Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by Anaïs

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Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

I'm a nurse student and I was interested by the system of care. Moreover my parents already know Porto and tell me that's a beautiful city and the Portuguese are very nice people.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

My internship during two months and half. For all my internship I receive more or less 550€. I already receive 90% of this help and I will receive the rest at the end of my internship.

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

You have to work of course but Porto is city with a lot of student who coming from a lot of countries. You can meet them with your internship of course but also with Porto university who is common for all Erasmus student in Porto. It's amazing to meet so much people with so many origins. Porto has a lot of activity for Erasmus student organized by the university or some other Erasmus students and a lot of parties too in the night (there is a street with only bars and nightclubs with a lot of Erasmus student too).

Would you recommend the city and the University of Porto to other students?

Yes really. Come here! The city is beautiful, hot weather, people are very friendly and a lot of things to do and to see.

What is the food like?

The Portuguese eat a lot (every 3 hours at least) and they have a lot of typical food who are very good (but very fat).

How much did accommodation cost you in Porto?

I paid 280 € per month.

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How much does it cost to live in Porto?

The life in Porto is cheaper than a lot of other country except for beauty products or washing products which are a lot of times imported from France.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

It depends on your own language. If you speak French or Spanish it would be easier for you to understand and learn Portuguese because a lot of words are very similar in this language. I think Portuguese is a mix between French and Spanish. If you don't know any of these languages, it's gonna be a little hard for you to learn Portuguese because it's a language with a lot of conjugation and grammar.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Porto from your city?

By plane.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Porto?

I don't remember any names but, if you're alone, it could be dangerous.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Porto?

Café Santiago where you can eat the best "Francesinha" of Porto, a typical food. Café Majestic too, it's a little expensive compare to other restaurant but it's so beautiful...

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Palacio de Cristal, tower of Clerigos, cavas de vinhos, a lot of bridges and view, libraries, a lot of monuments and statues in each street...

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Porto in the future?

Have a lot of fun it's a very good city for Erasmus students.

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