visit port wine cellars porto

5 Port Wine Cellars You Can’t Miss in 2024

Port Wine is born in the Douro Valley, but it is the city of Porto that gives the name to the wine. Why? Because that’s where the wine ages and is shipped to all over the world. Any trip to Porto wouldn’t be complete without a Port Food Tour and a visit to the famous Port wine cellars . Scroll down to discover our Top 5!

PORT WINE CELLARS

These Port wine cellars are all located across the river from the old city center of Porto. To get there you only need to cross the emblematic Dom Luís I bridge. It will take you about 10 minutes and you can easily walk from one side to the other.

Nearly all Port wine cellars provide guided tours and tastings. Not only will you receive a tasting of different Port wine varieties, but you will also learn about the history of the house you are visiting and a broader history of Port wine. There are dozens of Port wine cellars and we know one can feel a bit uncertain. So we’ve decided to make your life a bit easier and selected 5 Port wine cellars where you can’t go wrong. As travelers ourselves, we know it’s not easy to navigate a different culture, a foreign language, and over 20 Port wine lodges. So we are very happy to help!

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5 PORT WINE CELLARS THAT WE LOVE

Caves ferreira – port wine cellar.

We have to start with Caves Ferreira. This is the only big house of Port Wine that has remained in Portuguese hands since its foundation. Founded in 1751, the brand’s history is intertwined with the history of the evolution of the Douro Region, demarcated only 5 years after, in 1756.

Twice widowed, Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira contributed significantly to the consolidation of the brand, taking over the business at 33, strengthening and expanding it thanks to her entrepreneurial spirit and charisma. Today, by visiting Caves Ferreira, you can discover a brand that is over 250 years old, the history of Port wine, and the Douro region. Easily accessible from the river, this port wine cellar is a must-go!

ESPAÇO PORTO CRUZ – PORT WINE MULTIMEDIA CENTER

Espaço Porto Cruz offers more than Port wine tasting, it offers a full experience with the purpose of celebrating the culture of Port wine by associating modernity with tradition. It was created as a place for information, exhibition, and leisure providing new experiences around the famous Port wine and combining it with artistic creations in different areas such as fashion, art, and gastronomy.

Besides wine tasting, you’ll have access to the multimedia center, workshops, chocolate, and cheese tastings. Before you leave, go up to the 360º terrace for a truly memorable view!

CAVES CÁLEM

Calém cellars are some of the most famous and most visited Port wine cellars. They are a renowned brand in the wine industry and they stand out as a world leader. Besides the traditional tour to the cellars, Calém offers a unique experience available at no other Port wine cellar: a fado concert, the traditional Portuguese music. This experience combines two of the most iconic aspects of Portuguese culture: Port wine and fado. An unmissable experience!

CAVES CHURCHILL

More off the beaten path, Churchill’s is a wine cellar of high levels of elegance and style where you can taste the best wine they have to offer. Their approach is based upon the philosophy that “enjoyment of a glass of Port requires a state of wellbeing”. Its visitors center provides the opportunity to taste rare Vintage ports and you can even tailor your own wine tasting in the Tasting Room, which, of course, wouldn’t be complete without the great view over the Douro river that it offers.

CAVES TAYLOR’S

A classic! Taylor’s Cellars are 300 years old but have been recently renovated to incorporate a modern and innovative museum. What was already excellent is now even better! Here too you will learn about the history of Port wine, how it was produced in the beginning as compared to modern days, and how it was brought to Porto to age and then shipped to Britain.

Like all the Port wine cellars we recommended previously, here too you can enjoy your wine tasting up on the terrace while taking in the magnificent views over the city of Porto. You have to do a bit of climbing to reach Rua do Choupelo but it’s worth the effort!

Pssst…If you are interested in Port Wine Cellars in Porto, you’re going to love our Vintage & Port Wine Food Tour »

A visit to the Port wine cellars is a mandatory activity during any trip to Porto, so we hope these suggestions can help you trim down the options and contribute to a successful trip planning to the best European destination, the city of Porto!

WAIT, PORTO IS NOT ONLY ABOUT PORT WINE!

Food is also a very important part of the city’s heritage and history. Discover Porto’s food and wines, tradition, and its people through a Food & Wine Tour with us. Why? Because a Food Tour is a vehicle for a city’s culture. What locals eat, when, where and how much is a window into their every day and therefore, into the country’s way of life. Our hosts are all passionate locals who will easily make you fall in love with our city of Porto. The Vintage & Port Wine Food Tour , for example, takes you through a journey in time, from the rebirth of specialty food shops to the new restaurants adopting old ways to traditional buildings finding new purposes. The best of the past with a modern twist. Oh, and it even includes Port wine tastings from small-scale producers that truly are different from the big brands and there is real value in getting to know them! Cheers! Taste Porto Foodie Team

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Sandeman Port Wine Cellars

Some places preserve time, memories, and the flavors of a region. Sandeman Wine Cellars is one of those. A magnificent building, home of the most internationally recognized of Porto wines – Sandeman.

At Sandeman Wine Cellars, you will have plenty of artifacts to explore as a fascinating display of paintings and photographs collected over the centuries. Finally, you will have the chance to know one of the most impressive and significant bottle collection in Europe. Here you will discover examples from the mid-17th century and the entire brand’s 200 years of history.

Enter in Sandeman mysterious journey and let yourself be surprised.

Contacts & Location

Port wine cellars.

See our offers

Port wine cellars, sandeman 1790 visit, €28.00.

DURATION: 1h30min TASTING: 5 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

This historic tour takes us back to the date of Sandeman’s establishment, exploring the roots of its historical heritage and its irreverent advertising since the start of the 20th century. The tour ends in The 1790 Room, with an extended tasting of Port Wines.

SANDEMAN OLD TAWNIES VISIT

€48.00.

DURATION: 1h30 min TASTING: 4 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

An experience which begins with the timeline of Sandeman's history and its long tradition in the production of high quality Old Tawnies.

In the tasting, the award-winning wines Sandeman Tawny 10, 20, 30 and 40 Years Old... a complete century of Tawnies. 

PORTO SANDEMAN VISIT

€21.00.

DURATION: 50 min TASTING: 3 PORT WINES PLACE: TASTING ROOM

The Don leads visitors through rows of vats and casks, in a building where Sandeman Porto Wine ages since 1811. A fascinating story, which ends with a widescreen video experience. The tasting includes three styles: White, Ruby and Tawny.

MASTERING SANDEMAN PORT WINE

€68.00.

DURATION: 3h TASTING: 5 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

An educational experience to learn more about Port Wine, its production and different categories, the Douro Region, and how to taste this special wine.

PORTO SANDEMAN EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE

€160.00.

DURATION: 2h30 min TASTING: 6 PORT WINES PLACE: THE 1790 ROOM

An exclusive experience where to learn more about Sandeman's history chronology, its long tradition in the wine production and tastesome of its famous Vintage Ports and Old Tawnies.

SANDEMAN VISIT & METAVERSE EXPERIENCE

€25.00.

DURATION: 1h30min TASTING: 2 PORT WINES PLACE: TASTING ROOM

Visit the Sandeman Cellars, and enjoy an extraordinary Metaverse Experience to Quinta do Seixo in the Douro Valley!

At the end, enjoy a delicious port wine tasting including the irreverent Sandeman Beat on Ice!

Only available from the age of 16.

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11 Port Houses to Visit in Porto

Thinking about planning a trip to the famous port houses of Portugal? If you enjoy drinking port or just want to learn more about the fascinating history of the Port and how it’s been made, stored, and transported through the years in Portugal , you absolutely must get started planning your trip.

We’ve got a fantastic list below of the 11 best port houses to visit in the Porto region. There are actually two sides to the city often referred to as Porto. On the southern side of the Douro river is the city of Vila Nova de Gaia and on the northern side is the Ribeira district and the city of Porto. They are connected by the famed Ponte Luis I Bridge.

The Vila Nova de Gaia side is where you’ll find all of the port houses. Along the river is the main road on which many of the port houses have tasting rooms, like Calem and Kopke. Some of the other places are built up on the hillside and require a little climb to get there (like Taylor and Graham).

Planning your trip to Porto?

• Book a transfer from the airport to the city of Porto with Welcome Pickups.
• Rent a car from the Porto airport through Discover Cars .

Where to Stay in Porto:

• InterContinental Porto Palacio das Cardosas : Not only is this a gorgeous hotel, it’s in the most prime location possible in Porto for tourists. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .
• Pestana Vintage Hotel & World Heritage Site : Stay here if you want to be close to the water with easy access to Vila Nova de Gaia.    ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .

Best Tours and Experiences in Porto:

• 3-Hour Food and Wine Tasting Tour
• Douro Valley Small-Group Tour With Wine Tasting, Lunch, and Optional Cruise
• The Best of Porto: 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour

Table of Contents

How To Get There

There are several ways to get to Porto, Portugal , depending on your budget, travel preferences, and where you are coming from.

• By plane: Porto is served by a major international airport, Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO), which is well-connected to many European cities and several destinations worldwide. You can fly directly to Porto from several major airports, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Madrid, and New York, among others.
• By train: Porto is well-connected to other cities in Portugal and neighboring countries by train. The city has two main train stations, São Bento and Campanhã, which offer frequent connections to Lisbon, Braga, Coimbra, and other destinations in Portugal, as well as to Vigo, Madrid, and other cities in Spain .
• By bus: Porto has several long-distance bus stations, with connections to major cities in Portugal such as Lisbon and in Spain, as well as to other European destinations like Paris and Amsterdam. Flixbus, Eurolines, and Rede Expressos are some of the major bus operators that serve Porto.

» Preparing to visit Porto? You might also want to read our top things to do in Porto and where to eat and drink in Porto . Maybe head up to the Douro Valley for some wine tasting. Read our guide about renting a car in Porto .

Port Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia

There are two ways you can do port tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia. The preferred way is to make an advanced arrangement for a tour and tasting. Not all Port houses have continuous tours that you can just pop into, and English tours are only given occasionally.

Making a reservation will ensure you can see and do what you want, without disappointment. In order to make reservations, contact the port houses individually via email, or see if they have an appointment form on their website (many do!).

The other way to do port tastings is to just pop into the tasting room and ask. While some don’t offer this, some do.  We also found that we could walk in and schedule an appointment for later the same day.

If you don’t want to go through a tour at each port house, it would be wise to find out which places offer just a simple tasting. You can do that by emailing in advance.

⇒ We recommend this Port Wine Tour in Vila Nova de Gaia – visit 3 Port houses and try 6+ wines.

Top Port Houses to Visit

If you’re looking into a trip to Porto for Port wine tasting, and you want to find the best port in Porto, you’ll quickly find that there are dozens of Port Houses to visit, so the decisions aren’t going to be so easy.

This guide will help you narrow down the choices. These are 11 favorites among the Port houses that dominate the landscape in Vila Nova de Gaia.

If you’re a power taster, you can probably get around 4+ port houses in a day, if planned properly. But we would not recommend this. Don’t forget that port has a much higher alcohol level than wine and can catch up with you quickly. We recommend only visiting 2-3 port houses in a day.

Don’t forget that Porto is only an hour’s drive from the beautiful Douro Valley wine region , where the views will absolutely stun you.

1. Burmester

The Burmester story starts in 1750 in London , when Henry Burmester joined John Nash to establish the company Burmester, Nash & Co. They exported port to Europe . Then in the 1800s, Johann Burmester took the company to new heights in Porto, and it’s been operated as a family business ever since, though now it’s part of the Sogevinus brand.

In the 1990s, they started producing table wines as well.

You can tour the Burmester cellars. They offer a classic (13€), premium (17€), and exclusive (20€) visit, where you will taste 2-3 of their ports. They also have a large shop where you can purchase any bottles you enjoy.

Website: https://burmester.pt/en/caves/ Email: [email protected] Hours: Open everyday from 10am-1pm, 2pm-7pm

2. Cálem Port House

Calem is located front and center along the Cais de Gaia (the main road that runs through the lower waterfront area of Vila Nova de Gaia).

Calem is one of the largest port cellars. They offer many options for visitors to enjoy. A typical tour & tasting includes an interactive museum, a guided tour of the cellar and either a standard tasting for €14 or premium tasting for €17.

There are then options to add a Fado show or to add a food tasting to go along with your wine (chocolate, cheese & chocolate, or food pairings). The tours operate regularly throughout the day in various languages and last about 45 minutes. The Fado show is only offered at 6:30pm.

There is an English tour that culminates in a tasting room where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute performance of traditional Fado music. The current cost is €23. You can book your tour and pay for your tickets directly through their online form.

Website:  https://tour.calem.pt/#en Email: [email protected] Purchase tickets in advance on their website

3. Kopke Port House

Kopke is the next tasting room you’ll come upon along the Cais de Gaia. It is the oldest port wine house, originally opened in the 1600s. They don’t offer a tour, but they have a menu full of choices for tasting, including some really nice wine flights that are paired with chocolates. The flights range from €25 to €75 or you can buy by the glass.

The flights include DOC table wines made by Kopke, in addition to Port. You’ll choose your tastings downstairs and then find a seat upstairs in the lounge. Kopke is very famous for their vintage and aged Tawny ports, but don’t overlook their table wines.

Website: https://sogevinus.com/en/tourism/kopke-house/ Email: [email protected] Hours: Open every day. May – October 10am – 7pm / November – April 10am – 6pm

4. Sandeman Port House

It’s hard to miss the large building that houses Sandeman . The cloaked man on top of the building is a great brand emblem. At Sandeman, you can take a tour and do a tasting. You can also just grab a seat outside and enjoy one of the cocktails they’re making on the patio. I highly recommend a port & tonic.

They offer a classic tour that includes a tour and tasting of Ruby and Tawny Ports for €14. The premium visit is €17 and includes a tasting of 3 ports. Their 1790 visit includes a more in-depth look at the facilities and a tasting of 5 unique Ports for €23. And there are a few other options if you want something more unique.

They also have port wine workshops you can take, and a great shop inside where you can buy just about any port or DOC table wine you like.

• Website: https://www.sandeman.com/port-wine/visit/cellars-porto/
• Email: [email protected]
• Hours: Open every day. March-October 10-12:30 and14:00-18:00 / November-February 9:30-12:30 and 14:00-17:30

5. Quinta do Noval Port House

Along the waterfront, you’ll find a couple of small tasting rooms for Port Houses that have their main production and aging facilities in the Duoro Valley. Quinta do Noval is one of them. It’s just a wine shop and bar with a couple of tables to sit at, plus outdoor seating during the summer. But it’s not to be overlooked!

This is a great choice when you’ve heard the same tour over and over and want to try the port without the tour. You can choose tastings flights, or have a full glass, and even half or full bottles of Port.

• Website: https://www.quintadonoval.com/en/our-wines
• Email:  [email protected]
• Hours: Open every day. June – September 10am – 8pm / August 11am to 10pm / October – May 10:30am – 6:30pm

6. Vasconcellos Port House

You may not have heard of the Vasconcellos port house before. It’s part of the Christie’s brand and they don’t market their port tours, like some of the port houses do. They actually don’t do organized tours, and only invite you in if you’re interested in buying.

However, you’ll be treated to a smaller, more intimate, tour than at the larger houses and you’ll learn quite a bit about the process they use for blending the more than century-old ports they have aging in their cellar to create the 10, 20 and 40-year ports they make.

We were guided around by Jorge Silva, who took great pride in the port that he was telling us about. We had a very informative tour of the cellar and then made our way up to the tasting room to give it a try. The tasting included a 10 and 20-year Tawny and a white port.

If you are looking for a 40-year port, they have that too.  We fell in love with their 20-year (the bottle and all) and had to take some back with us.

You can just approach the cellar door and inquire about tastings in person.

Website:   https://www.christiewines.com/visit Email:   [email protected]

7. Vasques D Carvalho

Located just around the corner from Ramos Pinto is the brand house and tasting room of Vasques D Carvalho. Their cellars are located in Regua, in the Douro Valley . After tasting ports at many of the larger houses on the main street, we were very pleasantly surprised by the tasting here.

You can find a seat in the garden and choose your preferred tasting from an extensive menu. We chose a Tawny tasting that included their 10, 20, 30, and 40 year Tawny. Very good decision!

Everything we tried here was fantastic. They age their wines in the Douro, not in Porto, so you’ll find they can achieve aging slightly faster than those that age in Porto, due to the heat differences.

You don’t need a booking to stop in for a tasting, though it might be a good idea to make one during busy months.

Website: https://www.vasquesdecarvalho.com/ Email: [email protected]

8. Ramos Pinto Port House

Housed in a beautiful yellow building, founded by Adriano Ramos Pinto in 1880, Ramos Pinto stands out among the Port houses on the main street. A tour of the cellars also includes a visit through the cellar’s museum that houses a collection of art and items from the house’s long history.

The tour ends with a tasting of two Port wines, a ruby and a tawny, which are presented in a large, yet comfortable lounge area with couches and barrels for tables. You can schedule a visit at the reception area just inside. They give regular tours in English. The last tour takes place an hour before closing.

You can book through their online form.

• Website: https://www.ramospinto.pt/en/visits/
• Email:  [email protected]
• Hours: Every day from 10 am to 6 pm (closed 1 January, Easter Sunday, 24 and 25 December).

9. Taylor’s Port House

Taylor’s wine cellar is now in its fourth century of operation, which in itself is a major accomplishment. The story of Taylor’s is very interesting and well worth learning about. The porthouse is located up a fairly steep hill, so be prepared for a bit of a hike.

From Ramos Pinto, head up the alley and continue up the hill until you reach Taylor’s on the right. Tours at Taylor’s are mostly self-guided now, though you can book a private tour in advance if you want.

There is no need to schedule an audio tour in advance. You can walk through and listen to the history and details of the Taylor family and winery at your own pace, in many languages, while looking at the displays and barrels throughout the cellar and museum, which have been recently renovated.

It costs €15. At the end of the tour, you’ll have a tasting of two of Taylor’s ports: Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV). You’ll want to schedule for at least an hour or two to wander through the cellar and finish the tasting. The last tour takes place an hour before closing.

Website:  https://taylor.pt/en/visit-taylors/port-cellars/ Hours: Every day 11:00 – 20:00

10. Cockburn Port House

Cockburn is located slightly farther and also up the very steep hill. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Taylor’s, though at around the same elevation. If you’re taking the Hop-on-Hop-off bus tour around town, there is a convenient stop right outside Cockburn’s door.

The tour takes you through the cellar and the stacks upon stacks of aging barrels. Once a family estate, Cockburn is now owned by the Symington Family that also owns other Port cellars, such as Graham’s and Dow’s. They specialize in median level wines that are approachable. The tasting includes a young ruby and a 10-year tawny.

Email: [email protected]

11. Graham’s Port House

Graham’s Port House , opened in 1890, is located the furthest away from the others. It’s on the hillside, about a 15 minute walk from Taylor’s. You can enjoy lunch or a drink at the bar in Graham’s restaurant, Vinum, which helps make the trip there worthwhile, especially if you’re walking. Just remember that it’s a very steep hill.

Another aspect that makes it worthwhile is the incredible view. A tour can be booked in advance online, which makes it easy to fit into your schedule without walking all the way there to find out their hours. If you’d rather not take a tour, there’s a wine bar in Vinum where you can taste some of Graham’s Port by the glass.

Website:  Book your visit online.

Tips For Port Wine Tasting & Porto Wine Cellar Tours

• Most of the port houses require advanced reservations to taste and there are a limited number of spots for English tours, so be sure to book well in advance, not just the day before.
• Keep in mind that port is quite a bit higher in alcohol than regular table wine. Instead of 14%, it’s more like 21%. This can catch up with you fast. It’s best to do no more than 3 tastings spread throughout the day. And always drink plenty of water in between.
• Many of the port houses are located right along the waterfront in Vila Nova de Gaia, so you can easily walk between them. A few, like Graham and Taylor’s, are located up on the hill behind, which is quite steep, so be sure to wear walking shoes .
• Be sure to save time for a wine-paired lunch at one of the top houses, like Taylor’s or Grahams. Both have fantastic terraces that overlook the city.
• Many wine cellars have shops where you can purchase a variety of Port wines and related products. This is an excellent opportunity to buy a bottle of Port as a souvenir or gift.
• The majority of the wine cellar tours include a guided tour of the facilities, explaining the winemaking process, the history of the brand, and the aging of the wine in large wooden barrels. These visits often conclude with a wine tasting where you can sample different types of Port wine.

Where to Eat in Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia

Three of my favorite places to eat in Vila Nova de Gaia are all within easy walking distance of each other. If you’re staying in the city, you’ll be able to enjoy these and so many more without worrying about transportation.

• The Gastronomic Restaurant at The Yeatman is also highly recommended during your stay.  The chef’s tasting menu with wine pairings is a great food experience. It is a bit pricey, but that’s to be expected at a 2-Michelin-star restaurant. We also had a really good Francesinha sandwich at the bar in the hotel.
• Taylor’s Wine House is one of the few cellars that also has a restaurant where you can enjoy a leisurely wine lunch or dinner with a wine tasting. In nice weather, the outdoor terrace has an amazing view of the Douro River.
• Wine Quay Bar is across the water on the Porto side, but it’s still very easy to get to. You won’t regret the choice because view will blow you away. Stop by there for a wine flight and some tapas.

Where to Stay in Porto, Portugal

If you’re looking for a recommendation on where to stay while you’re in Porto, we’ve got you covered. We’ve stayed in numerous parts of the city and have found our favorite Porto hotels that we’ll return back to again and again. Below are our top choices. There’s really no reason to look any further. These are fantastic.

I n Vila Nova de Gaia:

• The Yeatman Hotel : Gorgeous hotel on the top of the hill with an amazing view, decanter-shaped pool, and a Michelin star restaurant. ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .
• YourOpo Ribeira Gaia Apartments : There are a few apartments available here with amazing views, right near everything. It’s a perfect if you want a kitchen! ⇒ Read reviews on Trip Advisor .

Frequently Asked Questions on Porto, Port Houses & Wine Cellars

Do i need to make reservations for a wine cellar tour.

It’s advisable to make reservations, especially during the high tourist season. Some cellars may have limited availability for tours and tastings, so booking in advance ensures you get a spot.

What is the best way to get from Porto to the Douro Valley wine region?

You can reach the Douro Valley by taking a train, bus, or organized tour from the Porto district. The train journey is particularly scenic, offering picturesque views of the Douro Valley River and vineyards.

Are there any wine festivals or events in Porto?

Porto hosts various wine-related events throughout the year, such as the Essência do Vinho wine festival, Port Wine Day celebrations, and wine-themed tours. Check local event listings for specific dates.

Is it possible to ship Port wine home from Porto?

Many wine cellars offer international shipping, so you can purchase authentic Port wine during your visit and have it shipped to your home address. Some wineries may have restrictions or require a minimum purchase for shipping.

Can I visit the vineyards in the Douro Valley from Porto?

Yes, it’s possible to visit the Douro Valley vineyards as a day trip from Porto. You can join guided wine tours that take you to the vineyards, allowing you to learn about the winemaking process and the grapes used in the winemaking. You can also enjoy the stunning scenery whilst tasting wine.

Before You Go

Since you made it to the end of this article, you’re probably pretty interested in Porto and the surrounding area. Here are a few more articles we think you might enjoy.

• Where To Stay In Porto, Portugal
• Where To Eat And Drink In Porto, Portugal
• 10 Fun Things To Do In Porto
• How To Spend 10 Days in Portugal

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Related Posts:

• 21 Top Foodie Destinations Around the World
• 13 Unconventional Things To Do in Washington DC
• 36 Best Beach Drinks to Order at All-Inclusive Resorts (+ Recipes!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

19 thoughts on “ 11 Port Houses to Visit in Porto ”

Thank you for this helpful information.

It’s made our trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

Kind regards, Liam Hardy

Last week we stayed in Porto. And als I read the above we made the good choices to visit for example Offley… IT was very nice! Kind regards from The Netherlands, Carla

Offley is a great one! I just love how close together they all are and you can really just stop off wherever you like along the way. Glad you had a nice time there.

Visited Offley in driving rain last year. We also took a train ride up the Douro valley, which was excellent . Going to Porto again next month. Very much looking forward to visiting several more port houses, as well as the Yeatman.

That’s funny. We ran from Offley down the hill to Ramos Pinto in the driving rain. We were drenched by the time we got there. Hope you enjoy your next trip there. I can’t wait to go back.

Thank you! This info is invaluable and will help us plan our self-guided Porto port tour. 🙂

Glad to hear it, Rob! Enjoy your trip.

What were the average prices for the tastings/tours? Do they vary greatly depending on which port house you go to?

Hi Rachel. I would say currently the average price is around €10 (give or take). For instance, Calem is €10, Taylor’s is €12. Prices do vary. May of the port houses now offer the ability to book tickets online too, which is very useful.

