Bacchus and his teammates

New running tour in 2026

Welcome to Porto and to running in its old historic center: one minute you’re sprinting like you’ve got winged sandals, and the next, you’re looking for any excuse to stop to admire the scenery—or perhaps a wine menu. 

At Porto Running Tours, we’ve leaned into this issue with our brand-new route: "Bacchus & Friends." It’s a tribute to the chaotic energy of the gods who inspired people to build this city. 

We’ll be channeling Mercury, the fleet-footed god of commerce who turned Porto into a global trade powerhouse, while desperately trying not to surrender to the siren call of Bacchus, the god of wine and "bad decisions that seemed like a good idea at the time." 

It’s a tour where your heart rate and your thirst will compete for the podium. Read on to see what to expect.

Porto, a city of merchants and wine. 

The history of Porto is essentially a centuries-old "bromance" between these two deities, Mercury and Bacchus. The city’s wealth didn't just fall from Olympus; it was forged through the mercantile spirit of its people, who realized that Bacchus’s favorite nectar, wine, was the ultimate currency. 

As we run in the city from spot to spot, but also along the Douro, we see the bridges stretching toward our neighbor, Vila Nova de Gaia. In a stroke of mythological genius, the wine is stored on the side of the river named 'new town of Gaia ', Gaia being the primordial Goddess of Earth herself. It’s a literal grounded strategy: Mother Earth keeps the wine cool and aged to perfection while we, the mere mortals, sweat out our sins on the granite hills of Porto.

Moderation is key.

Of course, a mix of speed and spirits requires some serious mediation, which is where Metis comes in. The goddess of justice, but also wisdom and deep thought, acts as our spiritual referee (or "sober coach") to ensure some balance.  

Mercury wants you to set a PB,  Bacchus will force you to investigate every cellar door...  

Metis is here to remind us that the true path to finishing the tour lies somewhere in the middle.

We’ll guide you through the historic Porto's squares and alleys with just enough wit to keep your mind off your calves. We'll delve into some the city's taste for neoclassic architecture and sculptures, and offer you the opportunity to refresh your knowledge about Greek and Roman mithology.  

So, are you ready to run like a god and hydrate like a legend (post-run)?

Learn more and book your spot. Tap: Bacchus & Friends - new running tour

note: no alcoholic beverages are served during the tour.