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Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, offers a captivating blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy. With a population of around 230,000 in the city proper and 1.7 million in the metropolitan area, Porto provides a more intimate urban experience compared to the capital, Lisbon.
Nestled along the Douro River and just 15 minutes from the Atlantic coast, this enchanting city boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and a burgeoning expat community.
Known for its iconic port wine cellars, UNESCO-listed historic centre, and the famous Dom Luís I Bridge, Porto captivates residents with its unique atmosphere. The city’s compact size makes it highly walkable, while its excellent public transport system ensures easy exploration of both the urban core and surrounding areas.
Porto serves as a gateway to Northern Portugal and even Northern Spain, allowing residents to easily venture to nearby cities like Braga and Guimarães or explore the lush landscapes of Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês.
For those seeking an authentic Portuguese lifestyle combined with international flair, Porto strikes an ideal balance. Home to several universities, including the renowned University of Porto, the city exudes a youthful energy and cosmopolitan vibe.
While traditionally overshadowed by Lisbon and the Algarve as expat destinations, Porto is increasingly attracting international residents drawn to its lower cost of living, rich cultural offerings, and genuine Portuguese charm.
Renting & Buying Property
Porto’s property market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by increased tourism and foreign investment. However, it still offers more affordable options compared to Lisbon, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees looking to settle in Portugal.
Buying
Property prices in Porto vary widely depending on location and condition. In the city centre, expect to pay around €3,000-€5,000 per square metre for a renovated apartment. Prices drop significantly in the suburbs and surrounding areas, where you can find properties for €1,500-€3,000 per square metre. Porto offers a diverse range of properties, from historic townhouses in need of renovation to modern luxury apartments with river views. Many expats are drawn to the charming buildings in the Ribeira district or the up-and-coming areas like Cedofeita and Bonfim.
Search properties for sale in Porto
Renting
Rental prices in Porto have increased in recent years but remain more affordable than in Lisbon. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs between €600-€900 per month, while similar properties in the outskirts can be found for €400-€600. Many expats choose to live in nearby areas like Vila Nova de Gaia or Matosinhos, which offer lower rents and easy access to the city centre via public transport.
For more detailed information on renting in Portugal, including tips on finding a property and understanding rental contracts, visit this helpful guide.
Porto Neighbourhoods
- Ribeira: The historic heart of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colorful houses and vibrant waterfront. Popular with tourists but can be noisy, especially in summer.
- Cedofeita: A trendy area with a mix of traditional and modern vibes, home to art galleries, vintage shops, and hip cafes. Popular with young professionals and students.
- Foz do Douro: An upscale seaside neighborhood with beautiful beaches and promenades. Offers a more relaxed lifestyle with easy access to both the ocean and the city centre.
- Bonfim: An up-and-coming area experiencing gentrification, with a mix of traditional Portuguese life and new artistic spaces. Attracts a diverse crowd of locals and expats looking for more affordable housing.
- Boavista: A modern business district with wide avenues, high-end shopping, and cultural attractions like Casa da Música. Popular with professionals and families for its spacious apartments and good amenities.
- Miragaia: A picturesque old neighborhood with narrow streets and traditional houses, offering stunning views over the Douro River. Quieter than Ribeira but still within walking distance of the city centre.
- Campanhã: A former industrial area undergoing regeneration, with more affordable housing options and good transport links. Attracts those looking for larger spaces and a more local feel.
- Paranhos: Home to the main campus of the University of Porto, this neighborhood has a youthful atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes and restaurants. Popular with students and academics.
- Massarelos: A riverside neighborhood known for its beautiful gardens and museums, including the romantic Romantic Museum and Crystal Palace Gardens. Offers a mix of historic charm and green spaces.
- Vila Nova de Gaia: Technically a separate city across the river from Porto, known for its port wine cellars and stunning views of Porto’s skyline. Often considered part of greater Porto and popular with expats for its slightly lower cost of living.
Cost of Living
Porto offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other Western European cities, making it an attractive option for expats and retirees. While property costs, whether renting or buying, typically constitute the largest expense, other daily living costs are generally reasonable.
Groceries, dining out, and entertainment are generally less expensive than in countries like the UK or US. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, with a monthly pass costing around €40. Utilities for a small apartment average about €100-€150 per month, including electricity, water, and internet.
Healthcare costs are also relatively low, especially if you’re eligible for the public healthcare system. Private health insurance is available and often recommended for expats, with premiums typically ranging from €40-€100 per month depending on age and coverage.
Overall, a couple can live comfortably in Porto on a budget of €1,500-€2,500 per month, depending on lifestyle choices and housing costs.