Laura- we are visiting Porto for one day in May on a cruise ship. I want to experience the port houses, do tastings within reason( meaning I will need to pace consumption so I remember the experience!), and have a fabulous lunch. In your opinion do I need to hire a guide to maximize efficiency? Any suggestions appreciated. Have you also gone on tours in the Douro valley to visit where the port is actually made?

Hi Paula, it’s super easy to do port tastings on your own along the main street in Villa Nova de Gaia. You can get there quickly from the cruise ship and then you can just walk around along the street and stop in where ever you want. I highly recommend Vasconcello. If there are any port houses that you absolutely want to visit, make sure you email them in advance and make an appointment. There’s no need at all to hire a guide.

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Hello I am planning a private party of 40 people for a gala dinner in a fine old port house with lots of atmosphere, for next may/june. What are your suggestions?

I would look at Calem first, then Taylor’s or Graham’s. They all have great facilities for a large dinner party, all are very beautiful.

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• Travel Resources

13 Best Port Wine Cellars in Porto

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To help you decide which are the best Port wine cellars in Porto , I made the selfless sacrifice of setting out to visit all of the Port wine cellars across the river from Porto while taking ample notes of my experience (between sips of Port, of course).

Not everyone is aware of the connection between the city of Porto and Port wine before their first visit, but once arriving to this homey metropolis nestled on a hill between the Douro River and the Atlantic sea, there’s no avoiding the importance of this sweet, fortified wine for centuries past up until today.

A trip to Porto would be incomplete without taking a stroll across the Luís I Bridge for a tour and wine tasting at one (or more!) of the many Port wine lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most delicious and rewarding things to do in Porto .

But how do you choose which one to visit? There are over a dozen options to choose from, and each one has wonderful wine to taste and impressive cellars stacked with hundreds of barrels to see.

No need to fear. Your friendly wine expert is here. No matter if you’re a complete beginner to the world of wine or can distinguish a Pinot from a Primitivo, there’s plenty for you to enjoy during a Port wine tour in Porto.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Port wine cellars in Porto

1 – Cálem

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 1613 reviews )

“The Fado show was absolutely fantastic.” Akvile, Getyourguide

The Cálem Cellars and Fado Show is certainly a crowd favorite among visitors to Porto. Not only do you get to take a tour of the Cálem Cellars where they store and age millions of liters of Port wine, but you also get to sample two glasses of their Port while enjoying a live show of Fado music.

Before your tour starts, you can enjoy a modern Port wine museum in the waiting area. During the tour, you’ll also be treated to innovative installations that help demonstrate the capacity and functionality of the large vats and barrels.

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Although Cálem Cellar tours are not the most exclusive experience with group sizes of up to 45 people, the guide will give you a comprehensive overview of how the different styles of Port wine are made.

This is a perfect introduction for those just discovering Port wine, and the fado show during the tasting makes for a complete Portuguese experience at an excellent price.

• compare Cálem cellars tours

2 – Cockburn’s Port Lodge

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 1180 reviews )

“Thoroughly enjoyed the tour and found the story of Cockburn port absolutely fascinating.” Anne, Civitatis

Cockburn’s Lodge is one of the most unique Port wine cellars that you can visit in Porto for two reasons. First, it’s the largest in the area, with over 10 million liters of wine aged in hundreds of wooden vats and barrels. Second, it’s the only one with an on-site cooperage, where you can witness the coopers in action repairing barrels and fixing vats.

Each tour is the same, but the difference in ticket price determines how premium your wine and tasting room will be and whether it will be paired with cheese or chocolate.

The Cockburn’s Lodge is one of the most impressive and authentic Port wine cellars you can visit. The facility is not only the largest in the city but also features a grand cobblestoned hallway that makes an impact when you suddenly turn a corner and face the seemingly endless rows of wooden vats and barrels.

• compare Cockburn’s Lodge tours

3 – Graham’s Port Lodge

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 251 reviews )

“The views of Porto from the winery are incredible.” María José, Civitatis

Graham’s Port Lodge is one of the most internationally recognizable Port wine brands and an official Port supplier to the British royal family. Graham’s distinguished cellar and tasting rooms reflect the refined style of the stereotypically elegant English gentleman.

Whether you choose to indulge in their entry-level Ports in the main tasting room or treat yourself to a premium selection in the VIP Vintage Room, you’ll gain an appreciation of how Graham’s Port wine has consistently stood out from the pack since the early 19th century.

Graham’s and Cockburn’s are both owned and operated by the same family, Symington Family Estates , so there may be some overlap of information in the tours. However, the two brands and lodges couldn’t be more different.

Whereas Cockburn’s provides a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of the cooperage, Graham’s tasting room offers impeccable views over Porto and the riverside that are simply breathtaking.

• compare Graham’s Port Lodge tours

4 – Burmester Winery

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 ( 731 reviews )

“Very nice place, cozy, the guide was very professional.” María, Civitatis

Burmester Cellars was first established in 1750, making it one of the oldest Port wine houses you can visit in Vila Nova de Gaia. You can choose from three types of tours, where you’ll sample two to three types of Port wine and maybe even pair them with chocolate!

Children are welcome but aren’t allowed to sample the wine, of course. Visitors 17 and under only pay half-price admission, and kids five and under can join the tour for free. Get ready to step back in time to see winemaking methods that have hardly changed since the 18th century.

Burmester is the only Port wine cellar along the riverside set east of the Dom Luís I bridge. A highlight of the tour is an outdoor space where you can take advantage of Burmester’s location for a unique photo op with the other side of the bridge as a background. (Unfortunately, it was raining heavily during our visit, so we couldn’t do this ourselves.)

This tour is slightly shorter than others, both in terms of time and distance, so it’s a good option if you have impatient little ones or less mobile older ones in your group. Burmester is also one of the only houses with a German co-founder, which is another reason to visit if you have German roots.

• compare Burmester cellars tours

5 – Quevedo

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 156 reviews )

“Excellent value for money, great guide and the port was also excellent.” Stefan, Getyourguide

Quevedo is one of the new kids on the block compared to the other Port wine houses, as the Quevedo brand is younger than most of the visitors who come to their tasting room, having been established in 1993.

However, the winemaking traditions of the Quevedo family go back over five generations, and this expertise is evident in the quality of their Port wine. Although there are no Quevedo cellars to visit in Porto, there’s a beautiful two-story tasting room to try not only Port wine but also dry red and white wines — and even a housemade gin.

Quevedo’s wine specialist, Michael, was a gracious host for the Port wine tasting — paired with cheese and chocolate, which I highly recommend. The low-key vibes of the space make it easy to feel comfortable and relaxed without the overly formal and rigid structure you might come across in other tastings. The aged white Ports are an uncommon style you must try while there.

• see price & reviews

6 – Taylor’s Lodge

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 3 reviews )

“This was a great outing. The personal touch of the tour guide and the meal we had was excellent.” Barry, Viator

Taylor’s is one of the preeminent names in Port wine and one of two official suppliers to the British royal family. Taylor’s Lodge cellar tours are unique for two main factors — they’re self-guided and no pre-booking is necessary.

However, for a truly special afternoon, you can have an experienced guide chauffeur you to the seaside in Matosinhos for a seafood lunch followed by a visit to Taylor’s for a Port wine tasting.

At first, I was suspicious about the self-guided nature of the cellar tour, but my suspicions were soon alleviated. It was liberating to have the freedom to skip information I already knew and focus on the parts that were most interesting to me. Being able to control the pace of the tour is also a major benefit, especially for those on a tight schedule.

• compare Port wine cellars in Porto

7 – Real Companhia Velha

Rating: ⭐️ 3.9/5 ( 570 reviews )

“Good value for money. Nice quick city tour.” Bernard, Getyourguide

Kick your feet up and settle in for a magic train ride around the enchanted city of Porto. Hop in at Sé Cathedral and be whisked across the Don Luís I bridge to the headquarters of one of the oldest Port wine brands — Real Companhia Velha .

After tasting two glasses of Port wine, jump back on the train and cross back over the river for a sightseeing tour of all the must-see spots in the historic center of Porto, including Clerigos Tower and the well-known Lello Bookshop.

This is a great budget option, especially if you’re traveling with little ones who may not be up for walking up and down the hills of Porto all day. The main downside is that at Real Companhia Velha, you taste Port wines in their welcome area but don’t visit where the wine is aged in vats and barrels.

8 – Caves Poças

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 104 reviews )

“Small group, quite informal. Thoroughly enjoyed it.” Benjamin, Tiqets

Poças is one of the rare stories of a Port wine house that was founded and remains in the hands of one Portuguese family. On a tour of its cellars, you can learn more about this unique family history and the brand’s success over the centuries.

Poças Cellars offers seasonal wine-tasting menus where you can focus on dry red and white wines, Port wines or a mixture of them all.

Poças Cellars is a great place to visit for a Port wine tour and wine tasting not only for the beauty of its tasting room but also for the fact that you can enjoy tastings that offer a selection of their dry wines and Ports, especially appealing for those who don’t have much of a sweet tooth.

• see price and reviews

9 – Fonseca Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 57 reviews )

“Plenty of food and wine and an excellent fado singer. Beautiful dinner setting with candle lights.” Michael, Getyourguide

Fonseca wines are one of the most well-known Port brands in the world, particularly in the United States and Canada. On a visit to their cellars, you can sample some of their best vintage ports and see first-hand where they age their acclaimed Fonseca Bin nº27.

Located just a stone’s throw away from Taylor’s and the WOW museum, it’s easy to find. Consider stopping by Fonseca Port Cellars on a Saturday evening to take advantage of their newest program — a guided tour followed by dinner and a fado show.

The main draw of this Fonseca tour is the delectable 3-course meal included with the visit and wine tasting. The fado shows in the other cellars only allow you to sip on a glass of Port, but at this time of the early evening, it makes perfect sense to combine a dinner with the show.

• compare Fonseca cellars tours

10 – Kopke Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (99 reviews)

“The tour was intimate and a lovely way to experience the city [at] some unique spots off the beaten path.” Caroline, Viator

Billing itself as the oldest Port wine brand, Kopke was founded way back in 1638, making it the pioneer in shipping Port wine internationally. Your guide will reveal how the city was back then and much earlier to its founding, pre-dating Roman times.

Your guide from C&D Porto Local Tours will ensure that your mind is full of engaging stories, your eyes are overwhelmed by beautiful views, and your palate is drenched in the sweet nectar of Port wine.

This tour is a good choice if you’re interested in sightseeing and learning about the history of Porto more than wine tasting, as the Port wine portion of the tour will only be about one-fourth of the experience.

• compare price & reviews

11 – Sandeman Port Wine Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 (589 reviews)

“The tour, history, and tasting were excellent. A very knowledgeable guide.” Steve, Tripadvisor

Sandeman is responsible for what must be the most iconic visual symbol of Port wine — the caped Zorro-like figure known as the Don. Sandeman introduced this image in the early 20th century, which has since been featured on countless ads and billboards worldwide.

On a guided tour of the Sandeman Port Wine Cellars, you can follow the Don (yes, the guide wears a wide-brimmed hat and cape) to learn more about the history of the brand and see where Sandeman ages and stores its many, many liters of Port wine.

Although not as exclusive as some of the cellar tours described above, Sandeman offers an array of high-quality tours and tastings making it one of the best options among the cellars situated along the riverside.

12 – Ramos Pinto Lodge & Visitor Center

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (969 reviews)

 “Informative tour (fun facts and not at all boring!). Fantastic port to taste. Well worth a visit!” Lainey, TripAdvisor

Ramos Pinto is one of the few Port wine houses with a Portuguese name, as most of the branding and international export has been handled by non-Portuguese shipping companies, most commonly run and founded by British and Dutch families.

Another factor that makes Ramos Pinto unique is their strong market presence in Brazil, so don’t be surprised if you’re unfamiliar with the brand. Consider pairing your tour and tasting with a visit to Casa São Roque — the former residence of António Ramos Pinto.

The brand’s founder, Adriano Ramos Pinto, studied art in Porto before entering the wine industry and was a pioneer in the marketing of Port wine. His influence is clear to this day, as you can appreciate when viewing the elegant labeling and adverts for Ramos Pinto Port in their museum.

13 – Vasconcellos

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 (271 reviews)

“Learnt a lot and tasted some great wines.” Peter. TripAdvisor

Vasconcellos is not one of the most recognizable Port wine brands outside Portugal. However, domestically, it has maintained a reputation for quality since the late nineteenth century.

Located halfway between the cellars of Cálem and Ferreira, this smaller producer offers tastings with a view of Porto across the river. Although you can try all different styles of Port, the showcase wine is certainly the 80-year-old tawny.

Although I haven’t yet had the possibility to visit Vasconcellos in person, according to the reviews, most people love it, but there’s a vocal minority who didn’t have the best experience. There’s a sense that things function off-script here, which some find authentic and endearing while others find it confusing and dishonest.

Best Port Wine Cellar Tours in Porto

Maybe you’re thinking to yourself, “One Port wine cellar isn’t enough. Give me more! More!” If so, I don’t blame you. I’ve been there myself. No need to fear. The right tour is here.

There are plenty of Port wine cellar tours that’ll take you to several spots and even throw into the mix a rooftop bar or typical restaurant. Check out my personally curated list below for the ones I think are the best of the best.

If you’re looking for tours that go beyond the Port wine cellars, like a day trip into the Douro Valley or a tasting of dry wines, you can refer to a separate list of the best wine tours and tastings in Porto .

1 – Living Tours Porto City Tour & Port Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 573 reviews )

“Very good guide, very friendly and very knowledgeable.” Catherine, Civitatis.

Living Tours organizes the perfect budget option if you’re interested in combining a guided walking tour around Porto’s historic center with bus transportation across the river to a Port wine cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia.

After meeting at São Bento train station, you’ll explore Sé Cathedral, Clérigos Tower, and the Lello Bookshop before hopping on the bus and capping off your tour with a Port wine tasting at one of the historic Port wine lodges with views over the Douro River.

This tour is great for all ages as the bus transport eliminates the need to trek up the steep hills in downtown Porto, which may prove too much of a challenge for younger or older guests. Tick off a good number of must-see attractions and must-do activities in just a few fun-filled hours.

2 – Port & Douro Wine Tastings at Cálem, Churchill’s & Quinta de Noval

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 564 reviews )

“Amazing guide, great wines, strongly recommend.” Marta, Getyourguide

If you want to try some non-sweet Douro wines along with some Port, this is the tour for you. Enjoy a total of 10 tastings at three different wine cellars while learning about the history of producing fortified and non-fortified wines in the Douro Valley.

You’ll meet your guide along the riverside of the Cais de Gaia and then stroll around the cobblestone alleyways from one wine cellar to the next to sample the best Port and Douro wines that each one has to offer.

Without a doubt, you get plenty of bang for your buck with this tour as far as wine tasting goes. The chance to try ten different wines in just a few hours is a challenge that most wine lovers would happily accept. This is also a good option if someone in your party stubbornly opposes sweet wines, as traditional robust red wines are also on the menu.

3 – Seven Tastings at Three Port Wine Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1046 reviews )

“Absolutely love this tour, so much so this is my second time doing it.” Ricardo, Viator

Porto Walkers operates this whirlwind half-day walking tour to three different Port wine houses, where you’ll try seven glasses of this delectable fortified wine. Your guide will typically take you to Cálem Cellars , the Porto Cruz rooftop bar and the Vasques de Carvalho wine bar and shop, all overlooking the Douro River.

At each Port wine cellar, you’ll have the chance to sample two to three Port wines and shop for bottles and other souvenirs to take back home with you, all while enjoying the scenic views on the cobblestone streets and rooftops of Vila Nova de Gaia.

This tour lets you experience some of the best views of Porto from the Cais de Gaia while tasting and exploring three of the most well-known Port houses in the area. If you’re not afraid of a little walking, you can make the most of this comprehensive, half-day tour.

4 – Sunset Walking Tour & Rooftop Port Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 50 reviews )

“Insight into the real Porto of locals […] I came away with some amazing tips for restaurants!” Sarah, Getyourguide

This is the perfect tour for rooftop bar lovers and for those who want to combine a Porto walking tour with visits to some of the most scenic views over the city from both sides of the river.

Although this tour doesn’t include a visit to any of the Port wine cellars, it’s a great option if you’ve already done a cellar tour or if you want to take full advantage of a sunny Portuguese afternoon.

Although this tour doesn’t stop at any of the Port wine cellars, it’s a wonderful option for those who can’t get enough of rooftop bars and would enjoy sampling Port wines in the sunshine and fresh air overlooking this picturesque city at the golden hour.

5 – Candlelight Concerts at Ferreira Cellars

Rating: ⭐️ 4.1/5 (495 reviews)

“The cellars are absolutely extraordinary and are rich with history dating back 100+ years.” Michelle, TripAdvisor

Ferreira is the second-to-last Port wine cellar along the riverside if you’re walking west from the Dom Luís I Bridge. They offer eight different tickets for tastings and tours, including one which is quite different — a combo ticket with the contemporary art museum, Serralves.

Ferreira Cellars has a grand entryway to host events and activities. One of the most romantic and enchanting of these are the Candlelight Concerts. If you happen to be visiting Porto at the same time that Ferreira hosts one of these concerts, make sure not to miss it.

• candlelight concerts in Porto

Ferreira and Sandeman are both under the same parent company, Sogrape , so the design of their tours and tastings are similar with each one adapting to the unique history and styles of the cellar. If I had to choose only one to visit, it would be a tasting at Sandeman followed by a Candlelight Concert at Ferreira.

How to book Port wine cellar tours in Porto online?

It’s easy to book Port wine cellar tours in Porto online. In fact, most of the Port wine cellars require a reservation and cannot accommodate walk-ins. All you need to do is click on the appropriate link in one of the tour descriptions above or follow the link below to compare all the Port wine cellar tours in one place.

As we conclude our journey through Porto’s iconic wine cellars, let’s raise a glass to the wider world of Portuguese wines, inviting both connoisseurs and curious travelers to explore further the depth and diversity that Portugal’s wine regions have to offer.

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Port cellar tours and Port tastings in Porto - updated for 2024

Porto is famed for producing Port wine, and a tour of one of the historic port cellars along with a port tasting session, is one of the best unique activities of the city.

Ancient laws dating back to the 17th century, dictate that for the sweet, fortified wine to be classified as Port, it must be stored and matured within the city of Vila Nova de Gaia, which sits opposite Porto on the southern banks of the Douro River. This means that within a relatively compact area of Vila Nova de Gaia are all of the major Port houses and their cellars (which are referred to as Lodges)

Many of the Port houses provide guided tours of their cellars along with Port tasting sessions. These tours and tastings sessions are informative, social and surprisingly inexpensive, and are a fantastic experience while on holiday to Porto.

This guide will detail the best Port tour and tasting sessions and help you get the most from this very enjoyable experience. Related articles: Introduction to Porto – Top 10 Porto

Being many centuries old, the Port cellars are rich in heritage - such as the Caves Burmester, pictured above

Tawny Ports are aged in small, oak casks and are typically stored for between 10 and 40 years

Port cellar tours in Porto

All of the Port cellars are situated on the southern side of the Douro River in the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. Each of the Port houses provides a slightly different experience, but they generally follow the same pattern: • An overview of the production of Port • The history of their company • A guided tour of the cellars (including photo opportunities) • A tasting of two or three ports

The tasting session often compares the three types of Ports; White, Ruby and Tawny or a selection of Ports of different ages.

The typical cost of a cellar tour, with a basic tasting, will range from €14-17. This type of tour is offered by all of the Port houses. More expensive tours include a premium selection of Ports, often hosted in a more impressive tasting room.

All of the Port cellar tours (except for Taylor's) are led by a tour guide, so they have a maximum number of spaces and set times for different languages. Tours should be pre-booked before heading to Vila Nova de Gaia, as turning up on the day can often lead to disappointment, especially in the peak summer season.

We always suggest visiting at least two Port cellars during your stay in Porto. This is a fantastic activity for later in the afternoon or evening, as you may leave a little bit tipsy!

The main tourist area of Vila Nova de Gaia lies along the banks of the river, and the port houses in this area (such as Sandeman and Cálem) will always be the most popular and sell out first. The cellars further away from the river, which are up a steep hill, provide a calmer atmosphere and often have more spaces available. These cellars include Real Companhia Velha, Graham's and Cockburn's.

The interactive map below shows the location of the Porto lodges within Vila Nova de Gaia. The shaded yellow area marks the main tourist area. ( Note: zoom out to see all of the points)

Key: 1) Augusto's 2) Burmester 3) Cálem 4) Churchill's 5) Cockburn’s 6) Ferreira 7) Fonseca 8) Graham’s 9) Poças 10) Ramos Pinto 11) Real Companhia Velha 12) Sandeman 13) Taylor's 14) Vasconcellos

Sandeman is one of the most popular Port cellars

The colour scale and storage time of the different varieties of Port, as seen in the Cálem museum

The best Port cellar tours and tastings sessions in Porto

With more than ten different Port houses providing tours and tasting sessions, there is a wide choice available to you. As these are all very similar, you will have a fantastic time whichever one you choose to visit.

The best Port cellars to visit are: 1) Ferreira 2) Cálem 3) Real Companhia Velha 4) Graham's 5) Sandeman 6) Taylor's 7) Ramos Pinto 8) Cockburns 9) Burmester

Insight: If you are new to Porto, we would recommend starting with one of the more tourism-focused Port cellars, such as Cálem or Sandeman, then have a second (or third) tour to one of the more atmospheric cellars, such as Real Companhia Velha, Ferreira, Graham's or Cockburns.

Ferreira is regarded by the residents of Porto as the best Port cellar to visit. It offers an informative tour of some of the oldest port cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and concludes with a great selection of Ports. The Ferreira company is highly regarded by the Portuguese, as it is a wholly owned Portuguese company (most Port houses were British owned) started by an inspirational woman named Dona Antónia Ferreira.

If you have no prior knowledge of Port, Cálem makes a great starting point. It provides knowledgeable guides and fascinating interactive displays. The downside is that it can get very busy, with large tour sizes and slightly rushed tasting sessions. ( Cálem cellar tour tickets )

Real Companhia Velha provides a more authentic experience and features magnificent port cellars, however it is a long way from the main tourism area of Vila Nova de Gaia. Real Companhia Velha is one of the oldest wine companies of Portugal, having been started by King Jose I in 1757. ( www.realcompan hiavelha.pt)

Graham's is a highly recommended experience, with a relaxed atmosphere and a larger set of cellars (www.grahams -port.com ). The Sandeman cellar, at the heart of the tourism area, has enthusiastic guides and is always a popular choice with visitors: www.sandeman.com

Taylor's should also be mentioned, as it provides a self-guided tour with a multi-language handset. This tour is not limited by visitor numbers, which is great for the busy summer season or if your desired language tour is sold out at other cellars. Taylor’s also has a pretty outside tasting area in a charming courtyard garden. ( www.taylor.pt )

Ramos Pinto makes an interesting choice for your second or third Port tour, as it includes the original 19th-century office and details the 'unique' marketing techniques of the company. www.ramospinto.pt/

Cockburn's is the largest Port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. Their tour provides something extra, as here you are able to watch the coopers at work as they preserve and repair the wooden barrels. ( www.cockburns.com )

Burmester is a smaller Port cellar at the base of the Ponte Luís I, which is also well worth a visit.

Porto tasting

Tourist insight: The port tours are excellent value, but the bottles of Port sold in the shops attached to the Port houses are often not good value. For standard bottles of Port, it is much better value to visit the wine shops in Porto or even the supermarkets. Unique gift: Each bottle of Port states the year it was produced, which can make a unique gift for a birthday or to commemorate a special year such as an anniversary.

Why are the Porto lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia?

All of the Port cellars are located in Vila Nova de Gaia, and the reason for this dates back to the 13th century.

Medieval Porto was effectively ruled by the bishop of Porto, and he taxed all boats that moored in the city. King Alfonso, seeking to avoid these taxes, established a second port in Vila Nova de Gaia (New Town of Gaia) opposite Porto on the southern banks of the Douro.

This port became the main centre for the transportation of grapes from the Upper Douro, and it became law in the 18th century that all Port must be matured within Vila Nova de Gaia.

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Taylor Fladgate, accepted by most wine authorities to be the greatest of all port shippers invites you to an exciting and informative tour of its famous port wine cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia.

• Do I have to book in advance for a tour? No reservation is required for the audio tour
• Is there a tour schedule? No, you will be able to get started as soon as you arrive.
• How much does a ticket cost and what does it include? Adult tickets cost 20€ and include an audio guide (available in 13 languages) and Port Wine tasting. For children between 8 and 17 years of age, the ticket costs 7,5€. It includes an audio guide, grape juice and cookies. For our guests under 8 years of age, entrance is free. 
• What wines will I taste? Two of Taylor Fladgate's iconic Port wines to taste: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV), invented by Taylor Fladgate in the 1930’s and 1970’s respectively, and a can of Chip Dry & Tonic - the delicious new Port and Tonic ready to drink.
• Can I book a private tour? Yes. With advance booking, you may enjoy a private tour and tasting. Whatever your knowledge of Port we can provide you with the right level of tour. Each tour is customised and charged based on each event. Should you be interested in a private tour and tasting, please fill our contact form .
• How can I book a tour for a large group? You should book in advance, sending a message through our contact form .

