Now this starts with Harry Potter and the successful books, in which fans have seen the library "Lello" in Porto as inspiration for the author J.K. Rowling and her books, which later proved to be incorrect: J.K. Rowling has never been to this library.


So, I hereby invite you on a tour of the best ten places for your new Instagram photo in Porto. These are the most beautiful places in the city that have contributed to this award.


In first place is the library "Lello": The staircase of the centuries-old bookshop in the city center of Porto is one of the most photographed motifs in the "undefeated city of Invicta", as Porto is also called. But there are also great details inside, such as the large stained-glass window on the ceiling, which bears the monogram and motto of the bookstore: "Decus in Labore".


The second attraction is the "Ribeira". It is part of the historic center and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. The vivid colors of their homes in harmony with the banks of the Douro make every photo a true follower hotspot.


The third Instagram motif is the church of "Santo Ildefonso". It was built between 1709 and 1739. What makes you so unique are the decorated tiles of "Jorge Colaço" (1932), which tell the story of Saint Ildefonso. This church is the most photographed church in Porto.

Credits: envato elements; Author: by RossHelen;

This is followed in fourth place by the neighboring churches "Carmo” and “Carmelitas". Her churches were built in the 17th and 18th centuries. Both stand out for their architecture and carvings inside, making both considered the most remarkable Rococo buildings in Porto.


In fifth place we find the beautiful gardens of the "Palácio do Cristal" (Crystal Palace), not to be confused with the Crystal Palace of East Berlin. The romantic gardens of the "Palácio de Cristal” cover an area of eight hectares in the center of Porto and were designed in the 19th century by the German landscape architect “Émile David” in connection with the construction of the "Palácio de Cristal". The view of the Douro River is unique and is considered “the" selfie motif.


As the sixth most photographed motif of the visitors of the "Undefeated City “follow the "Largo da Pena Ventosa". This place is immensely popular with a couple in love as a photo motif for the followers of their Instagram accounts. The colors of the houses, typical of Porto, bring life and emotions to each photo. People love to dance spontaneously in the middle of the square!


The seventh motif is a lighthouse. The lighthouse "Felgueiras". This old lighthouse was built in neoclassical style, is ten meters high and has a hexagonal plan. It is one of the most photographed motifs on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in the city of Porto.


The effect of the waves hitting the lighthouse is exceedingly popular with visitors because it is so dramatic.


As an eighth motif for your Instagram account, or just as a photo collection for the family, you should visit the "Nova-Sintra-Park". This park belonged to the British family "Reid" and was acquired by the City Council of Porto in 1932. The botanical diversity, the huge grove, the landscapes facing the river and the architecture of the fountains and drinking fountains make the “Nova Sintra Park" a unique experience that you should not miss if you come to Porto.


At the end does not mean that it will be less spectacular. Because on the ninth square is another architectural feast for the eyes to visit when you are in Porto. Built in the mid-18th century, the "Palace of Freixo" is one of the most remarkable buildings of Portuguese Civil Baroque. Also, the interior of the plastic with its frescoes and the garden makes this place so interesting for your next selfie and a group photo.


Finally, we come to the end of the place I prefer to visit, because there are several nice cafes and small bars here: Here I can watch the sunset shimmering over the Douro River with a good glass of port wine or a cocktail. This is the "Jardim do Morro" on the other side of the Douro River. I can reach it easily and on foot if I cross the 395-meter-long Eiffel Bridge to Gaia on foot, or by metro. This place and a boat trip on the Douro should be planned, as well as a wine tasting in one of the wine cellars on the riverbank if you choose Porto as a destination.


by Paulo Lopes - Casaiberia Mediação Imobiliária, Lda

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes