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Introduction

Attending a match at the Estádio do Dragão is a great experience and well worth it if you’re visiting the city. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Getting Tickets

• Tickets for the match versus Casa Pia in the Primeira Liga were €12 each (£20 in total for two), but expect higher prices for bigger fixtures.
• The FC Porto website can be tricky to navigate due to the language barrier if you can’t translate it (or speak Portuguese), but it’s best to buy directly rather than use third-party sellers.

Pre-Match Experience

Where to Drink Before the Game

• The general consensus is to drink in Porto’s city centre before heading to the stadium.
• We opted for the Bolhão area as Rach was getting a tattoo there. I had a few glasses of red wine and Port, a bit more sophisticated than my usual Thatchers Gold at Ashton Gate. 
• The locals were friendly, and I got some insights into Porto’s squad—plus some laughs when I asked if they’d miss the injured Wendell.

Getting to the Stadium

• The metro is the easiest option. From Bolhão, it was a four-stop journey to Estádio do Dragão station.
• As soon as you exit the station, you’re right outside the stadium.

At the Stadium

• We bought a matchday scarf for €5 before heading inside.
• No alcohol is sold inside the ground, which was surprising given that Super Bock sponsors the South Stand. If you want a drink, grab one at a food stall outside before entering.

Post-Match Travel

• If staying in central Porto, the metro is the easiest way back.
• We were staying in Valbom, so we originally planned to take the metro one stop and then get a taxi.
• Instead, we tried getting an Uber directly outside the stadium—big mistake. The traffic was terrible, and multiple drivers canceled on us.

Final Thoughts

Watching FC Porto at Estádio do Dragão was a great experience. The match itself was routine, but the stadium and overall experience were well worth it.

Key Takeaways:

• Ticket prices: Cheap, especially for fans used to British prices.
• Transport: The metro is by far the best option, avoid getting a taxi right outside the stadium.
• Drinks: No alcohol inside, so drink before heading in.
• Atmosphere: Ultras add to the experience, lively in bursts, but definitely depends on the game.