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"Why are hurricanes named after women? ...when they leave they take your house and your car." (Luis Guzman, "Traffic") With one hand on the steering wheel and a cod fritter in the other, admire the romantic view of the Douro River while driving away in your ex's car across the Dom Luis 1 Bridge from Porto to Gaia. But how do you get there? Simple! Just roll downhill from Sao Bento Station along with the waves of other tourists headed to the Douro River. Next, you'll climb back uphill along the Cais de Ribeira waterfront promenade, taking in street performers, restaurants, shops, and river views along the way. Once you've reached the ornate, metal-arch bridge, take a moment to appreciate the architecture, as this bridge was designed by a student of Gustavo Eiffel. The top deck is reserved for the Porto Metro and pedestrians; the lower is meant for both vehicles and pedestrians. We only had time to walk across the lower level, but we felt like the view was still magical, especially with the bridge being lit up at night. Overall, Luis 1 Bridge is a fantastic way to get mesmerizing views and photos of both Porto and Gaia, or to Thelma and Louis yourself into notoriety. I give it 5 hitchhiking cowboys.
This is a must visit when in Porto. This is the bridge that gets you to Villa de Nova Gaia and back. The walk itself is beautiful (and a little scary). There's a tram that goes through it on the top, and the bottom is another walkthrough where cars and busses can pass by. The views here are impressive. You get an amazing view of both of the cities.
Ponte Dom Luís I, otherwise known in English as Dom Luís I Bridge is a stunning bridge in Porto, and is one of the iconic symbols of the city. The history dates back to when construction started back in 1881. The design of the bridge is particularly interesting, set over the River Douro it has multiple decks making it safe and suitable for cars, trams and pedestrians - it can be pretty to walk across, or if you're walking along Ribera Square with the bridge in sight. The design and structure of this bridge are truly remarkable, and it's a shame it doesn't receive the international fame and recognition it deserves. While Porto may not have the same global profile as cities like New York or London, this bridge can undoubtedly hold its own in terms of architectural brilliance. I spent a lot of time during my recent trip to Porto simply walking along the bridge or admiring it from afar and it is certainly worth doing the same for those who have any time in the wonderful city of Porto.
Beautiful place to take a picture and get a really nice view of the city. You can see the town the bridge in the water. Also a great place to see the sunset or the sunrise. If it's not too cloudy. On the top of the view, there's always some live music as well as other tourist and locals walking around. What highly recommend visiting this spot for the views and pictures.
Beautiful bridge connecting Porto central to Gaia (where the port wine tastings and tours are located). The top of this bridge has the metro crossing, but on foot, you can walk on both the top or the bottom. There are no restrictions as to where you can walk, can even walk on the train tracks! Views are spectacular of both sides especially when illuminated. And if you are on the Porto central side and are at the lower level of the bridge, it takes ~200 steps to get to the top level. Great exercise! We did that up and down!
Beautiful double tiered, steel bridge spanning the Douro river that provides access between Porto and Gaia for pedestrians, cars and trams. The elevated views from this bridge are some of the best to be had for the Douro river and city backdrop and are an absolute must see when in Porto. The pictures from this bridge will provide a lifetime of memories for you and all at a free cost! Also, as a tip, consider crossing this bridge at sunset, as there are beautiful views to be seen with the sun setting, and is a nitely attraction in this area.
This is another great piece of architecture in Porto and a definitive must-see and do. If you want to cross the river Douro, then this is a great way to do so. Be it on the lower level or on the top level. For the amazing city views of course you should head to the top. There are some cable-cars passing the bridge. But not very frequently, so there's a lot of space, even though full with visitors. There's always a gap to be found to take in the views or to take some pics. At its construction, its 172 metres span was the longest of its type in the world. The construction was to be administered by Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. It was inaugurated on October 31st, 1886. There are many reasons to come to this bridge. The city views, the river Douro views. Or for the bridge itself and its stunning architecture and history.
If you're willing to walk around Porto to find great views you REALLY should walk across this bridge to take in the views from the bridge and from across the river in Gaia. Wifey and I truly loved our time in Portugal and were astounded with the views, the food and the people... If you're in Porto and just like 'looking' then walk over to Gaia to see the best view of Porto...and while you're there have a snack and buy something from the local vendors...they might even haggle with you a bit if you buy multiple items. We only walked over the lower portion of the bridge, but from other photos I really recommend the upper portion as well.
