When Porto Sang to Me: Three Nights in Porto – A Journey Through Traditional, Modern, and Global Sounds

When I arrived in Porto, I came for the river views and the natas, those golden, creamy, sweet Portuguese custard tarts. I didn’t expect the city itself to sing.

Each night, I wandered into a different world of music. Traditional Fado, chill electronic sounds, and international jazz, all shared with people I met along the way. These nights made my journey unforgettable.

Night 1: Fado — The Soul of Portugal
On my first night, I wanted to feel the heartbeat of Portuguese tradition. I found Ideal Clube de Fado, tucked into a narrow alley in the Baixa, Porto’s downtown district.

The venue was small, cozy, and softly lit by candles. A glass of port wine sat on my table as we gathered around the performers. You sit close to the singers and guitarists, and it feels like they’re pouring their hearts out just for you.

The lady singer had a powerful, sorrowful voice and deep emotional expression. Even without knowing Portuguese, I could feel the meaning in every note. It truly embodied Fado’s melancholic and expressive spirit.

Night 2: Chill Electronic Vibes at Socorro

The next evening, I went to Socorro, a record and book shop in the Fradelos neighborhood. But Socorro is more than a shop. It hosts live music events and has a vibrant creative energy.

Alistair, my former roommate from a co-living space, messaged me about a show happening that night. I ended up seeing a live performance by Guilherme Minnemann, joined by António Tocas, Diogo Caldas, and João “Rato” Moura. They performed their project Friends Will, a smooth blend of downtempo electronic music with chillout, instrumental, and sampling elements.

The sound was textured and soulful, combining electronic beats with live instruments and soft vocal layers. The energy in the room was strong and warm. DJ Fabian Araya played a brilliant set that completed the night’s atmosphere.

The lighting in the room glowed with deep blues, purples, and soft pinks. It created a dreamlike mood. This was Porto’s underground music scene, alive and expressive.

Night 3: Global Jazz by the River
Saturday brought me to MrBean's Music Club, once again thanks to a group message from Alistair. The venue is in Miragaia, a historic part of the city near the Douro River.

The space was small, warm, and full of creative energy. Musicians from around the world came together to jam. Guitars, saxophones, drums, and keyboards filled the room with spontaneous rhythms and shared emotion. The audience sat close, listening closely. Some even joined the musicians on stage.

It reminded me that music is a universal language. Here in Porto, it flows through the city and speaks to anyone willing to listen.

If you are visiting Porto, don’t miss these beautiful music nights. Come for the views and the natas. Stay for the songs the city will sing to you.