Can you name any famous Porto players? If you’re a soccer coach or a determined player, of course you can! We’re talking about the likes of Fabio Viera, Reuben Neves, Diogo Costa, and many more.
All these players have ascended through the ranks, starting from their early days at the FC Porto academy and ultimately achieving great success. As an avid soccer player in the US, or a coach to these aspiring stars, you will be more than familiar with the ultimate experience of a youth soccer tour.
However, a youth soccer tour is no small commitment, there is a lot of work behind the scenes, not just from the team traveling, but also the organization and the academy itself. Our goal is to provide you with a glimpse into the intricate details of an FC Porto soccer tour, showcasing why it could be the perfect choice for you!
The History of FC Porto
FC Porto, or Futebol Clube do Porto, was founded on 28 September 1893. It is one of the Big Three teams in Portugal, the others being Benfica and Sporting CP. They are nicknamed dragões (Dragons), for the mythical creature atop the club’s crest. The team adorn bright blue and whites in their kit.
Porto are the second most decorated team in Portuguese football, with 84 major trophies. FC Porto has been home to many elite managers over the years but are currently under the management of Sérgio Paulo Marceneiro da Conceição.
Timeline of FC Porto
1893 – Club is established
1906 – The club is reestablished after some years of inactivity
1922 – Winning its first big national title: Campeonato de Portugal
1935 – First-time national top-league champions
1952 – Moving to Estádio das Antas
1956 – Winning their first double
1987 – First European title
1999 – Become the first Portuguese team to win the national top-league five times in a row.
2003 – First UEFA cup title
2004 – First Champions League title
2011 – First UEFA Europa League title.
What Exactly does an FC Porto Soccer Tour Involve?
The FC Porto Soccer Tour, offered by inspiresport, is a comprehensive package that allows teams to train in official FC Porto gear, under the guidance of the club’s own coaches. This unique experience takes place at the club’s official training facility, Constituição Park, where participants engage in professional-level training sessions throughout their stay.
A key feature of the tour is the opportunity for teams to test their skills in matches against local teams of a similar standard. This practical application of training is a highlight for many participants, offering a real taste of competitive soccer in Portugal.
FC Porto, known for its impressive collection of titles including the Champions League in 2004 and the Europa League in 2011, adds prestige to the tour. Participants get an exclusive look at the club’s history and successes through a visit to the FC Porto Interactive Museum and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Estádio do Dragão. The tour concludes with a group lunch at the stadium, providing stunning views of the pitch.
The package includes several benefits to enhance the experience:
- Training in FC Porto Dragon Force kit
- Access to Constituição Park’s facilities
- Scheduled sessions with FC Porto’s coaching staff
- Matches against local teams
- A tour of FC Porto’s museum and Estádio do Dragão
- Half board accommodation at a quality hotel
- Support from a dedicated Account Manager and an inspiresport representative
Things to do in Porto, Portugal
For a youth team visiting FC Porto on a youth soccer tour, Porto offers a wealth of activities and sights to explore beyond the soccer field. Immerse yourselves in the city’s rich history by wandering through the Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with colorful houses and bustling cafes along the Douro River. Take a moment to marvel at the intricate azulejos (ceramic tiles) that adorn the São Bento Railway Station. For a taste of local culture, visit the famous Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, known for its stunning interior and rumored inspiration for the Harry Potter series. Don’t miss the chance to cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge for panoramic views of the city. After a day of exploring, unwind in one of Porto’s green spaces like the Crystal Palace Gardens. This blend of cultural, historical, and leisure activities ensures a well-rounded and memorable experience for any youth team on the FC Porto Youth Soccer Tour.
Set against the backdrop of Porto, a city rich in history and culture, the tour offers more than just soccer. Porto’s Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and the city’s famous Port wine cellars offer diverse experiences outside the training ground. The city’s vibrant cultural scene and delicious cuisine add further value to the tour, making it a comprehensive experience both on and off the field.
FC Porto Stadium Tour
Your FC Porto Soccer Tour will include a tour of the famous ‘Estádio do Dragão’. FC Porto’s stadium has a capacity for 50033 attendants, making it the third largest stadium in Portugal. with the unique advantage of being surrounded by open green spaces, pockets of thriving residential areas, and is easily accessed from their sport complex.
Locals across Porto hold this stadium in their hearts, not just from a soccer point of view, but as a great snippet into wonderful culture. Crafted by Portuguese architect Manuel Salgado, the stadium was built to serve as a replacement for Porto’s previous home, the Estádio das Antas, and to also serve as one of the venues for the UEFA Euro 2004 final tournament.
Is an FC Porto Soccer Tour Right For You?
Does an FC Porto Tour sound like the perfect trip for you? Get in touch with a member of the inspiresport team to find out more! Alternatively, if there are any other tours you are curious about, we welcome you to browse the other youth soccer programs available.