The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure in Vila Nova De Gaia

Sip and savor port wine with stunning views in Vila Nova de Gaia.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal, one can explore the beautiful Douro River and its surrounding areas while enjoying wine tasting at the Porto wine cellars. Visitors can also visit the Jardim do Morro park and admire the stunning views of the river and its valley. Additionally, the Ribeira district offers a lively atmosphere with many restaurants, cafes, and shops to enjoy.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival and A Riverfront Stroll

  • Check-in at the splendid Hotel Carris Porto Ribeira, offering harbor views
  • Indulge in a hearty lunch of francesinha, a typical Porto sandwich with meat and cheese
  • Walk across Dom Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia for a riverside promenade
  • Visit the iconic Calem Port Wine Cellar and savor a tasting session of aged port wine
  • Enjoy a dinner of succulent grilled fish at O Gaveto for an authentic seafood experience
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Take a tour of the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing exhibitions by international artists
  • Stroll around the lush Serralves Park, a serene green space with manicured gardens and sculptures
  • Expand your wine knowledge with a guided tour of Quinta da Boeira, a wine estate with an art gallery
  • Bask in the charm of the Ribeira neighborhood, a striking UNESCO World Heritage Site by the Douro River
  • Relish a late lunch of bacalhau, a popular Portuguese dish made of cod, at Taberna Santo Antonio
Day 3

Beach Day

  • Head to the picturesque Praia de Miramar, a white-sand beach with a 17th-century chapel and rock formations
  • Savor a light lunch at Praia da Aguda's Praia da Sereia, a seafood restaurant by the sea
  • Take in the panoramic views from Espinho's surf-inspired surf school and terrace
  • Try your hand at surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking with the Thrash Surfing School
  • Enjoy a splendid dinner at Delizio – Tavern & Terrace, a rooftop bar with live music and remarkable food
Day 4

Adventure Day

  • Go on a bike tour along the scenic Ecovia do Litoral, which runs from Gaia to Espinho
  • Stop by the fishing village of Afurada, where you can see boats that have been used for centuries
  • Zip-line across the Douro River with Experientia Douro
  • Delight in a tapas dinner at Coca Maravilhas, a vibrant and contemporary bar with a relaxed atmosphere
  • Sip a tawny port at Graham's Port Lodge, admiring the stunning view of the bridge and the river
Day 5

History and Traditions

  • Visit the historic Porto Cathedral, Portugal’s largest church, and take in the panoramic views over the rooftops of the city
  • Explore the Rua de Santa Catarina, a bustling shopping street that’s also home to the Majestic Café
  • Join the Port Wine Day, a street festival with free tastings, music, and cultural events
  • Savor a glass of ginjinha, a Portuguese cherry liquor, at the iconic A Ginjinha
  • Celebrate your last night with a sophisticated dinner at The Yeatman's Michelin-starred restaurant, featuring a breathtaking river view.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Vila Nova de Gaia by plane is to fly into Porto Airport (OPO) and then take a taxi or public transportation to your final destination.

Car

The best way to get to Vila Nova de Gaia by car is to take the A1 motorway from Lisbon or the A28 from Vigo, Spain. Once in Porto, follow signs to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Train

Although there is no train station in Vila Nova de Gaia, there is a train station in the nearby city of Porto. The best way to get to Vila Nova de Gaia by train is to take a train to Porto's Sao Bento station, then transfer to the metro and take Line D to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Boat

The best way to get to Vila Nova de Gaia by boat is to take a cruise that stops in Porto and then take a taxi or public transportation to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Bus

The best way to get to Vila Nova de Gaia by bus is to take a bus from Lisbon to Porto, then transfer to a local bus or metro to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Destination

Vila Nova de Gaia

If the name Vila Nova de Gaia sounds like a fancy new yoga pose to you, don't worry, you're not alone. But actually, it's a charming coastal town with wine, beaches, and plenty of reasons to strike a warrior pose on the sand.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days in Vila Nova De Gaia: Budget-Friendly Bliss

Vila Nova de Gaia is a breathtaking destination for budget travelers. With affordable accommodation options, delicious local food and wine, and stunning views of the Douro River, you can experience the beauty and culture of Portugal without breaking the bank. Hike up to the hilltop attractions or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the old town, and round off your trip with a tasting at one of the many port wine cellars.

Porto on a Budget: 3 Days in Vila Nova De Gaia

Visit Vila Nova de Gaia for a budget-friendly vacation filled with stunning views, rich history, and delicious port wine. Explore the picturesque streets, visit the port wine cellars, and take in the breathtaking views of the Douro River and Porto. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or apartments and enjoy local cuisine at affordable restaurants.

4-day Wine & Dine Getaway in Vila Nova de Gaia

A trip to Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal for a romantic getaway promises stunning vineyards, picturesque views, and world-renowned wines. Take a leisurely stroll along the Douro River, sample the region's iconic port wine, and indulge in authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Relax in a serene and scenic setting in one of the charming guesthouses or hotels overlooking the river for a truly unforgettable experience.

Sippin' & Snacking through Vibrant Vila Nova de Gaia

Vila Nova de Gaia is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip in Portugal. Located on the banks of the Douro River, this charming city offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. From visiting the world-famous Port wine cellars to exploring picturesque beaches and parks, families are guaranteed to have a memorable and enjoyable experience in Vila Nova de Gaia.