time I went there and realized the wonderful view that this garden has. A view to our river Douro and, at the same time in the middle of Baixa, with the court and the garden of Cordoaria at the back. I have no doubt that whenever someone goes there for the first time they will be surprised to have one of the most beautiful views of our city.


12 REASONS TO BUY PORTO.CARD
9 January, 2018 / ,

Find out why Porto.CARD may be your best buy for 2018!

 

1 – Attractive price

It is possible to buy the pedestrian Porto.CARD from 6 € and if you opt for the digital version, you only pay 5.70 €. Moreover, is it advantageous to buy a one day card without access to public transport? Here’s an example: on the 1-day cruise ticket on the Douro you get a discount of up to 20%. In fact you save more than € 10.00 on the price of the card.

 

2 – With or without public transport

Porto.CARD exists with the option of having public transportation or not. This pedestrian version is an excellent option for those who already have a car or want to rent a car, motorcycle, bicycle, etc. Everything is available in Porto.CARD. If so, you can get discounts of up to 57% of SABA car parks.

 

3 – Unlimited free access to public transport

If you choose to use public transport, in any of the different choices with transportation from € 13, (1, 2, 3 and 4 days), you have unlimited access to all Metro lines without restriction, as well as on the bus lines of STCP and urban CP Trofa-Valongo-Espinho. What you cannot forget is to validate your Andante Tour ticket whenever you change lines and / or transport.

 

4 – Diversified cultural and tourist attractions

Porto.Card offers you the most current and diversified cultural and tourist attractions: from museums to monuments, tourist circuits (by foot, by car, bicycle, motorcycle, minibus, classic car, boat, sailboat, helicopter, segway, tuk tuk, and rickshaw), there are umpteen ways to get around Porto with generous discounts. Restaurants and shops are among the more than 170 points of interest to discover in Porto.CARD

 

5 -Ease and convenience when shopping

Did you know that you can buy the Porto.CARD in advance at short.visitporto.travel/portocard, at the Official Tourist Offices or at the Nova Câmbios (New Currency Exchange) office at Porto Airport? You can also buy the Porto.CARD digital at buyportocard.visitporto.travel or on the app (Porto Card – Official City Pass) and start using your card as soon as you arrive at your destination. There are several options for your trip: Metro, STCP buses or the reservation of a transfer with discount from Porto.CARD. Just choose the most convenient option!

 

 

5 – Restaurants with a variety of cuisine types

In Porto.CARD you will find restaurants from traditional cuisine to signature cuisine, the latter awarded with a Michelin star. Obviously, the traditional “Francesinha” is present in three specialty restaurants, as well as other types of cuisine. Discounts up to 15%

 

6 – A world of tourist circuits

Did you know that with the Porto.CARD you get discounts on more than 80 tourist circuits, which include trips to Porto, to the Douro River and Minho? Day or Night Tours? Panoramic bus or cable car? From Gastronomy to literature? Contemporary architecture or the Historic Center? What becomes difficult is the choice. Discounts up to 25%

 

7-The most authentic way to learn about Port Wine

With Porto.CARD you have the opportunity to tour the 9 Port Wine Cellars, get to know their history and to taste this internationally acclaimed wine. The card offers you one cellar with free entrance and on the remaining cellars your discount can reach 30%, from November to March.

 

8- Families with children

There are many places to visit with family and to entertain the little ones with discounts of up to 50%. Take the time to relax or have fun with the kids while saving a lot of money.

 

9-For the romantic tourist

If you are looking for romanticism in Oporto this is the city of choice. With Porto.CARD you have the most romantic places to visit, to enjoy good gastronomy and to shop and surprise those who you most love! Discounts up to 20%

 

10 – For the youth

Activities for young people are present in Porto.CARD.  There are many options for the younger travelers who seek challenges! From surf lessons, Jet Boating, Cannoning, Rafting to jeep trails in the Douro and Gerês national Park.

 

11- Modalities adapted to different needs

The Porto.CARD exists in 8 modes: 1, 2, 3 and 4 days, with or without transport, which allows you flexibility in choosing the most convenient card. Being the official card of the city offers you security and confidence.

 

12- Personalized advice at tourist offices

If you choose to buy Porto.CARD at the official tourist offices, you will be personally attended to by attendants who know the city very well and are able to advise the best solutions and options for your enquiry. Be sure to visit us and be pleasantly surprised!

Sobrinho Simões – An Oporto citizen who is a reason of pride for the city
5 December, 2017 / ,

In 2015 the magazine ThePatologist chose him as the most influential pathologist in the world. Manuel Sobrinho Simões is a passionate about Porto and one of the great reasons of pride of the city where he was born in 1947.

