Leonor & Francisco’s Vila Nova de Gaia apartment was extremely convenient for us as we traveled from Lisbon to Porto by train. It’s literally across the street. Despite this, it’s very very quiet.
Francisco met us as we arrived and gave us information and tips regarding the apartment and what to do while in Vila Nova de Gaia. We were in for a very pleasant surprise as their top floor apartment is actually quite large and has a nice big bright enclosed lanai from which to have your meals and relax. The shower has very good hot water.
Everything you need is within a 5 minute walk. Groceries, restaurants, cafes, butcher, fish market, etc……The famous Porto riverfront and wine houses are about a 20 minute walk (down hill). We found that we loved this side of the Douro River (Vila Nova de Gaia) far more than the Porto City side. It’s far less congested, especially if you go before noon.
Communication with our hosts was very good. They made us feel very welcomed. We left Portugal feeling like we definitely have to return!