A new way to cross the Douro is on its way — and with it, a new way to explore Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Stroll through Porto’s historic streets, admire the tiled façades and make your way down to the riverside Ribeira. Then cross the river to Gaia, where the historic Port wine cellars invite you to discover how the region’s famous fortified wine is aged — and, of course, to enjoy a tasting.
The future Ruby (H) line of Metro do Porto will connect Casa da Música in Porto with Santo Ovídio in Gaia, bringing the two cities closer together. Stretching for more than six kilometres, it will have eight stations: Casa da Música, Campo Alegre, Arrábida, Candal, Rotunda, Devesas, Soares dos Reis and Santo Ovídio.
Arrábida, Candal and Rotunda — which will include parking for 500 vehicles — will be above ground. The other five stations will be underground, built using the cut-and-cover method. At Devesas, passengers will be able to connect with the railway line that connect Porto to Lisbon; Santo Ovídio is planned to connect with future high-speed rail services.
One of the project’s highlights will be a new bridge across the Douro, between the Massarelos and Campo Alegre area and Arrábida. Rising 70 metres above the river and stretching 835 metres, it will be named Ponte da D. Antónia Ferreira, a Ferreirinha, or simply Ponte Ferreirinha. The name honours Dona Antónia Ferreira, a remarkable 19th-century Portuguese businesswoman whose work was closely tied to the Port wine trade.
The project also includes two tunnels. Construction began in early 2024, following the award of the contract to a consortium formed by Alberto Couto Alves (ACA), FCC Construcción and Contratas y Ventas. The line is scheduled for completion in August 2028.
With an investment of €622 million, funded by Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, Environmental Fund and State Budget, the Ruby Line will make it easier to experience both sides of the Douro. Come for the new bridge; stay for Porto’s riverside charm, Gaia’s Port wine cellars and the stories that make this city break unforgettable.
Maximum 50 people (2 groups)
Minimum 20 people
Departure from Lisbon: 8:00 a.m
(if possible, bring Personal Protective Equipment)
