Introduction to Porto and WOW

Portugal’s northern city of Porto is renowned for the scenic Douro River that navigates through the city, its closeness to the picturesque Douro Valley, and the esteemed production of port wine. Just minutes away from the heart of the city lies a multifaceted experience that beautifully combines Porto’s rich history with its exquisite wines. WOW, The New Cultural District, previously named as the World of Wine, is situated in the historic Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood. Launched in the summer of 2020, this expansive 500,000-square-foot venue boasts seven interactive museum experiences and 12 dining options housed in revitalized port wine cellars. Additionally, you’ll discover various retail spaces and an educational institution providing workshops on wine and gastronomy.

Beyond the focus on wine, visitors can indulge in chocolate tastings, explore exhibitions showcasing Portuguese fashion through the ages, or simply enjoy people-watching in a central square that provides breathtaking views of the ancient city, the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and the shimmering Douro River below. The launch of WOW positioned it as one of Europe’s most significant tourism expansions, and consequently, with international travel on the rise, there has never been a more opportune moment to visit.

The Best Things to Do at WOW

Party in the Pink Palace

Experience a hands-on engagement with the popular summer wine: rosé. At the Pink Palace, visitors can explore 11 vibrant rooms that educate on the cultivation of rosé grapes worldwide, accompanied by numerous Instagram-worthy props. Moreover, guests will sample five distinct rosés throughout their journey: Quinta do Vale do Bragão Rosé, AIX Gran Vin de Provence Rosé, Mateus Rosé, Vértice Rosé Bruto, and Croft Pink Rosé Port.

Get Ready for Class

With 250 indigenous grape varieties in Portugal, WOW’s Wine School offers insights into many of these, from alvarinho to touriga nacional. The facility includes three training rooms—two equipped with tasting rooms and one with a kitchen—focusing on wine selection and food-and-wine pairing, among other customizable courses.

Come for the Wine, Stay for the Fashion

Housed within a historic 18th-century building, the Porto Fashion & Fabric Museum comprises two collections that highlight various aspects of the fashion and textile industry in Portugal. The first level elucidates the vital role of the textile industry in Portugal’s economy, detailing the production process from material creation to the final woven product. On the upper level, guests will gain an appreciation for Portuguese fashion, showcasing styles from over 46 national designers.

The Best Small Towns in Europe

Taste a Range of Varietals

Portugal, though small, showcases a diverse array of landscapes that yield exceptional wines. Through The Wine Experience, visitors will uncover the art of wine appreciation, learning about the soil, climate, and grape varieties that contribute to the region’s remarkable sparkling, red, and white wines. This immersive experience employs tastings to engage all senses, fostering a deeper connection with the wine.

Get to Know Chocolate in a Different Way

WOW’s Chocolate Story invites guests on a thorough 12-step journey, starting from cocoa plantations to the chocolate-making process. Not only will you delve into the origins of chocolate, but you’ll also learn to distinguish the different flavor notes while indulging in some tasting experiences.

Save Room for a Meal (or Two)

After a day of exploration, you’ll be ready to savor a meal, and the 12 restaurants, bars, and cafés at your disposal will surely satisfy your cravings. For an upscale dining experience, visit 1828, known for its diverse cuts of steak, seafood, and seasonal dishes. Alternatively, for brunch, V.P. offers classic dishes like eggs Benedict and pancakes with fruit compote. Golden Catch specializes in local seafood, including a daily catch served with mussels, prawns, and coriander. For those seeking vegetarian options, Root & Vine presents dishes such as shiitake mushroom soup drizzled with white truffle oil and tofu accompanied by caramelized pineapple and quinoa.

Where to Stay During a Visit to WOW

After a full day’s adventures, The Yeatman Hotel offers a perfect sanctuary just steps away from WOW. This 109-room luxury boutique hotel boasts some of the city’s most breathtaking views from its terraces, providing a tranquil retreat from the vibrant streets beyond. With three-and-a-half acres of lush gardens and an extensive collection of art and antiques, the hotel showcases the rich history of the region. Each room is named after one of the 109 Portuguese wine producers and is equipped with a private balcony or terrace. Exceptional dining experiences await at The Yeatman Gastronomic Restaurant, which has earned two Michelin stars under chef Ricardo Costa’s guidance. Furthermore, wine enthusiasts will find ample opportunities, including popular Thursday summer wine dinners, tastings from the hotel’s collection of 25,000 Portuguese wines, and the captivating WOW district right at their doorstep.

How to Visit WOW

Access to WOW’s outdoor spaces is complimentary, allowing enjoyment of its restaurants, cafés, and shops. For details regarding entry fees to exhibitions and the wine school, please refer to the main ticketing website here.