Portuguese Wine Adventure: Weekend in Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Felipe Sandoval
Curated By

Felipe Sandoval

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • LGBTQ+ Travel

  • Portugal

  • Coastal

  • Entertainment

  • Outdoors

The image shows a person from behind, wearing a red dress and holding up two glasses in a vineyard.
Curator’s statement

Porto and its sister Vila Nova de Gaia are indeed the ports where Porto wine started flowing into the world years ago. They are both full of history and funky incredible hotels to spend a week or just a couple of days. The food, the vibe and the views are just a few reasons to visit and enjoy!

The Fora Difference

Book with Felipe to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Icon Travel Perks
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Icon Recommendations
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Icon Inside Knowledge
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Portugal

Unlock perks by contacting Felipe to book your trip.

Things to do in Portugal

The image shows a row of wine bottles on a wooden shelf.

Stroll through the ancient, vibrant streets of Cedofeita neighborhood in Porto while enjoying modern coffee shops with old city charm.

Visit the unique port wine cellars in Gaia, where you can learn about all the incredible history of this beverage.

Don't miss the World of Wine Center in Gaia, with incredible restaurants and showcasing artistic and cultural visits as well as live music

Where to stay in Gaia:

Staying in Vila Nova de Gaia allows you to escape the touristy, crowded areas of Porto, which are all just 10 min walking distance.

For the most intimate and romantic hotel, the Lodge Hotel Gaia is the place to be. Incredible beds, amazing views, outdoor pool and a dedicated service that is just beyond. Walkable distance to anywhere!

For a family or a group that needs space and perhaps even kitchens, the studios and the two bedrooms at the new design hotel The Rebello is a great choice. Overlooking the city in Gaia, the Rebello is right on the waterfront of the Douro, a great location for a jog

Finally, for those travelers looking for the most affordable option, the Caleway Hotel in Gaia offers that old Portuguese charm. Small cozy rooms with a nice outdoor garden

Day trips:

The Douro Valley is just 1-hour away by beautiful train! Easily organizable trip to enjoy amazing landscapes.

Places to eat & drink in Portugal

The image shows three seasoned fish fillets on a white plate with a slice of lemon and sprigs of rosemary, accompanied by a jar of salt and parsley leaves on a dark background.

Dining:

  • Porto and Gaia offer incredible venues. From typical Bacalao cod fish with potatoes to a very refined cuisine with a Portuguese touch. Some of our favorites include Dona Maria and the WOW complex restaurants.

Advisor - Felipe Sandoval

Travel Advisor

Felipe Sandoval

Get in touch with Felipe

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Felipe within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Portugal. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Julia Garcia's guide, Food & Drink Lovers Guide to Porto, Portugal.