Recognized worldwide not only for his work done in the area of ​​thyroid cancer, but also for the pathology schools that he assisted in establishing around the world. Founder of IPATIMUP (Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto) – an internationally recognized research unit that annually conducts hundreds of diagnostic consultations for hospitals and oncology institutes in Europe and America – he is a real workaholic, but always attentive and concerned with the great issues of the world around him.

He was born into a medical family: his great-grandfather and grandfather had been doctors and his father was a professor and researcher in the field of biochemistry. He was born in Paranhos, studied in the area of ​​Antas and Alexandre Herculano Lyceum, before enrolling in medicine at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto. He continued excelling as he had been in high school; his academic career was always marked by excellent marks, having won several awards of merit.

An avid member of FC Porto, he also played hockey in Estrela and Vigorosa Sport and was champion of ping-pong at university.

It was at the University of Porto that he took a liking to Pathology. His love of travel had grown since he was young, thanks to prizes of academic merit and some help from his grandfather. After his marriage, he did a post-doctoral in Oslo, Norway and it would be from this international experience that he would become known internationally.

In addition to collaborating with universities and hospitals around the world, he is the author and co-author of hundreds of articles. At the age of 70, he continues to have an intense rhythm of work, but without neglecting his grandchildren and the rest of the family, with whom he likes to spend his free time. As a child he played in the garden of Arca d’Água, but currently he prefers cycling in the City Park.

Port Wine: A Christmas Tradition
5 December, 2017 / ,

In Portugal, Christmas is always a good excuse to drink, buy or gift someone with Port Wine. Visiting the Port Wine Cellars is the best way to have the best wines, at the table or on the Christmas shopping list.

The diversity is great and each type of Port wine is suitable for specific dishes and specific moments, as it is best way to know this wine well, because only then will you be able to enjoy it in its plenitude.

The best place to learn everything about Port Wine are the cellars, located in Vila Nova de Gaia. It was there that, until the last century, the Rabelo boats, coming from the Douro estates with kegs of wine, were docked and stored. In these enormous warehouses located by the river where light and humidity help the taste, color and texture of the wine can be perfected.

Today, the cellars are must see places for those who visit the city of Porto. In addition to getting to know the complete history of Port Wine and the journey made by the grapes from the Douro to the moment they arrive in your glass, you will also have the opportunity to taste and buy various types of wine.

We highly recommend a visit to the Ferreira cellars and the Sandeman Celllars.

 

CELLARS

Ferreira

 

 

Avenida Ramos Pinto, 70, Vila Nova de Gaia

Hours: 10h00 – 12h30 / 14h00 – 18h00

 

 

 

Classic Visit | Price € 10 pax:

Visit to the Cellars, including the Room of the Belongings of Dona Antónia and the Museum, with two Port Wine tasting.

Visit Dona Antónia | Price € 20 pax:

Visit for small groups, with extensive wine tasting and a selection of 5 Port Wines, in a reserved area.

Visit Casa Ferreirinha | Price € 14 pax:

Visit to the Caves, with three Douro Wines Casa Ferreirinha DOP winetasting, producer of the famous Barca Velha.

 

Sandeman

 

 

Largo Miguel Bombarda, 3, Vila Nova de Gaia

Opening Hours:

Every day | 09h30 – 12h30 / 14h00 – 17h30

 

 

 

Classic Visit | Price € 10 pax:

Guided tour with wine tasting of two Reserved Porto wines

Visit 1790 | Price € 20 pax:

A guided tour that begins at the Sandeman Museum and ends with a wider winetasting of Port wine at 1790

Visit “100 Years of Old Tawnies” | Price 40 € pax:

A visit to discover the long tradition of Sandeman in the aging and blend of Port Wines. At the end of your visit, a comprehensive winetasting of a century of Tawnies – tasting of 10, 20, 30 and 40 years – in a reserved and intimate area that also houses the Sandeman Antique Bottles Collection.

Visit Premium | Price 13 € pax:

A guided tour of the Sandeman Cellars, with winetasting of three superior wines (White, Ruby and Tawny).

Points of interest:

Sandeman bottle collection – more than 60 samples of handmade English bottles from the 17th and 18th centuries.

A month to celebrate Christmas
4 December, 2017 / ,

Until January 7, Porto illuminates with the colors of Christmas. From a giant tree to ice rinks, there is fun for the whole family.

Christmas lights are already a long tradition in the city of Porto, but this year they go even further, taking the magic of the festive season to other streets. Nearly two million micro bulbs, neon and LED, in white, gold and blue will make the streets of Porto shine and work not only as a background for Christmas shopping in Baixa and Boavista, but also in places such as the Campanhã station, Bonfim , Marquês, Carvalhido and Foz.

