ABOUT
Porto breathes football. From the dominant roar of FC Porto to the gritty defiance of Boavista FC, the city lives for matchdays. With two iconic stadiums, loyal fanbases, and decades of history, this northern Portuguese city offers two distinct but passionate footballing identities, each woven into the urban fabric.
Porto is a footballing capital with two proud clubs and one shared obsession. FC Porto, the more globally known powerhouse, has earned respect across Europe with Champions League triumphs and domestic dominance. Estádio do Dragão, sleek and modern, reflects their ambitions. Supporters flood in from across the north on matchdays, uniting behind the blue and white crest.
Just a few kilometres away, Boavista FC offers a different kind of experience. Their home, Estádio do Bessa XXI, sits in the west of the city, hosting a loyal, fiercely local fanbase. Known for their black-and-white chequered kits, Boavista are Portugal’s underdog heroes—title winners in 2001 and still fiercely proud of their heritage.
For visitors, Porto offers a double-dose of football culture: elite competition and grassroots grit. Whether cheering in the Dragão’s upper tiers or singing in the intimate Bessa stands, you're part of a city where football is life.
FC Porto
Founded in 1893, FC Porto is one of Europe’s most successful clubs outside the traditional elite. Nicknamed Dragões (Dragons), they’ve dominated Portuguese football and made history with European trophies under José Mourinho in 2003 and 2004. With tactical discipline, talent pipelines, and a winning mentality, Porto are a model of consistency. The team plays at Estádio do Dragão, a sleek, 50,000-capacity arena with top-class facilities and one of the best atmospheres in Portugal.
Getting tickets is straightforward. The easiest way is online via FC Porto’s official website, where you'll find seat maps and dynamic pricing. Tickets usually go on sale 1–2 weeks before domestic games, and early booking is advised for big matches. You can also buy tickets in person at the Dragão box office or official FC Porto stores in the city centre. ID may be required for European fixtures.
THE PROCESS
1) Visit the Official Website: Go to fcporto.pt and click on the “Tickets” section (Bilhetes).
2) Choose the Match: Select the game you want to attend. Fixtures are listed with dates, competition, and kick-off times.
3) Select Your Seats: Use the stadium map to pick your preferred seating area and price range.
4) Create an Account: Register or log in with an FC Porto account to proceed with your booking.
5) Enter Your Details: Fill in attendee information. For European matches, ID or passport numbers may be required.
6) Alternative Options: Tickets can also be bought in person at the Estádio do Dragão ticket office or official FC Porto stores in Porto.
Top tip: Sign up for FC Porto’s free membership ("Sócio Virtual") to access early ticket sales and better availability—especially for big matches.
South Stand (Sul) – Lower Tier near the Super Dragões: This is the heart of the hardcore support. You’ll be close to the chants, drums, and energy that define Porto’s matchday experience. Perfect if you want to be part of the action.
Central East or West Stands (Nascente/Poente – Sector 128 or 228): These offer a balanced, elevated view of the whole pitch—ideal for first-time visitors or neutral fans who want comfort and perspective.
Upper East Stand (Nascente Superior): More relaxed and great for kids, with a good view and less crowd intensity.
What’s Included: Entry to Estádio do Dragão: visit the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel, benches, press room, and pitchside.
Full access to the FC Porto Museum, which showcases trophies, iconic shirts, and multimedia displays of the club’s history—including the 2004 Champions League win.
How to Book:
1) Visit the official site: museufcporto.pt
2) Choose your date and time slot.
3) Purchase tickets online (combo tickets for Museum + Stadium are available).
4) Arrive 10–15 minutes early; tours usually start from the museum entrance.
Opening Hours: Daily, usually 10:00–19:00 (last entry around 17:30). Closed on matchdays and the day before European fixtures.
Top tip: Go early in the day to avoid crowds and allow 2+ hours to enjoy the full experience.
Address: Estádio do Dragão Via Futebol Clube do Porto, 4350-415 Porto, Portugal.
🚇Metro: The easiest and fastest way. Take Line A, B, C, or E to Estádio do Dragão station (right outside the stadium). From the city centre (e.g., Trindade station), it’s about a 10-minute ride.
🚌Bus: Several bus lines serve the area—check local apps or signage. Look for routes that stop near the Dragão metro or Antas area.
