Vila Nova de Gaia Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
municipality and city in Portugal
About Vila Nova de Gaia
Vila Nova de Gaia (VEE-luh NAW-vuh d(ih) GAHY-uh, /ˈvi.ɫɐ ˈnɔ.vɐ dɨ ˈgaj.ɐ/) is actually where the history of Porto began, having been founded as a Roman settlement calledCaleon the southern side of the river Douro. The town had its port on the other side of the river, referred to asPortus Cale, which originated the name not only ofPorto, but also the whole country. What followed the Roman Empire were the Moorish invasions of the Iberian peninsula, with the Moors stopping right at the river and most inhabitants escaping the invasion by moving to what is now Porto on its northern bank. After the Moors were driven out, many moved back to the southern back, founding what is now known as Vila Nova de Gaia (vila novaas the town was reestablished, withGaiabeing a transliteration ofCale).
Top Attractions in Vila Nova de Gaia
Explore the best things to see and do in Vila Nova de Gaia:
- ★Bike (or walk) to the Atlantic coast
- ★Cálem
- ★Cockburn's
- ★Jardim do Morro
- ★Parque Biológico de Gaia
- ★Taylor, Fladgate & Yeatman
- ★WOW Cultural District
Where to Eat in Vila Nova de Gaia
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Casa Adão
- 🍴The Yeatman Gastronomic Restaurant
Where to Stay in Vila Nova de Gaia
- 🏨Golden Tulip Porto Gaia Hotel & Spa
- 🏨Holiday Inn Porto Gaia
- 🏨Hotel Ibis Porto Gaia
- 🏨Mercure Porto Gaia Hotel
- 🏨Novotel Porto Gaia Hotel
- 🏨Park Hotel Porto Gaia
Vila Nova de Gaia Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 12 sections including: