Dom Luís I Bridge

Porto, Portugal

The Dom Luís I Bridge is a double-deck metal arch bridge that spans the River Douro between the cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia in Portugal. At its construction, its 172 metres span was the longest of its type in the world.

Construction took place between 1881 and 1886 with the bridge being built adjacent to an existing bridge which it replaced. The granite pillars of the original bridge are still in place, standing on the Ribeira like a pair of gate posts.

One of the notable features of the Ponte Dom Luís I is it's two levels; one on top of the arch and the other suspended below it. Both decks were initially intended to carry road traffic but these days the top carries the Porto Metro trains as well as having a pedestrian walkway. It is worth making the crossing on the upper level.

Today Luis I Bridge is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Centre of Oporto, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar.

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ponte Luiz I, Porto, Portugal
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Founded: 1881-1886
Category: Miscellaneous historic sites in Portugal

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4.8/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Mao Chu (5 years ago)
The view of the bridge it self is stunning, but if you stand up on the top of the bridge, it gives a whole different feeling! We didn’t have chance to take the cable car to the top, but we took another way, where you can walk up from the train station to the bridge. The way is easy to walk, especially with the sun shining it’s actually quite comfortable to walk. To walk on the bridgeC it takes around 15-25 minutes plus photo shooting time (at least for me
Lucy Oliveira (5 years ago)
Appreciated the panoramic views walking across the top of the bridge which is only open to the Metro train and people walking along the sidewalk. One can descend down towards the shoreline via a side road and walk back along the lower level of the bridge. Best part of this is that it doesn't cost you any money unless you decide to stop for lunch along the way.
Nicky Jurd (5 years ago)
A magnificent landmark worthy of close inspection. We walked across the bridge both day and night and marvelled at the construction and design of the bridge. Crossing from above or below will give you a completely different perspective of the Douro River. On the southern side of the bridge is the best spot for photos but is often crowded with people taking selfies.
Bonita Liang (5 years ago)
Icon of Porto! The view is amazing day and night. Top bridge is quite a climb but it's a relaxing walk once you are there. The bottom bridge seems to be busier but it adds to the fun. Try both if you have a chance.
Douglas Kelly (5 years ago)
Walk over the small bridge to more historic shops and restaurants. There are great views. If you are there on a busy day you might feel like crossing the bridge is a sporting event. Between cars, narrow pedestrian walks and lots of activity, watch your step. Fun to walk and explore. Great pictures at sunset
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