Opening Hours during the Year -  ​Cellars:  10am – 6:15pm (mon-sun)  Tasting Room and Shop:  10am - 7:30pm (mon-sun)  Restaurant:  12.30pm-3pm // 7pm-10pm

Opening Hours - Festive season: June 23rd:  Last admission to the audio tour at 4pm and closing of the tasting room at 5:45pm. December 24th:​  From 11 am to 5 pm, with the last admission for the audio tour at 3:45 pm. December 25th:  From 12 pm to 7 pm, with the last admission for the audio tour at 6 pm. December 31st:  From 11 am to 5 pm, with the last admission for the audio tour at 3:45 pm. January 1st:  From 12 pm to 7 pm, with the last admission for the audio tour at 6 pm.

The audio-guided tour lasts, on average, one hour, with a further 30 minutes required for the Port wine tasting at the end, in the tasting room.

Please note that there’s enough material on the tour for 2 hours if you wish, therefore if you think you would appreciate staying longer for the tour and tasting, then we would suggest that you arrive no later than 3.30 / 4pm.

Taylor Fladgate, now in its fourth century, recently renovated its 300 year old Cellars to incorporate a modern and innovative museum circuit. The story of Port wine and Taylor Fladgate is now told through an extensive audio-guided visit, available in 13 languages , (English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Danish,  Mandarin (+info 参观泰来波特酒窖) , Dutch, Polish, Korean and Russian) which will take you on a vivid tour of the Lodge that includes an array of films, images, exhibits, photographs and paintings.

The visitor is given the opportunity to journey into the past and learn about the history of Port wine and its production today, the Douro Valley and the house of Taylor Fladgate, its past, present and its wealth of exceptional Ports. In addition to the two wines included on the tour, there is a range of Port tastings for our visitors to enjoy including a choice of many different aged Tawny Ports, or one of Taylor Fladgate's classic Vintage Ports. 

With advance booking, you may also enjoy a private tour and tasting. Whatever your knowledge of Port we can provide you with the right level of tour. Each tour is customised and charged based on each event. For those interested we also recommend: • Traditional opening of Taylor Fladgate Vintage Ports with hot tongs; • A private commented Port tasting with accompaniments • Different educational experiences such as a Vintage Port Master class or informal  lesson in Port cocktails  • Tasting of olive oil from the Douro valley - Quinta de Vargellas extra virgin; • A visit to our wine shop where you can find the whole range of Taylor Fladgate Ports including charming gift boxes or rare Vintages; • Tasting by-the-glass of old tawnies; • Restaurant "Barão de Fladgate” - www.baraofladgate.com , open daily for lunch from 12h30 until 15h00 or from 19h until 22h for dinner; • Trying one of our food and wine pairing options during your tasting  

Opening Hours during the Year - 

Cellars: 11am – 6pm (mon-sun)  Tasting Room and Shop: 11am - 7pm (mon-sun)  Restaurant: 12.30pm-3pm // 7pm-10pm

Taylor Fladgate Port Rua do Choupelo, nº 250 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal GPS Coordinates: 41.13394, -8.61435 Tel. +351 223 772 973 ​ *Call to the Portuguese fixed network)

Visit Taylor Fladgate Barão Fladgate Restaurant

Make the most of your trip to the Taylor Fladgate's cellars by accompanying your visit with a sumptuous lunch or dinner at our Barão Fladgate Restaurant.

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Wine Destinations · March 14, 2024

The Best Porto Port Houses for Tastings & Tours

Are you a wine lover planning a trip to Porto, Portugal? If so, there’s one thing you absolutely can’t miss: Porto port houses. 

While technically located just across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, these historic port producers are just a quick walk or boat ride away. You’ll get to tour ancient cellars, learn about port winemaking, and taste some amazing ports. 

But with around 60 port wine cellars and tasting rooms to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. Don’t worry! As an advanced WSET wine expert , I personally researched and tasted my way through the port houses. And I put together this easy guide that has everything you need to know.

Read on to find out the best port houses in Porto for wine tastings, cellar tours, and more.

The Best Port Houses for Port Tastings

These port houses are great for enjoying port tastings without a tour. And they’re all right along the Douro River just steps apart from each other. So, you can easily do them in one day.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, one of my favorite tastings was C.N. Kopke , the oldest port house. What makes it so special? Well, for starters, they pair their delicious ports with chocolate. Yup, you heard that right!

Kopke has been in the game since way back in 1638 when Nicolau Kopkë started a wine-buying venture. But it became a port producer in 1781 after snagging a farm in the Douro Valley.

And let me tell you, they’ve got some seriously old ports. You’ll find vintages dating back to the 1930s. And even a 50-year tawny.

If you want to try some non-fortified wines too, Kopke’s got you covered. These come from Quinta de São Luiz, which they purchased in the 1920s. The vineyards are in the Cima Corgo area of Douro Valley, where you’ll find many of the top quintas.

I love their non-fortified wines too, including reds, rosés, and white wines from vines planted up to 50 years ago. You’ll see top Portuguese grapes like Touriga Nacional and Tinta Cão.

Visiting Tips

In Kopke’s cozy tasting room, you can choose from a selection of tastings that include their ports and Douro Valley DOC wines. The tasting room staff is very knowledgeable, and they’ll give you just the right amount of information without overwhelming you.  

Plus, you’ll get to enjoy stunning views of the city while sipping and snacking on traditional Portuguese chocolates. 

Quinta do Noval

This famous port wine house is another great spot to stop and sip along Vila Nova de Gaia’s waterfront. 

Quinta do Noval ’s Douro Valley vineyards date back to 1715. After being hit hard by phylloxera, the property was bought and replanted by a port shipper named António José da Silva.

By 1931, Quinta do Noval was making a name for themselves as one of the only ones that year to declare a vintage. And the president of Portugal chose it for Barack Obama’s visit in 2010. Talk about a good endorsement!

Today, Quinta do Noval makes a variety of ports and non-fortified wines. These are all produced and aged in the Douro Valley.

You won’t want to miss unique finds like the single-vineyard vintage port made from ungrafted vines. Plus, they make an unfiltered Late Bottled Vintage that you can age in the bottle.

For non-fortified wines, you’ll find red wines and white wines from local grape varieties. But they also make international varieties such as Syrah and Petit Verdot.

Quinta do Noval’s tasting room is open for walk-ins, so stop by to try five of their delicious port wines. And did I mention they make their own olive oil too?

Espaço Porto Cruz

If you’re looking for an interactive and fun wine experience, check out Espaço Porto Cruz . 

Cruz is one of the largest port producers, with 10 million bottles sold annually. Their grapes are grown on 400 hectares in the Douro Valley and the wines are produced at Quinta de Ventozelo.

Their ports run the full gamut, with ruby, tawny, white, and rosé. And they’ve got a variety of Vintage, LBV, and Colheita port wines.

The 5-story Espaço Porto Cruz is like a wine lover’s playground. There’s a tasting room, restaurant, wine shop, and even a gelateria! I mean, it’s hard to say no to wine and ice cream . 

If you’re planning ahead, you can make a reservation for one of their delicious wine, chocolate, and cheese tastings. But if you’re just popping in, there’s plenty to see and do. 

The first floor is a multimedia center with interactive experiences and sensory activities to help you learn all about port wine. And you can even check out some cool contemporary Portuguese art while you’re there. 

But my favorite level is the fourth-floor roof deck. The 360-degree terrace has jaw-dropping views of the river and city. It’s the perfect spot to order a glass of wine and a cheese platter, and just take it all in. 

Besides Cruz ports, they also serve ports from Dalva, a smaller producer owned by the C. da Silva family. And a great selection of white, rosé, red, and sparkling Portuguese wine.

The Best Porto Port Houses for Port Cellar Tours

While there are many great port houses, these are my picks for some of the best port wine cellars for port tours. All offer options for an English tour and have excellent port wines to taste.

Taylor Fladgate

For experiencing one of the larger and most famous port houses, I’d recommend Taylor Fladgate . This OG producer has been making port for more than 300 years. And their 20-year Tawny is one of my go-to ports.

It all started back in 1692 when an English merchant named Job Bearsley arrived in Portugal. In later generations, they were the first British wine shipper to buy land in the Douro Valley. And they even invented Late Bottled Vintage port.

Taylor specializes in vintage ports. And you’ll find ones dating back to the 1960s. Their tawny ports go up to 50 years. Plus, they have a newly released Very Very Old Port (VVOP), made with wine from before the Second World War!

Take a self-guided audio tour to explore the ancient cellars at your own pace. Learn about the history of port wine and how production has changed over the years.

After your tour, you can enjoy a tasting and fantastic views from the terrace overlooking the city. And if you’re there around lunchtime, grab a meal at the on-site restaurant, Barão Fladgate.

Plan to spend an hour and a half to two hours for the informative tour and port wine tasting. No reservations are needed for the audio tour. But you can book a private tour and tasting in advance.

Churchill’s

If you’re looking for a more intimate visit, head to Churchill’s . This family business is located a bit off the beaten path. But it’s worth the walk.

Although founded by a descendant of the Graham’s Port family, Churchill’s is a newer port producer. John Graham (aka Johnny) arrived in Porto in the 1970s. 

His family had recently sold Graham’s Port Lodge to the Symington Family, who also own Cockburn’s Port, Warre’s Port, and Dow’s Port.

Johnny wanted to make port wines in a more modern, drier style. So, he founded Churchill’s, naming it after his wife Caroline Churchill.

Grapes for the wines come from Quinta da Gricha, a grade-A vineyard in the Cimo Corgo sub-region of Douro Valley. These are hand-picked and foot-treaded, ensuring the best taste and quality.

I like that Churchill’s is a smaller place, so you don’t have to deal with massive groups during the tour and tasting.

You’ll have the opportunity to visit the cellars with a tour guide and learn about the port-making process. And then enjoy a tasting of their excellent port and other Douro wines in the 1982 bar and garden.

Ramos Pinto

Another great option for a tour and tasting experience is Ramos Pinto . This historic port house was founded by the young artist, Adriano Ramos Pinto, who had great success exporting his ports to Brazil.

Over the years, Ramos Pinto continued to expand by acquiring more vineyards in the Douro region. They currently own four quintas. And they’re now part of the famous Louis Roederer Champagne house.

During the museum visit, you’ll learn about the company’s history and Adriano’s unique marketing methods. Then you’ll take a guided tour of the cellar, followed by a tasting of Ramos Pinto ports.  

The tasting pours are generous. So, if you plan on visiting multiple port houses, you may want to share one between two people. There are also different levels of tastings to choose from, so you can tailor your experience to your preferences. 

You can make a reservation in advance online, but they do take walk-ins if space is available.

Porto Wine Museum

While you’re in Vila Nova de Gaia, don’t miss the WOW museum complex . With 7 museums and 12 restaurants and bars, you’ll be hard-pressed to run out of things to see, eat, and drink.

Learn about winemaking and Portugal’s wine regions at The Wine Experience. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting at the end of your visit.

And did you know Portugal is the world’s largest producer of cork? Find out how wine corks are made at Planet Cork. This interactive museum has kid-friendly exhibits so it’s great for the whole family.

Wine Tour in Porto

If you’re not the DIY kind of traveler and prefer a guided tour, this is a great half-day port wine tasting tour . It includes an English-speaking guide who will take you to 3 port houses. You’ll get to visit a cellar and enjoy tasting 7 different ports.

🚌 Book the Half-Day Port Wine Tasting Tour

Recommendations may be affiliate links on which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me share new wine destinations with you and I only recommend products and services that I love and think you’ll love too!

Where to Stay for Visiting Port Houses in Porto

As one of the most affordable places to visit in Western Europe, there are lots of great accommodation options in Porto. If you plan to spend most of your time seeing the historical attractions in the old city center of Porto, then you’ll want to be on the Porto side of the river. 

Eurostars Porto Douro is a great value. Located right along the banks of the Douro River, it’s close to the Dom Luis I Bridge. So, you’ll have easy access to both the port houses and Porto’s main attractions. And they even have room options with kitchens.

But if you’re all about the wine, there are great places to stay in Vila Nova de Gaia too. The Yeatman is a fantastic luxury option. All rooms have river-facing views. And the hotel has a great program of wine tastings, seminars, and wine dinners. Plus, a 2-Michelin-star restaurant.

🏨 Book Eurostars Porto Douro or The Yeatman

FAQs About Visiting Porto Port Houses

When is the Best Time to Visit Port Houses?

The summer months are the best weather-wise for visiting Porto. July and August are the peak tourist months. If you want to avoid the crowds, you’ll still have great weather in May, June, September, and October. 

You could also time your visit around the Essência do Vinho event that’s held in Porto each year. Wine producers from all over Portugal come together at the Palácio da Bolsa. You can join masterclasses, walk-around tastings, and find out who made the list of the top 10 Portuguese wines.

Where Are All the Port Houses in Porto?

The port houses are all located in Vila Nova de Gaia. This is an area on the southern bank of the Douro River just across from the city of Porto. Getting there is easy. Just walk across the double-decker Dom Luís I Bridge. Take the lower deck for the faster route.

Or for spectacular views, I recommend walking across the top deck. At the other end, the Gaia cable car will take you straight to the pier. And you’ll be right in the middle of all the port houses. 

Another option is to take a boat taxi across the river for a few euros. These run every 15 minutes but may not be available in the evenings.

Vila Nova de Gaia is perfect for exploring on foot. But be warned that the port houses farther from the river are up steep hills. So, wear comfortable shoes. And don’t worry, the port will be worth it!

Do You Need Reservations for Port Houses?

Visiting port houses is a popular activity in Porto, so it’s best to be prepared before you go. Some places don’t require reservations, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time to avoid any surprises.

If you’re set on visiting a specific port house, make a reservation in advance to ensure you get in without any wait time. But if you didn’t plan ahead, you can try walking in and see if they can fit you in.

Keep in mind that port is stronger than your average wine. And those small tastings can add up fast! It’s best to limit your tastings to 2-3 per day, but at most 4. 

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History of Porto Port Houses

If you’re familiar with port, you know that it’s made in the Douro Valley, which is about 60 miles inland from Porto. But you may be wondering how all these port houses ended up by the coast.

Well, back in the day when Great Britain was at war with France, they could no longer get their beloved Bordeaux and Burgundy wines. So, they started looking for a new source of good wine.

The British took a liking to Portuguese wines. But found they would often spoil on the long journey. 

But then, a couple of English brothers had the brilliant idea to add some grape brandy to the wine before one trip. They found that it worked to preserve the wine. And just like that, port wine was born!

So, British-owned port houses began popping up in the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. This cooler coastal climate was much better for aging the wines than the hot Douro Valley.

The Brits would buy the wine from the Douro Valley and it would be transported downstream in flat-bottomed boats called rabelos. Once aged, the port houses also handled the transport to England.

In the late 1800s, the root-louse phylloxera devastated much of Europe’s vineyards. And many of the Portuguese winemakers gave up and sold their land to British companies.

After the solution was found of grafting vines to American rootstock, port production started up again. Except this time many of the British companies were running the production from start to finish.

So, that’s why you see so many port lodges today with British names like Graham’s, Croft, Taylor, and Sandeman.

Port Winemaking Process

Grapes for true port wine are grown in the Douro Valley, the oldest demarcated wine region in the world. The vineyards are planted along terraces on steep slopes that rise above the Douro River.

If you’re visiting Porto, make sure to take a wine tour of Douro Valley . It’s seriously one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. And you’ll get to see where all the magic happens.

There are actually 100 grape varieties allowed for port production. But the top ones used for premium ports are Touriga Franca, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Roriz (aka Tempranillo).

Since port wine goes through a shorter fermentation process, winemakers use special techniques to extract lots of color and tannin. The traditional method is called foot treading, which involves getting a bunch of people together to stomp (or dance!) on the grapes in large granite troughs (called lagares).

But nowadays, they also use machines like autovinifiers and robotic lagares that don’t require as much manpower.

Once the grape juice reaches 5-9% ABV during fermentation, a neutral grape spirit called aguardente is added. This spirit can be up to 77% ABV, which kills off the yeast before it can convert all the sugar to alcohol. And voila! You have a sweet wine with alcohol levels between 19% and 22%.

Back in the day, all port was aged at the Vila Nova de Gaia port houses. But with the invention of air conditioning, some producers are now aging their ports in the vineyard area.

Styles of Port

Port wine is typically made from a blend of grapes. And often from different harvest years. But there are some single-year versions, such as Vintage Ports, Late Bottled Vintages, and Colheitas.

The style of port varies based on the type of aging vessel. For example, small vs. large oak barrels or stainless-steel tanks. And how long it’s aged.

Here are the most common types:

• White – A white port made from a blend of indigenous white grape varietals 
• Rosé – A newer port style made like a rosé wine with red fruit and floral notes
• Ruby – Fruity style of red port aged for 1-3 years in large oak barrels or stainless steel
• Tawny – Red port aged for 1-3 years in smaller oak barrels called pipes, giving it nutty and caramel flavors 
• Reserva – Higher quality versions of the basic ruby or tawny ports, with tawny requiring 6 years of aging
• Aged Tawny – A long-aged tawny port that can range from 10 to 40+ years old, giving it flavors of walnuts, coffee, and chocolate
• Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) – Ruby port produced from a single harvest year, aged 4-6 years before releasing, and may or may not be filtered
• Vintage – Ruby port produced from a single vintage, aged 2-3 years, and released unfiltered
• Single Quinta Vintage – Vintage port made with grapes from a single estate vineyard
• Colheita – Special tawny port made from a single harvest year and aged a minimum of 7 years

Most ports are released ready to drink. But vintage ports are meant to be aged in the bottle for as much as 40 years. And unfiltered LBVs can improve similarly with time in the bottle.

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The Best Port Wine Houses to Visit in Porto, Portugal

Are port wine houses worth visiting?

Port wine tasting in Porto is a must-do and an extremely rewarding experience.  Although port tastings are available all around the city of Porto, it is best to taste port at one of the original port wine houses of  Vila Nova de Gaia  across the River Douro from the old city center of Porto. You will immerse into the history of port wine production, taste different styles of port wine, and enjoy great views. 

Port wine is a big part of Portuguese culture and history.  Although the cellars are refurbished, most port wine houses still use original buildings, some equipment and follow traditional methods to make port.  

Visiting port lodges is also very educational.  The port wine production and blending are fascinating and complex.  There are several different ways to make port wine, and different styles of ports, which will be explained in detail.  

During your visit, you will see the huge wooden vats (toneis), very old oak barrels (barricas) holding decades-old port wines, and bottle ageing cellars.  At the end of the tour, you will be offered to taste different styles of port wine.  

Even if you are not into a formal tasting or a guided tour of cellars, it’s a great idea to come and sip a glass of port on a terrace with a view.  

By the way, you are not limited to port wine only –  at some houses you can have dry wines. For example, at  Graham’s , Porto Cruz, Ferreira, and Cálem dry wines are either included in one of the visit packages or can be tasted by the glass.

On a good day, I recommend combining your visit with lunch at a port lodge. Graham’s and Taylor’s have restaurants with excellent views named  Vinum  and  Barão Fladgate .

How to visit port wine cellars?

To taste port wine head over across the River Douro from the old city center of Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia.  

To get there you only need to cross the Dom Luís I bridge.  Alternatively, take a boat across the river from Porto to Gaia for 3 euros per person.

All port wine houses are clustered in the same area within only 10 minutes walk between them.

Map of port wine cellars

Here is the map of port wine lodges created by  IVDP  – Institute of Wines of Douro and Porto.  Generally, port wine houses are very well marked, they are very easy to find.

Do I need a reservation or can I walk-in?

Simple tastings are often available on a walk-in basis, however, in my experience, it is better to book guided tours and tastings in advance.

This is especially recommended if you would like a more advanced tasting option, a workshop, or a food and wine pairing experience.

Another important thing to note is that English language tours run several times per day depending either on a schedule that changes according to the season and demand. For example, English tours can be offered at 11 am and then at 4 pm.  Therefore, some advanced planning will be necessary.

I recommend visiting at least one of the port cellars with a guided tour, while at others you can go directly to a tasting.  Allow approximately 1 hour for a standard guided tour with tasting.

Most of the cellar tours are offered in small groups.

I found that is easy to book visits to port wine houses at GetYourGuide  or Viator rather than emailing or calling.

Here are some quick links to book your visits at port wine cellars:

• Burmester’s

If you are visiting several port lodges and other attractions in Porto, the  Porto Card  can save you a few euros.  They give a  10% to 50% discount on tastings and wine purchases at several port lodges including Cálem, Sandeman, Ferreira, Graham’s, Taylor’s, Ramos Pinto, Real Companhia Velha, Burmester, and Fonseca.

If you need a lunch break between your visits, there are multiple traditional Portuguese restaurants near the river, gastronomic restaurants at the port houses, and the WOW museum complex .

Cálem  and Fonseca wine houses offer a Fado program in their cellars which is a very neat experience.

Cálem Cellar Tour, Fado Show & Wine Tasting

Fonseca Cellar Tour, Dinner and Fado Show

The best port wine houses to visit

1. Graham's

Graham’s port wine lodge is located above most other famous port wine houses in Vila Nova Gaia across the river from Porto. 

It took me about 10 minutes and an easy short climb through the historic neighborhood of Gaia to reach Graham’s from the quays.

Graham’s brand is owned by Symington Family Estates.   Today, the business which also  owns other premium port brands including Cockburn’s and Dow’s is managed by 10 Symington family members . 

Since 2017, the Symington Family Estates are the official supplier of port wine to the British royal court. 

Graham’s offers guided tours of the historic cellars followed by a tasting of port wines.  

A guided tasting is held in a spacious and bright main tasting room with a view of Porto and a barrel cellar, or a cozy Vintage Room in an atmosphere of a classic 19th-century salon with comfortable armchairs and books.  

You can upgrade the tasting options to include premium and rare ports as well as pairings with chocolate, cheese, and custard tart.

Symington Family Estates are also producing dry wines in the Douro Valley and the Alentejo regions available to taste at the wine bar or to buy at the boutique.   

A special treat is olive oil made from olives grown at Douro Valley vineyards.  

The tasting room, the boutique, and the restaurant are beautifully designed which adds to the experience.  

After the tasting, I would recommend staying a little longer on the terrace with excellent views on P orto and the Dom Luis I bridge.  Vinum Restaurant and Wine Bar is an excellent option for lunch or a casual drink.

Opening hours:  

Every day from 10 am to 7 pm.

Address: Rua do Agro 141, 4400-281 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

+351 223 776 490

Graham’s Port Lodge Guided Tour with Wine Tastings and Pairings

2. Taylor's

Taylor’s is next to the WOW museum complex and near the luxury Yeatman Hotel .

Established in 1692, Taylor’s is one of the oldest port houses. Today, Taylor’s brand is part of the portfolio of Fladgate Partnership owned by descendants of the Yeatman family who entered port trade in 1838. 

Taylor’s is well-known for its vintage ports and tawny ports.   The house is also known as the originator of my favorite Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) style port.

The guided tour of Taylor’s cellars with an audio guide is convenient as it is available any time during opening hours.  After you have walked through the cellars, you will be offered to taste two of Taylor’s iconic Port wines: Chip Dry – Extra Dry White and Late Bottled Vintage.

Other than the tastings included in the tour, Taylors offers a wide menu of tasting options in its spacious tasting room or the classic garden with a pet peacock.  

I opted to have a glass of Taylor’s port on a beautiful terrace with amazing views of Porto.  

Just drop by Taylor’s shop and pick your tasting.  I found the atmosphere at Taylor’s very relaxed.  There is a lot of flexibility in their visits and tasting options.

The Barão Fladgate Restaurant located right next to the tasting room has excellent views.

Opening hours:

Cellars are open every day from 11 am to 6 pm. Tasting Room and Shop are open every day from 11 am to 7 pm. Restaurant: 12.30 pm to 3 pm, and from 7 pm to 10 pm.

Address:  Rua do Choupelo, 250, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia

+351 223 772 973

Save 10% on tour price with  Porto Card.

Port Wine Cellars Private Tour with Local Lunch

Cálem port house is the easiest to reach, it is right on the river bank and next to the Dom Luis I bridge.

Cálem is the most visited port house in Porto.  

Founded in 1859 by António Alves Cálem, the house was in the hands of the same family for generations before the ownership was passed to Sogevinus in 1998.

During a visit to Cálem, you will see the museum and the cellars followed by a tasting of two wines.  I upgraded the tasting to pairing with cheese and chocolate and it was a wonderful experience.

Cálem Cellar Tour, Interactive Museum & Wine Tasting

Cálem Cellar with Chocolate, Cheese, and Wine Tasting

Another interesting option is a visit with the fado show in the evening.  Listen to fado, while tasting port wine and looking at the Douro river.  Highly recommended!

