Best fado shows in Porto
Fado is a musical symbol that reflects Portuguese culture and tradition. This melancholic genre, which comes from the Latin word “fatum”, could be best translated as "fate", it’s best described as a feeling of anticipation, nostalgia, pain and love. Although it’s something impossible to describe until you experience it.
Attending a fado show in Porto is an essential way to experience Portuguese culture. Find out all about fado and which are the best fado shows in Porto below.
Fado show at Casa da Guitarra
Fado in Porto at "Ideal Clube de Fado" - Authentic Fado
Fado at the Monastery of São Bento da Vitória by Casa da Guitarra
Presidencial Fado: Fado Show at São Bento Station
Fado music, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2011, is a traditional Portuguese singing performance consisting of a lead singer typically accompanied by two instruments: the Portuguese guitar and the fado viola.
Popularly, it is said that fado is to Portugal what tango is to Argentina, especially after the famous singer Amália Rodrigues helped develop and define it. Needless to say, listening to fado is one of the best things to do in Porto.
Top 5 Fado houses in Porto
Ideal Clube de Fado
The Ideal Clube de Fado is one of Porto's most authentic Fado venues, hosting intimate concerts including a Port wine tasting. It is also the only place in Porto where you can enjoy an exclusive repertoire of Traditional Fado performed by the most important local singers.
• Address: Rua do Ateneu Comercial do Porto 32, 4000-380.
Casa da Guitarra
The show at Casa da Guitarra lasts 60 minutes and includes a glass of port wine. It is located in the emblematic Ribeira district of Porto.
• Address: Avenida Vímara Peres 49, 4000-545.
This fado house has also introduced an unforgettable fado experience at the Monastery of São Bento da Vitória.
Presidencial Fado
Presidencial Fado is a show that takes place at São Bento train station. A 1-hour concert of the most authentic fado in an intimate and charming space, completed with a glass of port wine.
Fado show at Casa da Guitarra
Fado in Porto at "Ideal Clube de Fado" - Authentic Fado
Fado at the Monastery of São Bento da Vitória by Casa da Guitarra
Presidencial Fado: Fado Show at São Bento Station
Casa da Mariquinhas
One of the oldest Fado houses in Porto, reopened in 2011 offering traditional Portuguese food with live music. Don't miss the bacalao a la Mariquinhas!
• Address: Rua de São Sebastião, 25-27, very close to Porto Cathedral.
Restaurante O Fado
For a more upmarket experience, book an evening tour of Porto with dinner and fado. Start at sunset with a minibus tour of Porto's most important sights, ending at a Fado restaurant with dinner, wine, dessert and coffee.
Sightseeing experiences in Porto with Fado
In case you want to explore the city and also enjoy a Fado show, this activity combines a panoramic tour of Porto with dinner and live authentic Fado. It includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.
If you prefer to experience the sunset in a different way, the Sunset Pub Crawl is a perfect alternative: 3 local bars, 6 drinks included, a traditional Bifana and unforgettable views of the Douro. Ideal for those looking for a relaxed but lively evening.
Origins of Fado
Fado emerged in the late 18th century in the heart of Lisbon, specifically in the Alfama neighborhood, where sailors told stories of challenges, losses and anguish from their voyages. It is considered Portugal's musical pride, thanks to singers like Amália Rodrigues, Carlos do Carmo, Mariza and Ana Moura.
As you can see, the vibrant city of Porto is full of activities that can make your holiday an unforgettable experience. Discover all the tours and activities to do in Porto.
Fado show at Casa da Guitarra
Fado in Porto at "Ideal Clube de Fado" - Authentic Fado
Fado at the Monastery of São Bento da Vitória by Casa da Guitarra
Presidencial Fado: Fado Show at São Bento Station