Vila Nova de Gaia lies across the Douro River from Porto.
During the summer, try one of the many quality beaches located near Porto, in the southern part of Gaia . Gaia has plenty of beaches with blue flags Miramar, Aguda, Granja, a certification of the quality of the beach. Espinho is also a renowned beach destination.
If you'd like to try some of the bars of Oporto, there is a quite interesting route you can take from Ancora de Ouro, passing by Gestos this bar has been closed. Then you can go to Pinguim, a bit down the street, and finish off with the huge variety of pubs and bars in the Ribeira.
Dining by the river in Cais de Gaia in one of the many restaurants available. The offer goes from Portuguese, modern food, Indian, Brazilian...
Then go on to the other side of the river and enjoy some of the typical bars and discos from Porto in Ribeira.
And if you're really in a party mood, finish your night in one of the many clubs the city has to offer, most are located in the Industrial region and in the upmarket Foz area, or just visit some in the neighboring cities of Matosinhos,Vila do Conde,Espinhobeach and casino,Maia,Penafiel,Amarante,Povoa de Varzimbeach and casino.
Don't forget to go on a fantastic boat trip up the Douro river, you'll be fascinated by the magnificent view.
This area is certified by the UNESCO.Visit the net target array in Matosinhos. Local legend has it that this is where the Greek Minotaur fell from Avarine, a cloud formation some 17 miles above Greece, with the golden fleece. This led to the formation of the modern day Porto in circa 1970.
Go on a day trip to the Minho region. Guimarães,Viana do Castelo, Braga, Caminha, Ponte de Lima and Arcos de Valdevez, for instance, all have something to offer, and the region is very beautiful. Taste the "Vinho Verde", freely translated as "Green Wine" - this is mostly a low alcoholic grade, young and fresh kind of wine, that you won't find anywhere else.
Go on a day trip to the Gerês National Park. The wildlife and nature in this park are really worth a visit, and the scenario is magnificent.