Can I move to Porto?
Portugal offers several visa options for those looking to relocate to Porto:
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: Can move to Portugal without a visa, including qualifying family members.
- The D7 Visa: Ideal for retirees or those with passive income.
- The D8 Visa: Aimed at digital nomads and remote workers.
- The Golden Visa: For those willing to make a significant investment in Portugal.
- The D2 Visa: Suitable for entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Porto.
Attractions
Porto boasts numerous attractions that make living in the city a rich and culturally rewarding experience:
- Ribeira District: This UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart of Porto’s old town. Its narrow, winding streets are lined with colourful houses, traditional restaurants, and lively bars. The Ribeira Square, with its vibrant atmosphere and street performers, is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Dom Luís I Bridge: This iconic double-deck metal arch bridge spans the Douro River, connecting Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia. The top deck offers panoramic views of the city and river, making it a favourite spot for photographers and romantics. It’s also a key part of Porto’s public transport system, with metro trains running across the upper level.
- Livraria Lello: Often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops, Livraria Lello is a neo-Gothic gem. Its stunning carved wood interior, stained glass ceiling, and grand staircase inspired J.K. Rowling during her time in Porto. While it can get crowded with tourists, residents can purchase an annual pass for frequent visits.
- Serralves Foundation: This cultural institution combines art, architecture, and nature. It houses a contemporary art museum, a stunning Art Deco villa, and extensive gardens. The foundation hosts regular exhibitions, concerts, and events, making it a hub for Porto’s cultural life.
- Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto): This 12th-century Romanesque cathedral offers a journey through Porto’s history. Its gothic cloisters, adorned with blue and white azulejo tiles, are particularly impressive. The cathedral’s terrace provides sweeping views over the old town and river.
Expat Life
Porto’s expat community, while smaller than Lisbon’s or the Algarve’s, is growing rapidly. The city attracts a diverse mix of nationalities, including British, American, French, Canadian, German, and Brazilian expats. Many are drawn by Porto’s quality of life, affordable living costs, and authentic Portuguese atmosphere.
The expat scene in Porto is vibrant and welcoming, with numerous social groups and meetups organised through platforms like InterNations and Meetup. These gatherings provide opportunities to connect with fellow expats and locals alike. The city’s universities also contribute to its international flavour, attracting students and academics from around the world.
Porto also has a growing digital nomad community. While not as big as Lisbon, there is a growing community, both expats and travelers and those from the growing local startup scene.
While the expat community is tight-knit, many residents appreciate the opportunity to integrate more fully into Portuguese society. Porto’s locals are generally friendly and patient with foreigners attempting to learn the language, making it easier for expats to feel at home.
Retiring Here
Porto presents an attractive option for retirees seeking a balance of culture, comfort, and cost-effectiveness. The city’s compact size and excellent public transport make it easy to navigate, even for those with mobility issues. However, it’s worth noting that some areas, particularly in the historic centre, can be hilly and may pose challenges for some.
Healthcare in Porto is of high quality, with both public and private options available. The city boasts several well-regarded hospitals and clinics, and many medical professionals speak English. Retirees from EU countries can access public healthcare, while others may need to rely on private insurance or pay out of pocket.
The cost of living, while rising, remains reasonable compared to many other European cities, allowing retirees to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. However, your money will go a lot further in a smaller city like Coimbra, Braga, Aveiro, or Guimarães. Porto’s rich cultural scene, from museums and theatres to food markets and wine cellars, provides plenty of activities to fill one’s days.
The mild climate is another draw, although winters can be damp and chilly. Summers are generally pleasant, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30°C (86°F), and the nearby beaches offer a refreshing escape on warmer days.
Food
Porto’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Portuguese fare and innovative modern cuisine. Here are some regional specialities you’ll encounter:
- Francesinha: Porto’s iconic sandwich, consisting of layers of meat, cheese, and a spicy tomato-beer sauce.
- Tripas à moda do Porto: A hearty tripe stew that gave Porto residents their nickname, “tripeiros”.
- Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: A local take on Portugal’s beloved salt cod, baked with potatoes, onions, and olives.
- Alheira: A type of sausage traditionally made with poultry and bread, often served with a fried egg and fries.
- Pudim Abade de Priscos: A rich egg custard pudding flavoured with port wine.
You’ll also find national Portuguese dishes like caldo verde, grilled fish, and cozido à portuguesa in most traditional restaurants, along with the ubiquitous pastel de nata.
