Looks like the sun is finally coming out! Summer is just around the corner, and we all know what that means: blue skies, warm days, girls in tiny skirts and hot guys in tank tops (we don’t discriminate here at Oporto Blog!). With that being said, if you want to enjoy all the good things that usually come along with the Summer, you must spend most of your time in the outdoors. Whether you feel like going on a day trip adventure, taking a stroll by the beach or venture into more radical activities, a visit to Porto might be just what you need!
HERE ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN PORTO TO ENJOY OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
JOGGING
Photo by: oportoblog
You, your legs and a pair of comfortable running sneakers – here’s the quintessential outdoor activity! If you’re looking for the best places to go jogging in Porto, then look no further than the magnificent beach promenades of Matosinhos and Foz do Douro. The gentle breeze and the smell of the near-by sea will provide the perfect backdrop for your morning running routine. Besides, as both promenades boast some seriously interesting attractions, it’s also a great way to keep crossing some local landmarks off your list while exercising.
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CAMPING
Photo by: franciscocrusat/123RF
Although you can find several well-rated campsites around the city, such as Campidouro or the Orbitour facilities in Angeiras and Madalena, if you want the ultimate camping experience, we dare you to be a little edgier and try camping in the wild! And when in Porto, there is no better place to do this than in Praia da Lomba, a stunning river beach surrounded by green woods in the municipality of Gondomar. Don’t be scared though – if you make the short trip in the Summer, you will find several other groups of intrepid wild-campers who’ll be happy to help you!
MINIGOLF
Photo courtesy of: Clube de Minigolfe do Porto
For something a little lighter, why not engage in a mini-golf match along with your travel partner? Located in Foz, the Porto Mini-Golf Club is the most popular of its kind in the city, and the perfect place for some innocent fun. The course is made of two different 18-hole circuits, and a single-ticket to play in one of them costs 2,50€. The club is open every day between 10am and 6pm.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Photo by: oportoblog
If you’re more of a “big thrills” kind of person, then rent a bike in Porto and head straight to Valongo. This small municipality, located 15km away from the city centre, is popular for its mountains and steep surfaces, which is why it’s been a favourite among local mountain bikers for years now! However, its popularity has only been recognized in the last couple of years, which is why a brand new BTT Centre has been inaugurated there in 2017. We’re talking about 130km worth of biking trails, which are split into 6 circuits, each with different features and difficulty levels. Don’t forget your helmet – you might need it!
Main Entrance – Travessa São Domingos, 200
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SURFING
Photo by: Nuno Carvalho
We know Portugal has been on many surfers’ wish-list lately, but don’t expect Nazaré-like waves when coming here! However, and since we bet you’re no McNamara, we are sure you’ll still be pleased with yet another amazing outdoor activity in Porto. Although there are several companies where you can rent surf gear or buy private surfing sessions, we recommend the Matosinhos-based Surfaventura. Besides surfing, this company also offers private lessons on other extreme water sports, such as windsurf, bodyboard, paddle or skimboard.
Avenida General Norton de Matos, 378
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YOGA CLASSES
For the final outdoor activity on our list, we bring you a calmer and more holistic experience. Every Saturday morning (9-12), the city hall organizes free Pilates, Yoga and Tai Chi classes at the Palácio de Cristal Gardens – and everyone can join in! Additionally, between May and September, free sessions are also arranged in the City Park every Sunday morning (9h30-12). After all, our soul could also use some exercising every once in a while!
Which of these outdoor activities are you the most eager to try? Did we miss any other major experience? Let us know on the comments section!