NEED TO KNOW IN 2026
Porto’s greatest strength in 2026 is its ability to combine growth, knowledge and sustainability. Through the Porto Forever Pact, the destination has established a collaborative framework that encourages event organisers, venues, hotels and local stakeholders to create positive environmental and social impact.
At the same time, Porto & North continues to strengthen its position as a leading hub for scientific, medical and technology-driven events. The region benefits from a strong network of researchers, physicians, academics and industry leaders across fields such as health sciences, engineering, biotechnology, digital technologies and sustainability. Supported by internationally recognised universities, research centres and innovation ecosystems, this knowledge community plays a key role in attracting and developing international congresses and meetings.
Combined with strong investment in hospitality, infrastructure and international connectivity, Porto continues to position itself as one of Europe’s most dynamic and future-focused meeting destinations.
DID YOU KNOW?
Did you know that Portugal is the world’s largest producer of cork, one of the most extraordinary natural materials on Earth? Most people know cork as the material used in wine stoppers, but its applications go far beyond that. Cork is used in spacecraft and satellite components, protective helmets, sustainable building materials, kayaks, surfboards, mobility solutions and high-performance industrial products.
The Porto & North region is home to some of the world’s leading companies and innovation centres dedicated to cork research and advanced applications, transforming a centuries-old natural resource into cutting-edge technology.
Combining sustainability, lightweight performance, durability and recyclability, cork perfectly illustrates how tradition and innovation come together in our destination.
BEST INCENTIVE IDEA IN 2026
Porto delivered an unexpected welcome. From a privileged terrace, guests watched Air Invictus unfold almost at eye level. Aircraft swept past so close they seemed almost within reach, offering a spectacular first glimpse of what the destination had in store. The following evening, the Atlantic took centre stage. Dinner by the sea, the sound of the waves, the ocean breeze and a golden sunset created a memorable beginning to the programme.
Even the working sessions became an experience. Meetings took place with the Atlantic stretching behind the speakers, turning the ocean itself into the backdrop for the day’s conversations. But nothing could quite prepare the group for São João. Porto was in celebration mode. The streets filled with music and laughter. Colourful balloons floated above the crowds. The aroma of grilled sardines drifted through the city. Arraiais, dancing, traditional music and thousands of people transformed every corner into a celebration. An entire city was celebrating and, for one unforgettable night, the group became part of it. From a hotel terrace in Gaia, surrounded by São João balloons and with Porto illuminated across the Douro River, they enjoyed a privileged view of the festivities. Then came midnight. The sky erupted in colour.
Fireworks reflected on the Douro, the city celebrated below and, from that terrace, it felt as though Porto had created the entire spectacle just for them. It was one of those rare moments in events when everything aligns: the place, the people, the atmosphere and the emotion. A moment so powerful that no photograph could ever fully capture what it felt like to be there. Yet Porto still had one final experience to offer.
The programme concluded with an elegant Gala Dinner in the historic Port Wine cellars, where guests celebrated together surrounded by centuries of tradition and the legacy of one of Portugal’s most iconic products. From aircraft almost within reach to dinners beside the Atlantic. From meetings overlooking the ocean to the sounds, flavours and colours of São João. And finally, a toast among the historic Port Wine lodges. Not simply a programme of events, but a collection of moments that could only happen in Porto & North.
PERFECT GIFT
If Porto & North could be taken home in a single gift, it would be a handcrafted piece created by its people. From the gold filigree of Gondomar and the UNESCO-recognised black pottery of Bisalhães to the Lenços dos Namorados, bobbin lace from Vila do Conde, and the timeless elegance of Port Wine, every object reflects the identity, creativity and traditions of the region. These unique products are not only beautiful keepsakes but also a way of preserving centuries of knowledge, craftsmanship and cultural heritage that continue to define Porto & North today.