In 1879, Gustave Eiffel presented a project to construct a new bridge over the Douro, with a high single deck in order to facilitate ship navigation.A competition was initiated in November 1880, in order to construct a double-deck metal bridge, which included Société de Willebroek, a design that cost 369,000 and provided better carrying capacity. On 21 November 1881, the public work was awarded to the Belgian Société de Willebroek, from Brussels, for 402 contos. It was to be administered by Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel and author of the project. Seyrig had worked on the D. Maria bridge with Eiffel, hence the resemblance of his new bridge to the D. Maria bridge. This is really an architectural feat of great Belgium engineering in Oporto!
The easiest way to get to the bridge is to walk up the street by the Sao Bento metro station. It's more of a gradual incline so the walk wasn't that bad. Be careful as the metro runs over the bridge every 10 minutes or so. Once you're on the bridge, the views are amazing of centro Porto. If you'd rather ride up, you can take the metro up.
As many other have mentioned, this bridge was initially designed by Gustave Eiffel. You may be familiar with another of his creations? ;-) Built in the late 1800's, this bridge was revamped to include two levels of car and train traffic with a narrow sidewalk to make the long walk across and take in the views galore. Just spectacular. The opposite side of the bridge from main Porto thoroughfare is a strip of great restaurants and shops. There is an elevator (for a cost) that can bring you to the top of the bridge. There is also a cable car (Teleferico de Gaia) that you can pay to bring you from one side to the other. We would take that next time for some additional amazing views and quicker trip.
Iconic bridge in the heart of Porto. Dom Luís I Bridge is a 19th century double-deck iron bridge spanning 172m across the Douro River between downtown Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. It was designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel who incorporated a metal arch reminiscent of the Eiffel Tower that blends modern design with versatility to this day. The upper level is used by metro streetcars while the lower level 45m below it for cars. Each offers a unique perspective to those of us who walk across it. From Gaia, many locals and tourists alike come for the sunset view next to this UNESCO world heritage landmark. At golden hour, the view of the bridge was picturesque with Porto's historic backdrop and drifting boats under the bridge. While huge crowds gathered at Jardim do Morro with a tree obstructed view, we found the best view to be on the other side above it at Miradouro da Serra do Pilar by the monastery. Don't try climbing Pedra dos Gatinhos, as it was fenced off along the path underneath the monastery. While bridge viewpoints at golden hour are busy, we felt the energy of local musicians playing relaxing tunes. This bridge can also be viewed from the Teleférico de Gaia cable car including during sunset. After dinner the bridge is brightly illuminated and we observed locals gathering merrily at Jardim do Morro. Conveniently there's a metro station nearby for the streetcar which crosses Dom Luís I Bridge back to Porto. Skip it or hit it? Walk it twice if you can for both upper & lower bridge crossings experiences. read more
The Dom Luis Bridge is one of the iconic sights in Porto, and one of the biggest bridges I have ever seen that pedestrians can walk on! Aside from its giant stature, it's also quite famous because the architect behind the Dom Luis Bridge was a student of Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the Eiffel Tower. When you keep that in mind, you can definitely see his influence in the structure of this bridge. It's almost like the bridge version of the Eiffel Tower! The Dom Luis Bridge goes over the Duoro River, which is gorgeous in its own right as well, but extra cool to see from this bridge. It spans the two sides of Porto - which are the town of Porto proper and then the district of Vila Nova de Gaia on the other side. Seeing the Duoro River splitting the two sides of Porto was really cool from the top of the bridge. I think lots of folks work or live on either side so there were lots of folks coming and going on the bridge whenever we would walk on it. I will say, if you have a fear of heights, this may not be the best bridge for you to traverse, because it is very high up and you can see through the metal grating straight down, which can be disconcerting if you have that fear already. Dom Luis is an amazing architectural wonder that also serves as a great commuter bridge for pedestrians - and throw in the beautiful sights from atop the bridge and you have the best of both worlds! read more
My favorite thing in Porto was the bridge walk! These views are magnificent. Designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, because of course it was. This bridge is the Iron Throne of Porto. Walk across the top level and you'll see, these views deserve a slow clap. The bottom level connects you to Vila Nova de Gaia for, you guessed it, more wine. read more
