Amarante is a picturesque riverside town in northern Portugal, where medieval architecture meets modern living against the backdrop of the Serra do Marão mountains. With around 56,000 inhabitants across the municipality, this gem along the Tâmega River offers a genuine Portuguese lifestyle away from the tourist crowds. Located just 60 kilometers (37 miles) east of Porto, Amarante combines the charm of a historic town with easy access to Portugal’s second-largest city. The town is renowned for its granite architecture, sweet pastries, and the stunning São Gonçalo Bridge, which has watched over the town since the 18th century. While not traditionally an expat hotspot like the Algarve or Lisbon, Amarante is gaining attention from international residents seeking an authentic Portuguese experience with a lower cost of living.
Renting & Buying Property
The property market in Amarante offers excellent value compared to larger Portuguese cities, making it an attractive option for both buyers and renters seeking a more traditional Portuguese setting.
Buying
Property prices in Amarante range from €80,000 for houses needing renovation to €400,000 for luxury villas with mountain views. Traditional granite houses in the historic center, modern apartments near the river, and rustic quintas in the surrounding countryside make up the bulk of available properties. The area is particularly known for its stone houses with character, often featuring beautiful gardens and mountain views.
Renting
Monthly rental prices typically range from €450-€700 for a two-bedroom apartment in the center, while larger houses in the outskirts can cost €800-€1,200. The rental market is smaller than in major cities, so it’s advisable to start your search early. For more information about the rental process in Portugal, you can learn more at Portugalist’s guide to renting.
Cost Of Living
Living in Amarante is notably more affordable than in Porto or Lisbon. A couple can live comfortably on €2,000-€2,500 per month, including rent. Local produce is particularly inexpensive when bought from the town’s traditional market. Utilities are reasonable, with monthly bills averaging €100-150 for electricity, water, and gas. Dining out costs about €12-15 for a typical lunch menu, while a coffee and pastel de nata might set you back just €2.
Can I move to Amarante?
Portugal offers several visa options for those looking to make Amarante their home:
EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can move to Amarante without visa requirements, needing only to register their residence after three months.
The D7 visa is particularly suitable for Amarante, as the lower cost of living means passive income requirements are more easily met. Many retirees choose this option.
The Digital Nomad Visa works well in Amarante, as the town’s peaceful atmosphere and proximity to Porto make it an ideal base for remote workers seeking work-life balance.
The Golden Visa program accepts investment in Portuguese investment funds, offering a path to residency with minimal time requirements.
The D2 visa could be interesting for entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses in Amarante’s growing tourism sector or wine industry.
For personalized advice about moving to Portugal, contact Portugalist.
Attractions
São Gonçalo Bridge and Church
The iconic double-arched bridge and adjacent church form Amarante’s most recognizable landmark. The 18th-century granite bridge offers stunning views of the Tâmega River, while the church houses impressive baroque architecture and the tomb of São Gonçalo, the town’s patron saint.
Serra do Marão
These dramatic mountains provide endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and nature photography. The range reaches heights of 1,415 meters (4,642 feet) and offers spectacular views across northern Portugal. Local guides can arrange tours ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.
Historical Center
The medieval center features narrow granite streets, traditional Portuguese architecture, and numerous pastry shops famous for their doces conventuais (convent sweets). The area around Rua 31 de Janeiro showcases some of the best-preserved buildings and local restaurants.
Expat Life
The expat community in Amarante is small but growing, primarily consisting of French, British, and Dutch residents. While not as internationally oriented as coastal cities, the town offers a more authentic Portuguese experience. Local expats often gather at cafes along the river and organize hiking groups in the Serra do Marão. The Portuguese community is welcoming, though knowing some Portuguese is essential for daily life.
Retiring Here
Amarante presents an attractive retirement option for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with access to nature. The town is relatively flat along the river but becomes hillier in residential areas. Healthcare is available through the local health center, with major hospitals located in Porto. The cost of living allows for a comfortable retirement on a moderate pension. The mild climate and outdoor activities keep retirees active, while the proximity to Porto provides easy access to international travel.