🚶On Foot: From the Bolhão area, it’s a 30–40 minute walk uphill. Pleasant if you're up for it, but the metro is more convenient.
🚗Car: There is parking around the stadium, but it gets very busy on matchdays. Arrive early or use park-and-ride options near metro lines.
Right next to Estádio do Dragão, expect clean, spacious rooms, a well-rated breakfast, and easy metro access to the rest of the city from this stylish hotel.
Located in the heart of Porto’s old town, this hotel blends 18th-century charm with modern design. Its outdoor pool and central location make it a scenic and comfortable base.
Set in a renovated Art Deco cinema, Moov offers minimalist comfort at a great price, near public transport. Located in Batalha Square, it’s ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
This sleek 4-star hotel is a few metro stops from the city centre and a short walk to Estádio do Dragão. With spacious rooms and direct metro access, it's a smart pick for fans.
THE CULINARY HEART OF NORTHERN PORTUGAL
Porto’s cuisine is bold, hearty, and deeply rooted in tradition, and the city is known for its generous portions, rich flavours, and comfort food classics that reflect its working-class soul.
At the top of the must-try list is the francesinha, a towering sandwich of cured meats, steak, and sausage smothered in cheese and a spicy beer-based sauce—often served with fries and a cold Super Bock. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s a rite of passage for any visitor.
Seafood is a staple, with dishes like arroz de marisco (seafood rice) and bacalhau à Brás (salt cod with egg and potato) served in both rustic tascas and modern eateries. Grilled sardines, especially during summer festivals, are a city-wide favourite.
For a sweet bite, try pastel de nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tart, or ovos moles, a regional delicacy from nearby Aveiro.
Porto’s go-to spot for the legendary francesinha—a meaty, cheesy, sauce-smothered sandwich that’s a rite of passage for visitors. It’s busy, buzzing, and beloved by locals.
Cufra Grill is a fan-friendly spot known for steaks, burgers, and energy. With quick service, cold beers, and big portions, it’s a top choice for hungry fans before the match.
Run by celebrity chef José Avillez, this popular spot blends Portuguese ingredients with creative flair. Think octopus with sweet potato or veal cheeks in port wine sauce.
Famous for its roasted pork sandwich with Serra cheese, Casa Guedes is a must for street food lovers. It’s quick, flavour-packed, and wallet-friendly.
RIVERSIDE TERRACES TO BACKSTREET BARS
Drinking in Porto is as much about atmosphere as it is about what’s in your glass. The city offers a rich drinking culture that blends tradition with lively social energy.
At the heart of it all is port wine, Porto’s namesake drink. Produced in the Douro Valley and aged in cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, port comes in styles like ruby, tawny, white, and vintage. Many cellars offer tastings and tours, where you can learn the history and sample the goods with stunning river views.
Porto also has a buzzing nightlife scene, especially around Rua das Galerias de Paris and Rua Cândido dos Reis, where the bars stay open late and the crowd spills into the street. Whether you’re into DJ sets, low-key wine bars, or late-night dancing, there’s something for every vibe.
You'll find a mix of traditional taverns, Irish pubs showing football, trendy wine bars, and low-key tascas pouring vinho verde or cheap house wine by the glass. Outdoor seating in squares like Praça dos Poveiros or Rua das Galerias de Paris makes it easy to settle in and soak up the vibe.
Located in Porto’s historic centre on Rua do Infante D. Henrique 18, Ryan’s is a classic Irish pub, known for its lively vibe and affordable pints, which broadcasts various sports
Located near the Palácio da Bolsa, Base is a chic, open-air bar perfect for riverside drinks. With ambient music and a great cocktail menu, it’s a favourite for laid-back sunsets.
This local grassroots club bar boasts one of Porto’s best-kept secrets—a terrace with stunning views over the Dom Luís I Bridge and Douro River. A local gem for unbeatable scenery.
This central bar is packed with screens, team scarves, and cheap drinks. It’s great for watching matches in town, socialising, and grabbing a beer before or after the game.
The beating heart of the fanbase is the Super Dragões, one of the oldest and most respected ultra groups in Portugal, founded in 1986. They occupy the south stand (Sul) at Estádio do Dragão and are known for their choreographed displays, booming chants, and relentless energy throughout the 90 minutes. Expect flares, banners, and an atmosphere that can feel more South American than European.
Porto’s fans are known for travelling in large numbers—both domestically and in Europe—and are particularly intense during big fixtures against Benfica, Sporting, or Champions League opponents.
While Super Dragões lead the noise, regular fans across the stadium join in with passion and pride. Chants like “Ninguém pára o Porto” ("No one stops Porto") echo around the ground, and the unity between players and supporters is striking.
Ninguém pára o Porto
“Ninguém pára o Porto” ("No one stops Porto")
Porto is a vibrant, historic city in northern Portugal, known for its stunning riverside setting, cobbled streets, and colourful buildings. Set along the Douro River, it’s home to iconic bridges, tiled churches, and the world-famous port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. The old town, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, buzzing with cafes, street music, and timeless charm. Porto combines tradition with creativity—offering gothic architecture, lively markets, and a growing modern arts scene. Whether you're here for football, food, or sightseeing, the city’s warmth, grit, and authenticity make it one of Europe’s most rewarding destinations. And just a short tram or bus ride away, you’ll find the Atlantic coast, with relaxed beach spots like Foz do Douro and Matosinhos.
CURRENCY: EUROS
Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this double-decker bridge links Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. It provides glorious views of the Douro River.
Often called one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, this neo-Gothic gem features a grand staircase, stained glass, and literary history.
More than just a train station, São Bento captures Porto’s artistic soul and is famous for its stunning blue-and-white tiled murals depicting scenes from Portuguese history.
A maze of narrow streets, colourful houses, and buzzing cafes, Ribeira is Porto’s most atmospheric neighbourhood. Perfect for strolling and a glass of wine by the river.
Greetings and Basics
Bom dia / Boa noite – Good morning / Good evening
Você fala inglês? – Do you speak English?
Pode me ajudar, por favor? – Can you help me, please?
Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
Onde fica…? – Where is…?
Eu gostaria de pedir… – I would like to order…
Há um caixa eletrônico por aqui? – Is there an ATM nearby?
Posso pagar com cartão? – Can I pay by card?
Onde posso pegar um táxi? – Where can I get a taxi?
Estou perdido/a. – I’m lost.
Com licença. – Excuse me.
Fica longe daqui? – Is it far from here?
Que horas são? – What time is it?
Muito obrigado/a! – Thank you very much!
Matchday phrases
Como chego ao estádio? – How can I get to the stadium?
Qual o melhor horário para ir ao estádio? – When is the best time to head to the stadium?
Quanto custam os ingressos? – How much are tickets?
Onde posso comprar ingressos? – Where can I buy tickets?
Que fila é esta? – Which row is this?
Onde ficam os banheiros? – Where are the toilets?
Posso beber no meu assento? – Can I drink in my seat?
Posso entrar com essa mochila? – Can I bring this backpack in?
Preciso de identidade para entrar? – Do I need ID to get in the ground?
Quanto custa uma cerveja? – How much is a beer?
Gol! – Goal!
Grande defesa! – Great save!
Árbitro! – Referee!
Falta! – Foul!
Muito bem! – Well done!
Boavista
Founded in 1903, Boavista FC is one of Portugal’s most historic and unique football clubs. Based in the Boavista district of Porto, the club is best known for its iconic black-and-white chequered shirts and fierce underdog spirit. While often overshadowed by city giants FC Porto, Boavista has carved out its own identity—built on resilience, loyalty, and working-class pride.
Boavista’s most famous moment came in the 2000–01 season, when they defied the odds to win the Primeira Liga, becoming only the second club outside Portugal’s “Big Three” to lift the title. That squad, known for its grit and tactical discipline, is still revered by fans today.
The club plays at Estádio do Bessa XXI, a compact, four-sided stadium with an intense atmosphere and deep local roots. Their ultras, the Panteras Negras, bring passion and pride to every home game.
Known as Os Axadrezados (The Chequered Ones), Boavista represents the raw side of Portuguese football—less glamour, more soul. From youth development to unforgettable European nights, the club remains a symbol of Porto’s footballing diversity and spirit. Supporting Boavista means standing with a team that fights, endures, and proudly wears its chequered heart on its sleeve.
THE PROCESS
Boavista FC tickets are generally easy to get, even on matchday, thanks to the smaller stadium size and loyal but local fanbase.