Opening hours: April to October from 10 am to 7 pm November to March from 10 am to 6:30 pm.

Address: Avenida Diogo Leite, 344, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia

+351 223 746 672

Porto card discount – 10% on visits (standard and premium) and wine purchases (not applicable to chocolates and merchandising) from November to March and 2€ discount on “Fado in Porto”

4. Ferreira

The House of Ferreira was b uilt by a family of Douro winemakers in 1751, 

Dona Antonia Adelaide Ferreira is a Portuguese businesswoman behind the brand.   Often referred to in Portugal as “Ferreirinha”, she is  known for her leadership in the 19th-century port winemaking, but also for her kindness and intelligence. 

Dona Ferreira inherited many vineyards from her wealthy family.  Widowed at 33, Ferreira took over the business, invested in new vineyards, and became the first major importer of port wine to England.

The exposition at Ferreira has many historic artifacts including a replica of Dona Ferreira’s dress. 

You will be taken through an incredibly atmospheric cellar with vaulted ceilings, huge vats full of future tawny ports.  I found the tasting room tasteful and unpretentious, and the overall experience at Ferreira very authentic.  Ferreira port wine is known as “the Portuguese brand”.

The basic tasting includes three port wines, White, Ruby, and Tawny, which will be poured very generously.  You can also choose a more advanced tasting option or even select a port wine workshop where you will learn all about production, different categories, and tasting techniques of port wine.

Sogrape, the owner of Ferreira and the large Portuguese wine company, also produces Douro DOC dry table wines under the Casa Ferrerinha brand, including red and white Papa Figos, a brand which is very popular among locals.  If you prefer to taste dry wines, request the Casa Ferrerinha visit.

Every day from  10 am – 12:30 pm, and from 2 pm to 6 pm

Address: Avenida Ramos Pinto, 70, 4400-082 Vila Nova de Gaia

+351 223 746 106 

Porto card discount discount on Ferreira Visit – November to March: 30% discount – April to October: 10% discount

5. Burmester

Founded in 1750 by Henry Burmester and John Nash,  Burmester port wine located right by the iconic Dom Luis I bridge.  It is the closest port wine house to the downtown of Porto.

The house offers several tiers of tastings.   

I found the standard visit quite quick.  I would choose a premium visit next time.

Open every day from  10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 7 pm.  

Last visit at 6:15 pm.

Also, this boat tour includes a visit to Burmester cellars.  I thought it was a good value.

Bridges tour with Burmester wine cellar guided visit and tasting

Address: Largo Ponte Luiz I 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal T.  +351 913 288 994

Porto Card offers 10% discount on visits and wine at Burmester from April to November.

6. Cockburn's

Cockburn’s is the largest port cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia.  A steep climb up rua Serpo Pinto and you find yourself in a cozy shaded courtyard of Cockburn’s port lodge.  

Before the tour, have some drinks or snacks on a terrace or go straight to a porto tonic with some delicious Portuguese picnic food. 

Founded in 1815 by Robert Cockburn, a Scottish soldier and merchant, Cockburn’s quickly established itself as a prominent player in the port wine industry. 

Since 2006, the Symington Family Estates, one of the leading producers of Port acquired Cockburn’s.  The spirit of innovation that Symington is known for, transformed Cockburn’s lodge it into the most welcoming port lodge in Vila Nova de Gaia.  

The cellars you are going to see are so vast and well-kept.  

I love artistic concept of Cockburn’s with bright and fun labels and  their new port-based cocktail recipes.

Enjoy your visit!

April 1st to October 31st: Visits: 10am  – 5:30 pm (reservation required) Tastings: 10am – 7 pm  November 1st to March 31st:

Cockburn’s tour and tasting

Rua Serpa Pinto, 346 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia

The last but not least, Fonseca is a historic port wine lodge founded in 1840 proud to be the only port wine house with four 100-points port wines.  Perhaps, you have heard of their legendary Bin No.27 fruity and full-bodied port, which is included in their tasting. 

I think Fonseca offers very reasonable prices for visits. Families with children get additional discounts.  There are some activities for kids and teenagers with some cookies and juice tasting at the end of the visit.

Great news!  Recently, Fonseca has started the new Saturday night program. After a guided tour of the port cellars and the tasting, you will be invited to a special Portuguese dinner in the vat room accompanied by a live Fado concert .  Book your tickets here .

Monday through Sunday 11 am  – 7 pm

Fado dinner is at 7 pm every Sunday

Rua do Choupelo 84,  4400-187 Vila Nova de Gaia

The WOW Wine Experience

Port wine tasting in the douro valley.

Many of the port houses also offer visits at their Douro Valley  quintas (wine estates) welcoming visitors for tastings, guided tours, picnics and stays.

Following my numerous visits to the valley wineries, I collected a lot of useful information in my blog. 

In my article How to Visit Douro Valley Wineries I provide tips on selecting the best Douro Valley quintas to visit.

You may also like…

Map of Douro Valley Wineries

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Polina Spirova

A sommelier and a wine tour guide. I travel all around Portugal collecting the best wineries to visit, best places to stay and eat.

I organize wine tours in the Douro Valley.

My Douro Valley Travel Guides

Get your copy now, my douro valley blog.

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Where to Stay in the Douro Valley? Updated in 2024

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Best-rated Douro Valley Hotels

• Six Senses Douro Valley
• The Wine House Hotel – Quinta da Pacheca
• Quinta Nova Winery House – Relais & Châteaux
• The Vintage House – Douro
• Hotel Rural Quinta Do Pego
• Ventozelo Hotel & Quinta
• Lamego Hotel & Life
• Quinta da Salada
• Quinta da Côrte
• Casa do Arco
• Quinta Vale de Lobos Douro
• Casa Relogio de Sol
• Quinta do Tedo
• Quinta de São Luiz The Vine House

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Porto wine cellars and Port wine

Everything you need to know about Port wine.

We put together in this guide all the information we possess about Port Wine. We describe the whole production process before you can enjoy it.

There are three main points you need to know about Port Wine: where the grapes are harvested, where the cellars are located to go wine tasting in Porto and finally, the types of Port wine that exist and which is the best way to drink them. You can expand the information in the three sections we made for you below.

Port Wine Guide

*Made by lovers of this delicious elixir*

The Douro Valley

The grapes come from vineyards in the Douro Valley, an area designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site that is well worth a visit with this Douro Valley Wine Tour

All about Port Wine. How it is produced, the different types or categories and how and when to drink it.

Port Wine Cellars

Guide to decide which Port winery to visit and how to get to them from the center of Porto. You can book your visit on this page. Book a wine tasting

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Port Wine Cellars

The wine cellars of Porto date back to the 17th century when English merchants began importing Port wine and storing it in the city’s cellars. Over the centuries, these cellars have expanded and improved, and today they house some of the world’s most famous Port wine brands.

The Port wine cellars are located on the left bank of the Douro River in the region of Vila Nova de Gaia .

The Port wine cellars are a popular destination for wine lovers and tourists in general. Many of the cellars offer guided tours and wine tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the history of Port wine and taste some of the best wines in the region.

Among the oldest Port wine cellars is Ferreira, founded in 1751. Other historic cellars include Sandeman, Taylor’s, and Graham’s.

Port Wine Cellars:

• W & J Graham’s
• Churchill’s
• Ramos Pinto
• Real Companhia Velha

This cellar was founded in 1820 by the two brothers William and John Graham. These well-equipped cellars offer magnificent views of the old town, as well as the Douro River and even Vila Nova de Gaia. Several tours are part of the program, including the opportunity to taste some of Graham’s first class wines.

• Services available: visit to cellars, wine tasting and sale, rental of event space, lounge & restaurant.
• Public opening hours from April to October are between 9.30 a.m and 6 p.m, and from November to March between 9:30 am and 5:30 pm.
• The cellar is located at Rua do Agro, 141, 4400-281, Vila Nova de Gaia. Note: Visits without prior appointment are not allowed. Tel.: +351 223 776 484

Founded in 1981 by a member of the Graham family, this cellar is a little smaller than the others, which brings a warm feeling and makes it a beautiful option for those looking for a more familiar experience. Churchill’s also has a “VIP” room with a magnificent view of the Douro River which, by prior appointment, allows visitors to organize lunches, dinners or wine tastings.

• Its services include: a VIP room available to organize lunches, dinners or private tastings, visit of cellars, wine tasting and sale.
• Churchill cellars are open year-round from Monday to Saturday between 9:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
• Address: Rua da Fonte Nova 5, 4400-156 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 746 660

Here the Port Wine results of the acquisition of knowledge and tradition that dates back to the time when the Douro Valley was not yet a demarcated region. The company J. W. Burmester was founded in 1750, beginning the production of wines of excellence, a tradition that continues to this day.

• Services available: Sales and wine tasting, terrace, restaurant and rental of space.
• Opening hours are from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm from April to October and the rest of the year is only possible with reservation.
• Address: Largo da Ponte Luis I, 1, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 746 660

This majestic 1811 granite building faces the historic center of Porto and overlooks the Douro River. The Sandeman House invites you to a full of mystery experience in a traditional and cosmopolitan atmosphere. These wine cellars will take you back to London at the turn of the 18th century, when George Sandeman, a young Scot, decided to take the risk and venture into the wine trade.

• Sandeman’s offers visitors personalized information based on their languages as well as an image gallery, wine tasting and sale, space rental and terrace service.
• The opening hours between March and October are from 10h00-12h30 and from 14h00-18h00. Between November and February: 09h30-12h30 and 14h00-17h30.
• Location: Largo de Miguel Bombarda, 3, 4400-222 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 740 534 / + 351 223 740 533 / + 351 223 740 535

Founded in 1859 by António Alves Cálem, Porto Cálem belonged to the same family for four generations before moving to the hands of Sogevinus SGPS, SA in 1998. A visit to Cálem begins with the museum, followed by the cellars, where the visitor receives an overview of the world’s oldest demarcated region – the Douro Demarcated Region. The entire process of producing port wine, from harvesting to bottling and aging, is also explained. The visit ends with a wine tasting, as well as the opportunity to browse the shop, which offers an excellent selection of quality wines from the Port of Cálem.

• The services include sale and proof of wines, rental of spaces and fado shows.
• The opening hours between April and October are every day from 10am to 6pm and from November to March from 10am to 5.30pm.
• The place is located at Avenida Diogo Leite, 344, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 746 660

The house of Ferreira is rich in tradition and not only played, but still plays an important role in the history of Port Wine. It was founded by a family of producers, in the mid-nineteenth century. Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira contributed significantly to the consolidation of the brand. A lady with a great personality, at a time when women would have to fight more than men to take the stage, became a symbol of inspiration to face the most diverse adversities. Caves Ferreira invites you to discover a brand that has existed for over 250 years, which is a symbol of the highest quality and whose heart and soul are Portuguese.

• Ferreira cellars are open throughout the year from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and offer services such as wine tasting and sale and rental of spaces.
• Address: Av. Ramos Pinto, 70 4400-266 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 746 106 / + 351 223 746 107 / + 351 223 746 108

Founded in the first half of the eighteenth century by the family of the same name, it was not before a Baron named Joseph James Forrester grab the rudder that this company received its well-deserved notoriety. Especially captivating in this cellar is its commitment to simplicity, which makes visit a relaxed experience, without ever losing well-structured and informative quality. In the end the visitor may experience wine tasting at the calming sound of water falling into the tank.

• Offley Forrester offers the following services: wine tasting and sale and rental of space.
• Your opening times between March and October are between 10 am – 12:30 pm and 2 pm – 6 pm. From November to April visits are possible only under booking.
• Location: Rua do Choupelo, 54 4400-174 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 743 852

The Ramos pinto cellars were founded in 1880, entered the Brazilian market in the early 20th century and quickly became responsible for half the wine exported to South America. In the museum area, under prior appointment in the visitor center, visitors can enjoy a remarkable collection of art.

• In addition to the wine tasting and sale and rental of spaces, Ramos Pinto offers, under prior appointment, the possibility of contemplating a collection of objects of art or, even, a historical archive on the production and export of wines.
• Hours: all year round from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. except Christmas Day, Easter and January 1st.
• Address: Avenida de Ramos Pinto, 400, 4400-266 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 936809283

Taylor’s was inaugurated in 1692 by Job Bearsley, an English merchant. It has been in the possession and under the administration of the same family ever since. A visit to Taylor’s is a must. From the terrace you can enjoy a unique panoramic view over the city of Porto.

• Services available in this basement include: Guided tours and wine tastings, Port wine and chocolate or cheese tasting, Quinta de Vargellas olive oil tasting, Pre-Phylloxeral wine tasting, Vintage Port wine opening with tongs, Port Wine workshops, Wine shop, Delicious meals at Barão Fladgate restaurant.
• Opening hours between December and March: 10h00-18h30. Between November and April: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Closing only on 25 December.
• Location: Rua do Choupelo, 250, 4400-088 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 772 956

The prestige of the Croft brand and it’s wines is due, in large part, to the ownership of one of the most beautiful estates of the Douro Valley, the famous Quinta da Roêda. There are several services available that include, but are not limited to a guided tour and wine tasting, Porto wine and chocolate tasting classes, special programs with fado, sierra cheese and vintage croft, as well as Port wine workshops.

• Croft Caves offer visitors the possibility of wine and chocolate tastings, Vintage’s opening with fire, special fado programs and Port Wine workshops.
• It is open every day of the year, with the exception of 25.12 between 10.00 and 18.00.
• Address: Rua Barão de Forrester, 412, 4400-034 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 220 109 825

The size and capacity of the Cockburns are, in a word, exemplary. An impressive number of 4,250 wine casks gives an idea of the scale of Cockburns Wine Cellars, as well as the fact that this cellar is the only one with its own team of coopers. The impressive scale of Cockburn’s allows storing a large amount of aging Special Reserve, so can develop its unique style and perfect balance, acquired by more time of aging in wood than any other port wine reserve.

• Services available: wine tasting and sale.
• Schedule from April to October: 09: 30-18: 00. From November to March: 09h30-17h30.
• It is located at Serpa Pinto Street, 346 4400-307 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 913 007 950

The caves of Real Companhia Velha, also known in English by “Royal Oporto Wine Company”, were founded in 1756, which makes it the oldest producer and exporter of Porto wines. With an area of more than 100,000m2, these centennial cellars house a wide selection of Tawny Port Wines. Experience and tradition make your visit unforgettable.

• The cellars put at your disposal the services: Realization of ports of honor, presentation of products, rental of spaces and tasting and sale of wine.
• The cellars are open to the public every day between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm and are located at Azevedo Magalhães Street, 314, 4430-022 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 775 194

Founded in the mid-18th century by a wine merchant named Ostende Rozès, it was under the leadership of this gentleman that this company dedicated itself to the sale and marketing of wine in France, especially in Bordeaux. As part of the first group of Port wine exporters to settle in the Douro Demarcated Region, Rozès consolidated its presence in the national and international market. Its wine is masterfully produced in the Douro Valley, thanks to the careful control of each stage, from the vineyards to the aging and bottling.

• Services available are the visit to the cellars as well as sale and tasting of wines.
• The cellars are open all year from Monday to Friday between 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1.30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Location: Rua de Cândido dos Reis, 526-532, 4400-070 Vila Nova de Gaia. Tel .: +351 223 771 680

SUGGESTION:

Try a Port’s wine degustation .

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• Food & Beverage
• See & Do

8 of the best Port Wine Cellars to visit

You're a fan of this divine nectar, but you want to know more about how it's produced, or even visit some of its centuries-old houses. This guide takes you to discover the best wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

O Port wine é a symbol of the region, but it’s on the other side of the Douro that you’ll find the famous Caves, in Vila Nova de Gaia . In the past, rabelo boats came down the river from the Douro Wine Region ( classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site ). 

With a centuries-old history, the Port Wine Cellars attract thousands of visitors every year tourists . But visiting one of these places and getting to know this drink better is something we should all do do it at least once in your life . Don’t know where to start? Then read our article cup in hand! 

Table Of Contents

Ferreira Cellars

Caves calém, ramos pinto, real companhia velha, sandeman museum cellar.

• Graham's Port Wine Cellars

Caves Ferreira and its history are intertwined with that of the impressive Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, better known as “Ferreirinha” .

The brand was born in 1751, at a time when the business world was dominated by men. That’s why “Ferreirinha’s” dexterity deserves to be highlighted. Centuries old, today Caves Ferreira is owned by Sogrape .

Inside, the history of the brand (…) is told through the life and work of Dona Antónia Ferreira, in a journey that takes in the region of the Douro and its wines, especially the famous Vintages collection , the oldest of which dates back to 1815″, reads on its official website .

Where: Av. de Ramos Pinto 70, Gaia

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Founded in 1859, the Caves Calém are now one of the best known. In addition, its space, in Vila Nova de Gaia , provides a truly interactive experience for visitors.

You can visit the museum, opt for a guided tour and, of course, enjoy a good wine tasting . But there’s more. If you want to see a good fado you can do it with a glass in your hand.

Where: Av. de Diogo Leite 344, Gaia

This is one of the best-known cellars among Port lovers . Created by Adriano Ramos Pinto in 1880 , it still stands out today as one of the most famous brands. 

At the Ramos Pintos Visitors’ Center in Gaia , you can buy a ticket that will allow you to visit the Adriano Ramos Pinto Museum – which features advertising posters from the Belle Époque, panels of tiles and much more -, the Caves and enjoy a tasting at the end . 

Guided tours take place daily , but advance reservations are not accepted , so they take place according to the available schedule.

Where: Av. de Ramos Pinto, 400

Taylor’s

Established in 1692, Taylor’s practically needs no introduction as it is one of the oldest Port houses . With a unique history, you can visit Taylor’s Cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.

According to the brand’s own website the museum has been renovated and tells the story of Taylor’s and wine through an audio tour guide, available in 13 languages .

According to the same source, the cellar tour also includes:

• Documentary material;
• Exhibitions;

At the end, you get a wine tasting .

Where: R. do Choupelo 250, Gaia

Founded in 1756, Real Companhia Velha has maintained its activity uninterrupted. Today, his name appears on the best Port wines in the world. However, you can learn more about its centuries-old history on a visit to its Port Wine Cellars .

Or you could discover the “Museum of the 1st Demarcation” in Rua de Serpa Pinto . There, in that area, you can always take the opportunity to try Enoteca 17.5 , a large space where you can eat and enjoy a good glass of wine, with a view overview.

Where: R. Azevedo Magalhães 314, Gaia

It all started in 1790, when George Sandeman , a young Scotsman , convinced his father to invest in setting up a Port and Jerez (Spain) wine business .

It was worth the effort, because along with its longevity , it is also one of the most internationally recognized brands . Besides, who hasn’t noticed the figure of the man in the cape and black sombrero ?

“The Sandeman Dog”, the brand image, was painted in the 1920s by George Massiot Brown , in an allusion to the black cape of the Coimbra students and the sombrero (hat) typical of Jerez .

That’s why, when you visit the Sandeman Cellar Museum, you’ll certainly come across this figure, ready to explain the history of his wines. But the best part is at the end, tasting this nectar of the gods!

Where: Largo Miguel Bombarda 3, Gaia

Graham’s Port Wine Cellars

Graham’s Cellars are ideal for those who don’t like crowds, but they don’t deserve any less attention.

Built in 1890 on a hill in Vila Nova de Gaia, this place has a breathtaking view over the Douro, the center of Porto and the emblematic D. Luíz I Bridge .

Here, as well as the beautiful scenery, there are also more than 15,000 oak barrels , some of which are more than a century old.

At the end of the day, you can always end your visit on a high note at Vinum, an excellent restaurant and wine bar waiting to be (re)discovered!

Where: Rua do Agro 191, Gaia

Cockburn’s

It’s normal that when you visit, you’ll always see someone working nearby. All because, as one of the largest Port wine warehouses in Gaia, there’s always something to do, even when you’re visiting.

This cellar is huge and very beautiful and, if you’re very lucky, you’ll be able to admire the coopers’ room in operation , with the staff repairing the barrels themselves.

At Cockburn’s you can have your tasting in a large room overlooking the winery or outside on a comfortable terrace set up for this purpose. You can also opt for the Premium tasting in the John Smith room, which is more private and just as spectacular.

Where: Rua Serpa Pinto 346 (on foot); Rua Dona Leonor de Freitas 225 (by car)

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Over 200 years of exceptional winemaking knowledge, tradition, and pushing the boundaries.

Founded by brothers William and John Graham in 1820, Graham’s has developed an outstanding reputation for producing exquisite ports.

Built in 1890, the Graham’s Lodge is home to all of our wines as they age. Book a guided visit and explore the museum, lodge and bottle cellar before enjoying a tutored tasting with a Graham’s Port Educator.

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Port wine cellars in Porto (Vila Nova de Gaia)

Captain Ulysses is quite the epicurean and could not miss the famous Port wine cellars nestled in Vila Nova de Gaia, accross from Porto, on the other side of the Douro. If you too enjoy good food and good wine, you’ll undoubtedly love visiting the port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia! Follow the guide!

Content 👉 Visiting the Porto’s port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia 👉 Brief history of Port wine 👉 How is Port wine made? 👉 What are the different types of Port wine? 👉 What about the vineyards? 👉 Shopping

💡 The Captain’s tip 💡

🧐  Want to know more about Porto’s history? Captain Ulysses highly recommends this free guided tour of the city . It’s up to you to choose how much you wish to tip the tour guide!

💤  Looking for an hotel in Porto? Be sure to check out the Captain’s article: Where to stay in Porto? Advice & recommendations

🏛 P lanning your trip to Porto? Be sure to check out Captain Ulysses’ complete article on what to see and do in the city: a Guide to Porto

👶 Planning a family adventure to Porto? Discover all of the Captain’s top tips in the article: Exploring Porto with the Kids: Family-Friendly Activities

Visit Porto’s port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia

Where are the port cellars located.

The vast majority of the cellars are located in the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia, opposite Porto’s Ribeira district , across the Douro.

You can easily walk to Vila Nova de Gaia (take the Dom Luis I Bridge) or take the metro.

The Port wine cellars are mostly located on the banks of the Douro, but some, such as Taylor’s, Graham’s, Croft or Cockburn’s are a little further away.

Which port wine cellars should you visit?

The cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia belong to some forty merchant companies, which own a total of 200 port brands (and account for 90% of the market ).

Suffice to say that there are plenty of cellars to visit… too much even! Faced with this profusion of cellars, it can be hard to decide which to visit. This is why Captain Ulysses has selected a few Port wine cellars which he warmly recommends!

The Captain’s favorite Port wine cellars in Porto/Vila Nova de Gaia

• Taylor’s

Head for the heights of Vila Nova de Gaia, a fifteen-minute walk from the Dom Luis I Bridge, opposite the iconic hotel The Yeatman (where Captain Ulysses also recommends staying if you can afford it… or simply going for a drink!)

Taylor’s cellars, which are among the most famous in Porto, have it all: a splendid setting and very high quality ports!

Admission includes a port wine tasting, as well as an audio guide (available in 12 languages). The visit is really quite fascinating! You will stroll among the vats of port before visiting a small museum where you will learn more about the Douro region as well as the history of Port wines and their production.

And you’ll be able to put your brand new knowledge to the test with a Port wine tasting at the end of the visit. Next to the bar, you will also find a shop where you’ll be able to buy high quality Port wines!

In short, Taylor’s is most definitely one of the Captain’s favourites wine cellars in Porto!

💡 Practical information 💡

Taylor’s cellars are open for tours daily, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is 15 € per adult, 6 € for children. To avoid queuing, especially during high season, the Captain recommends booking your tickets in advance. You can book your ticket on Taylor’s website.

• Graham’s

Located further west, half an hour’s walk from Dom Luis Bridge (10 minutes by bus – lines 901 or bus 906), Graham’s Port wine cellars also have it all: a magnificent historic setting, a rich history and very high quality wines!

All visitors have to join a guided tour (available in French, English, Portuguese, Spanish, German and Russian). The visit begins with a short film retracing the history of Graham’s and the production of Port wines before continuing in the cellars.

At the end of the visit, you will be able to taste three ports (you will be asked at the beginning of the visit to choose from between “menus” at different rates depending on the quality of the ports included).

Graham’s Cellars also includes a boutique and restaurant.

The visit to Graham’s Cellars is guided and must be reserved in advance. You can book your tour directly onsite or book your visit online here.

The most touristic cellars: Calem, Porto Cruz and Sandeman

Calem, Porto Cruz and Sandeman are undoubtedly the most touristic port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. While they’re not as high-end/charming as Taylor’s and Graham’s, they do have the merit of being easily accessible and quite inexpensive.

Admission tickets to the Calem cellars are €13 full price (interactive museum + guided tour + tasting). Find out more here .

To treat yourself, you can even opt for a visit to the Calem cellars followed by a port wine tasting and a Fado show , at a really very reasonable price.

Brief history of Port wine

The origins of douro wines.

