Portugal · City Guide
Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia)
Vila Nova de Gaia is the south bank of the Douro River facing Porto, home to the historic port wine lodges that have produced and stored port wine for over 300 years and providing outstanding views across the river to Porto's Ribeira waterfront and the magnificent Dom Luís I Bridge. From cellar tours and tastings at Sandeman, Graham's, Taylor's and other great names of port wine to the beautiful cable car, riverside restaurants and the contemporary art at the Afurada neighbourhood, Gaia is an essential complement to any Porto visit.
Explore Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia) →Elect's take
"Vila Nova de Gaia is where the history and craft of port wine becomes physically tangible. The combination of the historic lodges, outstanding river views and excellent wine tasting makes it the most wine-immersive experience available in Portugal and one of the finest anywhere."
The port wine lodge cellars of Gaia represent some of the most extraordinary wine tourism available anywhere in the world. Graham's, Taylor's, Sandeman, Ferreira and dozens of other great names open their historic cellars and provide tastings that range from basic tawny to extraordinary vintage ports of remarkable age. The cable car from the riverside up to the Serra do Pilar convent provides spectacular views. The Gaia riverside has been regenerated with outstanding restaurants. The Dom Luís I Bridge provides one of the most beautiful walkable river crossings in Europe with stunning views in both directions. The Afurada neighbourhood further west has an authentic fishing community atmosphere with excellent grilled fish.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Port Wine Lodges
Historic cellars of Graham's, Taylor's, Sandeman and more with outstanding tasting experiences.
Douro River Views
Outstanding panoramic views across the Douro to Porto's magnificent Ribeira waterfront.
Dom Luís I Bridge
One of Europe's most beautiful iron bridges providing walkable river crossing with spectacular views.
Gaia Cable Car
A scenic cable car from the riverside up to the convent with panoramic views.
Riverside Restaurants
Outstanding seafood and Portuguese cuisine along the regenerated Gaia waterfront.
Afurada Village
An authentic fishing community neighbourhood with excellent grilled fish restaurants.