Online: Visit Boavista’s official site: boavistafc.pt. Look for the "Bilhetes" (Tickets) section before each home game. Tickets usually go on sale about a week in advance.
In Person: Tickets can be purchased directly at the Estádio do Bessa ticket office, located at the main entrance. Open several days before matches and from early on matchday.
At Club Store: Inside the stadium or nearby in the Boavista district, often combined with merchandise.
💶 Ticket Prices:
Prices are affordable—typically ranging from €10 to €25, depending on seat location and the opponent.
Top tip: ADD IN
Where to sit at Estádio do Bessa XXI
South Stand (Sul): Home of the Panteras Negras ultras—great if you want atmosphere, chants, and raw passion.
Central West or East Stand: Offers the best view of the pitch and is great for neutral fans or families.
North Stand (Norte): Often used for away fans or general seating—less vocal but still involved.
ADD IN LATER
Address: Estádio do Bessa XXI, Rua O Primeiro de Janeiro 4100-365, Porto, Portugal.
🚇Metro: Take Line A, B, C, or E to Casa da Música station. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk west to the stadium through the Boavista district.
🚌Bus: Lines 200, 201, and 502 stop near the stadium on Avenida da Boavista.
🚶On Foot: From the centre (Aliados), it’s about a 40-minute walk—flat and scenic through local neighbourhoods.
🚗Car: Limited street parking available; arrive early on matchdays.
Just across the road from Estádio do Bessa XXI, the Sheraton offers convenient luxury. Expect spacious rooms, a full spa, fine dining, and matchday views from upper floors.
A 5-minute walk from the stadium, Crowne Plaza delivers a quiet atmosphere with business-class comfort with spacious rooms, great service, and an excellent bar and restaurant.
Located in the heart of Porto’s old town, this hotel blends 18th-century charm with modern design. Its outdoor pool and central location make it a scenic and comfortable base.
Set in a renovated Art Deco cinema, Moov offers minimalist comfort at a great price, near public transport. Located in Batalha Square, it’s ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
THE CULINARY HEART OF NORTHERN PORTUGAL
Porto’s cuisine is bold, hearty, and deeply rooted in tradition, and the city is known for its generous portions, rich flavours, and comfort food classics that reflect its working-class soul.
At the top of the must-try list is the francesinha, a towering sandwich of cured meats, steak, and sausage smothered in cheese and a spicy beer-based sauce—often served with fries and a cold Super Bock. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it’s a rite of passage for any visitor.
Seafood is a staple, with dishes like arroz de marisco (seafood rice) and bacalhau à Brás (salt cod with egg and potato) served in both rustic tascas and modern eateries. Grilled sardines, especially during summer festivals, are a city-wide favourite.
For a sweet bite, try pastel de nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tart, or ovos moles, a regional delicacy from nearby Aveiro.
A no-frills Portuguese grillhouse located just steps from Estádio do Bessa. Come here for roast chicken, rice, and Super Bock before walking into the ground.
This Porto institution is popular with all fans—including Boavista supporters. Known for its francesinhas, it’s worth the trip across town.
Boavista fans with refined tastes can head back toward the centre for this chef-driven dining experience. Good for late dinner after a night game.
A quick Metro ride away, this place serves one of Porto’s most loved sandwiches—roast pork with Serra cheese. Ideal for a cheap bite on your way to or from the stadium.
RIVERSIDE TERRACES TO BACKSTREET BARS
Drinking in Porto is as much about atmosphere as it is about what’s in your glass. The city offers a rich drinking culture that blends tradition with lively social energy.
At the heart of it all is port wine, Porto’s namesake drink. Produced in the Douro Valley and aged in cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, port comes in styles like ruby, tawny, white, and vintage. Many cellars offer tastings and tours, where you can learn the history and sample the goods with stunning river views.
Porto also has a buzzing nightlife scene, especially around Rua das Galerias de Paris and Rua Cândido dos Reis, where the bars stay open late and the crowd spills into the street. Whether you’re into DJ sets, low-key wine bars, or late-night dancing, there’s something for every vibe.
You'll find a mix of traditional taverns, Irish pubs showing football, trendy wine bars, and low-key tascas pouring vinho verde or cheap house wine by the glass. Outdoor seating in squares like Praça dos Poveiros or Rua das Galerias de Paris makes it easy to settle in and soak up the vibe.
Just minutes away from Estádio do Bessa XXI, this spot is a go-to for Boavista fans. It offers affordable beers, pre-match snacks, and flags hanging from the ceiling.
Still a great option for Boavista fans before or after the game. About 20 minutes away by foot, it offers a quieter drink with a local, cultural feel.
Boavista fans heading back through central Porto often stop here for a drink with an unbeatable view over the Douro River and Dom Luís I Bridge. Simple drinks, unbeatable setting.
Catch Boavista games on TV if you’re not at the stadium. This downtown bar shows Liga Portugal matches and serves cold beers with a casual sports bar vibe.
Based in Porto’s western Boavista district, the club represents grit, defiance, and tradition. While smaller than FC Porto’s fanbase, Boavista supporters are incredibly passionate—especially when facing city rivals or playing under the floodlights at Estádio do Bessa XXI.
The main ultra group is the Panteras Negras (Black Panthers), named after the club’s iconic chequered black-and-white kits. They occupy the south stand at Bessa, bringing drums, chants, and raw energy to every home game. Their support is vocal, intense, and authentic—expect roaring anthems, thick local accents, and real football culture.
The atmosphere at Boavista matches is more intimate than at Dragão, but no less fierce. Fans are proud of their underdog identity and past glories, particularly the famous 2000–01 Primeira Liga title win, still celebrated as one of Portuguese football’s greatest shocks.
One of the most iconic chants you’ll hear at Estádio do Bessa XXI is:
🎵 "Boavista até morrer!"
“Boavista till I die!”
Simple, raw, and shouted at full volume, it’s a true anthem of the Panteras Negras. The chant is often delivered in rhythm with clapping or drums and picked up across the stand. It’s a defiant expression of loyalty, used in big moments and especially against rivals.
Porto is a vibrant, historic city in northern Portugal, known for its stunning riverside setting, cobbled streets, and colourful buildings. Set along the Douro River, it’s home to iconic bridges, tiled churches, and the world-famous port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. The old town, Ribeira, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, buzzing with cafes, street music, and timeless charm. Porto combines tradition with creativity — offering gothic architecture, lively markets, and a growing modern arts scene. Whether you're here for football, food, or sightseeing, the city’s warmth, grit, and authenticity make it one of Europe’s most rewarding destinations. And just a short tram or bus ride away, you’ll find the Atlantic coast, with relaxed beach spots like Foz do Douro and Matosinhos.
CURRENCY: EUROS
Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, this double-decker bridge links Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. It provides glorious views of the Douro River.
Often called one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, this neo-Gothic gem features a grand staircase, stained glass, and literary history.
More than just a train station, São Bento captures Porto’s artistic soul and is famous for its stunning blue-and-white tiled murals depicting scenes from Portuguese history.
A maze of narrow streets, colourful houses, and buzzing cafes, Ribeira is Porto’s most atmospheric neighbourhood. Perfect for strolling and a glass of wine by the river.
Greetings and Basics
Bom dia / Boa noite – Good morning / Good evening
Você fala inglês? – Do you speak English?
Pode me ajudar, por favor? – Can you help me, please?
Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
Onde fica…? – Where is…?
Eu gostaria de pedir… – I would like to order…
Há um caixa eletrônico por aqui? – Is there an ATM nearby?
Posso pagar com cartão? – Can I pay by card?
Onde posso pegar um táxi? – Where can I get a taxi?
Estou perdido/a. – I’m lost.
Com licença. – Excuse me.
Fica longe daqui? – Is it far from here?
Que horas são? – What time is it?
Muito obrigado/a! – Thank you very much!
Matchday phrases
Como chego ao estádio? – How can I get to the stadium?
Qual o melhor horário para ir ao estádio? – When is the best time to head to the stadium?
Quanto custam os ingressos? – How much are tickets?
Onde posso comprar ingressos? – Where can I buy tickets?
Que fila é esta? – Which row is this?
Onde ficam os banheiros? – Where are the toilets?
Posso beber no meu assento? – Can I drink in my seat?
Posso entrar com essa mochila? – Can I bring this backpack in?
Preciso de identidade para entrar? – Do I need ID to get in the ground?
Quanto custa uma cerveja? – How much is a beer?
Gol! – Goal!
Grande defesa! – Great save!
Árbitro! – Referee!
Falta! – Foul!
Muito bem! – Well done!