The places compared
| Place | Mood | Crowd | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jardim do Morro (Gaia) | view of the Ribeira and the bridge, sunset | high on summer evenings | arrive early; see Jardim do Morro |
| Serra do Pilar (Gaia) | open viewpoint, a little more apart | medium | see Serra do Pilar monastery |
| Dom Luís I bridge, upper deck | dizzying, very photogenic | high, constant traffic | see Dom Luís I bridge |
| Crystal Palace gardens | calm, views of the river | low in the morning | see Crystal Palace gardens |
| Foz do Douro | seaside, sunset | medium | see Foz do Douro |
How to plan it
- Time: in summer, sunset is around 21:15; see sunset in Porto for times and places.
- On the water: the six bridges cruise or a private sailboat or yacht for a moment without an audience.
- Safety: the Felgueiras lighthouse is much cited for sunset, but a guide warns that waves there have swept people off: avoid it in rough seas.
- Photographer: ask your hotel; we have not checked rates.
Where to stay
Book a room with a view or a boutique hotel for the rest of the evening. See where to stay in Porto and hotels with a Douro view.
