Known for its pastel-coloured buildings, vivid blue azulejos and enviable river views, Porto is often ranked among the world’s most beautiful cities. It’s not surprising, then, that picture-perfect spots can be found around nearly every corner here. Read on to discover some of our favourites…and get your camera ready.

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Ribeira is one of Porto’s most historic, and most beautiful, neighbourhoods. This picturesque quarter – a UNESCO World Heritage Site no less – hosts an array of buzzy tabernas and tascas along its riverside promenade. The real treasure, however, lies away from the river. Venture into Ribeira’s warren of cobbled streets and you’ll find yourself wandering past quaint houses, secret squares and tiny local cafés.

You know something’s special when people are queuing down the street to see it. Enter Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most famous bookshops. Neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau design elements combine here to create a seriously jaw-dropping interior: picture an elaborate red staircase curving under stunning stained glass windows. Rumour has it that the sinuous staircases here inspired the moving staircases in the Harry Potter book series.

For the best views of Porto, hike up to the epic Dom Luís I bridge. This 45 metre (148 ft) high metal bridge towers over the River Douro and offers incredible views of Porto’s hilly cityscape. It was built in the late 19th century to connect Porto with the neighbouring city of Vila Nova de Gaia (where you’ll find the area’s best port cellars) and it now carries a light rail network, as well as pedestrians. Afraid of heights? Don’t worry, this double-deck bridge has a lower level crossing, too.

Train stations don’t get more beautiful than this one. Portugal’s São Bento station features around 20,000 azulejos (glazed blue ceramic tiles) covering its interior walls. These colourful murals date from 1905–1916 and illustrate significant moments in Portugal’s history. If you want to see more of the city’s beautiful azulejos, check out Capela das Almas – a church covered in floor-to-ceiling tiles – or Sé do Porto, the city’s grand cathedral.

Ask any local where Porto’s most picturesque picnic spot is and they’ll probably tell you the Jardim do Palácio de Cristal. This gorgeous green space features landscaped gardens, tranquil ponds, lush planting, and epic views to boot. In the summer, locals head up here to relax in the shade and spot the peacocks that wander around the grounds.

There’s beauty everywhere you look in Serralves. This vast art park is home to a contemporary art museum (the Museu de Serralves) and 18 ha (44 acres) of landscaped gardens dotted with sculptures. The photogenic Casa de Serralves, a pink Art Deco villa in the park, takes the cake in terms of postcard-worthy shots. This striking building was once the home of Carlos Alberto Cabral, second Count of Vizela; it’s now one of the city’s most beloved architectural gems.

Wild Atlantic beaches surround Porto, promising golden sandy stretches and some epic surfing waves. But there’s only one that hosts a tiny chapel sitting on the edge of the ocean. Hop on a short train to the seaside village of Miramar and you’ll find the Capela do Senhor da Pedra. This unique, six-sided chapel sits on a giant boulder, thrashed by the Atlantic’s strong waves. It’s a dramatic sight – accompanied by an interesting history of Pagan and Christian worship – and makes for a particularly great shot at sunset.

Marble staircases, ceilings covered in frescoes, gold-leaf walls: welcome to Porto’s most magnificent palace – well, former stock exchange actually. The Palácio da Bolsa was built in the style of a Neoclassical palace and features an imposing grey facade which gives way to a collection of beautiful rooms. The highlight? It’s got to be the Arab Room, an ornately decorated space inspired by Spain’s famous Alhambra.

A river cruise through the Douro Valley is the ultimate day trip from Porto. As you sail away from the city, Portugal’s idyllic countryside takes centre stage: rolling green hills frame the river, each dotted with vineyards and wineries. These iconic properties offer accommodation, wine tours and, most importantly, wine tasting. The sweeping views from up on the hillside aren’t too shabby either.

For fans of contemporary architecture, Casa da Musica is a must. This modern marvel was designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas and it’s now home to the Orquesta Nacional do Porto. The venue’s spaceship-like exterior (a mix of white concrete, glass and Nordic plywood) stands in striking contrast to the city’s historical buildings. The interior is equally exciting, with natural light streaming in through the glass. Book a ticket for a concert here and be sure to check out the roof terrace, which promises great views of the city.

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