Those who visit Oporto (or Porto, in Portuguese) cannot remain indifferent to the city’s architecture. The mixture between the old and the contemporary is part of the city’s charm, making it a place full of beautiful details that deserve to be photographed.
To help everyone who is planning a trip, we made a list of our Top 10 Instagrammable places in Oporto, plus 5 extra bonus spots you simply cannot miss!
Read also: Where to eat the best pastéis de nata in Oporto
Carmo & Carmelitas Churches (Igreja do Carmo)
In Lions Square (Praça de Gomes Teixeira), you can see two churches side by side: Carmelitas and Carmo. Although both facades are impressive, it is the lateral wall of Carmo’s Church, fully covered in traditional blue-and-white azulejos, that steals the show. It is one of the most photographed walls in the entire city!
Joana Vasconcelos Tile Mural
Inaugurated in 2017, this colorful mural designed by the renowned Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos is composed of over 8,000 hand-painted tiles. It is a modern masterpiece that provides a vibrant, eye-catching backdrop for your photos.
Porto’s Cathedral (Sé do Porto)
At Largo da Sé, you get several stunning perspectives in one single stop. From the main courtyard and staircases, you can photograph the downtown area, the orange rooftops, the Douro River, Cais de Gaia, and even Clérigos Tower in the distance.
Palácio de Cristal Gardens
The gardens of the Crystal Palace are a small treasure in the middle of the city. This quiet park offers a peaceful escape away from the hustle and bustle, along with romantic viewpoints overlooking the Douro River and Arrábida Bridge.
Rua da Alfândega
Located near the riverfront, this street features historic houses that retain their traditional, unrestored charm. It is also one of the best spots to capture the city’s historic vintage trams (elétricos) as they pass by.
Ribeira
The iconic mix of the Douro River, colorful stacked houses, rabelo boats, and bustling street life makes Ribeira an absolute must-have for your Instagram feed.
Monastery of the Serra do Pilar
Located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, the hilltop in front of Serra do Pilar Monastery offers arguably the most breathtaking sunset view over the Dom Luís I Bridge and the city of Porto.
Wherever You Find a Vintage Tram (Elétrico)
Porto’s classic yellow and wooden trams are incredibly photogenic. Keep your camera ready as you walk through downtown streets like Rua do Infante or Clérigos to catch one passing by!
S. Bento Railway Station (Estação de São Bento)
Whether viewed from the outside or inside the main hall, São Bento Station is breathtaking. Inside, more than 20,000 historic tiles depict crucial moments in Portugal’s history.
5 Extra Instagrammable Locations
Livraria Lello
World-famous for its sweeping crimson staircase, stained-glass ceiling, and Neo-Gothic wooden interiors.
- Note: Requires a paid entrance ticket booked online in advance. Visit during the first or last slot of the day to avoid heavy crowds.
Capela das Almas (Chapel of Souls)
Located on the busy shopping street Rua de Santa Catarina, this chapel features nearly 16,000 blue tiles completely wrapping its exterior walls.
Igreja de Santo Ildefonso
Positioned prominently at the top of Batalha Square, this 18th-century church features a grand staircase framing its dual bell towers and tiled façade.
Half Rabbit by Bordalo II (Vila Nova de Gaia)
A striking 3D street art sculpture built entirely from recycled trash and urban waste by famous Portuguese artist Bordalo II, located around a quiet corner in Gaia.
Passeio Alegre & Felgueiras Lighthouse (Foz do Douro)
Where the Douro River meets the Atlantic Ocean. On windy days, dramatic ocean waves crash against the 19th-century granite lighthouse.
These are some of many Instagrammable places in Oporto. Did you know all of them?
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