While Port wine as we know it today was only really created in the 19 th century, the Douro Valley has been famous for its vineyards for over two millennia, as evidenced by the writings of Strabo, a Greek historian and geographer (60 BC – 20 AD). The Romans introduced the cultivation of vines along the Douro river in the 2 nd century BC.

Ancestral ties between England and Portugal

In the 14 th century, Portugal and England developed strong political and commercial ties, so much so that many British merchants took up residence in Portugal – which explains why the names of many Port wine companies sound resolutely English.

In the 14th century, the English started importing Portuguese wine, but in small quantity, and mainly from the Minho region.

The rise of Douro wines

In 1667, Colbert, Prime Minister of King Louis XIV, limited then simply banned French imports from from England.

In retaliation, King Charles II of England put an end to imports from France. But the English, who were great wine lovers, found themselves deprived of their main source of supply! English traders therefore turned to Portugal, with which trade relationships were already well established.

But the English clearly prefered the ample and full-bodied wines of the Douro Valley to the Minho wines which were hitherto imported from Portugal. The production in the Douro Valley therefore intensified and Porto becomes the starting point for wine convoys crossing the Atlantic.

To prevent the wines from spoiling during the trip, some producers decided to “fortify” their production with the addition of brandy. This method, which was at the time quite unorthodox, was based on the same principle as the “mutage” which later became characteristic of Port wines (although the addition of grape spirit now intervenes at the time of fermentation).

At the beginning of the 18 th century, Port wine was becoming increasingly popular. Production increased dramatically and some unscrupulous producers tried to conceal the poor quality of their wine by adding elderberry juice to darken the color.

The Marquis of Pombal

In 1756, the Marquis of Pombal, Prime Minister of Portugal, decided to put an end to the dishonest practices of some producers of of the city. From then on, production and trade of Port wine were subject to regulations and came under state control. The Marquis of Pombal created the Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro (which later became the Real Companhia Velha ) and drew up a detailed classification of the vines, designating the best vineyards, which were authorized to export their production, and inferior quality vineyards, which were exclusively destined for the Portuguese market.

The Marquis de Pombal somehow invented the concep of registred designation of origin!

The birth of modern Port wine

In the 1830s, the vast majority of Port producers started fortifying the wine by adding neutral grape spirit to stop the fermentation. Visitors became sweeter, with a higher alcohol content.

How is Port wine made?

Grape varieties.

The grape varieties grown for the production of Port wine – around 30 in total – are overall unique to the region and rarely grown outside the Douro Valley.

The most famous are :

• touriga nacional
• tinta roriz
• touriga francesa
• tinta barroca
• tinta amarela
• fina malvasia

The grape varieties can be grown separately, but are often mixed before or after fermentation, each bringing its own character and flavors to the wine.

As with traditional wine, the harvest period is around mid-September. The Douro vineyard, with its steep relief, is only accessible on foot: the grapes are hand picked.

Once picked, the grapes are transported to quintas ( large wineries) to be vinified. The grapes are trampled in lagares , large granite vats, to pop the grains and extract the must.

Next comes the fermentation stage, during which the sugar turns into alcohol.

Fortification

The fortification is a key moment in the production of Port wine: neutral grape spirit (77°) is added to stop the fermentation. The Port wine thus “fortified” is sweeter (since the fermentation did not come to an end) and with a higher alcoholic content than traditional wines.

Following the fortification, the wine spends the winter in the cellars of the quintas, before being transported to the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia where it’ll age.

The aging and blending of Port wine

In spring, Port wine is transported to the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia to age in casks, barrels or bottles.

After aging in barrels, the wine is “blended”: oenologists select and blend different vintages before bottling the port wine.

What are the different types of Port wine?

Captain Ulysses wouldn’t want to ruin the suspense! The classification of Port wines is somewhat complicated, and you will be explained everything when visiting the cellars.

But here is a small simplified classification:

• Ruby: these are rather young wines, 3 years old on average (hence their dark ruby color), resulting from the blending of different vintages aged in casks (thus remaining relatively sheltered from air and little oxidized). Rubies are not intended to be kept for long.
• Tawny: Tawnies are oxidative wines, that is to say they have been aged in barrels, in contact with air, and have oxidized, which explains their tawny, brown or red color. More complex than Rubies, Tawnies are aged in barrels for at least 6 years before being blended and/or bottled.
• Vintage: Vintage wines are considered the best port wines. They are the result of a particularly exceptional harvest and come from the best vineyards. After a short period in barrels, they are bottled the on the 2 nd or 3 rd year following the harvest. Vintage ports are intended to age in the bottle and oenologists recommend keeping them for at least ten years (if not more) before consuming them.
• LBV: Late Bottled Vintages remain unblended, just like Vintage Port wines. But them, LBVs are aged for 4 to 6 years in casks or barrels before being bottled. While they can continue aging in the bottle, they are not long-keeping wines and they can be consumed as soon as they are bottled.

What about the vineyards?

Visiting the cellars has aroused your interest and you’re curious to find out more about Port wines? Captain Ulysses highly recommends going on a day-trip to explore the vinyards of the Douro Valley

If you’ve rented a car, you can freely visit the Douro region on your own. Otherwise, the Captain recommends opting for an organized day-tour such as this one : Douro Valley w/ Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch

Wondering where to buy Port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia and Porto?

Several options. If you want to buy high quality bottles, then the Captain recommends that you do so directly in the Port wine cellars or in wine shops.

If your port budget more limited and you simply want buy a few bottles without breaking the bank, you’ll find what you need in supermarkets: it might be not very glamorous, but you will find all the “basics” at very affordable prices.

Excessive drinking is dangerous for your health; alcoholic beverages should be consumed with moderation.

👉 Skip the lines: book your tickets and visits in Porto!

👉 looking for a place to stay in porto, 👉 looking for tips and recommendations here are all the captain’s suggestions in porto.

🛏️ Accommodation: When it comes to reserving your stay in Porto, Captain Ulysses wholeheartedly recommends using Booking.com . or Expedia . You’ll find a wide range of options, from cozy youth hostels to luxurious boutique hotels. Here are the Captain’s personal suggestions: – Youth hostels: Gallery Hostel / The Passenger Hostel / Rivoli Cinema Hostel – Budget-friendly hotels: Moov Hotel Porto Centro / Rex Hotel / Decanting Porto House – 3 and 4-star hotels: Village Aparthotel By BOA / Mo House / Fontinha Porto – Upscale hotels: Pestana Vintage Porto / Yeatman Hotel / InterContinental Porto

🎟️ Activities: museums, monuments, guided tours, boat tours, excursions… there’s plenty to do in Porto! To avoid wasting time in endless queues, especially during high season, the Captain strongly recommends that you opt for skip-the-line tickets and book your activities in advance. You can book all your tickets and tourist activities on GetYourGuide and Civitatis .

⛵ Cruises: Porto is undoubtedly synymous with Douro! It’d be a shame to leave the “Capital of the North” without embarking on a Douro river cruise. If you’re only staying in Porto for a long weekend, the Captain recommends the six bridges cruise . If you have more time, then he highly recommends the Douro Valley cruise with wine tasting & lunch.

🎫 Citypass: valid from 1 to 4 days, the Porto Card includes unlimited access to city transport (including to get to/from the airport), free entry to 6 museums and a selection of discounts in museums, attractions, Port wine cellars and shops.

🚐 Transfers: you can take the metro at the airport to get to the city center (1/2 hour). But if you prefer to avoid public transport, you can also book a transfer at very reasonable prices.

🚌 Local transport: you’ll propably quickly tire of Porto’s steeply sloping streets and might be tempted to take local transport instead of walking. The public transport network is convenient and easy to navigate. You can buy your tickets directly at metro stations and bus stops (be careful, you will need to take 1 Andante card per person). You should also know that access to public transport is included in the Porto Card . Otherwise, the hop-on hop-off bus tours are great options to explore the city. You can also opt for a pass including access to hop-on hop-off buses, the funicular as well as tramways . Among other means of transport, you can also try the bicycle , the electric bicycle , the segway , the tuk-tuk , the small train …

✈️ Flights: to book your flights to Porto, Captain Ulysses warmly recommends Skyscanner . You’ll be able to compare countless offers to find the best deal. If your dates are flexible, you can also compare prices over several months to find the cheapest flights possible.

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Guide to Port Wine Cellars in Porto

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The allure of Porto extends to its renowned wine scene, making it a must-visit destination. Located in northern Portugal, the neighbouring Douro Valley region stands as the exclusive birthplace of Europe’s beloved port wines. While fortified wines similar to port can be crafted in various regions worldwide, European regulations strictly define that only wines originating from the Douro Valley hold the esteemed designation of “port wine.” This distinctive label ensures that true port wine, both in production and labelling, remains synonymous with the exceptional offerings from this picturesque Portuguese region.

What is Port?

Port wine is a delightful fortified wine known for its sweetness, often savoured as a dessert wine or aperitif. While most port wines have a red hue, they stand apart from your typical red table wine with their higher alcohol content. With an average alcohol by volume (ABV) of 20%, combined with the richness of sugar, port wine can have a potent effect if consumed without caution.

Port wine is produced exclusively in the picturesque Douro River Valley in Portugal. Interestingly, it’s the third world’s oldest wine with appellation – geographical indication protected since 1756.

Origin of port wine

During the 14th century, a strong alliance formed between Portugal and England, forging deep political and commercial connections. As a result, numerous British merchants found their way to Portugal, establishing their presence in the country. Even in the 17th century, the Douro Valley region was already producing remarkable white and red wines. However, it was the conflicts between England and France in 1678 that sparked the rise of Port wine.

Due to the conflict, England faced a shortage of wine imports from France, prompting them to seek alternative sources. This quest led them to the wines of the Douro region. In a bold experiment, the English merchants began blending the robust red wine with spirits or brandy. This process halted the fermentation and allowed for better preservation during the voyage back to England. It was through this ingenious method that Porto wine, or Port wine, was born and gained popularity.

The strong connection to England is evident in the names of many wineries, which may not sound Portuguese at all. However, it wasn’t until the establishment of the Real Companhia Velha in 1781 that the Portuguese began to assert their presence in the port wine industry. This marked a significant milestone, as Portuguese involvement grew alongside the continued success and international recognition of Port wine.

Porto and the Registered Designation of Origin of Port

In the early 18th century, the popularity of Port wine soared, leading to a significant increase in production. Unfortunately, this also gave rise to unscrupulous practices, as certain producers sought to conceal the inferior quality of their wines. To darken the color and mask imperfections, some resorted to adding elderberry juice.

In 1756, the Marquis of Pombal, the esteemed Prime Minister of Portugal, took decisive action to combat these dishonest practices within the industry. Recognizing the need for regulations and oversight, he implemented measures to bring Port wine production and trade under strict control. To achieve this, he established the Companhia Geral da Agricultura das Vinhas do Alto Douro, which later evolved into the Real Companhia Velha. As part of this regulatory framework, the Marquis of Pombal introduced a comprehensive classification system for vineyards, distinguishing between the finest estates authorized for export and lower-quality vineyards designated solely for the Portuguese market.

In essence, the Marquis of Pombal pioneered the concept of registered designation of origin, a groundbreaking notion that aimed to protect the authenticity and quality of Port wine. By setting standards and designating specific regions as authorized sources of the finest grapes, he laid the foundation for the esteemed reputation and enduring legacy of Port wine.

The actions of the Marquis of Pombal not only safeguarded the integrity of Port wine but also set a precedent for future regulatory systems in the world of wine. His visionary approach and commitment to excellence continue to influence the production and appreciation of Port wine to this day, making him a trailblazer in the realm of registered designation of origin.

Types of Port

In the world of port wine, an array of distinctive blends exists, with three primary categories dominating the scene: tawny port, ruby port, white ports and vintage ports .

Tawny port undergoes a process of aging in wooden barrels, resulting in a luscious and velvety texture, complemented by delightful hints of nuts or caramel.

On the other hand, ruby ports showcase a captivating deep red colour and a flavour profile that accentuates the essence of fruits and berries.

White ports , crafted from white grapes. These delightful creations possess a slightly less sweet profile compared to their red counterparts. Furthermore, the popularity of rosé ports has been on the rise, offering a unique experience. While sweeter than white ports, they do not reach the same level of richness found in ruby or tawny ports.

As for vintage ports , they are exclusively crafted from the finest vineyards during exceptional harvest years, which may occur every three to four years. These wines embody a luxurious richness and a truly flavorful experience.

Porto Wine Cellars

The Porto Wine Cellars, known as “caves” in Portuguese, serve as the repositories for the exquisite port wine crafted in the Douro Valley region. When strolling through Porto, the mention of this word instantly resonates.

Where are the port cellars of Porto located?

Strictly speaking, these wineries are not situated within the city of Porto itself, but rather in the enchanting city of Vila Nova de Gaia. To reach them, one simply needs to traverse the Dom Luis I Bridge from Ribeira, a short and delightful journey offering one of the most captivating vistas of Porto’s riverfront.

While most of the port wine cellars are situated along the banks of the Douro River, a few renowned ones, including Taylor’s, Graham’s, Croft, and Cockburn’s, are located a bit farther away. However, they are still easily accessible within the Vila Nova de Gaia area.

Many of these cellars offer tours, some requiring prior appointments, while nearly all of them provide tasting experiences that allow visitors to sample a range of wines without taking a formal tour.

Calém Wine Cellars

With a proud legacy dating back to 1859, this esteemed establishment has been crafting Porto wines of unparalleled quality. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Demarcated Region of the Douro by visiting their captivating museum. Delve into the captivating story of this renowned wine region and gain a deep appreciation for its heritage.

Beyond the educational experience, this wine cellar also offers enchanting fado performances of Portuguese traditional song from Tuesday to Sunday, running between the months of April and October. Let the soulful melodies of fado serenade you as you embrace the cultural essence of Portugal!

Espaço Porto Cruz

Spaço Porto Cruz goes beyond the ordinary port wine tasting experience. It presents a comprehensive journey that celebrates the rich culture of Port wine by seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. Upon entering Spaço Porto Cruz, you will be immersed in a world of discovery. Delve into the captivating multimedia centre, where interactive displays and engaging presentations transport you through the fascinating history and production techniques of Port wine. Expand your knowledge through workshops and gain insights into the intricate craft behind this beloved wine.

Indulge your senses with delectable pairings during chocolate and cheese tastings, where the harmonious combinations of flavours elevate the enjoyment of Port wine to new heights. Allow your taste buds to be delighted as you uncover the nuances and complexities that emerge when Port wine is expertly paired with exquisite culinary creations.

Before bidding farewell, ascend to the 360º terrace, where an awe-inspiring vista awaits. From this elevated vantage point, soak in the panoramic views that stretch across the landscape, etching memories that will linger long after your visit.

Sandeman's Wine Cellar

The Sandeman Port Cellar provides an unforgettable experience where the art of port wine is celebrated, from the informative tour to the tantalizing tasting and the moments of blissful relaxation amidst the stunning riverside vistas. Upon concluding the enlightening tour, you will be led to the inviting tasting room where you will be treated to generous samples of Sandeman’s exquisite port wines.

Taylor's Wine Cellar

The company is one of the oldest port houses (opening in 1692), beginning with an English merchant by the name of Job Bearsley. Joseph Taylor, originally a manager in the London office of the company and later a partner, became sole owner in 1826, giving the company the name of Taylor’s. In 1838, a partnership agreement was signed between the Taylor’s company, and two merchants by the names of Morgan Yeatman and John Fladgate. This gave rise to the company’s full and present name of Taylor Fladgate and Yeatman. The company has since expanded to include the Yeatman, a luxury wine hotel just a short walk from the Taylor’s port wine cellars.

Taylor’s Cellars, standing strong for 300 years, have recently undergone a remarkable transformation, blending the charm of the past with contemporary innovation. What was already remarkable has now been elevated to new heights! Within these walls, you will embark on a journey through time, delving into the rich history of Port wine. Discover its humble beginnings and compare them to the techniques employed in modern production. Uncover the captivating story of how this elixir found its way to Porto, where it aged gracefully before embarking on its voyage to Britain.

Similar to our previous recommendations, at Taylor’s Cellars, you can indulge in the art of wine tasting on the terrace, reveling in the breathtaking panoramas that unfold over the city of Porto. A short ascent awaits you on Rua do Choupelo, but the rewards far outweigh the effort expended!

Ferreira Wine Cellar

Founded in 1751, Ferreira stands as the sole producer of port wine that has remained under Portuguese ownership throughout its illustrious history. What sets this winery apart is not only its esteemed legacy but also its notable association with an exceptional woman, Dona Antonia Adelaide Ferreira, whose impact on the Douro Region during the 19th century remains a captivating tale awaiting discovery.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to choose from a selection of enticing tours tailored to your preferences. Embark on a captivating journey through the historic cellars of Ferreira, where the secrets of port wine come alive. Immerse yourself in the ambiance as you witness the meticulous winemaking process and learn about the traditions that have been faithfully upheld for centuries.

Graham’s Wine Cellar

Established in 1820 by the visionary brothers William and John Graham, this esteemed company stands as a testament to their unwavering passion for port wine. With a remarkable collection of over 3500 barrels of Port, their cellars have become a beacon for wine enthusiasts worldwide.

Nestled in a prime location, these historic cellars offer a range of immersive experiences tailored to suit different preferences. Visitors can choose from various types of visits, each offering a unique insight into the world of Graham’s Port. No matter which option you select, your journey will culminate in a delightful tasting of three distinguished varieties of Graham’s Port.

Churchill's Wine Cellar

For those seeking a unique and refined experience, Churchill’s Wine Cellar stands as an elegant haven tucked away from the well-trodden paths. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Churchill’s offers an exceptional selection of wines that exemplify their distinctive style. Guided by the philosophy that the true enjoyment of a glass of Port requires a state of wellbeing, Churchill’s creates an atmosphere of pure indulgence.

The visitors center at Churchill’s Wine Cellar is a sanctuary for wine enthusiasts, where you can savor the very best of their offerings. Immerse yourself in a world of rare Vintage ports, each sip a testament to the craftsmanship and passion that goes into every bottle. The tasting experience at Churchill’s is unparalleled, allowing you to tailor your own wine exploration in their Tasting Room. Here, surrounded by elegance, you can indulge in the captivating flavors and aromas that have made Churchill’s wines so highly regarded.

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Drinking port wine in Porto

What would a stay in Porto be without port wine – not complete! Discover the best port wine cellars in Porto, taste a wide variety of port wines and enjoy the vibrant life of the city.

What is port wine?

Port wine or port is a sweet wine that comes from the Douro Valley in Portugal. It takes its name from the city of Porto. The producers brought it there to mature and store it. They then shipped the wine from the port wine cellars in Porto all over the world.

Port wine is a protected designation of origin within the European Union. Only grapes from vines that grow in the fairly limited area of the Douro Valley may be used. The area covers around 250,000 hectares, of which around 46,000 hectares are planted with vines. Over 80 different grape varieties grow there, of which only around 30 are approved for the production of port wine.

There are red, white and rosé port wines, which are divided into different classifications depending on style, maturity and quality.

How is port wine made?

As with any wine, the grapes must of course first be harvested and then pressed. The winemaker then sets the must to ferment.

So far, the process is the same as for any wine production. But then the process that turns wine into port begins. Ethyl alcohol is added to the fermenting must. The fermentation is stopped by the so-called spraying. The residual sugar remains and gives the port wine its sweet taste. This process is the decisive step for the winemaker. The addition of brandy depends on how far the wine has fermented. In the end, the finished port wine must have an alcohol content of 19-22%.

The advantage of this processing method is not only the inimitable taste, but also the long shelf life. It is even common for port wine to mature in its barrels for at least 2 years. Some types of port wine even mature for much longer. However, this depends on the vintage. There is not often a “very good year” that allows storage for more than 6 years without the wine losing quality. These wines are then stored in the bottle.

Port wine classifications

One of the most important classifications that even a layman should know is the distinction between “Ruby”, “Tawny” and “Vintage”. In addition to the well-known red port wine, there are also white and rosé port wines.

All other sub-classifications and designations have only confused me. I think they will be interesting for a wine lover. For a layman who would like to drink port wine in Porto, this classification is sufficient.

Ruby port wine

Ruby is a fairly young wine that is only stored in barrels for a short time before being bottled. It is made from grapes from an average vintage. If this wine is stored for too long, it loses its flavor. A Ruby could still mature into a Tawny if it is blended and stored in a pipe (small barrel).

The young wine has a strong taste of red grapes and a strong ruby red color.

Tawny port wine

If the harvest is an above-average vintage, the port wine improves in taste with longer storage. These vintages initially remain a little longer in a barrel and are then filled into the pipe (small barrel) or into bottles for further storage. The wine matures faster in the pipe, as the barrel is somewhat permeable to air. The wine also takes on the taste of the wood and becomes somewhat lighter in color. The color spectrum ranges from garnet red, chestnut red and orange-red-brown to very light amber or golden tones.

An Old Tawny Port is aged longer in small wooden barrels and is considered to be of higher quality than a Tawny. The designation is usually only used in conjunction with one of the three age indications: 10, 20, 30 years. An Old Tawny may be blended: for example, a 20-year-old Tawny may consist of half 10-year-old and half 30-year-old Tawny.

The port wine hardly loses its flavor in the opened bottle, even after a long time.

Vintage port wine

The wines of the so-called top vintages are very rare. A top vintage is officially recognized by a commission. The winemaker bottles this port wine as early as possible and then allows it to mature for at least 10 years. It is often the case that the vintage wine only fully matures in taste after decades, as the ingredients only gradually transform in the tasteless, almost airtight and preferably dark bottle without direct influence from the environment.

Wine drinkers should bear in mind that opened bottles quickly lose their quality.

White Port is made from white grapes and is aged for around 3 years. This port wine is only differentiated by the degree of sweetness: very sweet, sweet, semi-dry, dry, very dry

Rosé Port has also been available since 2008 – it has become one of my favorite wines over the course of numerous port wine tastings. Croft played a leading role in its development and other companies now have rosé in their portfolios. In terms of taste, rosé is somewhere between white and ruby; it is usually light and fruity.

Port wine tasting in Porto: Which port wine cellar to choose in Porto?

Visiting the port wine cellars in Porto is one of the most popular and touristy things to do in the city. The prices and the offer vary quite a lot. What we also found difficult was choosing a wine cellar. If you don’t know anything at all, you’re really overwhelmed by the variety on offer.

For wine lovers and port connoisseurs, the tip is: avoid the cheap tastings! The wines tasted here are of a lower quality and it is often more of a mass processing without much explanation.

For newbies, it doesn’t matter at the first wine tasting, it was only later that we really tasted the differences. We also noticed that some of the large port wine cellars in Porto only offer tastings in combination with a tour of the wine cellar. This was still possible at two of the wineries we visited. After that, the tour, which usually covers everything to do with wine growing, port wine production and family history, became rather boring. We then tried to visit a port wine tasting without a guided tour.

Port wine cellar in Porto: Calém

Calém port wine is one of the better-known brands. Those who take part in a tour here first visit a small interactive museum. There, the visitor learns a lot about winegrowing in the Douro Valley and, of course, about the company.

Guided group tours take place at certain times. These last around 30 minutes and are offered in Portuguese, English, French and Spanish. They take you into the wine cellars with the large barrels. Here you can learn all about the storage of port wine.

The final part is the wine tasting. Depending on the package booked, the guest is presented with a different tasting package. It starts with the tasting of 2 different port wines (classic package). Those who want a little “more” can also choose the offer with 3 different port wines or the additional supplements with chocolate and cheese. The prices vary depending on the offer.

The special highlight is a combination ticket with which you can combine a fado show and the port wine tasting.

Avenida de Diogo Leite 344 Vila Nova de Gaia

Graham’s port wine cellar

In 1820, the Scottish Symington brothers founded the Graham port wine brand. Today, the company also owns other companies.

Before the tasting begins, you are given a professional guided tour during which you can also ask questions. These are answered with a great deal of expertise so that no questions remain unanswered at the end. The tours are offered at different times in Portuguese, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch and Russian.

The subsequent port wine tasting takes place in a pleasant environment. There is a choice of different tour packages. In addition to the pure wine tasting, there is also the option of extending the tasting with chocolate and cheese. Each wine package is put together differently so that you can taste the differences very well.

Rua do Agro, 141 Vila Nova de Gaia

Poças – family-run port wine cellar in Porto

The Poças port wine cellar is one of the few port wine cellars in Porto that is still in Portuguese family ownership. It is somewhat smaller than other cellars and only offers a short tour. Tours are offered in Portuguese, English, French, Spanish and Italian.

The wine tasting takes place afterwards in a wine store. There are 3 different port wines, white, ruby and a 10 year old tawny. If you wish, you can of course extend the tasting with other options.

Rua Visconde das Devesas, 168 Vila Nova de Gaia

Cockburn’s port cellar is one of the largest port cellars in Porto. While we waited for our tour to begin, we were able to visit a small exhibition. There were showcases containing photos, documents and drawings relating to the history of the company.

