Have you already visited Porto and the North of Portugal? Yes, you’ve been to Vila Nova de Gaia? Perhaps, but believe us, there is still so much more to discover… Come and explore what Gaia has to offer you!
In Vila Nova de Gaia, every corner hides a treasure waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the places that breathe and convey Gaia’s culture, where the voices of the community echo, and the scents of our gastronomy fill the air… or our stunning natural spaces that take your breath away, enveloping you in unparalleled serenity and unforgettable contact with nature.
The size of our territory offers you a variety of places you won’t want to miss! Curious? We present 8 experiences you must do when visiting Porto for the second time.
1. Gaia Biological Park
Home to more than 40 bird species and a rich diversity of fauna and flora, Gaia Biological Park awaits your visit.
Located in the parish of Avintes, you’ll find this impressive nature paradise! Explore the 35 hectares and the 3km path while observing the magnificent animals that inhabit this agroforestry landscape. Get to know Gaia Biological Park, where the natural surroundings convey unparalleled tranquility!
2. Estuary of the Douro Local Natural Reserve
Sanctuary of unbelievable biodiversity, the Estuary of the Douro Local Natural Reserve is located on the south bank of the Douro River (across from it, we have the city of Porto).
This treasure of our territory, covering 66.35 hectares, is a perfect place to enjoy an unmissable view while being in contact with nature! Stroll along the walkways you’ll find here and spend a beautiful moment with family, alone, or in good company.
3. Pedroso Monastery
Built in Pedroso (a parish of Gaia), this stately monastery intertwines with the foundation of Portugal!
Witness to Romanesque architecture in Portugal, Pedroso Monastery is a true portal to the 11th century, offering those who visit a unique experience that takes us on a journey through history. Uncover this monastery from the early days of Portugal and learn more about the history of our territory!
4. Beira-Rio Market
A space for sharing and socializing, in the heart of the splendid Gaia quay, Beira-Rio Market was built in 1904 to host the market that used to take place in the outdoor space.
Whether in the simple purchase of fruits and vegetables – which only began here in 1937 – or in a joyful moment among friends with a glass of wine in hand and a delicious cheese board, this place doesn’t go unnoticed and deserves your visit!
We invite you to get lost in conversations with our merchants and in the flavors of our gastronomy, visit Beira-Rio Market.
5. Afurada Heritage Interpretation Center
Traditions and customs are elements that shape the culture of our territory and our people… getting to know Vila Nova de Gaia also means learning more about our past!
Discover the cultural and natural heritage of Afurada, a true fishing village. How? The best place to learn more about this community is with a visit to the Afurada Heritage Interpretation Center! A museum space that keeps the memories of the population alive, from boats and fishing tools to their traditional attire.
Visit this time capsule preserved in a reddish building that harks back to the old Afurada warehouses!
6. Teixeira Lopes House-Museum
There are artists and personalities who leave their mark and are remembered. António Teixeira Lopes is one of these geniuses, born in Gaia, who immortalized his legacy in our territory!
His residence, designed by architect José Teixeira Lopes, António’s brother, currently houses an incredible collection of the art and memories of Teixeira Lopes’s life. A space that breathes creativity, with the impressive sculptures of our Gaia-born artist!
Come and visit the house where António Teixeira Lopes lived and created wonderful works of art.
7. Solar Condes de Resende
Built in the medieval era, Solar Condes de Resende stands majestically in the parish of Canelas. The earliest records of this extraordinary place date back to the distant year 1042!
The residential building of the Condes de Resende, and the stage for a romantic love story, but whose? Eça de Queiroz, the famous Portuguese writer, fell in love here with Emília de Castro Pamplona, the daughter of the Condes de Resende. In addition to being able to visit the various spaces and gardens of the Solar, in the Garden of the Camellias, you will find the statue of Eça.
Immerse yourself in the historical narrative that permeates this place and come visit us!
8. Afurada Social Washhouse
In Afurada, a land of fishermen, women still gather to wash their clothes traditionally, by hand!
Visit the Afurada Social Washhouse, a space for socializing where everyday issues and news are discussed. The sound of laundry being washed, the foam in the water, and the murmur of conversations… The ideal place to learn more about Gaia’s culture!
More than enough reasons to rediscover Gaia when you return to Porto and the North, aren't they?
If you’re returning to Porto and the North, know there’s much more to discover in the Porto region. Gaia, right across from Porto, offers incredible experiences. From nature to culture, there are must-visit places you can’t miss in our region, whether it’s your first, second, or tenth visit! Let yourself be carried away and enchanted by the paths and corners of Gaia!
