Family Adventure in the Heart of the Douro Valley

A Portuguese Welcome

After a smooth flight from Berlin, we touched down in Porto, ready to kick off our family adventure in the Douro Valley! The air was thick with anticipation as we collected our rental car. Saoirse was especially excited, chattering about the vineyards she’d seen in pictures. Hans, ever the pragmatist, was already inputting our accommodation address into the GPS. As for me, I was just eager to soak in the Portuguese atmosphere and, perhaps, sample a little of the local wine.
Our first day was all about exploring Vila Nova de Gaia, the city across the Douro River from Porto, famed for its port wine cellars and stunning riverside views. It felt wonderful to be starting our 10-day trip in such a vibrant and historically rich location.



We decided to spend our first day in Vila Nova de Gaia, and I must say, it was a fantastic introduction to the Douro Valley!

Breakfast at A Companhia - Museu do Douro

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at A Companhia, located within the Museu do Douro in Peso da Régua. The setting was just perfect, offering breathtaking views of the Douro River and the surrounding landscapes. The restaurant itself is part of the Douro Museum, which adds to the overall experience, blending art and gastronomy seamlessly.


Explore A Companhia - Museu do Douro: Discover the rich heritage and exquisite wines of Portugal's iconic Douro Valley.

The breakfast menu featured typical regional Portuguese fare with a modern twist. I opted for a classic *pastel de nata* (of course!) and a strong *café*. Hans went for a hearty sandwich filled with local cheese and ham, while Saoirse enjoyed a selection of fresh pastries. The food was delicious, and the service was incredibly friendly, setting a positive tone for the day.

Exploring Gaia Porto

After breakfast, we set off to explore Gaia Porto. The energy of the city was immediately infectious. The colorful buildings, bustling streets, and the aroma of port wine in the air created a sensory feast. We started with a leisurely stroll along the Cais de Gaia, the city's vibrant riverside promenade.


Experience the breathtaking views and rich culture at Gaia Porto, the perfect destination for tourists exploring Vila Nova de Gaia.

The views of Porto across the river were simply stunning. The Dom Luís I Bridge, with its intricate ironwork, dominated the skyline, while the traditional Rabelo boats bobbed gently on the water. I couldn't resist snapping dozens of photos, trying to capture the beauty of the scene. Saoirse was fascinated by the cable car, which offered panoramic views of the city.

Lunch at Castas e Pratos

For lunch, we chose Castas e Pratos, a restaurant known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine and extensive wine list. Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, it was the perfect spot to savor the local flavors. The restaurant has a Michelin plate, which is a sign of very good food, well prepared with fresh ingredients.


Discover exquisite local cuisine and fine wines at Castas e Pratos in Peso da Régua - a true gem in Portugal's Douro Valley.

I decided to try the *Francesinha*, a Porto specialty – a hearty sandwich layered with various meats, covered in melted cheese and a rich tomato sauce. It was definitely a culinary adventure! Hans enjoyed a seafood dish, while Saoirse, ever the adventurous eater, opted for grilled sardines. The food was exceptional, and the service was attentive and welcoming.

Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones where you simply immerse yourself in the local culture and let the day unfold organically.

Shopping at Douro Gourmet

In the afternoon, we indulged in a little retail therapy at Douro Gourmet. This charming shop was a treasure trove of local delicacies, from artisanal cheeses and cured meats to olive oils and, of course, port wine.


Explore Douro Gourmet: Discover unique gifts and local delicacies in Peso da Régua, a treasure trove for visitors to the beautiful Douro Valley.

I picked up a few bottles of vintage port to take back to Berlin – a little something to remind us of our Douro Valley adventure. Saoirse chose some traditional Portuguese sweets, while Hans found a selection of local spices to experiment with in his cooking. We even found some lovely artisanal soaps, made with local olive oil, which I knew my mother would adore.

Dinner at Veladouro

For our first dinner in the Douro Valley, we wanted something special, and Veladouro didn't disappoint. This charming restaurant, located in Pinhão, is known for its fresh, traditional food and friendly service. We started with some local appetizers – olives, cheese, and crusty bread – accompanied by a crisp, white Vinho Verde. For the main course, I opted for the grilled octopus, which was cooked to perfection. Hans chose the steak, while Saoirse enjoyed a hearty portion of pasta. The portions were generous, the flavors were authentic, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.


Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at Veladouro with stunning views of the Douro River – a culinary gem in Pinhão.

Reflections on the Day

As we drove back to our accommodation, Gaia Residence, I couldn't help but smile. Our first day in the Douro Valley had been a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors. We had explored the charming streets of Vila Nova de Gaia, savored delicious Portuguese cuisine, and discovered hidden gems along the Douro River. It was the perfect start to our family adventure.


Experience comfort and convenience at Gaia Residence, a 4-star hotel in Vila Nova de Gaia, close to Porto’s historic treasures and the Douro River.

I must admit, I did forget my sunglasses and portable phone charger at home in Berlin. But hey, that just means I have an excuse to buy some new ones here!



Tomorrow, we're heading to Pinhão Douro Vinhateiro and Quinta do Bomfim, and I can't wait to see what adventures await us! I'm especially looking forward to trying some of the local wines and learning more about the region's winemaking heritage. I think we might visit the Douro Sky Lounge for a nightcap. I've heard it has amazing views!



Until tomorrow,

Aoife