Porto, Italy
Estádio do Dragão
Primeira Liga
Planning a trip to see FC Porto play at the iconic Estádio do Dragão is an exciting experience for any football fan. There are several ways to secure your football experience in Porto. You can purchase match tickets only, or opt for a package trip that includes hotel accommodation and sometimes flights. On this page, we compare different options from English travel agencies and ticket companies that offer Porto tickets and travel packages. By comparing the different providers, you can find the option that best suits your preferences and budget. Remember that availability can be limited for big matches, especially Champions League fixtures or games against rivals like Benfica and Sporting CP, so booking in advance is recommended.
When comparing football trips to Porto, it's important to look beyond just the price. Different providers offer various packages with different inclusions. Some offer basic ticket-only options, while others provide comprehensive packages with hotel accommodation, transfers, and even guided tours of the stadium or city. The seating category at Estádio do Dragão can significantly impact your experience and price, with options ranging from standard seating to premium areas with better views. Match category also affects pricing, with high-profile games against major opponents or European fixtures commanding higher prices. Check what's included in each package carefully, as some may offer additional perks like stadium tours or city excursions that enhance your overall Porto experience.
Securing tickets to watch Porto at Estádio do Dragão can be done through several channels. While buying directly from the club is possible, it often requires membership and doesn't guarantee tickets for popular matches. The providers compared on this page offer a more straightforward approach, with guaranteed seating and clear pricing. Tickets are typically categorized by seating areas, with prices varying accordingly. The best atmosphere is often found in the more passionate supporter sections, though these may not always be available to visitors. For high-profile matches against Benfica or Sporting CP, or Champions League fixtures, demand is extremely high and early booking is essential. Most providers deliver tickets electronically or arrange collection in Porto, with clear instructions provided before your trip.
Porto is a beautiful coastal city with a rich football culture. The local fans, known as "Portistas," are passionate and create an electric atmosphere on match days. Before the game, many supporters gather at bars and cafes in the Ribeira district or around Avenida dos Aliados. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers plenty to explore before kick-off. Getting to Estádio do Dragão is easy using Porto's efficient metro system - the stadium has its own metro station (Estádio do Dragão). Arrive early to soak in the pre-match atmosphere and watch the warm-ups. Porto fans are generally welcoming to visitors, though it's advisable to avoid wearing rival team colors, especially for derby matches. The stadium experience is modern and comfortable, with excellent visibility from most seats.
Estádio do Dragão (Dragon Stadium) is Porto's impressive home ground, opened in 2003 as a venue for Euro 2004. With a capacity of approximately 50,000 spectators, it's one of Portugal's premier football venues. The stadium features a distinctive design with a curved roof structure resembling a dragon's back, paying homage to the club's nickname "Dragões" (Dragons). The facilities are modern and well-maintained, with good visibility from all seating areas. The stadium houses the FC Porto Museum, which is worth visiting to learn about the club's rich history. Located in the eastern part of Porto, the stadium is easily accessible via the city's metro system. The acoustics inside the stadium are excellent, creating a cauldron of noise during important matches, especially when the passionate Super Dragões supporters group is in full voice.
When planning your Porto football experience, you'll need to decide whether to book a complete package or just purchase match tickets. Package trips typically include match tickets, hotel accommodation, and sometimes flights and transfers. These packages offer convenience and peace of mind, with everything arranged for you. This option is ideal for those who want a hassle-free experience or are visiting Porto for the first time. Alternatively, buying tickets only gives you more flexibility to arrange your own accommodation and travel, potentially saving money if you're comfortable making independent arrangements. This option works well for more experienced travelers or those who may already have accommodation in Porto. Consider factors like your budget, desired level of convenience, and how comfortable you are with making your own arrangements when choosing between these options.
FC Porto's most intense rivalry is with Benfica, in what is known as "O Clássico" (The Classic). This fixture represents not just a sporting contest but also the historical rivalry between Portugal's two largest cities, Porto and Lisbon. Matches between these teams are always fiercely contested and tickets are in extremely high demand. Porto also maintains a strong rivalry with Sporting CP, another Lisbon giant, completing Portugal's "Big Three" (Os Três Grandes). The rivalry with Braga has intensified in recent years as Braga has emerged as a competitive force in Portuguese football. These derby matches showcase the best of Portuguese football passion, with choreographed displays, intense chanting, and electric atmospheres. If you're looking to experience Portuguese football at its most passionate, attending one of these rivalry matches is highly recommended, though securing tickets can be challenging.
FC Porto is one of Portugal's most successful clubs, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1893. The club enjoyed its golden era under José Mourinho in the early 2000s, winning the UEFA Cup in 2003 and the Champions League in 2004. Porto has consistently produced and developed world-class talent. The club has featured several notable English players over the years, including Kenedy who had a loan spell at Porto. Other international stars who have worn the blue and white include Deco, Hulk, James Rodriguez, and Radamel Falcao. Porto is known for its excellent scouting network, particularly in South America, and has a reputation for developing players before selling them to Europe's elite clubs. The club has won numerous domestic titles and continues to be a force in Portuguese football and a regular participant in European competitions.
Porto offers plenty to enjoy beyond football. The historic Ribeira district, with its colorful buildings and riverside restaurants, is perfect for sampling local cuisine and the famous Port wine. Don't miss a visit to one of the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can tour the facilities and enjoy tastings. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge offers spectacular views of the city and river, while the Livraria Lello bookstore is considered one of the world's most beautiful. The São Bento Railway Station is famous for its stunning azulejo tile panels depicting Portuguese history. For art lovers, the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art and its surrounding gardens are must-visits. Porto's beautiful beaches are just a short trip away, ideal for relaxation before or after match day. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, though the historic trams offer a charming alternative for seeing the sights.