Vila Nova de Gaia, which is commonly called Gaia, is a city located in the Porto district opposite the city of Porto across the Douro River. It is world famous for its beautiful lodges or caves and for its Port wine cellars – facilities where the famous wine is stored and aged. Because of its location, it also serves as a good travel hub for those who want to explore the rest of the province later on.

The city centre is small enough to allow for walking excursions but arranging for car hire in Gaia is still a practical move for those who want to go on day trips out of town later on. After making arrangements for car rental in Gaia, tourists can start their excursions by heading for the Ribeira de Gaia. This is the part of the city located along the riverbank.

Ribeira de Gaia is an area lined with restaurants and independent stores. These dining options serve a wide range of international and local cuisines for the discerning traveller. Also within the area are the wine cellars where Port wine is stored. The area also features amazing views of Porto from across the river.

After taking a tour of the city, taking a cheap car hire in Gaia also allows tourists to head out to the surrounding countryside. The city of Porto is a popular day trip destination because of its wide range of cultural and historic sites. Further out, travellers can also visit the beaches of Aguda and Granja.