7 Viewpoints in Porto and surroundings

If you are someone who likes to take pictures of sunsets, incredible views and photographs in dreamlike settings, then this post is dedicated to you. We have prepared for you the 7 best viewpoints that you can find in the city of Porto, and of course its neighbouring city, Vila Nova de Gaia. Get the perfect photo by visiting the following places:

1) Miradouro da Vitória:

Located in the Vitoria neighbourhood, this is one of the viewpoints we visit during our Fundamental Free Tour. It offers panoramic views of the city of Vila Nova de Gaia with its wine cellars. Also magnificent views of Porto cathedral, the Douro river and the Dom Luis I bridge. Perfect for an introduction of the city while doing a tour around Porto. 

2) Miradouro da Rua das Aldas:

Known by the locals as the Miradouro of the Church of the Crickets. Because of its location next to this church, now a museum, which bears the same name. Situated at the foot of the Sé do Porto (the Cathedral), this viewpoint offers a privileged view of the Douro River and the old town of Porto. From here you can see the façades of the Church of San Francisco and the Stock Exchange Palace. It offers beautiful sunsets too. 

3) Jardim do Morro Viewpoint:

Located on the top of the Serra do Pilar hill in Vila Nova de Gaia, just across the Luis I Bridge. This viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of the Douro River, and a great panoramic view of the city of Porto. You will be able to distinguish emblematic buildings such as the Clérigos Tower, the cathedral, the city walls, etc. It is the best place to watch the sunset in early summer. You will be visiting this amazing view point during our Vila Nova de Gaia Tour. 

Fontainhas Viewpoint.

4) Mirador das Fontainhas:

This viewpoint is a great place to have a beer in a local atmosphere, enjoy a quiet walk or just relax admiring the lovely views. In addition, there are several cafés nearby where you can sample the local gastronomy while enjoying the panoramic views that the Douro River has to offer. From there you have a privileged view of the Serra do Pilar Monastery. Much less touristy than the Jardim do Morro viewpoint. On Fridays and Saturdays you will see people with speakers dancing to all types of music. 

5) Mirador de las Virtudes:

This is one of the most local viewpoints in the city. It is a bustling space with a small garden and some stone benches to sit. Next to it there are a few little bars that will sell you all kinds of food and drink if you want to take it back to the garden. Young people frequent this viewpoint to play bongos and have picnics at sunset. It overlooks the Miragaia neighbourhood, where you can see the building that was used as a customs house, the Arrábida bridge and of course the Douro river. It is one of our favourite places to watch the sunset with locals. You will be visiting this tour during our Old Town & Ribeira Tour. 

6) Miradouro da Serra do Pilar:

Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Porto and the Douro River from the other side. It is especially impressive at dusk when the city lights are switched on. You have to go up to where the Monastery and Church of Our Lady of Pilar is located. You will see a panoramic view from the heights and the only viewpoint where you can see the views from the top of the Luis I Bridge.

Jardim do Morro Viewpoint.

7) Miradouro from the Crystal Palace Gardens:

The Crystal Palace Gardens is one of the most romantic places to walk around in Porto. It is a spectacular place to have a picnic and see the views from Porto towards the Douro River. Those gardens are full of all kinds of birds. It has a small tower where the photos will look like a fairy tale. beware of the closing time, as it changes from summer to winter. 

We hope you enjoy these amazing spots. Don't forget to share your photos and tag us in Instagram!