Vila Nova de Gaia
Camino Portugues
Porto, across the river, is famous for its Port wine. Vila Nova de Gaia, on the south bank of the Douro, is where it's actually stored and aged. The Port wine lodges — Graham's, Taylor's, Sandeman, Ramos Pinto, and dozens more — line the riverside, most offering tastings and tours. If you have time for only one, Graham's has the best terrace views.
The Jardim do Morro, at the upper level near the Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar, provides excellent views of Porto's Ribeira district across the river — one of the classic panoramas. The monastery itself, with its circular cloister, is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Ponte Dom Luis I connects Gaia to Porto at two levels. The upper crossing delivers you to the Se Cathedral; the lower one to the Ribeira waterfront. Check where your accommodation is before choosing — taking the lower route (the marked trail) will require you to make up the elevation difference later.
Upon arriving in Vila Nova de Gaia you are presented with a large roundabout and tram terminal. Continue along the tram line; it is a straight walk all the way to Porto. When you get to the end of town, the bridge over the Rio Douro has two crossings. The upper crossing will take you to the Sé Cathedral in Porto, and the lower one will take you to the riverfront in Porto. It is advisable to check the location of your accommodation before choosing which way to go, as taking the lower route (which is the marked trail) will require you to make up the elevation difference later.