Stroll along the Dom Luís I Bridge to the famous wine cellars of Nova de Gaia or board a boat to admire the dark iron structure from the water. Pause in the centre of the bridge for stunning views of the skyline of the old city. Watch boats glide beneath you.
One of six bridges in Porto, the Dom Luís I crosses the River Douro, connecting the city with the small municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia. The bridge was designed by German architect Teófilo Seyrig. When it was completed in 1876, it was the longest iron arch in the world. This is no longer the case, but the structure is still an impressive sight, measuring 1,296 feet (395 metres) from bank to bank.
Stand on the banks of the River Douro and admire the spectacular shape of the Dom Luís I Bridge from afar. Come here on a windless day and you will see a reflection of the bridge in the water, creating a perfect oval. Look for the influence of Seyrig’s teacher, the French architect Gustav Eiffel, in the bare ironwork of the design.
Step onto the bridge to enjoy fantastic views of the city. Look for the giant shapes of many of Porto’s grandest buildings, such as the Porto Cathedral and Torre do Clerigos. Relax on the grass on the water’s edge and watch as colourful fishing boats pass underneath the bridge’s iron curve.
Cross the bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia to discover why the area has a reputation for excellent wine, including port, which takes its name from the city of Porto. Explore the cellars and sample some of the region’s famous products.
To learn more about the other bridges in the city, take a river tour. These are run from boats that were once used to carry Porto’s wine cargoes. An informative guide will tell you the history of the bridges and other riverside buildings you pass.
The Dom Luís I Bridge is within walking distance of the city centre. Several bus and metro routes pass close by or onto the bridge itself.