The beginning of this Christmas period takes place on December 1st, at dusk, when the giant tree is placed in front of the Town Hall building, as well as the Christmas lights in all the streets. In the Aliados the moment will be marked with a concert and fireworks. But whoever misses this moment still will have much to see until the 7th of January.

During this period, two ice rinks will be operating: one in D. João I Square and another in Mouzinho de Albuquerque Square (Rotunda da Boavista). Here is also more entertainment for all ages.

And on December 31, as usual, the New Year’s Eve party is centered around the Aliados but spreads all over the city.

Rua Sá da Bandeira
7 November, 2017 / , , ,

From the little farms and alleys a cosmopolitan street was born.

Today it is one of the most central and busiest streets of Porto, but it was a place formerly occupied by agricultural land, alleys and even stalls.

The name of the street itself has a curious story: Bernardo Sá Nogueira de Figueiredo was a marshal loyal to the Liberals troops. During the Siege of Porto, in the war between Liberals and Absolutists, the arm that carried the liberal flag was severed by the enemy. It would be known as Sá da Bandeira. Later he took up important political positions, even becoming a minister. He was also distinguished with the titles of Baron, Viscount and Marquis.

Rua Sá da Bandeira only appeared in the 19th century: until then, it was still an area with small  farms and farmland, many of them belonging to D. Antónia Adelaide Ferreira (A Ferreirinha), one of the most important names in the history of Port Wine. The area also had small alleys, which were almost completely demolished.

The street began to be constructed in 1836, but the first houses would only appear seven years later. In 1875 it was extended to Rua Formosa and the continuation until Rua de Fernandes Tomás (1904) which forced the demolition of the stables where the horses, which pulled the public transport, were at the time. Later, the street would be extended to the South and later to the North, until it gained its present form.

 

Points of interest

 

Sá da Bandeira Theater

It opened in 1870, but earlier there had been more rudimentary structures for spectacles. It was here that in 1895, Sarah Bernhardt performed, and it was also here that the first films which were made in Portugal were shown. It is said to have been the first theater in Porto to use electric lighting.

 

 

 

Bolhão Market

O mercado mais tradicional da cidade foi construído em cima de uma bolha de água (daí o seu nome). Datado de 1850, é um belo exemplo da arquitetura neoclássica, mas é o seu interior, onde a alma Porto está mais presente. Os produtos frescos, a simpatia dos vendedores e a frescura dos produtos tradicionais portugueses merecem uma visita.

 

 

Palácio do Comércio

A residential building, with commerce and offices, which surprises by its magnificence. It is worth beholding the sculptures of horses that are at the top, as well as all its architecture. It was built in the 1940s by the couple of architects David Moreira da Silva and Maria José Marques da Silva, daughter of José Marques da Silva, one of the most important architects of the city.

 

 

 

A Brasileira Café

It is currently under construction to become a hotel, but this is a building with history. In 1903, Adriano Teles, who had been an emigrant in Brazil, opened this cafe to make known his own brand of coffee. During the decades of 50 and 60 was habitual place of get-togethers and gatherings.

Erasmus
6 November, 2017 /

ESN Porto helps students discover the city

Founded in 1991, the Erasmus Student Network Porto (ESN Porto) introduces foreign students to Portugal and its culture.

ESN Porto currently receives approximately 3,000 foreign students, making them take full advantage of not only the time they are in another country, but also the culture of the place where they are studying and living.

ESN’s activity is organized in eight departments, promoting, for example, weekly events, which can be sports tournaments, night outs or even traditional cooking workshops. Trips are also organized so that foreign students can get to know some of the most beautiful places in Portugal.

Thematic parties are another form of integration and convivial association, which also works with a wide network of partners, so that ESNCard holders can enjoy discounts on travel, dental treatment, restaurants, etc.

ESN Porto also promotes volunteering among its members, covering three areas: social solidarity, environment and education.

Contacts:

Praça Gomes Teixeira SN

Rector of the University of Porto

Room 500 – Porto

facebook.com/ErasmusStudentNetworkPorto/

http://www.esnporto.org/

VO.U. – Associação de Voluntariado Universitário
6 November, 2017 /

VO.U. – Associação de Voluntariado Universitário is a non-profit organization which was founded in 2008, as an offspring of a group of students’ strong convictions in changing the world.

We believe in the concept of Solidary Superior Education, working for the promotion of tolerance, equality and reciprocity between each and every member of our society. Therefore, our volunteers act in a multidisciplinary way: form the children to the elderly; from the animals to their natural habitat; from dancing to public health.

Curious? Join us in this big adventure, and aim to fly higher! Deep down you may be a warrior, a genius, a nature lover, a peaceful soul or even a compulsive kisser. All of that is amazing, and what matters is your courage to help make this change real!

Eu VO.U. (I’m going), what about You?