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Writer's pictureJoshua S

Where to find the best views in Porto

Updated: Oct 24, 2022

If ever there's a city in Europe where you'll need that special camera you own, Porto is it. Whether it's street photography, views over the city, views of the city, or of individual buildings, Porto has you covered.


So dust off your camera, and check out these must-visit photography spots for the best views in Porto.


Dom Luís I Bridge

The most famous of Porto's views, the Dom Luís I Bridge connects the city with the neighbouring Vila Nova de Gaia over the Douro River and dominates the skyline. The sunrise and sunset from the bridge is magical. During the city's golden hour, the charming and characterful city slows down just before the evening rush, preparing for a night of activity, food and drink.


Two Passports Top Tip

Walk three-quarters on the bridge towards Vila Nova de Gaia. You'll get the best angle over Riberia as the sunsets perfectly over the river. Oh, but be careful of the frequent metro trains.



Escadas do Codeçal

If you're down by the river in Ribeira and you want to walk up to the Dom Luís I Bridge, avoid the funicular and climb the Escadas do Codeçal instead. You'll be rewarded with incredible views of the bridge above you with similar vibes of New York's famous DUMBO view! You'll also be rewarded with vibrant blue and white azulejo tiles and pretty houses.


Escadas do Codeçal in Porto, Portugal
Escadas do Codeçal

Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

The Crystal Palace gardens stretch back to the 19th-century and are awash with beautiful 19th-century landscaped parks and scenic vantage points perched off of the cliffs. Look down and you'll see the bright red tram rolling by the river; look up and you'll be dazzled with views in and out of the city centre. If you're a nature photographer, this is the perfect place for you.



Jardim do Morro

Join the city at the Jardim do Morro in Vila Nova de Gaia. The hilltop park is awash with palm trees and a cable car too. Join for the vibes - there are often street performers too.


Dom Luís I Bridge in Portugal, Portugal
Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto

Sé do Porto

The 12th-century Romanesque cathedral might not be the most beautiful and outstanding in Europe, but its views are wonderful.


From the Rua de Dom Hugo by the Paço Episcopal do Porto, you'll get exceptional views over the river. And the nearby scenic point Miradouro da Igreja de São Lourenço provides the most incredible views of terracotta rooves, sloping from the from the highest point of the city down to the river.


Street photography in Porto, Portugal
Largo do Colégio in Porto

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