2 years ago
Located by the Porto Cathedral, it's a popular spot to see the Duoro River. It's free and can get crowded. read more
"Why are hurricanes named after women? ...when they leave they take your house and your car." (Luis Guzman, "Traffic") With one hand on the steering wheel and a cod fritter in the other, admire the romantic view of the Douro River while driving away in your ex's car across the Dom Luis 1 Bridge from Porto to Gaia. But how do you get there? Simple! Just roll downhill from Sao Bento Station along with the waves of other tourists headed to the Douro River. Next, you'll climb back uphill along the Cais de Ribeira waterfront promenade, taking in street performers, restaurants, shops, and river views along the way. Once you've reached the ornate, metal-arch bridge, take a moment to appreciate the architecture, as this bridge was designed by a student of Gustavo Eiffel. The top deck is reserved for the Porto Metro and pedestrians; the lower is meant for both vehicles and pedestrians. We only had time to walk across the lower level, but we felt like the view was still magical, especially with the bridge being lit up at night. Overall, Luis 1 Bridge is a fantastic way to get mesmerizing views and photos of both Porto and Gaia, or to Thelma and Louis yourself into notoriety. I give it 5 hitchhiking cowboys. read more
2 years ago
This is a must visit when in Porto. This is the bridge that gets you to Villa de Nova Gaia and back. The walk itself is beautiful (and a little scary). There's a tram that goes through it on the top, and the bottom is another walkthrough where cars and busses can pass by. The views here are impressive. You get an amazing view of both of the cities. read more
Beautiful bridge designed by a student of Eiffel. Just an iconic view on the river and defines the Porto skyline. Two levels for pedestrians, one at the too shared with the trains and one on the bottom shared with the cars. Best way to get over to Gaia for sone port wine tastings! read more
2 months ago
1 year ago
Ponte Dom Luís I, otherwise known in English as Dom Luís I Bridge is a stunning bridge in Porto, and is one of the iconic symbols of the city. The history dates back to when construction started back in 1881. The design of the bridge is particularly interesting, set over the River Douro it has multiple decks making it safe and suitable for cars, trams and pedestrians - it can be pretty to walk across, or if you're walking along Ribera Square with the bridge in sight. The design and structure of this bridge are truly remarkable, and it's a shame it doesn't receive the international fame and recognition it deserves. While Porto may not have the same global profile as cities like New York or London, this bridge can undoubtedly hold its own in terms of architectural brilliance. I spent a lot of time during my recent trip to Porto simply walking along the bridge or admiring it from afar and it is certainly worth doing the same for those who have any time in the wonderful city of Porto. read more
1 year ago
Beautiful place to take a picture and get a really nice view of the city. You can see the town the bridge in the water. Also a great place to see the sunset or the sunrise. If it's not too cloudy. On the top of the view, there's always some live music as well as other tourist and locals walking around. What highly recommend visiting this spot for the views and pictures. read more
Beautiful bridge connecting Porto central to Gaia (where the port wine tastings and tours are located). The top of this bridge has the metro crossing, but on foot, you can walk on both the top or the bottom. There are no restrictions as to where you can walk, can even walk on the train tracks! Views are spectacular of both sides especially when illuminated. And if you are on the Porto central side and are at the lower level of the bridge, it takes ~200 steps to get to the top level. Great exercise! We did that up and down! read more
Beautiful double tiered, steel bridge spanning the Douro river that provides access between Porto and Gaia for pedestrians, cars and trams. The elevated views from this bridge are some of the best to be had for the Douro river and city backdrop and are an absolute must see when in Porto. The pictures from this bridge will provide a lifetime of memories for you and all at a free cost! Also, as a tip, consider crossing this bridge at sunset, as there are beautiful views to be seen with the sun setting, and is a nitely attraction in this area. read more
3 years ago
This is another great piece of architecture in Porto and a definitive must-see and do. If you want to cross the river Douro, then this is a great way to do so. Be it on the lower level or on the top level. For the amazing city views of course you should head to the top. There are some cable-cars passing the bridge. But not very frequently, so there's a lot of space, even though full with visitors. There's always a gap to be found to take in the views or to take some pics. At its construction, its 172 metres span was the longest of its type in the world. The construction was to be administered by Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. It was inaugurated on October 31st, 1886. There are many reasons to come to this bridge. The city views, the river Douro views. Or for the bridge itself and its stunning architecture and history. read more
If you're willing to walk around Porto to find great views you REALLY should walk across this bridge to take in the views from the bridge and from across the river in Gaia. Wifey and I truly loved our time in Portugal and were astounded with the views, the food and the people... If you're in Porto and just like 'looking' then walk over to Gaia to see the best view of Porto...and while you're there have a snack and buy something from the local vendors...they might even haggle with you a bit if you buy multiple items. We only walked over the lower portion of the bridge, but from other photos I really recommend the upper portion as well. read more
3 years ago
In 1879, Gustave Eiffel presented a project to construct a new bridge over the Douro, with a high single deck in order to facilitate ship navigation.A competition was initiated in November 1880, in order to construct a double-deck metal bridge, which included Société de Willebroek, a design that cost 369,000 and provided better carrying capacity. On 21 November 1881, the public work was awarded to the Belgian Société de Willebroek, from Brussels, for 402 contos. It was to be administered by Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel and author of the project. Seyrig had worked on the D. Maria bridge with Eiffel, hence the resemblance of his new bridge to the D. Maria bridge. This is really an architectural feat of great Belgium engineering in Oporto! read more
The easiest way to get to the bridge is to walk up the street by the Sao Bento metro station. It's more of a gradual incline so the walk wasn't that bad. Be careful as the metro runs over the bridge every 10 minutes or so. Once you're on the bridge, the views are amazing of centro Porto. If you'd rather ride up, you can take the metro up. read more
3 years ago
As many other have mentioned, this bridge was initially designed by Gustave Eiffel. You may be familiar with another of his creations? ;-) Built in the late 1800's, this bridge was revamped to include two levels of car and train traffic with a narrow sidewalk to make the long walk across and take in the views galore. Just spectacular. The opposite side of the bridge from main Porto thoroughfare is a strip of great restaurants and shops. There is an elevator (for a cost) that can bring you to the top of the bridge. There is also a cable car (Teleferico de Gaia) that you can pay to bring you from one side to the other. We would take that next time for some additional amazing views and quicker trip. read more
Porto is so, so walkable and beautiful. Just break out your map and hit every notable place and UNESCO site that you can. Not to be insulting but I found Porto to be much more inviting than Lisboa. Perhaps because it's the smaller city and things are closer together. With all your walking you'll eventually find yourself at Ponte Dom Luis I bridge. FYI, there is an elevator which you can take for a fee, which we took to the top - so that we could enjoy the beautiful views of the Douro river. This river is so incredibly wide, it reminded me of shark week. Hard to believe that this bridge was built in 1876!! Be careful taking your pics as there's a light rail train which comes by from time to time. It's really easy to enjoy the views, wine, food and picturesque places on both sides of the bridge. read more
This is a Porto landmark and icon for Porto. If you been to Porto, you need a photo with the bridge to show you are here. As a bridge engineer, I appreciate this was the longest span of its kind. Imagine the technology on mid 18th century, people able to build this bridge for the connection of the people. Bridge also connect two side and a sign of peace to people because they want to be friend with each other. The project was initiated by Gustave Eiffel. A famous engineer spent some time here to build the D Maria Pia Bridge which name after the queen of Portugal. Dom Luís I bridge was build 9 years later to name after king Portugal. It span 564 bridge and build by Eiffel partner Théophile Seyrig. Construction take 5 years and completed at 1886. The design has two level top and bottom deck to connect the Porto and Vila Nova De Gaia. This bridge is important for the port wine business to connect both bank. Currently has light rail use on top deck. Many people walk across the bridge at bottom deck to Vila Nova de Gaia from Porto to enjoy a glass of port wine from the port wine producer. read more
