Summary
Discover Vila Nova de Gaia
Vila Nova de Gaia is located just across the Douro River from Porto (Oporto). This area is the true home of Port Wine, featuring lodges from historic port wine producers lined along the “Ribeira,” presenting their caves, aging tanks, and tasting rooms. Notice how the rooftops of lodges are adorned with English names while humble lodges belonging to local producers can often be found nestled in the lower slopes.
The establishment of Vila Nova de Gaia as a town dates back to 1225, when King Alfonso granted it town status. He swiftly transferred control to the aristocracy to combat exorbitant shipping charges imposed by the bishops of Oporto. Despite its seemingly modern name, Gaia has a rich history that predates Roman times, making it more than just a “suburb” of Porto.
Visiting here is a must, especially for those who appreciate the fortified wine known as Port. This unique beverage undergoes a remarkable transformation from grapes sourced from the steep terraces in the warm Alto Douro region to its final form in Vila Nova de Gaia, where it is meticulously aged in a temperate maritime climate before being enjoyed worldwide.
For the most exhilarating approach to Vila Nova de Gaia—if you’re staying in Porto—consider walking across the Dom Luis Bridge, an iconic structure that spans the Douro. Opened in 1886 and designed by Teófilo Seyrig, a student of Gustave Eiffel, this bridge can easily be accessed from Porto’s San Bento Station, where you can take a moment to appreciate the artistic recounting of Portugal’s transport history through the work of artist Jorge Colaço with around 20,000 decorative tiles.
From the bridge, admire views of the waterfront, where you might still spot a few rabelos—traditional boats once vital for transporting wine from the Alto Douro estates to Porto. These boats are particularly prominent during the festival of Sao Joao (Saint John) on June 23rd or 24th when sailing conditions permit thrilling races from the mouth of the Douro to the Ponte Dom Luis.
Where to Go to Taste Port Wines and Get Cellar Tours
When it comes to Port lodges, everyone has their favorites. Some offers extensive tours, while others are more streamlined. Tastings may range from complimentary for selected vintages to nominal fees for exclusive experiences. Here is a curated selection of notable Port lodges.
Smaller and Lesser-Known Port Wine Producers
Real Companhia Velha – One of the best tours and tastings, with three options available.
Contact: João Castro
Tel: +351 223 775 194
turismo@realcompanhiavelha.pt
Av. Ramos Pinto, 400 – Vila Nova de Gaia
Tel. +351 223 707 000
Fax. +351 223 775 099
Open Monday-Friday, excluding public holidays.
Wiese & Krohn, Sucrs.,Lda.
Rua Serpa Pinto, 149
4400-307 V. N. Gaia
Portugal
Open daily during the summer season (June-September).
Kopke – recognized as one of the oldest Port wines, located at Quinta de S. Luiz near Pinhao. Established in 1638 by Christiano Kopke, a German producer. Tastings are available for a fee.
Rua Serpa Pinto, 183-191, 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia
Tel. 223752395
Cálem Port Wine Lodges – Founded in 1859 by Mr. António Alves Cálem and is the first lodge visible when you cross the Dom Luis Bridge from Porto.
Avenida Diogo Leite, 344 Vila Nova de Gaia
Larger Port Wine Producers
Rua do Choupelo nº 250
4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
GPS Coordinates: 41.13394, -8.61435
Tel. +351 223 742 800
Fax. +351 223 742 899
Visit hours: Monday to Friday: 10am to 6pm, Saturday-Sunday: 10am to 5pm.
Also offers dining at Restaurant “Barão de Fladgate”
Rua Rei Ramiro 514 – 4400 Vila Nova de Gaia
Tel: +351 22 377 64 84/85 • Fax: +351 22 377 64 80
Rua Barao de Forrester, 412, Vila Nova de Gaia 4400-088, Portugal
Tours available year-round, seven days a week, from 10 am to 6 pm.
Sandeman (visiting information available in PDF)
Visitors to Sandeman Lodges will find an intriguing display of over 60 old bottles at the Sandeman Port Wine Museum.
Largo Miguel Bombarda 3 Vila Nova de Gaia
Understanding How Port Wines Are Made
There are numerous wine regions worth exploring across Europe, each with its historical and romantic allure. Nonetheless, the production of Port wine amidst the hillside terraces along the banks of the Douro river in the Alto Douro region offers a unique perspective on the art of winemaking.
Port is a sweet, fortified wine. While some dryness is appreciated in robust table wines, it does not suit the lush and sweet character of Port. Grape seeds often release undesirable bitterness when ruptured during mechanical pressing. This is where traditional granite tanks known as Lagares come into play. Found throughout many estates in the Alto Douro, these open-top tanks, around 75 meters high, allow grapes to be “stomped” by a line of barefoot harvesters. Interestingly, human feet are much gentler with the grapes, resulting in less seed rupture, thereby preserving the wine’s quality. This gentle process also introduces air into the mix, aiding fermentation. Today, some facilities utilize robotic lagar technology to mimic this ancient practice while offering occasional demonstrations of traditional foot-stomping.
A thorough explanation of Port wine production can be found on the Graham’s Port Blog.
Portugal has maintained its tradition of foot stomping grapes, particularly for premier wines in regions such as Alentejo.
UNESCO recognizes the Alto Douro as a “cultural landscape of outstanding beauty” that reflects two millennia of wine production. The significant components of the landscape include terraces, quintas (wine-producing farm complexes), villages, chapels, and roads that exemplify winemaking activity.
Many travelers suggest taking a boat trip in the Alto Douro. Recommended boat services like Pipadouro might be available, although the website is in Portuguese. Additionally, day trips from Porto to the Alto Douro can be found through tour providers.
Lodging Recommendations
For those wishing to enhance their Port wine experience, consider staying at The Yeatman. This luxury spa hotel features partnerships with a variety of top-tier Portuguese wines. Each of its 82 rooms offers stunning views of Porto. Themed packages that combine culinary delights, wine experiences, spa treatments, and more may be available. Given Portugal’s competitive pricing, you might find options surprisingly affordable.
Additionally, Vila Nova de Gaia hosts a number of chain hotels, many of which provide complimentary parking. The highly-rated Cliphotel Gaia Porto, a three-star accommodation, is conveniently located near the cruise ship terminal. The four-star Novotel Porto Gaia is also suggested, particularly for families traveling with children.
Visitors planning to stay longer may prefer vacation rentals like the River Place Apartments in Porto or other suitable lodging options in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Stunning Viewpoints
In addition to the mesmerizing views from the Dom Luis Bridge, which greets visitors on arriving at Vila Nova de Gaia, uphill lies the Monastery Serra do Pilar. This 17th-century former Augustinian monastery, esteemed for its circular architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that endured 72 years of construction due to budget constraints. From the front of the church, breathtaking views of Porto and the Douro River await.
