Famed for its cellars where port wine is aged, Vila Nova de Gaia sprawls along the south bank of the Douro River in the district of Porto. As part of the Roman Empire, it was known as Cale before evolving into the harbour of Portus Cale during the medieval period. It takes its current name from the 10th-century “Legend of Gaia”.
Things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia
Overlooking the Douro River is the Monastery of Serra do Pilar, which forms part of Porto’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre. A monastery was first established here in 1538 and it was later fortified due to its strategic military location. A 36-metre-high round church dominates the complex, combining Renaissance and Mannerist elements in its design.
Occupying a building dating back to 1895 is the Casa Museo Teixeira Lopes, which showcases the work of Portugal's most acclaimed sculptor Antonio Teixeira Lopes. It houses an impressive collection of Art Deco furnishings, textiles and ceramics, as well as paintings by Antonio Carneiro, Henrique Pousão and Silva Porto. Also on display are sculptural pieces by Diogo de Macedo and decorative arts dating from the 16th century.
On the west coast of Vila Nova de Gaia is Praia da Madalena, a long strip of sand that provides a popular setting for swimming in the summer months. Backing the beach is a boardwalk dotted with bars where you can grab drinks and snacks throughout the day. Further north is Praia de Salgueiros, which offers good surfing conditions.
Getting around Vila Nova de Gaia
Vila Nova de Gaia is a 10-minute drive from Porto and 20 minutes from Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa and North America. Both railway and subway services travel through Vila Nova de Gaia while buses connect most of its attractions.