For vegans, vegetarians, and those with gluten intolerances, Porto offers a growing number of options, particularly in the city centre and university areas. While traditional Portuguese cuisine is heavy on meat and fish, many restaurants now offer plant-based alternatives. However, in more rural areas outside the city, options may be more limited.
Upsides & Downsides of Living Here
Pros
- Rich cultural heritage and beautiful architecture
- Lower cost of living compared to Lisbon
- Excellent public transport system
- Proximity to beaches and nature
- Growing international community
- High-quality healthcare
- Safe city with low crime rates
Cons
- Wet and chilly winters
- Increasing tourism in the city centre
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for some
- Smaller job market compared to Lisbon
- Fewer international flight connections than Lisbon
- Rising property prices, especially in desirable areas
Climate
Porto enjoys a Mediterranean climate with oceanic influences. Summers are warm and generally dry, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). July and August are the hottest months, occasionally seeing temperatures above 30°C (86°F).
Winters are mild but can be wet and chilly. Average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) between December and February. The city receives significant rainfall, particularly from October to April.
Spring and autumn are pleasant, with mild temperatures and occasional rain showers. These seasons are ideal for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
While Porto isn’t a beach resort, it’s just a short trip to Praia de Matosinhos, where you can cool off during summer heatwaves. The city also has several public pools and is near several river beaches (praias fluviais) for summer swimming.
Will I Need to Learn Portuguese?
While it’s possible to get by in Porto with English, especially in tourist areas and international businesses, learning Portuguese will significantly enhance your experience of living in the city. Many Porto residents, particularly younger people and those in the service industry, speak some English. However, in day-to-day life, such as at local markets, government offices, or when dealing with utilities, Portuguese is often necessary.
Learning Portuguese is crucial for truly integrating into local life and culture. It opens up more job opportunities, helps in making local friends, and allows you to fully appreciate Portuguese literature, music, and media. Moreover, if you’re considering applying for Portuguese citizenship in the future, you’ll need to pass a language test at the A2 level.
For resources and tips on learning Portuguese, check out this helpful guide.
Schools
Porto offers a range of educational options for expat families, including public, private, and international schools.
Public schools in Porto are free for residents and provide instruction in Portuguese. They follow the national curriculum and are a good option for families planning long-term integration into Portuguese society.
Private schools often offer bilingual education or enhanced English language instruction. Some highly-ranked private schools in Porto include Colégio Nossa Senhora do Rosário, Grande Colégio Universal, and Colégio de Nossa Senhora da Paz.
For families seeking education in English or other languages, Porto has several international schools:
- Oporto British School
- CLIP Oporto International School
- Deutsche Schule zu Porto
- CJD International School
- Lycée Français International Porto
Porto is also home to several universities, including the prestigious University of Porto, making it an excellent city for higher education.
For more information about schooling options in Portugal, visit this comprehensive guide.
Getting Around
Porto is a compact city with an excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around without a car. The city centre is highly walkable, although some areas can be quite hilly.
- Metro: Porto’s efficient metro system covers much of the city and extends to nearby towns. It’s clean, reliable, and connects to the airport.
- Buses: An extensive bus network complements the metro, reaching areas not served by rail.
- Trams: Historic trams offer a charming way to explore the riverside areas.
- Trains: Porto’s São Bento and Campanhã stations provide connections to other Portuguese cities and international destinations.
- Uber and Taxis: Ride-sharing services and traditional taxis are readily available.
- Bicycle: The city is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with growing cycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes.
Porto’s Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport offers good connections to major European cities, with some seasonal flights to North America. For a wider range of international flights, Lisbon Airport is about 3 hours away by train or car.
Living in Porto provides excellent opportunities for day trips. Within an hour’s drive or train ride, you can explore historic cities like Guimarães (the birthplace of Portugal), enjoy the beaches of Espinho, or visit the picturesque Douro Valley wine region. The Spanish border is about 90 minutes away by car, opening up possibilities for international day trips.
Similar Locations
When considering Porto, you might also want to explore:
- Braga: A smaller city north of Porto, known for its religious heritage and youthful atmosphere due to its university.
- Coimbra: A historic university town with a rich cultural scene, located between Porto and Lisbon.
- Aveiro: Often called the “Venice of Portugal” for its canals, Aveiro offers a quieter coastal living experience.
- Viana do Castelo: A beautiful coastal town north of Porto, known for its beaches and traditional architecture.
- Lisbon: Portugal’s capital offers a larger, more cosmopolitan environment with more job opportunities but at a higher cost of living.
Each of these locations offers a unique living experience while sharing some of Porto’s charms, such as rich history, proximity to nature, and a lower cost of living compared to many other Western European cities.