During a guided tour of the wine cellar, the production of port wine was explained in great detail. I particularly liked the fact that not only the beautiful old barrels were shown, but also the modern storage tanks. The somewhat inferior port wines that are supplied to the mass market are stored there. Today, it is hardly possible to produce enough barrels for these quantities.

In one aisle, we were shown shelves with many very dusty bottles. These were vintage port wines, some of which had been stored there for 20 years or more.

The work of the coopers, the barrel makers, is something very special. Cockburn’s has a cellar area where coopers repair and make wine barrels. If you take part in a guided tour during the week, you may be lucky enough to look over the workers’ shoulders.

I really enjoyed the tour. The guide was very easy-going and did an excellent job of explaining things. The tours are offered in Portuguese, English, French and Spanish.

Finally, we went to the port wine tasting. We had booked a package in which we were introduced to 3 port wines: Cockburn’s Special Reserve, Cockburn’s Late Bottled Vintage, Cockburn’s Tawny Port 10 years.

The wines were already very different in color. I could also quickly recognize differences in the smell. It was easy to distinguish the fruity notes and the Tawny in particular smelled quite “heavy” and intense. I personally liked this port the best. The most popular port wine from Cockburn’s is the Special Reserve. I found this one far too sweet. But that’s how different tastes can be.

Rua Serpa Pinto, 346 Vila Nova de Gaia

Burmester’s cellars are located directly below the beautiful bridge that leads from Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia.

Even on request, wine tasting was only possible in conjunction with a guided tour. As we had already been on a tour that day and only wanted to experience the different tastes, we decided not to visit.

At Burmester, guided tours are offered in Portuguese, English, Italian, Spanish and French. As in the other port wine cellars in Porto, you can book various packages that include different port wines.

Largo Dom Luís I 1, 4400-111 Vila Nova de Gaia

Antónia Ferreira entered a male domain when she founded her port winery. This alone makes the visit something special and unique. Here you will also find one of the few tours offered in German. This is certainly a reason why many German vacationers like to go on a discovery tour there.

During the tour, you can visit a small museum with personal items belonging to the company founder, learn all about port wine and, of course, see the impressive wine barrels in the cellars. There is also the opportunity to visit the former cooperage.

The port wine tasting at the end of the tour gives the guest the opportunity to try different port wines.

Avenida Ramos Pinto, 70 Vila Nova de Gaia

Most visitors to Porto know the port wine producer Taylor’s. The wine cellar is not quite central and is located slightly above the city. From the terrace, you have a fantastic view of Porto, especially in the evening. It’s worth going there for that alone.

If you would like to visit the Taylor’s Port Wine Cellars, you can go there at any time during opening hours. There are no guided tours, but an audio guide (in 13 different languages) that accompanies the visitor. This made it possible for us to really only listen to the information in the museum that interested us. I found this very pleasant, especially because there was no guide urging us to hurry and we could really look at everything in peace.

The tour, if you listen to all the texts, takes a good hour and passes 11 stations.

Afterwards, we went into a separate room for a port wine tasting. We were barely in the room when a waiter assigned us a table. Everyone is given two port wines to try. For us it was a Chip Dry Port (white) and a 2017 Taylor’s Bottled Vintage Port. After the glasses were poured, the waiter was no longer seen. Other guests were constantly being approached and they extended their tasting with more wines and snacks from the rather expensive menu. We apparently didn’t look like potential customers and weren’t approached any further.

The white port wasn’t quite my taste. You can really taste the alcohol here, I thought it was almost a brandy and not a wine. The red port was very good and had a pleasantly smooth taste. I would definitely have ordered another glass of this wine if we had been served more nicely.

Rua do Choupelo, 250 Vila Nova de Gaia

There are places where we turn around immediately and don’t give them a chance. That’s how we felt at Sandeman. A completely bored and uncommunicative person was sitting at the entrance. After we asked whether a tasting was possible without a tour of the port wine cellar in Porto, we received a curt “no”. No attempt to sell us a tour, to make the port wine palatable or to somehow win us over as paying customers.

So we turned around and now we don’t know whether the visit would have been worthwhile.

Largo de Miguel Bombarda 3, 4400-072 Vila Nova de Gaia

Espaço Porto Cruz

The Porto Cruz, where you can only taste port wine, is located directly on the shore. It is purely a sales room, where guided groups also make a short stop. We received super friendly service here and our tasting was professionally guided every step of the way. The price of the port wine tasting was similar to that in the port wine cellars.

I opted for a tasting with 4 different port wines and 4 chocolates. Patrick tasted 3 port wines. From the very first pour, it was noticeable that the glasses were filled much more generously than in the wine cellars.

At my port wine tasting, I was presented with a white port, a rosé, a ruby and a tawny. My clear favorite – the rosé!

It was a really pleasant visit for us, during which I got to know a completely different flavor with the rosé.

Largo Miguel Bombarda, 4400-222 Vila Nova de Gaia

Port wine cellar in Porto: Augusto’s

Somewhat hidden in a small alley, we came across Augusto’s. The pouring rain was certainly one of the reasons why we stopped there. It was a good choice, we received a very friendly welcome and there was even the opportunity to taste the port wines without a wine cellar tour.

We drank 3 different port wines, which we really enjoyed. My favorite was the Tawny with its full-bodied taste.

R. de França 10, 4400-174 Vila Nova de Gaia

Piano Douro Valley

The rain had not let up and so we went just two doors down to a restaurant that also offers port wine tastings.

Four different wines with some cheese quickly made us forget the bad weather. The wines were not quite as intense in flavor and I found them to be less sweet than other port wines I had tasted that day.

A great place to taste wine away from the well-known port wine cellars.

R. de França 14, 4400-174 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal

How to save money in the port wine cellar in Porto

Drinking port wine in Porto can be quite expensive in the long run. Especially if you want to try out many different offers, you should look carefully and search for offers.

There are several ways to save money.

The simplest method:

Pick one of the cheap port wine cellars in Porto such as Calém.

Book a combined ticket:

If you know exactly that you want to visit other activities in Porto, you can book combination tickets. For example, there is the port wine cellar + fado show offer or the boat trip + port wine combination.

Visit small tasting rooms:

Away from the large wine cellars, there are numerous small bars, restaurants and showrooms that present a diverse range of products. Here you can also just drink a port wine.

Visit to the Douro Valley:

We were also in the Douro Valley and learned about different port wines at three different stops there. A great opportunity not only to drink wine, but also to get to know the surrounding area.

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Best Cellars in Porto

Most Porto cellars and wine lodges are located in Vila Nova de Gaia , on the other side of the Douro River. Porto wine has been produced in this region for several centuries , ageing the world’s most famous fortified wine in wooden barrels.

The fundamental difference between Port wine and other wines is its  fortification with aguardiente  which  stops the fermentation . Thus, the wine preserves the original sweetness of the grapes but has a high alcohol content.

When British merchants discovered Port wine in the seventeenth century and transported it back to Britain, the wine would go bad during the journey, so they decided to fortify it with aguardiente so it would preserve better.

Wine tours in Porto

You can visit numerous wine lodges in Gaia, where you’ll explore the installations with a guide that will explain the winemaking process .

The tour ends with a tasting of the Cellar ’s wines (usually two select Porto wines).

Porto's most famous wineries

Ramos pinto cellars in porto, sandeman cellars, ferreira cellars, cálem cellars.

Visiting at least one of Porto’s renowned wineries is an absolute must: one of the most interesting attractions in Portugal’s second most populated city.

The guided tours are carried out in the language chosen by the first person to reserve the visit, so be sure to book the visit significantly ahead of time .

If you want to visit several Cellars, you can purchase a combo ticket . An interesting option is a ticket that includes the Sandeman, Offley and Ferreira wine lodges.

If you take a sightseeing cruise along the Douro River, the promoter will probably offer you combo tickets with a wine cellar. Make sure the price is worthwhile because sometimes the Cellars included in the ticket are free to visit.

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Exploring the Port Wine Cellars & Tasting Tours of Porto, Portugal

How many times can you fit “port” into a post title? Three, apparently!

Porto, or Oporto as it’s locally called, is the home of Port wine. Maybe you knew that, but I have to confess that I never pondered “where does port come from?” and made the connection until I started looking into visiting Portugal. Oops. I’ve had Port wine before, but it’s not something that I really considered as a drink to have often, or that I would like a lot. Or that I would spend much of my trip to Porto searching for the best Port wine cellar…

If you haven’t had it, Port is a sweet wine that’s best enjoyed in smaller amounts, like for dessert or a nightcap. Little did I know, visiting Porto was going to make me fall in love with Port wine! But where do you go for Port wine tastings in Porto, and which are the best Port wine cellars?

Read More:  7 Things to Do in Porto That Don’t Involve Port Wine

A brief history of port wine.

We all know the British like a drink. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Britain was at war with France and decided to boycott French wine, which meant they needed to look elsewhere to satisfy their drinking habits. A combination of factors led to the popularity of this Portuguese drink called Port, including the full-bodied flavours of the Douro Valley wines that appealed to the British, lower taxes and the addition of spirits to the wine allowing them to make the journey to the north without spoiling.

Throughout the following centuries, the Port making process was perfected as the wines proved popular, and spirits were added during the fermentation process as they are today. Regulations were brought in to only allow true Port wine to come from this region, in the same way Champagne can only come from a specific place in France. The Douro region is now the third oldest protected wine region in the world.

Traditionally the vineyards in the Douro Valley stayed under Portuguese ownership and the Port winemakers bought the wine from the farmers to be transferred to Porto for aging and exportation. Unfortunately, a disease spread through the vines in the late 19th century, destroying many of them and causing grapes to be unusable for over ten years. This lead to sales of the land to foreign buyers who waited for a solution to be found before the Port winemaking process resumed. This is why so many Port wine houses now have foreign names, rather than Portuguese ones.

What is Port wine?

I never thought I would be that interested in the Port winemaking process and in tasting different Ports, but I actually loved finding out more during my time on different Porto wine tours. Visiting the Port wine cellars in Porto is the best way to learn. Especially when it’s in addition to tasting the wine itself…

Here’s what I learnt:

Wine can only be called Port wine if it comes from the Douro Valley, 100km away from Porto. The grapes used for Port are the same grapes used for normal wine, but it’s what happens after they are picked that separates classic wine and Port wine.

The making of Port begins in the Douro Valley and ends in Porto. Many of the vines have been there since the Roman times, and how Port wine is made has not really changed in hundreds of years. No machinery is allowed in the vineyard itself, so all collecting is done by hand into baskets and the grapes are transported to machines near the vineyard. I’m not sure I envy that work!

Before, the wine was held in stone vats which hold liquid and heat well, but now it’s mostly in steel vats which obviously have less wastage of the wine (important of course!). Port wine is fermented for only a short time, between three and eight days depending on which Port wine house is making it, and then around 20% brandy or moonshine is added to stop the fermentation process. Once the wine is bottled it stops aging and it’s ready to drink.

Many people think Port wine must have added sugar since it tastes so sweet, but it’s just the sweetness of the grapes. Apparently, they taste terrible if you try and eat them, but they’re perfect for making wine.

Read More: 21 Things to Know Before Visiting Lisbon

Different types of Port

So after the wine is collected from the Douro Valley and transported to Porto it’s aged in different ways to get different kinds of Port. Then we visit the Port wine cellars to try them on different Porto winery tours. Yum.

This is the Port that is most widely known. The name comes from the “town” in English apparently, although I’m not sure why. It’s usually a golden or lighter red colour, but it does actually come from red grapes. The colour comes from the fermentation taking place in smaller wooden barrels, which also add a flavour to the wine. It’s usually paired with desserts and dark chocolate, but it can be with main courses too.

Ruby Port is stored in large vats or barrels which allow the wine to keep its deep red colour, more similar to classic wine. Like many red wines, it’s best with cheese.

White Port obviously comes from white grapes, but it can appear more yellow as it gets some colour from the smaller wooden barrels it’s aged in. It’s like a super sweet white wine and goes well with ice cream, cheesecake and the endless supply of codfish cakes they have in Portugal.

The newest kid on the block, Rose Port is a more recent invention in the last decade. It has no contact with wood at all, which is why it stays a pinker colour rather than becoming a deep red. It’s often served cold and can be used in cocktails. If someone invents an amazing Rose Port cocktail please let me know!

Colheita Port

This is a type of Tawny Port that has only a single vintage and is aged for at least 7 years. Other Ports will have things like 10, 20, or 30 years showing on them, but these are blended just indicates a category rather than the actual length of time the Port was aged for.

Vintage Port

To be declared as vintage a particular harvest of grapes has to meet very high standards, which doesn’t happen every year. If they are met the single harvest wine is aged in a barrel for a maximum of two and a half years and then for a further ten to forty years in a special bottle that must be stored lying down and has a larger than normal cork. Once opened they must be drunk within a maximum of 3 days. That means you better have a lot of friends around to share with when you crack that bottle open!

They say that in Porto there’s nine months of winter and three months of hell, with temperates reaching over 40 degrees.

Read More: A Road Trip on the Algarve Coast, Portugal

The best Port Wine Cellars to try in Porto

I didn’t visit every single Port Wine house in Porto. Trust me, I wanted to, but there are a lot of Port wine cellars and I only had a limited capacity to drink Port before it would be too much! But here’s an overview of the best Port wine tastings in Porto that I did do, and then a bit of info on the other Port wine tours available.

You can fit several Port wine tastings into one day in Porto, but you’ll need to plan carefully if you want to do actual tours of the Port wine cellars. They run different language tours at different times of the day. Many of the Port wine cellars have a tasting area though where you can try whatever you like, or do different Port wine flights. “Flights” in a tasting sense are when you do multiple tastings, often paired together especially to give you an overview of a certain type of alcohol and with complimentary tastes.

Kopke is the oldest Port Wine House, dating from 1638. It was started by a German owner who chose the opposite side of the river to Porto town because it was less populated, the land was cheaper and it’s cooler because of how the sun hits the city. It was a trend that has continued ever since.

At Kopke, you can only do Port tastings, not a tour, although they were very willing to answer all our questions. They had a lot of different Port wine flight tastings available but we just picked a few from the general menu. Kopke has a lovely bar area that includes comfy couches overlooking the river. Glasses were around €2-4 euros and then upwards for more specialty Ports.

Honestly, Kopke had some of my favourite Ports out of all the ones I tried in Porto and I’d definitely rank them among the best Port cellars. Their Rose was absolutely delicious, and for me, they had the Ruby might even be the best Port in Porto!

Cálem had the most reasonably priced Port wine tour in Porto that I found. For just €6 they offer a small tour of their cellars with a guide who will explain the Port wine making process and then you get 2 tastings. You don’t see a whole lot of the Port making process, other than some great pictures that show the Douro Valley, and then you get up close with some giant and then smaller wine barrels, but it’s still something.

However, I do have to say that while the Port we tasted was nice, it wasn’t as outstanding as some of the others. They offer different tastings on different tours though, so you never know what you’ll get and like!

Read more: Awesome Day Trips from Lisbon

Royal Oporto

Royal Oporto is the only Portuguese owned Port wine house left. Their Portuguese name is Real Companhia Velha but they are exported as Royal Oporto. They don’t have a cellar, just a shop where you can do tastings and buy the wine. They had a huge range for us to taste from and so of course, we tried them all! Their Extra Dry White Port was really good and is apparently a best seller. It was also great to try the difference between a normal Tawny Port and a 10 year one, which I much preferred.

Porto Cruz is the most modern looking out of all of the Port wine cellars in Porto. They don’t have any kind of tasting tour, although you can show yourself around a few exhibits including a cute video with a little boy that shows the whole winemaking process from vine to table. You can taste their Port wine downstairs as well. We grabbed our samples and took them up to the rooftop bar, which has an amazing view over Porto. I think because it wasn’t a busy time of year they were ok with us up there just having samples, but you are supposed to buy something normally. We went at the perfect time of day, as the sun was setting in Porto.

Sandeman Cellars

In 1790 the son of a Scottish cabinetmaker borrowed £300 to launch a Port and Sherry trading business in London. Basically, it escalated from there to become one of the most well known and recognised brands, largely thanks to its distinctive logo of a man in a cape with a glass of port at his shoulder. Sandeman run three different Port wine tours, starting from €10 for a more basic tour and ranging up to €40 for a specific tawny Port tour where you can taste a lot of different years. They also have a terrace open from March to October where you can relax with views over Porto and taste whatever you like from the menu.

Graham’s 1890 Lodge

Graham’s began with two brothers, also from Scotland, in 1820. In 1970 it was sold to the Symington family, and it is now the only British Port company owned by a single family. The Graham’s cellars in Porto are still working cellars housing thousands of casks. You can visit Graham’s by reservation only and a Port wine tour costs €12 including a tasting. It’s a little further from the rest of the Port wine cellars though, so it’s good to know you have a confirmed booking.

Taylor’s Port Cellars

Taylor’s offer a self-guided audio tour followed by a tasting of two Ports in their tasting room or terrace and gardens for €12. I did go up to Taylor’s Cellars and although I didn’t take their tour they do have a few exhibits on display that are interesting and you can see for free. You can always just enjoy a Port tasting of your choice without the tour part. Taylor’s is one of the older Port wine houses in Porto, although it was not called Taylor’s until halfway through its four-century history.

Cockburn’s Port

Another Scotsman, Robert Cockburn, and his brother John were successful wine merchants in Leith, Edinburgh. In 1815 they set up a branch in Porto. Until the 20th century, the same family ran the Port wine cellar, although after that other families became involved as well. It is now owned by the Symingtons, the same family who own Graham’s, although they are entirely different brands. You can take a tour of Cockburn’s with a tasting included from €10.

If you had told me before that I would write an entire post purely about the history of Port and where to go Port wine tasting in Porto then I would not believe you, but there you go! That’s the beauty of travelling, we get to learn about things we would have no idea about otherwise. So what’s the best Port wine in Porto? I seriously have no answer to that! It’s all about taste and no one in my family could agree so you’ll just have to go and taste them all for yourself!

I’d highly recommend a visit to Porto, and if you’re wondering where to stay then there’s some great accommodation around the Port wine cellars. Even if wine isn’t your thing, the cellars are an interesting part of history and trade links in the past. And seriously, just give it a little try, you might surprise yourself!

Read More: 7 Things to Do in Porto That Don’t Involve Port Wine

Have you tried Port wine? Would you visit Porto just to see the Port wine cellars?

If you liked it, pin it! 

Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

8 thoughts on “ Exploring the Port Wine Cellars & Tasting Tours of Porto, Portugal ”

Hahah ‘how many times port can be put in a sentence’. I went to my first wine tasting recently and can imagine that it’s a little similar to taste testing port! I always thought it would be boring too, but it turns out that learning about the process is actually quite interesting! I love that you tested them with chocolates. The perfect combination!

Haha a lot of times! It is really similar to a wine tasting, Port wine is just really sweet and can taste a little more like a liquor. It’s actually amazing with chocolates! I’d definitely recommend giving it a try 🙂

How did you do the wine tastings? Did you book a tour or by own transport?

We didn’t go to the Duoro Valley, we did tastings in the cellars in Porto itself, as that’s where the Port is aged. They’re all really close together so you can just walk between them. They have different times for tours in different languages so make sure you find out the times if you want to plan a little route. That’s only if you want a full tour of the cellar, if you just want to do some tastings then you can do that whenever you like in the bar area of the port wine cellar. For example in Kopke you can only do tastings, whenever they’re open, same at Porto Cruz.

Can’t wait to taste the ports/ had no idea there were so many types. Thanks for sharing!

Soooooo many! And so good!!!

Thank you for such an informative blog. Very Helpful !!

You’re welcome! I’m glad it was useful 🙂

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10 Wine Tours You Can't Miss in Porto

Porto is Portugal's second-largest city and was elected Second best city in 2021, Best European Destination in 2017, and  awarded as European Leading Destination in 2018 . Every year the city attracts thousands of tourists eager to discover the ancient downtown, the typical riverside with colorfully painted houses, to get lost in century-old streets, to enjoy the Portuguese gastronomy, and, of course, to taste its delicious wines and visit the Port wine Cellars.

If you're in Porto and haven't planned a trip to the stunning Douro Valley but find yourself in the mood for a Port wine tasting, there are plenty of choices, mainly on the other side of the Douro River, Gaia. Each visit is different, featuring a tasting room, artisanal cheese, amazing chocolate pairings, and on-site sommeliers, among other fantastic experiences. So, discover the top ten wine tours that you can't miss in Porto .

Caves Ferreira

At Caves Ferreira , you travel back to the origins of the Portuguese tradition. In this cellar, you will learn more about the history of Port wine and the Douro region and discover one of its most iconic figures - Dona Antónia Adelaide Ferreira. The tour includes tastings of some of the best Douro wines and visits to the Old Bar, an iconic tasting room that dates back to the 19th century. More wine tastings at Caves Ferreira.

Caves Offley

Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, near the waterfront, at Caves Offley , you will learn the fascinating story of the Baron of Forrester and his role in the Port wine industry. In this guided tour through the cellar, there will be wine Port tastings and for small groups of connoisseurs, there is also available an intimate visit with a wider selection of Port Wine tastings. Get to know the  best Portuguese wines at Caves Offley .

Caves Sandeman

Caves Sandeman is located in Vila Nova de Gaia, in an 1811 granite building overlooking the river and facing Porto's historic center. In this tour, you will discover more about Sandeman wine tradition and the aging process, and you will have the opportunity to taste some Ruby and Tawny wines in the contemporary room or in a private room where you can also admire our antique bottle collection. More wine tasting  at Caves Sandeman .

Real Companhia Velha

Real Companhia Velha is probably the most original wine tasting tour in Porto. With a century-old tradition and the most important role in the history of Port wine, the guided tour of the centennial cellar of Real Companhia Velha begins with a video that portrays the process of Port wine-making in the Company. The tour continues across the main aging warehouse to the "Vintage Museum" and ends with a tasting of Port wines of exceptional quality. Take a look at all the available Port wine tastings at Real Companhia Velha.

Espaço Porto Cruz

Espaço Porto Cruz offers much more than a wine tasting tour - it is an experience all in itself. Designed as a place for information, exhibitions, and leisure, it offers new experiences around Port wine combining it with artistic creations in areas such as fashion, art, and gastronomy. The tours at Espaço Porto Cruz include wine tastings and visits to the multimedia center, chocolate workshops, and chocolate and cheese tastings. Moreover, you will enjoy the best sunset view over Porto historical center and the beautiful Douro River from the Porto Cruz terrace. Check all the wine tasting tours at Espaço Porto Cruz . 

Churchill's Wine Cellar 

Churchill's is a Port Wine Cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia, known for its elegance and style, serving as a backdrop for the  best Churchill's has to offer  - its wines. For those keen to enhance their knowledge of the Douro Region and the history of Churchill’s, the visitor center provides a perfect platform. Here you can also enjoy tailor-made tastings of Churchill's the Douro and Port Wine and Port in the Tasting Room, which has a spectacular view of the Douro River.

Caves Cálem

Caves Cálem at Gaia waterfront is one of the most famous and most visited cellars for wine tours in Porto. Visits to Caves Cálem include a guided tour to the cellar and its ancient traditions, followed by a tasting of Port wine - white and special reserve. In this tour, you can also enjoy another wonder of the Portuguese culture - a fado concert - which will grant you a different and pleasant evening with two of the greatest icons of the Portuguese culture: wine and fado . 

Caves Burmester

The Burmester Museum and Wine Cellar are built in a privileged place overlooking the Douro River and the historic Luis I Bridge. It was created with the clear ambition of making the history of the brand Burmester known to the public. The tours at Caves Burmester  include a guided visit to the Cellar Museum, where you can learn about the peculiarities of Port Wine, and ends with  tastings of three excellent Port wines paired with the best chocolates . 

Caves Graham’s

Graham's port lodge and tasting room is an impressive location, with high ceilings and big windows through which the lodge’s stunning view of the city can be fully appreciated. Here you can relish the range of Ports available to taste, while your expert guide talks you through your wines. Graham’s has a wide range of different tasting options , from Classic to Premium, Vintage, and Tawny Ports. It is an unparalleled tasting experience! If you wish to learn more about Graham's, you can book a tasting in the private Vintage Room. With its quiet atmosphere and professional tasting conditions, you can relax in an armchair with a glass of fine Vintage Port or a rare Single Harvest Aged Tawny , which will make for a memorable experience.

Caves Taylor's

Taylor's port wine cellars and lodges stand on a commanding ridge across the Douro River from Porto, affording outstanding views of the city, which has also a fantastic modern museum circuit. The story of the brand and port is told through an audio-guided visit available in eight languages that includes an array of educational films, images, and exhibits about the Douro Valley and the work in the wineries. The visitor is allowed to choose from a range of port tastings including a choice of many Tawny or Vintage Ports, accompanied by classic pairings such as roasted almonds, cheese, and chocolate. The visitor has also the option to take a masterclass led by in-house wine professionals where they'll learn about vintage or a tawny port. 

