Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by Ignas

Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

I had to, because I am a joint degree student

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

5 months. 1700 euros + 300 euros when I come back with the transcript of records

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Porto?

Yes, I used uniplaces and I dont really recommend it, the administrative fee was about 200 euros which is an absolute bull crap. But I had no time so I had to take it.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

Monthly rent for a room should be around 200euros, a flat/apartment 500 euros. Taxes for water and other stuff - 50 euros. Cooking good meals everyday at home+getting some chips or other snacks+having about 10 meals in the city per month costs me around 300 euros. Bus/Metro 35 euros a month. I don't know if I mentioned it all, but overall the cost of living here ir pretty good.

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

I know only a few words and never had intention to learn it, as I do not really like Portuguese language and how it sounds. But yea, my university offers some language courses as far as I know.

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

easiest - metro, most economical - foot. Both easy and economical does not work for metro. At least from where I am, bus prices monthly are 6 euros for students, here, depending on zones you are taking those buses, you have to pay a whopping 35 or more euros just to be able to go to university, beach and city center. Use your feet and you will be ok, just make sure you find a place to live near your university or any other place that you are going to go to the most.

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

I love pop and other music, but when it comes to a night out I only listen to techno. I don't know any places to spend a night that is not techno. So I suggest "Gare Porto". Good sound, good people, good techno.

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

deGema - best burgers, Munchie - best burgers v2, Frankies - crazy ass hotdogs, even with macncheese on top of them, Costa coffee - good coffee and cheesecakes

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Bridges, churches, streets... Lots of stuff, can't remember the names but the city is indeed beautiful and has stuff to see.