I love this bridge. Not only is it beautiful, and the views are gorgeous, but it's an important bridge because it takes you from Porto into Vila Nova de Gaia, where the Port cellars are. So quite necessary. I walked over it several times, but only the bottom part. The bottom can get so crowded that you sometimes have to walk in the street, which is annoying. I wish I had walked over the top, but next time. If staying in Porto, you, too, will have the opportunity to walk over this bridge several times. read more
View of Ponte from the Guindalense Futebol Clube. Walk the upper to go watch the sunset from Gaia, and walk the lower during the day to get to the port houses on the river walk across from Porto. Beautiful views, but a strenuous walk up from the Porto side, so wear your good walking shoes!! read more
I can't resist a bridge review but some bridges are more awesome than others and this one is that awesome. At its construction in 1881, the 172 meter (564 feet) span was the longest of its type in the world. The concept was originally initiated by Gustave Eiffel (yeah, THAT guy) in 1879 as a single deck bridge but it was redesigned as a two-deck bridge with motor traffic on both decks. In 2003, the upper deck was closed to motor traffic and was used for the Linha D metro line and pedestrians. Yep, you can easily walk across on the upper deck as I did. Trains pass every five minutes or so but they ring a warning bell so that you won't get smacked. They're not easy to miss. The lower deck is a single lane in each direction. On the Porto side, the T intersection features a traffic light but it doesn't help with traffic. It's quite busy. There is a narrow pavement on both sides for pedestrians and bicycles. And if there is no traffic, it's easy enough to step down off the high curb and walk in the roadway but look out for vehicles. The bridge itself is absolutely stunning engineering and beautiful to look at. If you're spending any time at all in Porto, make the effort to walk across the bridge and if you can time it with sunset then do it. [Review 9905 overall, 1483 of 2018.] read more
3 years ago
Must walk both levels to gain full experience and views. Accessible, clean, well paved. Explore it is a must to say "I've done that" read more
8 years ago
Sunsets are beautiful. Pack it with a breezy stroll through the bridge and while being on it, seeing the sunset, I ask myself have I lived? Each sunset should be a reminder and a time to reflect. I should get out more. Rejuvenate and stay motivated! There must be an end goal somewhere... read more
4 years ago
Designed by an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, a two tier bridge with the lower tier for the railroad. Spans the Duoro River from Porto to Gaia. read more
Beautiful bridge in Porto over Doure river. I walked the top to cross the other side, by bus the bottom part. Porto is nice size cute city. Everything's not far each other. A very doable city, can say. You go down, meet the Doure river, go up you meet Sao Bento Station and huge plaza where everyone's taking pictures and uses the bathroom McDonald's. This particular McDonald's is the fanciest and nicest and busiest place in old town Porto. Don Luis bridge is most recognized one over Doure, I think, but there are a few similar bridges over Doure river. Gustav Eiffel...similarities can't miss. read more
9 years ago
You can overlook this bridge walking at the side of the Douro river.... it is very nice and should not be missed.... we did drive through and it was lovely... would recommend doing this as we saw a different Port city when driving through. Enjoy read more
love the view of porto from the bridge and even taking pictures of the bridge. I think my favorite spot is probably by the cable car side. You can take a walk across the bridge from the top. Find a good spot to see the city and just enjoy your time here! read more
5 years ago
9 years ago
Walking across the top level of the bridge is a fabulous experience. Be prepared for High winds and hold onto things. Views of the city on both sides are great and very picturesque. The only slight complaint is coming from the Porto side looking straight down there is a very trashy area. read more
8 years ago
Before I arrived, I had seen many photos on internet of the impressive structures spanning the Douro. To traverse the heights and to look straight down at whitecaps cresting: to watch as slowly the setting sun paints in pink, purple and finally black... To converse in the giant's shadow with only your friend as warmth against the night river's chill: these experiences with Porto's bridges made me feel alive. read more
8 years ago
10 years ago
This was one of the things that I made a point of seeing while I was in Porto. It is truly an impressive structure, and you can see similarities to the Eiffel Tower. Unfortunately, at the time that I visited it was extremely stormy and windy, with heavy rains and flooding, so I did not walk over the entire bridge, as I had planned to. I walked a little way on it, took in the misty views, and then came back at night when the downpour had slowed to just a drizzle. The bridge is even more beautiful at night, with the lights reflecting in the water. I'll have to walk across the next time I'm in Porto! read more
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