Why  book now your tour? Because by booking all your tours  with us you will have  flexibility  in the future, plus an acquired  "Clean and Safe" seal . We are available to plan, reschedule, and move your trip around your needs through these unique times, as always. If your new dates may no longer work with your initial travel plan, a dedicated consultant will be available to  tailor  and reschedule your time in Portugal according to your needs and preferences, and to assure you that you will have the best and most memorable experiences.

Article originally published on 2018

Topics:   Wine Tours Porto Wineries wineries porto

Written by: Wine Tourism in Portugal

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If you cross the bridge to the other side of the river you arrive to Vila Nova de Gaia, where all the Port Wine cellars are located. At most of these cellars you can get a guided tour where they’ll explain how Port Wine is made, stored and distributed and also, how to distinguish different kinds of Port; most of these visits end with a wine tasting.  There are around 30 different cellars, so we can help you choose which ones to visit:

Access:   At S. Bento take the bus 901 or 906 and get out at Sandeman Cellars Tips: To visit the Port Wine Cellar and other sightsand try the portuguese typical food and wine, join the  Porto City Tour ! 

Casa Ferreira

Ferreira Port Wine was created in 1751 by a Portuguese family of wine-markers. Antónia Adelaide Ferreira, the responsible for the brand, quickly became a symbol of strength against the adversities of being twice widowed and a woman at the front of a company in the 18 th century. Antónia Adelaide was kindly called Ferreirinha, a name which stuck to her brand through the years.

Espaço Porto Cruz

Espaço Porto Cruz is a 4-floors modern building entirely dedicated to Port Wine. It is the only interactive museum on the subject, with touch panels which help you explore and learn the history of Port. They also have wine tastings with an explanation given by a specialist. On the top floor there is a restaurant and a lounge terrace with a wide view over the city.

Ramos Pinto

Founded in 1880 by Adriano Ramos Pinto. You can visit the cellars but also the house and museum, where you find a testimony of the brand history told trough bottles, medals and old advertisings.

This brand was created in 1820 by two brothers and later sold to the Symington family. In a rustic building with walls of granite and wood ceiling, the location of this cellar offers a breath-taking view over the Douro River and Porto. The building has different spaces such as a museum with old books and valuable objects related to the brand’s story, or an exclusive and intimate room where you can taste older wines.

Schedule:  November to March – Monday to Friday   9:30 a.m – 6 p.m / April to October – 9:30 a.m – 6:30 p.m Address:  Rua do Agro 141, 4400-281 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal Access:   Graham’s is one of the only cellars that is not located right in the docks area.   From S. Bento take the bus 901 or  906 and get out at Alameda Empresa stop Price: Different tastings – From 18,50€ Tel:   +351 223 776 484 More Info

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Settle in for a panoramic driving tour through Porto as a prelude to dining on dishes made to pair with the city’s namesake port wine. While traveling through the city’s historic district, which is so architecturally important that UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site, you will pass landmarks such as the Casa da Música concert hall and the cathedral where famed Portuguese explorer Henry the Navigator was baptized in the late 1300s. This immersion into Porto will also provide insight into the production of port, the fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley. Taylor’s Port Lodge in nearby Gaia offers the ideal setting for an exquisite tasting of appetizers created especially to pair with these wines. Tour the famous cellars at Vila Nova de Gaia while learning the history of Port wine. The family run company was founded hundreds of years ago in 1692, and has since been the best known and well respected winery in the area.

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The Perfect One Day in Porto Itinerary for 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: May 12, 2024

Having visited Porto three times, we clearly love this beautiful city in Portugal. It truly is one of our favorite places in Europe. A lot of people pop into Porto for just a day, be it before their Douro Valley River Cruise or on a day trip on their Portuguese adventure. Because this city is so compact, Porto is a very walkable city, and it is easy to see many of its top attractions in just one day.

While we recommend at least a few days in Porto, it is possible to see a lot, as all the main attractions are located close to the city center. So, we have created the perfect one-day in Porto Itinerary to make the most of your short stay.

Table of Contents

One Day in Porto Itinerary

Porto is Portugal’s second largest city but it still feels small. The historic center is walkable and with easy and affordable public transport, Ubers and an organized walking route, you can see a lot in a short time.

If you only have one day in Porto, we suggest using Uber to get around. We found them to be very reliable and affordable. Also, if you plan on going into a lot of Porto attractions and using public transport you may consider the Porto Card. We didn’t use the Porto Card for one day, but you can check out what is included here.

A lot of our suggestions are easily walkable once you get to the area that we suggest. We have a map at the bottom of this post that you can follow. And we will suggest where and when to take an Uber and when to walk.

Livraria Lello

Harry Potter fans will want to head straight to Livrario Lellow to start your one-day itinerary. Call an Uber from your hotel and make your way to R. das Carmelitas for the first entry into this world’s most beautiful bookstore. It is rumored that Hogwarts’ winding staircases were modeled after Livraria Lello’s beautiful baroque staircases, but JK Rowling denies that. Either way, there is an entire section dedicated to the beloved series, and you will feel as if you have entered a magical bookshop.

Many people have the most beautiful bookstore in the world on their list during their Porto itinerary, but many people also miss out due to a lack of planning. Make sure to book your timed entry in advance. The bookstore opens at 9:00 am, and you will want to book a golden ticket that lets you skip the line and gives you a free book of your choice. Even if you booked the golden ticket and can skip the line, show up at 8:00 to be at the front. We tell you exactly what to do here.

You need to book well in advance on the LIvrario Lello Website, and we have an entire blog post telling you exactly how to book that golden ticket and how to make sure you are the first one to enter the bookstore right here. Ultimate Guide for Visiting Livraria Lello

Igrega do Carmo

Once you’ve finished at Livraria Lello, walk toward the nearby square to see the iconic tiles of Igrega do Carmo. It is one of the most popular walls of tiles in Portugal, and you can get an iconic photograph in the doorway. Yes, we are guilty of taking that exact shot. The square itself is beautiful but busy. Tours stop here to talk about the church, which has a gorgeous fountain standing at its center.

When you visit Porto, you will be in awe. The historic center was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, and for good reason. Its winding streets, historic churches adorned with Azuelos (Portuguese tiles), and beautiful buildings are something you will never forget.

Cafe Majestic

If you didn’t have breakfast at your hotel, which we highly recommend doing because booking a hotel that includes breakfast saves you a ton of money and time, make your way to the Majestic Cafe for Breakfast. Start your walk uphill, and if you don’t want to eat at Cafe Majestic, there are some great breakfast places just up from Igrega do Carmo. We enjoyed a fantastic breakfast, Zenith Brunch and Cocktails, and Restaurant Carlos Alberto, both located on Praça de Carlos Alberto, at a more reasonable price.

However, you are only going to be in Porto for one day, so we think you’ll want to eat at one of its most popular cafes. Cafe Majestic was once touted as the most beautiful cafe in the world. It, too, has Harry Potter connections, as JK Rowling frequented his cafe during her time in Porto, and it is said that she wrote the first Harry Potter book there. 

Majestic Cafe is a historic restaurant located on the pedestrian-only shopping street Rua de Santa Catarina. Once you have overpaid for your Pasteis de Nata and coffee, take a short stroll along the street to browse its unique shops and expensive boutiques. There are chocolate shops, bookstores and of course the regular Gucci and Rolex stores.

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso

Igreja de Santo Ildefonso Church is the most photographed church in Porto, thanks to its location and the 11,000 Azulejos (traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles) covering the açade and sides of the church.

We never went inside because we think churches get enough money and aren’t fans of paying to see inside, but we did enjoy the view from the steps. If you do go inside, you’ll see a 19th-century pipe organ, oil paintings, and, of course, the usual religious statues.

São Bento Train Station

There’s a lot of beauty in Porto, and the Sao Bento train station is no exception. If you haven’t seen enough of those blue tiles, or even if you have, you don’t want to miss The São Bento Train Station. It is touted as one of Europe’s most beautiful train stations thanks to its 20,000 azulejos. Each tile tells a story of Portuguese history. 

This train station was opened in 1916 on the site of a former Benedictine monastery of Saint Benedict (São Bento). Tours stop at this busy station all day long to marvel at the ceramic tiles that were painted by Jorge Colaço, one of the most renowned azulejos artists of his time. The panels depict various historical scenes from Portugal’s history, including battles, royal events, and traditional life.

Snack and Sprits at Mercado Do Bolhão

When visiting Porto, you will definitely want to visit one of its markets. For lunch, you have a few options: you can turn around and walk back the hill a little bit to visit Mercado do Bolhão, which we highly recommend, or start making your way to the waterfront. But let’s talk about the Bolhao Market. This is one of our favorite markets in Europe, and Bolhão Market is one of the most authentic and traditional markets in Porto.

Although the original structure has undergone renovations, the neoclassical facade remains. The covered market is cool and a great escape from the heat. Inside, you can sample fresh seafood, cheese, sausages, and pastries. The shop owners are friendly and passionate about their local specialties.

Wander through stalls offering a variety of cheeses, meats, and fresh produce, and savor some authentic Portuguese delicacies that pair perfectly with wine! You can order a glass of wine, Gin and Tonic, or a Porto and Tonic that you can take with you to sip on it as you wander through the aisles. 

Pastel de Nata

If you want to try some Pasteis de Nata, go across the street to the Confeteria de Balhao. It is one of the oldest bakeries in Porto, and many say it has the best Pasteis de Nata in the city. The line is huge in the morning, but later in the morning, it slows down a bit.

Porto City Hall

If you love getting those photographs of city signs, Porto City Hall is just a short walk from the Bolhaor

Cais da Ribeira

If you want to make your way to the river instead of going to the market, you can have lunch in the Ribeira district. Several restaurants and outdoor cafes line the waterfront with street performers entertaining guests as they sample Portuguese food. Cais da Ribeira is Porto’s most picturesque district, with colorful buildings lining the Douro River, and you will definitely want to spend some time exploring this neighborhood. 

Enjoy winding your walk down through the narrow streets of Porto (it’s all downhill from the Bolhao Market and São Bento Station if you take the main road), or you can take an Uber to get there faster.

Once you get to the waterfront, you will want to enjoy the energy of this lively part of the city. There are outdoor markets, restaurants, boat tours, and beautiful views of colorful buildings lining the Douro River. This is a great place to pull up a chair and enjoy some lunch (if you skipped the castle and market) or to enjoy an Aperol Spritz. 

Porto Cathedral

If you choose to go to the market, you can also have your driver drop you off at the Porto Cathedral for breathtaking views of the Douro River. It is an uphill walk to the cathedral, so you may want to hire a car to save time. It is worth visiting for the views of the city and river. The Porto Cathedral is one of the city’s oldest monuments, and it has been a religious site since the 12th century.

This is one cathedral you may want to visit. Its cloisters are beautiful, and inside, the cathedral is adorned with azulejos (blue and white ceramic tiles) that narrate religious stories.

 Afternoon

Walk across the ponte luis i bridge.

It’s time to head to the city of Novo de Gaia across the river. We loved this district, and it is the perfect place to spend the rest of the afternoon. To get to Novo de Gaia from Porto, you can walk across the famous Ponte Luis I Bridge. You can walk on the lower or upper portion of the bridge. Note that you’ll be sharing the road with cars.

If you had lunch down by the water, you could walk across the lower portion to get to Gaia, or if you went to the Porto Cathedral (which we highly recommend because you can eat dinner at the Ribeira), you could walk along the upper portion. We loved the views from the upper portion. The Ponte Luis I Bridge is 45 meters high, and the views of both cities are beautiful from up here. There are no cars driving on the upper bridge, but there are trams going back and forth, so keep an eye out.

River Cruise on the Douro River

Once you get to Gaia, you can embark on a river cruise on the Douro River to see Porto’s stunning riverside scenery. We took the 6 Bridges Cruise, which takes you from one end of the city to the other. The 50-minute cruise will give you a unique perspective of Porto’s iconic bridges and landmarks, from the vibrant streets of Cais da Ribeira to the port wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.

You can book river cruises on the Ribeira side as well, but they are quite busy. We booked on Gaia instead. You can book your cruise in advance as well which will guarantee your time slot. It is worth seeing the entire side from a bot.

Port Wine Tasting at Vila Nova De Gaia

The waterfront of Gaia is famous for its port wine cellars, and now is the time to visit them and do a port tasting. A trip to Porto isn’t a trip without tasting its famous port wine! You don’t need to take a tour, but it is fun to visit one of the cellars. We have toured and bought wines from Taylor’s, Calem, and Foncesco, and the port wines are divine.

Calem is the easiest to visit as it is located directly on the waterfront, and they offer port-tasting flights. If you want to see the WoW District (World of Wine) Fonseco and Taylor’s are located just a short walk up. They are both less busy, but the wines are finer. We loved our port tasting experience Taylor’s is the official supplier of the Royal Family, and it was the first port of wine in space! Try out a tasting session to discover the depth and richness of these world-class wines.

Going into a port wine lodge is a wonderful experience; you feel as if you have stepped back in time and enjoyed a wine tour through these historic cellars.

Portuguese wine is as delicious as it is unique, with varieties such as Vino Verde and Port Wine. The Douro Valley is Portugal’s famous wine region, and you can book a tour of Porto in the Douro Valley if you have a few days.

Stroll the Gaia Waterfront

We enjoyed the Gaia waterfront more than the Ribeira because, for one, it has the best views of Porto (including the beautiful Riviera). You can see the colorful terraced houses rising up from the Douro River, with the cathedral and fort standing proudly overhead.

Port houses line the waterfront, showcasing the famous Portuguese wine. Gaia is much less busy than Porto and two of our favorite stores are located on the waterfront of Gaia.

Wonderful World of Portuguese Sardines

You must stop by to see the wonderful world of Portuguese Sardines. This circus-like store is a destination unto itself. Similar in style to Livraria Lello, this store has baroque staircases and walls full of thousands of colorful cans of sardines. There is a multimedia display showcasing the history of Portuguese Sardines, and it is simply a spectacle. Plus, you can buy a sardine from a year that is special to you. Why not bring home a Portuguese can with your birthdate or anniversary on it?

The Bacalau House

The Balacau House is another must-stop. This is where you can try the country’s famous Cod Cakes while enjoying another beautiful shop. The store is a part shop, museum arcade, and gallery. This shop has two winding staircases, and the Bacalau house even has live entertainment. Pull up a chair on the upper balcony, grab a serving of Bacalau accompanied by port wine, and you’ll have a true Portuguese experience.

Sunset Apperitivo

From the waterfront, you can hop on the Teleferico (cable car), which will take you back up to the top of Gaia for your sunset views. If you have the budget, we recommend having appetizers and a cocktail at the Esplanada do Teleferico. It’s a fantastic restaurant offering fantastic views of Porto from its outdoor terrace. 

Relax with a refreshing drink and take in the breathtaking skyline as the sun sets over the city.

Jardim Do Morro

If you don’t want to pay €15 to €20 for a cocktail, you can have the same view just behind the restaurant at Jardim Do Morro. Pull up a blanket and enjoy the view as the sun goes down and the lights go on over Porto.

Since you’ve had Bacalau, appetizers, and port wine, we suggest putting off dinner until later. Besides, why not embrace the Portuguese culture and eat late? So before dinner, book a Fado Show in a wine cellar. Fado is a beautiful live performance of singers accompanied by guitars. We booked this tour through Get Your Guide and loved it. The hour long performance also includes a glass of Port Wine.

Fado is a true cultural experience that is so important to Portugal that it is recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

It is known for its expressive and profoundly melancholic character, typically conveying themes of longing, sadness, and nostalgia. The music is intensely emotional, aiming to evoke a feeling of ‘saudade’ a Portuguese term that describes a deep emotional state of nostalgic longing for something or someone that one loves.

Depending on where your hotel is located (or if you are willing to take a taxi or uber which are very affordable) you will want to choose where to have dinner and evening drinks. The Ribeira, Gaia Waterfront, or Rua de Santa Catarina are all great dining choices.

There are so many delicious and authentic restaurants in Porto that it’s easy to be overwhelmed, but just relax, enjoy, and do what we do… look for restaurants that seem to be full of locals.

Francesinha – A Porto Staple

One food you will want to try at dinner is francesinha. This sandwich sounds disgusting, but it is delicious. Most restaurants serve it and after all that port wine and cocktails, it will help to soak up the alcohol. So what is it? This is a hearty sandwich made of sausage, cheese, ham, more meat, and bread served with a tomato beer sauce.

Nightlife at Galerias de Paris Street

For nightlife, make your way to Galleria Paris near the Livraria Lello Bookstore for bar hopping. You finish your day where you began. This is where the locals hang out into the wee hours of the morning.

How to Get to Porto

By Air : The primary gateway by air is through Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (also known as Porto Airport), located approximately 11 kilometers from the city center. The airport hosts a variety of international and domestic flights, connecting Porto with major cities across Europe and beyond. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center via the metro (the Violet E line directly connects the airport to the Trindade metro station in the city center), bus, taxi, or ride-sharing services.

By Train : For travelers coming from other parts of Portugal or from Spain, trains are a convenient option. Porto’s main train station, Sao Bento Station, is located in the heart of the city and is well-connected to the Portuguese rail network. Another key station is Campanhã, which is on the east side of the city and serves as the main hub for trains arriving from Lisbon, the Algarve, and international destinations such as Spain. From Campanhã, passengers can take a local train or the metro to reach the central areas of Porto and Sao Bento Station.

And that’s our one-day in Porto itinerary. From the Ribeira district on the waterfront to the winding cobblestone streets, we’ve shown you how to make the most of your day in this beautiful city.

Plan Your Next Trip To Porto With Our Advice

• 30 Best Things to Do in Porto, Portugal
• Where to Stay in Porto: A Complete Guide For Your First Visit
• Into the Douro Valley with Avalon Alegria
• Livraria Lello, Porto: Tips For Visiting The Most Beautiful Bookstore in the World
• 17 Best Things to Do in Guimarães, Portugal
• 48 Hours in Lisbon, Itinerary
• Guide to the Douro Valley from Porto – Portugal’s Most Famous Wine Region
• Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Sintra Day Trip from Lisbon: Tips & Itinerary
• Is Portugal Expensive To Visit? Travel Costs And Budgets

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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1 thought on “The Perfect One Day in Porto Itinerary for 2024”

This is my city – where I bornt, studied and lived. For sure I need update with some actual photos – it’s amazing see how it changed but some places remains with same beauty.

We've Selected 4 New Grand Award Winners for 2024! Stay tuned for the full list of Restaurant Awards on June 24

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Srn member links, 2024 grand award winner: the yeatman.

Portugal’s best shines in the Douro

• Cassia Schifter

A compelling introduction to the Yeatman, situated in the historic center of the Port wine district on the south bank of the Douro River, is its breathtaking view overlooking the city of Vila Nova de Gaia and the water. The hotel and accompanying restaurant, owned by Taylor Fladgate CEO Adrian Bridge and opened in August 2010, is named for one of the founding families of the Port trade from the 1800s. Since the outset, the idea was to showcase the best wines from all of Portugal and to put Porto on the map for travelers and visitors. The very best producers of Portuguese wines regularly host dinners and tastings there.

Chef Ricardo Costa has been crafting the menu from the start, focusing on traditional Portuguese ingredients and dishes, treating them with contemporary flair and innovative techniques. The seasonal tasting menu leans slightly toward fish from Portugal’s coast and other fresh, local produce; however, Costa considers the suckling pig with potato, lettuce and creamed corn to be one of his signature dishes. Wine director Elisabete Fernandes enjoys pairing this dish with Quinta do Crasto Vinha da Ponte 2016 .

The wine list comprises 1,600 selections—more than 90 percent Portuguese table wines, Port and Madeira — and is updated monthly. Inventory is procured by Fernandes, who seeks out wines through various tastings, new releases and launches. She also maintains a close relationship with the hotel’s wine partners, including every major Port producer from Croft to Van Zeller , as well as table wine producers such as Cartuxa and Anselmo Mendes . These relationships allow her access to rare and exclusive editions from their cellars.

Fernandes has been part of the Yeatman’s wine team since the hotel opened and became wine director in 2021. She enjoys pairing the Portuguese flavors with local wines but also likes to mix things up. Her knowledge and passion are evident from the complexity of the wine list, ensuring a harmonious pairing and an exciting dining experience.

“Our wine pairing philosophy is to showcase Portugal through our wines—its wine regions, styles and grape varieties,” says Fernandes. She matches one of their most popular (and most challenging to pair with) dishes, red mullet with daikon radish, kimchi and cauliflower, flawlessly with Quinta das Bágeiras Pai Abel 2021. “We showcase the incredible range of Portuguese wine references, from large to boutique producers, rare wines to new releases, in a very eclectic offering, guaranteeing that our wine selection is on par with the world’s most distinguished wine-producing countries.”

Above all, wanting to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience for diners is at the heart of everything and instilled in everyone working at the restaurant. “Training and preparing the teams to put the client first in order to guarantee a unique and memorable experience is also very important,” says Fernandes. “The sommelier’s role involves reading and interpreting the customer, adapting the restaurant’s wine selection to the customer’s style and occasion, and heightening the gastronomic experience whilst respecting and creating balance with chef Costa’s creations.”

Price per bottle on the list averages $55 to $110, but more often than not, customers opt for one of the pairing programs: The Prime Selection ($270) and the Yeatman Selection ($135) each offer six glasses to go with the multicourse prix fixe menu ($270). There is also a Non-Alcoholic Selection available ($96). Several factors are considered in establishing the pricing, according to Claire Aukett, public relations manager. “As a wine hotel, we try to maintain accessible prices for our customers, taking into account the cost price of the wine, the rarity or scarcity of the wine and respecting brand positioning, both the hotel’s and the wine producers’.”

Aukett describes the clientele as a spectrum: “We receive guests of many different nationalities, styles, ages and spending power. The common thread is their fascination for gastronomy and the experience that a gastronomic restaurant can provide.” The customer’s preference is always considered when recommending something to them. “This is another reason why we tend to sell a lot of pairings, as the selection is made for them [to match the dishes], and our customers can thus explore the styles and diversity of Portuguese wines from our extensive wine list and by the glass.” While the pairings are the biggest hit, some expensive bottles have also been poured, including Quinta do Noval Nacional 1963 ($9,416), Taylor’s Single Harvest 1896 ($6,634) and Blandy’s MCDXIX ($7,597), the latter a commemorative edition. Because no meal here would be complete without a finale of Port or Madeira.

The Yeatman

Rua do Choupelo,Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal Telephone: (351) 220-133-100 Website: the-yeatman-hotel.com

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You’ve been drinking port wine all wrong. Here’s how to enjoy it properly

F or many wine consumers, port wine, perhaps the most famous export from Portugal’s historic and diverse wine industry, is often treated as an after dinner drink to pair with dessert. 

But there are some unfortunate misconceptions around port—namely that it is cloyingly sweet and often takes the blame for sugary-induced hangovers.

However, port wine is a special category of its own and should be enjoyed and consumed a bit differently than still red and white wines. Port, specifically, is a naturally sweet, fortified wine that comes from the Douro Valley region in northeast Portugal. 

The two defining characteristics of port wine are the aging and the blending, says Lígia Marques, director of education at the Sogrape Wine Academy in Portugal. Sogrape is a family-owned conglomerate with a portfolio of wines that spans the globe, but with a particular focus on some of the top producers and brands in Portugal. 

For port wine makers, the critical work takes place in the cellars, and for many of the big brands, those barrels are housed in subterranean cellars right in Porto and its sister city Gaia just across the river.

“The wines come from the Douro and they are put in the cellar, depending on their potential and what they will become,” Marques explains. “Imagine a red port that has very deep ruby red colors, red fruit aromas, very bright, very beautiful, and you want to capture all that. You put them in the biggest possible vats. The bigger the volume, the slower the evolution. The volume protects the wine. Gradually as time goes by and evolution happens, we have smaller casks or we can fast forward a little to help the evolution of wines that are more elegant and we want them to have a little more oxidation.”

There are two easy but key factors to drinking port wine properly. The first is the temperature—you should always chill your port wines and serve them cold. Room temperature completely throws off, if not ruins, the balance and experience of sipping these delightful wines. A warmer port tastes more like syrup and often is the reason why many people assume it is much sweeter than it actually is. When served chilled, the coldness softens the sweetness while bringing out other natural flavors, perhaps nutty or smooth vanilla.

“We serve it chilled normally, and they will warm up slightly in the glass,” adds Marques. 

The second factor is the glassware. Too often, both at home and in restaurants, port wine is served in tiny glasses, not much larger than a typical shot glass but just with a two or three inch stem. But you don’t need to go out and buy any special glassware either. Truly, you could and should be serving port in traditional white and red wine glasses. Port wines deserve to be opened up before consumption just as much as still wines. (But just don’t forget about keeping them cool, too!)

