El Guide Oporto: Vila Nova de Gaia

OPORTO BY THE WATER | VILA NOVA DE GAIA

Vila Nova de Gaia has the most beautiful view of Oporto. In reality, Gaia is an independent city from Oporto, but their proximity makes it feel like they’re only one. The trip from Oporto to Gaia is only 3 minutes long through the river. The wide beaches and the riverside are another attraction from this area. And it’s where the wine cellars are located, which is a Gaia’s recognized trait. In the past, some bourgeois families (a social category composed of rich merchants, which were quite relevant in Oporto) and local noblemen had their farms and holiday houses in Gaia. In the 18th century, the Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro was established in Gaia. The city had a crucial role in the comercial sucess of the Port Wine.

Visit the unique Lord of the Rock Chapel, which is a church built on the Miramar beach.

Enjoy the help of specialists when shopping the extensive assortment of clothes, home décor, books and fine foods at the only department store in the country: El Corte Inglés. Here, you will also find several exclusive services that will make your stay in Oporto much more comfortable.

Visit the spetacular interactive museum of Real Companhia Velha.

Don't miss the opportunity to see up close the iconic round building you see from Oporto: the Monastery of Serra do Pilar.

Jog or ride a bike along the river.

GET THE FULL ROADMAPS IN THE APP

Discover, through the El Guide Oporto app, the origin and history of each area of the city, the most interesting things it offers, where to stop for a meal and how to get there.