This top European tourist city has introduced a new alcohol ban

Porto has tightened alcohol sales and public drinking rules.

Porto, the coastal city in northwest Portugal, is renowned for its wine culture, which is deeply rooted in its history. Residents and visitors alike enjoy imbibing local port or sipping sangria by the Douro River from the afternoon to well into the evening – but under new regulations, alcohol sales will now face restrictions.

In a significant move to curb alcohol-related disturbances, Porto has imposed new rules around the sale of alcohol in public spaces. From Wednesday, 25th June, purchasing alcohol is prohibited from retail establishments, including supermarkets, convenience stores, wine shops and souvenir stalls between 9:00pm and 8:00am in Porto’s Containment Zone. During this time, alcohol can only be purchased from certain venues such as cafes, bars, restaurants and nightclubs. 

Residents and visitors alike enjoy imbibing local port or sipping sangria by the Douro River. (Image: Lauren de Sousa)

The crackdown on public drinking at night is part of an updated set of rules to the Movida do Porto regulation, which governs nightlife activities in Porto. According to Portugal.com, city officials have warned that without proper regulations, the unique atmosphere of the Movida Zone and its neighbouring areas could be diminished.

The new restrictions aim to help balance Porto’s vibrant nightlife with community well-being, improving public safety, managing the growing nightlife scene, and curbing disruptive drinking practices. Portugal.com also reported that previous enforcement measures had not served as effective deterrents, according to officials. If venues fail to follow the new regulations, they may face immediate closure or temporary shutdowns. 

The crackdown on public drinking at night is part of an updated set of rules to the Movida do Porto regulation. (Image: Getty/

The updated policy enlarges Porto’s Containment Zone, which now includes nearly the entire downtown area. St. John’s Day and New Year’s Eve will be exempt from the restrictions.

In addition to restricting alcohol sales, the updated rules also limit how late outdoor terraces can stay open; however, there’s some flexibility depending on which part of the zone you’re in (Movida Core, Protected Zone and Containment Zone).

For most tourists, the restrictions won’t dampen their experience, but they might need to plan nights out a bit more carefully. 

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