With all that in mind, here are some rubies and tawnies you should consider sampling with your new expert techniques when you enjoy your next glass of port.

Sandeman Founders Reserve Ruby Port : Love wine but craving a cocktail version? Then you’ll love this refreshing Sandeman on the rocks. With its rich, red, and powerful fruit aromas, this will keep you cool all summer long. ( SRP: $20 )

Sandeman 20 Year Old Tawny : You really can't go wrong with any of the Sandeman tawny ports, but a great place to start for both beginners or enthusiasts would be with one of the younger options and work your way up. This rich wine is soft enough to be consumed any time of day, with or without food, even as an afternoon apertif. ( SRP: $65 )

Sandeman Porto Quinta do Seixo 2019 : With its deep ruby red hue, this complex blend has a smooth mouthfeel with powerful flavors of red berries, black fruits, and ginger. ( SRP: $95 )

Ferreira Dona Antonia Reserva Tawny Port : Named in honor of one of the most important figures in the history of the Portuguese wine industry (sometimes even referred to as the "Madame Clicquot of Portugal," in reference to the foundress of Veuve Clicquot), this wine is a great place to start to convince any skeptic on the beauty and elegance of port wines. ( SRP: $23 )

Porto Ferreira White : With fruit and floral notes ideal for summertime, this is a classic example of a refreshing style of port, which can be consumed either on its own (while chilled, of course) or as a port tonic cocktail . ( SRP: $22 )

Ferreira Dona Antonia 30 Years Tawny Port : Much like the namesake herself, this tawny port is incomparable. This is a vibrant yet balanced port with a velvety finish—the perfect end to any meal, either on its own or served with dessert or cheese. ( SRP: $125 )

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

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9 Great Things to Do in Buenos Aires in June 2024

9 great things to do in edinburgh in june 2024, 9 great things to do in mexico city in june 2024.

9 Great Things to Do in Porto in June 2024

Porto is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Porto, and June is a great time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are many festivals and events taking place. Here are nine great things to do in Porto in June 2024:

1. Visit the São João Festival

The São João Festival is one of the most popular festivals in Porto. It is celebrated on the night of June 23rd, and it features bonfires, fireworks, and traditional music and dancing. The festival is a great way to experience Portuguese culture and have some fun.

2. Take a boat tour of the Douro River

The Douro River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Portugal. A boat tour is a great way to see the river and the surrounding countryside. You can choose from a variety of tours, ranging from short sightseeing cruises to longer tours that include stops at wineries and other attractions.

3. Visit the Port Wine Cellars

Porto is famous for its port wine. There are many port wine cellars in the city, and you can take a tour to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the different wines. Some of the most popular port wine cellars include the Caves Sandeman, the Caves Ferreira, and the Caves Cálem.

4. Visit the Ribeira Square

The Ribeira Square is one of the most charming squares in Porto. It is located in the old town, and it is surrounded by colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants. The square is a great place to relax and people-watch, or to have a bite to eat.

5. Visit the Palácio da Bolsa

The Palácio da Bolsa is a beautiful palace that was built in the 19th century. It is now used as a stock exchange, but it is also open to the public for tours. The palace is known for its stunning architecture and its opulent interior.

6. Visit the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art

The Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the most important museums of contemporary art in Portugal. The museum has a collection of over 4,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum is located in a beautiful park, and it is a great place to spend an afternoon.

7. Visit the Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis

The Museu Nacional de Soares dos Reis is a museum of art that houses a collection of over 14,000 works of art. The museum has a wide variety of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum is located in the old town, and it is a great place to learn about Portuguese art.

8. Visit the Clérigos Tower

The Clérigos Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Porto. The tower is 76 meters tall, and it offers stunning views of the city. You can climb the tower to the top for a small fee, and it is worth the effort for the views.

9. Visit the Foz do Douro

The Foz do Douro is a neighborhood in Porto that is located at the mouth of the Douro River. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful beaches, its charming cafes, and its lively nightlife. The Foz do Douro is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Porto is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. There are many things to see and do in Porto, and June is a great time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are many festivals and events taking place. Whether you are interested in history, art, or culture, you are sure to find something to love in Porto.

Porto has a rich culture that is influenced by its history, geography, and people. The city is home to many museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Porto is also known for its music, dance, and cuisine. The people of Porto are friendly and welcoming, and they are always happy to share their culture with visitors.

Best Months to Visit

Porto is a great place to visit year-round, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder months (April-May and September-October). During these months, the weather is mild and sunny, and there are fewer tourists. However, June is also a great time to visit Porto. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are many festivals and events taking place.

Nearby Transportation

Porto is well-connected to other cities in Portugal and Europe. The city has an international airport, a train station, and a bus station. There are also many taxis and ride-sharing services available in Porto.

Porto is known for its delicious food. Some of the most popular dishes include francesinha, caldo verde, and bacalhau. Porto is also known for its port wine, which is a sweet, fortified wine.

Best Hotels

There are many great hotels in Porto. Some of the most popular hotels include the Pestana Palace Hotel & National Monument, the Hotel Infante Sagres, and the Hotel Porto Palácio. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants.

At WyandotteDaily, we love sharing information about travel destinations around the world, inspiring your next adventure.

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The 15 Best Hotels in Portugal to Visit This Summer

From porto to the azores, portuguese palaces and newly conceived country retreats are blooming thanks to 5-star obsessed americans., katie lockhart, katie lockhart's most recent stories.

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For decades, American travelers skipped the tile and tinned fish capital of Europe for the glitz and glam of the Med. In hindsight—following an explosion of international investment thanks to the country’s Golden Visa scheme—it seems mad. The Portuguese secret is well and truly out: Can you even imagine labeling Portugal “off the beaten track” today?  

And guess who’s fueling the fire on the Atlantic coast: “American tourists are the ones with the highest percentage of overnight stays in 5-star hotels,” says a Caixa Bank report.

From the Algarve to Porto, heaps more haute hotels are coming, too. In Porto alone, 20 new hotels are debuting over the next year. Meanwhile, three and four-star inns are rushing major redesigns and rebrands to upscale and impress the new America jet set.  

Here’s a look at 15 of the best new and recently refurbished hotels around the country.

Six Senses Douro, Douro Valley

Six Senses Douro springs from the rolling vineyards along the Douro River like a Disney castle. Since it opened in 2015, it’s been one of the country’s premier properties with 71 rooms, suites and villas inside a 19th-century manor house. This adult playground offers weekly activities ranging from tile painting to padel tennis to oenology courses. In classic Six Senses fashion, its three restaurants and bar are on the healthier side, with plenty of wellness-focused options showcasing vegetables from the hotel’s garden. 

Who’s it for: Fans of the brand’s wellness ethos are sure to flock here alongside cashed-up wine lovers.

Must-try amenity: What’s a Six Senses property without an awe-inspiring spa? With 23,700 square feet, ten treatment rooms, an Alchemy Bar, an indoor pool and a gym, you can spend your whole stay here. Choose from a huge variety of treatments, including wine-based ones, cryotherapy and herbal sauna sessions.

Wine situation: The hotel’s dedicated Wine Library, where wine tastings and classes are held, houses 700 bottles, many of which are from the Douro Valley. Six Senses also offers guests wine and dine river cruises and visits to local wineries. Plan your trip for September or October, when you can take off your shoes and actually stomp grapes.

Hotel history: First leased in 1464 by a valet to the then-king, it remained in the family until the 1990s. Over the centuries, his descendants turned the simple quinta into a lavish palace (the first in the Douro with electricity) modeled after the ones found in Sintra. After a fire and a decade of decay, it was purchased by a Portuguese hotel developer in 2003, who transformed it into a hotel and spa.

Rate: From $923

Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira

An elegant combination of British grandeur and Portuguese warmth permeates this historic property , which first opened its doors in 1891. For more than 130 years, this resort outside Madeira’s capital, Funchal, has welcomed everyone from Winston Churchill to George Bernard Shaw. Its Belmond branding carries a certain level of excellence throughout its Michelin-starred restaurant, spa and poolside service.

Who’s it for: Geared towards families and younger couples looking for a special occasion getaway on the sparkling shores of the Atlantic.

Must-try amenity: With its origins steeped in British tradition, the hotel’s famous afternoon tea is a must-book. Trading in the gloomy London weather for sunny skies, it takes place on the hotel’s balcony overlooking the ocean. But don’t worry, the menu is as authentic as Claridge’s, with a house-made tea blend, tiered treats and plenty of clotted cream.

Wine situation: Its Michelin-star restaurant, William, has 100 references in its cellar with bottles from around the world. However, most of its vintages are from Portugal, including a selection of Madeira fortified wines dating back to 1963.

Hotel history: Reid’s Palace is named after the former owner, William Reid, a farmer from Scotland. Due to bad health, doctors suggested he seek warmer weather. So, at 14, he found himself working at a bakery in Madeira. Over the years, he built a successful import-export business and, with the help of his wife, bought the land for his passion project, a first-of-its-kind luxury hotel on the island. He died before it opened, but his two sons took over, welcoming dignitaries from day one.

Rate: From $760

The Rebello Hotel & Spa, Porto

Steps from the banks of the Douro River, this industrial outpost—now Small Luxury Hotels of the World addition—is the city’s most exciting opening in years . Located in the historic Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood, guests here are tucked away from the action with unbeatable views over Porto. Its 103 apartment-style abodes and three restaurants, curated by Quiet Studios, nail the hard-to-master combination of modern eclectic design and laid-back comfort.

Who’s it for : Young Tripeiros, aka Porto locals looking for a serene staycation and travelers looking for a stylish abode with city views that wow.

Must-try amenity : It’s a toss-up between the rooftop restaurant and bar, Bello Rooftop, and the spa’s Tranquility Lounge. Bello quite possibly has the best vantage point in all of Porto and a top-notch pizza to boot. But when Porto’s typically rainy weather rolls in, its aethereal Roman-style pool area and sauna are heaven-sent.

Wine situation: Between its two restaurants and lobby bar, there are more than 100 bottles to choose from, with the vast majority from Portugal.

Hotel history: Two of the hotel’s four stone buildings date back over a century to when it was storage for bottles of port coming down the river from the Douro Valley and a kitchen utensil factory. 

Rate: From $309

Palácio Ludovice, Lisbon

This Bairro Alto hotel is steps from the city’s coolest street, R. Dom Pedro V, a wine-filled oasis from the bustle outside its marble steps. Opened in June 2022, its 61 rooms and suites mix classic touches like hand-painted Portuguese tiles and carved wood ceilings with modern brass fittings, rattan furniture and silk-embroidered bedsides. Its expansive restaurant and bar are where the “wine experience” truly comes into play, with glass after glass of Portuguese blends corked and waiting.

Who’s it for: Couples who want to be in the thick of the city’s excitement but escape to a luxuriously homey and historic property.

Must-try amenity: The cellar spa offers unique wine-themed Caudalie treatments, such as the Crushed Cabernet Scrub and the Vinoperfect facial. Bottoms up.

Wine situation: Considering wine is in the hotel’s name, it’s safe to say you’ll be trying a glass or two here. Vouchers for a glass of port are given on arrival, and complimentary tastings happen weekly. The hotel’s two sommeliers can pair your dinner at its restaurant, Frederico, or help you pick a wine-based cocktail.

Hotel history: One of Lisbon’s oldest buildings, it survived the 1755 earthquake thanks to its former owner, João Federico Ludovice. The private home of the architect to the king of Portugal, his ingenious design helped save the building, which still has the original marble stairs and tiles.

Rate: From $319

Ventozelo Hotel & Quinta, Douro Valley

Few Portuguese vistas are more stunning than the cascading vineyards and snaking river at this design-centric boutique hotel . In the heart of the Douro Valley, this working vineyard has 29 grape varietals spread over 500 acres, a famed olive oil grove and citrus trees that provide fresh-squeezed orange juice for breakfast service. Opened in 2019, it has 29 rustic rooms, suites and standalone houses (book the extravagant Casa Grande), including two inside former wine storage domes. Its restaurant, Cantina de Ventozelo, serves comforting country food. Its onsite wine museum and 11 miles of walking trails come with an audio guide that provides information on notable points around the property.

Who’s it for: Old or young, it doesn’t matter, as long as you love a good glass of wine.

Must-try amenity: Its wine and farm shop sells bottles of 50-year port, organic orchard fruit, garden lavender, house-made gin, and orchard-made olive oil. It quite literally doesn’t get any fresher.

Wine situation: Ventozelo’s wine and port are known throughout the country, so you know they deliver when it comes to wine tastings. From blind tastings to reserve port wine tastings, there are seven options to choose from. The estate itself has 30 wine references, and the hotel’s parent company is the world’s largest port exporter, so you’ll never have an empty glass here.

Hotel history: Ventozelo is almost as old as the country itself. First appearing in text in 1288, the noblemen of Casa do Poço bought the land around 1500. The farm and vineyard stayed in the family for centuries until the early 1900s. It then changed ownership many times before Granvinhos purchased it in 2014, on the same day the Douro wine region became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rate: From $212

Vermelho Hotel Melides, Alentejo

The click-clack of Louboutin heels can be heard on the Portuguese tile floors of this design-centric boutique hotel an hour and a half south of Lisbon. Vermelho marks the famed shoe designer’s first foray into hospitality with just 13 bespoke rooms, one Portuguese restaurant and one cozy bar. Opened in April 2023, its bold patterns and campy design are much less subtle than his signature red heel—but equally as fabulous.

Who’s it for: Guests as stylish as the hotel’s creator, Christian Louboutin. Eclectic design, antiques from Loubtoutin’s personal collection and whimsical art made by the designer’s friends are perfect for art enthusiasts looking for a discreetly luxurious getaway.

Must-try amenity: Xtian is this sleepy seaside town’s most exciting dining option. Helmed by local chef David Abreu, he takes traditional Portuguese dishes like wild boar stew and port wine pears and injects Michelin-worthy creativity.

Wine situation: The wine list at Xian is heavy on unique Portuguese vintages with more than 50 national references and a few blinged-out French bottles thrown in. The hotel can arrange trips to nearby wineries. Hotel history: Once an old fisherman’s house, Louboutin bought it to entertain high-flying friends and create his iconic red-soled shoes.

Rate: From $325

Pa.te.os, Melides

Primed for exhausted city dwellers, these four concrete geometric homes in the Alentejo region of Portugal are designed to help you breathe a little easier. Opened in 2022, its clay tones, an Arabic-inspired blend of indoor and outdoor living space, cotton furniture, floating fireplaces and unobstructed views of nature invoke a seriously serene feel. There is no restaurant or bar here, but breakfast and a fruit basket are delivered (and laid out) daily, with home dining available by request.

Who’s it for: For nature-loving couples looking to reconnect or a group of friends chasing a break from the city.

Must-try amenity: Aside from a gym and infinity, there aren’t many facilities here (but that’s part of the allure). However, the handmade Sawirinas Beach Bag will become your new go-to.

Wine situation: Growing Portuguese grapes is in the blueprints for this property, but for now, guests can select from a small menu curated by the owner’s tastes. There are only 18 bottles on offer, with a heavy focus on Portuguese whites.

Hotel history: A new build located on the Serra da Grândola hillside, the owners selected it after spending childhood summers here. They then recruited friend and architect Manuel Aires Mateus to complete their striking architectural vision.

Rate: From $543

Saboaria, Porto

In line with Portugal’s apartment-style accommodation trend, Saboaria , which opened in 2022, may just be its best example. Its 28 super spacious apartments come complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, luxurious living rooms and views of its unique city-center garden and outdoor heated pool. A design blend of the different regions and countries Portugal has colonized, handwoven baskets, palm frond art and terracotta pottery decorate its subtly sophisticated spaces.

Who’s it for: Travelers who want to feel like they’re visiting their rich friend’s country estate but still be in the middle of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Must-try amenity: Its massive backyard is downright palatial for a city hotel. This outdoor oasis has a heated pool, jacuzzi, lounge chairs and a small spa building dating back over 100 years.

Wine situation: There’s no signature restaurant at the moment (watch this space), but each apartment’s kitchen area is stocked with bottles of Portuguese vintages.

Hotel history: Once Porto’s largest soap factory, the building is around 150 years old, with its original granite walls decorating each sprawling apartments.

Rate: From $270

Octant Douro, Douro Valley

At the foothills of Portugal’s famed wine country, this spa-centric hotel makes for the ideal weekend getaway. Channeling the region’s terraced vines, Octant’s 61 rooms and suites are parsed between multiple levels, showing off floor-to-ceiling views of the flowing Douro River. While the modern building, with clean lines and all-white interiors, has been firmly rooted for years, its most recent renovation and rebrand was in May 2022.

Who’s it for: City dwellers looking to put down their phones and relax with a decadent spa treatment paired with a good bottle of wine and pinch-yourself river vistas.

Must-try amenity: Hop aboard the hotel’s retrofitted rabelo (a traditional Portuguese boat) for a leisurely ride down the enchanting Douro River. These peaceful private journeys can be customizable with wine tastings, a picnic and even a yoga class.

Wine situation: Its Douro locale means wine here is plentiful and hyper-local. Guests are greeted with a glass of port, and there are daily evening tastings. The hotel’s two sommeliers have more than 400 bottles on offer, with 95 percent coming from around the Douro River. And when in Portugal, try from roughly 150 bottles of port in their cellar.

Hotel history: What started as the passion project of a Portuguese football player was abandoned after the 2008 global crash. It has since undergone three ownership changes.

Rate: From $260

Torel Palace, Lisbon

On Colina Sant´ana, one of Lisbon’s famed seven hills, this trio of old mansions is an ode to the Portuguese crown. Spread between a pink palace, a blue palace, and its most recent palace (opened in 2023); there are 33 rooms and suites, five apartments and one villa—each named after the country’s royalty. Book one of its new apartments with sweeping views over the city, and after a day of climbing Lisbon’s stairs, make an appointment at its spa, which is set to open any day.

Who’s it for: Those looking to feel Portuguese royalty perched on a hill with one of Lisbon’s most dazzling views.

Must-try amenity: Two Monkeys is the hotel’s wildly inventive Michelin-star restaurant worthy of a reservation regardless of whether or not you’re staying there. Each of the twelve or so courses, from house-made wheat loaf with peanut-shaped butters to scarlet shrimp with coconut milk, is plated in front of you at the chef’s table.

Wine situation: The wine menus in both of the hotel’s restaurants have pages of Portuguese labels. The sommelier’s wine pairing with dinner at Two Monkeys is a crash course in the country’s best bottles.

Hotel history: Its three buildings are a series of elaborate private mansions that once housed a Portuguese family who made their riches from coffee and cacao in São Tomé.

Rate: From $195

L’AND Vineyards, Alentejo

Surrounded by olive groves, grape vines and citrus trees, L’AND Vineyards is an architectural marvel. Located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Évora, it has 37 suites (11 of which opened in 2023) and 11 villas (five of which are brand new) inside geometrically shaped whitewashed buildings. Its sharp lines, floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights bring in as much of the natural surroundings as possible, with green views from every vantage point, including its multi-course fine-dining restaurant MAPA.

Who’s it for: Architecture lovers who swoon over stunning minimalist design married with the natural beauty that only a swanky wine retreat can offer.

Must-try amenity: L’AND’s vinotherapy spa treatments are excellent, but for a truly memorable experience, giddy up and ride through the vines on horseback.

Wine situation: Guests can try dozens and dozens of Portuguese varietals—don’t miss the small-batch artisan wines made onsite. They can also join the hotel’s Wine Club, which includes bottles of their own personalized wine and various activities throughout the year. L’AND’s sommelier also leads wine tasting and tours around the vineyard.

Hotel history: The hotel’s land was bought from the Sousa Cunhal family, who have agricultural and wine-making roots in the area dating back to the 18th century.

Palácio Príncipe Real, Lisbon

If you’ve ever wanted to live in a stately historic mansion (who hasn’t?), check into this flamingo-pink palace in Lison’s trendiest neighborhood. The staff here make you feel instantly at home with cocktails under the jacaranda tree by the saltwater swimming pool. Dating back to 1877, each of the hotel’s 25 rooms has been passionately restored, maintaining original details like handmade azulejos, lofty hand-painted arabesque ceilings and a fireplace. Its in-house restaurant EVOO and bar focus on plant-based ingredients cooked with home-produced ecological olive oil.

Who’s it for: If the sultry velvet-clad furniture was any indication, this hotel is for couples. Its adult-only policy only adds to the relaxed, well-heeled vibe.

Must-try amenity: Like finding the perfect pastel de nata, finding a true garden oasis in Lisbon involves trial and error. But look no further; the hotel’s 15,000 square-foot terrace and garden are primed for enjoying fresh-squeezed orange juice in the morning and a swim in its Asian-inspired infinity pool in the afternoon.

Wine situation: Hidden under the grand staircase, the hotel’s wine cellar holds a collection of 500 bottles hand-picked by the owners. Its whites and rosés are from Portugal, while its reds come from Spain. And in the rooms, the complimentary fridge carries local port.

Hotel history: Built in1877 by the co-founder of the Portuguese newspaper Diário de Notícias, it became the family home of the high-society ​​Teixeira da Mota family, known for throwing lavish parties.

Rate: From $537

WHITE Exclusive Suites & Villas, Azores

The Azores is Europe’s answer to the Hawaiian islands, and this adults-only hideaway on the craggy cliffs of São Miguel is a “White Lotus” dream. Opened in 2017, its nine suites and two villas underwent a major facelift in 2022. Each honors the character of this former island mansion with its basalt stone arches, terracotta tiles and furniture carved from island cryptomeria. Its location 15 minutes from the capital city of Ponta Delgada means restaurant and bar options are endless, but the locally caught fish and fresh ingredients from the hotel’s farm served onsite at Cardume Restaurant are reason enough to stay put.

Who’s it for: This relaxed adults-only resort is a go-to for adventurous travelers excited to explore the rugged beauty of this far-flung Portuguese outpost.

Must-try amenity: Tap into the knowledge of the resort’s Experience Manager. São Miguel is an island overflowing with tradition, hidden geothermal pools and waterfalls only locals know how to reach. They can tailor-arrange any activity using their network of contacts, and the hotel’s speedboat is at the beck-and-call of guests looking for secret beaches.

Wine situation: The hotel’s wine list is an ode to the Azores, categorized by island. Focusing primarily on bottles from the nearby volcanic island of Pico, its white wines are guest favorites.

Hotel history: The hotel’s owners stumbled upon this grand old summer house during a hike on the island’s south shore. Believed to date back to the 18th century, the stone arches on the property, once used for crop storage, still stand.

Rate: From $271

Valverde Santar Hotel & Spa, Santar

While wine lovers flocked to the terraced Douro Valley, few have made their way south to the Dão wine region. Smack in the middle, this new Relais & Châteaux, opened in July 2023, was a decade in the making. A former royal residence, it now links 50 acres of expertly manicured gardens worthy of a “Bridgerton” cameo. Each of the hotel’s 21 rooms is bespoke, split into four categories, retaining its bourgeois splendor with unique wood ceilings and centuries-old furniture. But it’s anything but stuffy with sexy soaking tubs, aethereal mattresses custom-made in Portugal and stylish Portuguese embroidery found in each.

Who’s it for: Urbanites look for a secret garden escape away from the tourist bubble.

Must-try amenity: Its restaurant Memórias showcases a tradition-focused take on regional Beira dishes. Standouts include vegetables fresh from the property’s garden, oven-baked sourdough bread and lamb with smoked rice. But don’t stuff yourself before it’s time for Grandma Lurdes’ rice pudding.

Wine situation: With nearly ten acres of vineyards, it’s no shock they produce their own wine. Memórias de Santar Wines makes thousands of bottles of red and white varieties available at the hotel, along with vineyard tours and tastings.

Hotel history: Built in the 1600s as a wedding gift from a wealthy nobleman to his daughter, the property was passed down through the family until 1975. Then, a bachelor with no heirs donated it to the Portuguese Royal House, where a representative lived seasonally for over 40 years.

Rate: From $434

IMMERSO Hotel, Ericeira

At this new hotel in Portugal’s surf capital, it’s all about embracing the slow life. Spend the day lounging by its ocean-view pools, mastering downward dog on its outdoor pavilion or catching a few waves at the beach. Opened in July 2022, its 37 rooms and suites mimic the palette of the sand, with unfussy boho interiors, including timber furniture, concrete floors, braided touches and, best of all, balcony views.

Who’s it for: Nature lovers in need of a calming, natural retreat, happy to bike to the beach, sit on the sand and watch surfers catch wave after wave. Or ride one themselves.

Must-try amenity: The award-winning spa includes a steam bath, sauna, sensory bath and organic, natural skincare treatments, including vinotherapy.

Wine situation: Specializing in small Portuguese producers from the Oeste (the country’s lesser-known western region), the wine list at IMMERSO’s signature restaurant, Emme, has more than 120 local and natural wines.

Hotel history: It was built from scratch on an empty plot of land in Portugal’s World Surfing Reserve.

Rate: From $302

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