ARE YOU KIDDING ME??! Casa da Guitarra was the best last-minute decision I've ever made. The night was still young and I wanted to throw in one more cultural experience before I left. My hotel was on the Porto side, and luckily, Casa da Guitarra was just a 9-minute walk from where I was staying. If you're wondering which authentic Fado experience to choose from--this is the one.
Casa da Guitarra divides their 60 minute show into two parts. Both parts featured two musicians: one on the guitar and the other on a cavaquinho, a traditional Portuguese 4-string guitar, and a singer. We had two different singers, but the one who stood out the most was the incredible Carla. Carla has this bright, shining energy that can't help but make you smile and swell with emotion, which is perfect for Fado. I couldn't take my eyes off her.
During intermission, they give you a quick break and offer you a glass of red Porto, which adds the perfect local touch if you haven't tried the port wines yet. Pro tip: arrive early to snag the best seats! read more