Digital Nomad Life
While Amarante isn’t a traditional digital nomad hub, it offers a unique opportunity for remote workers seeking tranquility. The town has two coworking spaces, and many cafes welcome laptop workers. Internet speeds average 100-200 Mbps, suitable for most remote work needs. The lower living costs make it an attractive alternative to Porto, and the growing community of remote workers often organizes informal meetups.
Food
- Doces de Amarante – Traditional sweets made with eggs and sugar, including the famous lérias and papos de anjo. These convent sweets are a local specialty dating back centuries.
- Cabrito Assado – Roasted kid goat prepared with local herbs and served with roasted potatoes. This dish is particularly popular during Easter celebrations.
- Vinho Verde – The local green wine produced in the surrounding region. Light, slightly sparkling, and perfect for summer afternoons.
- Bacalhau do Marão – A local interpretation of Portugal’s famous codfish, prepared with regional ingredients and often served in restaurants around the Serra do Marão.
Portuguese national dishes are widely available in local restaurants. For those with dietary restrictions, Amarante has several restaurants offering vegetarian options, though vegan choices are limited. It’s advisable to learn relevant Portuguese phrases for dietary requirements, as not all restaurants have English menus.
Upsides & Downsides Of Living Here
Pros
- Lower cost of living compared to major Portuguese cities
- Authentic Portuguese lifestyle
- Beautiful natural surroundings
- Strong sense of community
- Proximity to Porto
- Rich cultural heritage
Cons
- Limited international community
- Fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Portuguese language skills essential
- Smaller job market
- Fewer international food options
- Can be quiet in winter months
Climate
Amarante experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and mild winters dropping to 5°C (41°F). Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with temperatures around 20°C (68°F). The town receives more rainfall than the Portuguese average, contributing to the lush surrounding landscape. Several praias fluviais (river beaches) along the Tâmega River provide relief during summer months.
Will I Need To Learn Portuguese?
In Amarante, learning Portuguese is essential for daily life. While some younger people and those in tourism speak English, many local businesses and services operate primarily in Portuguese. The town’s authentic character means fewer English-speaking services compared to coastal areas or major cities.
The local community appreciates efforts to learn their language, and it’s crucial for integration into Amarante’s social fabric. Regular language exchange meetings occur at local cafes, providing opportunities to practice. If you’re interested in learning Portuguese, check out Portugalist’s guide to learning Portuguese.
Schools
Amarante offers several public schools providing education from primary through secondary levels. The Escola Secundária de Amarante is well-regarded locally. While there are no international schools in town, several private schools in Porto offer international curricula, about an hour’s drive away.
For higher education, the Professional School of Music and Arts provides specialized training. University options are available in nearby Porto. Learn more about the Portuguese education system at Portugalist’s schools guide.
Getting Around
- Walking: The historic center is walkable, though some residential areas are hilly
- Train: No direct train service, but regular buses connect to Porto’s São Bento station
- Bus: Regular services to Porto and surrounding towns
- Car: Recommended for residents, especially for exploring the region
- Taxis: Local taxi services available; Uber operates but with limited availability
- Flying: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport in Porto (60 km) offers international flights
Day Trips
From Amarante, you can easily explore the Douro Valley wine region, visit historic Guimarães, or spend a day in Porto. The Serra do Marão offers numerous hiking trails and picnic spots. The historic town of Vila Real is just 40 minutes away, and the Spanish border can be reached in under two hours.
Similar locations
- Peso da Régua – Another riverside town in the Douro Valley, offering similar charm but with more tourism due to port wine production.
- Lamego – Historic town with comparable size and authenticity, featuring more religious architecture and slightly lower living costs.
- Vila Real – Larger university city nearby, offering more amenities but less historical charm than Amarante.
- Guimarães – Larger historic city with more international residents and amenities, but higher living costs and more tourists.