Laughter, music, fireworks and the irresistible scent of grilled sardines – in June, the storied streets of Lisbon and Porto burst into a new colour as tradition takes over. This is the month when Portugal dances to the rhythm of the Santos Populares Festival, a beloved celebration that fills the city’s streets with vibrant parades and joy. From hidden alleyways into prominent avenues, locals and visitors alike are invited to join the revelry!
As culture takes centre stage, you get the opportunity to experience Portugal’s Santos Populares: Festivals, parades, and summer magic like never before! The charm extends beyond the festivities, prompting you to uncover Lisbon and Porto’s history in a new light. Get ready to find the best things to do in Portugal in June – the Santos Populares festival is just the beginning!
When planning to travel to Portugal summer festivals, Lisbon is the first place that comes to mind – and rightly so! On the nights of June 12th and 13th magic fills the air as the Lisbon Santo António Festival, the capital’s beloved patron saint (and unofficial matchmaker), brings all generations onto the streets. Alfama, Mouraria and Graça, known as three of the city’s most historical neighbourhoods, come to life with colourful garlands, sizzling sardines and folk music.
Amidst such an energetic atmosphere, don’t lose track of time! As the evening ticks by, the party moves on to the Avenida da Liberdade, where the “Marchas Populares”, a lively parade of flamboyant costumes and traditional music, marches down Lisbon’s grand avenue. Prepare to glimpse a true sense of community and this destination’s unique soul.
While in summery Lisbon, why not discover the beauty that lies beyond the party and check off your bucket list some of the best things to do in Portugal in June? Belém and its wealth of historical monuments and delicious sweets is an obvious stop. Visit the Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém, both architectural marvels that reflect the country’s exuberant Manueline style. Afterwards, indulge in a flaky “pastel de nata,” that will energize you for the nightly adventures. Continue in Baixa and Chiado, two main districts, brimming with charming viewpoints, local commerce and inviting restaurants. Alternatively, you can wind down at a golden-hour cruise along the Tagus River, where Lisbon’s stunning silhouette unfolds before your eyes.
Thought only Lisbon was the soul of the traditional festivals in Portugal? Up north, you will find the wild, beating heart of the Santos Populares festivities! On the night of June 23rd, the São João Festival transforms Porto into one giant street party. Night skies glisten with stars and lights as the Douro River lights up with dazzling fireworks. Locals and curious visitors flood the streets armed with plastic hammers, playfully tapping on strangers’ heads as the quirky tradition of joyful chaos guides the celebrations. By the bonfires, people leap over the flames, wishing for good luck, while folk music keeps the party going through the night.
Ribeira and Vila Nova de Gaia in Porto’s scenic riverside, become epicentres of Saint John’s night. Food stalls, sizzling sardines and flowing drinks maintain the spirits high while the fireworks symbolize another year of this cherished festivity. The view of the illuminated sky with D. Luís Bridge will be hard to beat!
With a whole day in your hands, waiting in anticipation for the big night, exploring Porto’s cultural gems is a must! Step inside Livraria Lello to enter a magical world of ground-to-ceiling walls covered with books and a majestic staircase that makes this an elegant stop. At Bolhão Market, fresh produce, scentful flowers, and local food invite you to dive deep into the city’s culinary traditions.
Before exploring the other river bank, climb the Clérigos Tower for panoramic views – pay attention to every detail, as the city you’ll see then will be nothing like when Saint John’s festivities take over! In Vila Nova de Gaia, the famous riverfront Port Wine Cellars invite you to taste the region’s famed drink, defined by a sweet, nonetheless strong, flavour. Making this part of your Lisbon and Porto itinerary will enrich your travel to Portugal summer festivals, making your time in this European gem unforgettable!
If you’re looking for the perfect time to visit Portugal, June might be it! The days are long, and the warmer weather envelops the country’s cities with a vibrant summer energy. People spend more time outdoors enjoying the sun and the season’s delicious food (grilled sardines are just the tip of the iceberg!), granting you the possibility to observe more of local life. From early morning strolls through the historic neighbourhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto to the golden evenings on scenic terraces, June brings the possibility to and stumble upon hidden gems that rarely make it into the guidebooks!
Summer is also the time when Portugal cultural celebrations are in full bloom. From Porto to Lisbon, communities come together to honour their patron saints with music, dance and, of course, food! To be a part of these festivals is to become one with the true spirit of Portugal. To make it even better, you can have the best of both worlds. See UNESCO Heritage Sites, visit Port Wine Cellars and admire different towns’ coastal beauty during the day, and at night, let tradition take over with all its glory! Thanks to the Portugal train travel between cities available options or a quick car drive, Lisbon and Porto become easy to include on your memorable summer journey.
June in Portugal is a celebration of life, tradition and lifetime memories! Whether you’re dancing your way through Lisbon’s historical quarters or watching the fireworks light up over the Douro River in Porto’s São João night, the Santos Populares Festival is the perfect excuse to visit this country and experience its sense of community like nowhere else! Plus, you can visit both from the comfort of a scenic train ride or a car drive past hidden gems and lush landscapes.
As we walked you through what to expect during the Santo António and São João festivities, now is the perfect time to embrace the rhythm of summer and start planning. Learn more about the best time to visit Portugal for local culture and benefit from local insight to ensure your journey includes the top things to do and valuable local experiences.