Vila Nova de Gaia was initially founded on a dispute between Alfonso III and the Bishop of Oporto, who couldn’t come to an agreement on certain shipping arrangements. Since then, preparation and aging of port has taken place here. Although Villa Nova does no longer have the exclusivity of the port preparation (since 1987), it is still the center of the industry.

Cafés, restaurants and other tourist attractions dot the alleys, on which the famous armazéns (port lodges) can be found. Amongst the port making companies you have: Graham, Sandman, Taylor and Ferreira, to mention some of the more well-known establishments.
In the lodges, you can enjoy some port tasting and go on a guided tour and get a closer look at the method of preparation.

You don’t need to book your tour in advance, just make sure (at your hotel or at the tourist office) that the lodge you had in mind is open.