Experience in Porto, Portugal by Diana

What is it like to live in Porto? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Porto is a really good city to live. There is always something going on no matter if it's Summer or Winter and even like it more in the Winter season, I feel like it's cozier! You can have everything, you have the ocean and the river, you have mountains not to far away and you can also go to the beach! It's is not very expensive and I would definitely recommend it for an exchange destination!

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

Porto has a big University and the one where almost everyone applies at 1st place! There are a lot of possibilities and a lot of activities extra classes for students like sport clubs, volunteering, etc!

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

I am afraid I can't answer this very well since I live with my parents so I don't pay any rent but I have friends that found rooms around 150€/180€ with expenses and for a daily living I guess with 150/200 is quite ok!

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Porto? Is there any advice you can give?

I've been looking for accommodation in other countries and also looking for accommodation in Porto for some friends who were exchange students and I would say is not that hard to find a room even in the city center! Every exchange student wants to live in the center because all the nightlife is there and is the most awesome place to live to be true but maybe is tiny bit more expensive. Apart from that, a lot of students stay in a hostel for 2 or 3 days and within these days they always find something!

What places would you recommend visiting in Porto?

There are a lot of places you can visit! During the summer you can enjoy the city park right in front of the beach! You also have the gardens of "Palácio de Cristal" which are very beautiful and you have quite good views for the river!

This one sounds like a cliche but you definitely have to go to the river side, and just sit there and relax. For me this is the most awesome part of the city, I really like it! From there you can walk up to Aliados, the big Avenue where there are a lot of cafes and bars nearby!

Is it good to eat out in Porto? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, it is good and cheap! Of course it depends on the place but can easily find students menus that are cheaper or daily offers in some restaurants!

Is the nightlife good in Porto? Where is good to go?

As a student you have loads of places to go. The best place to be at night and as a Student is in "Piolho" area. Piolho is one of the oldest caffes in the city that every student knows and goes there! It stands in a big square full of small cafes/bars and at night you will find a lot of students! You can go there, take a beer and just be outside with all your friends! If you want to go inside you have "Galerias de Paris" right next to Piolho that is like the second stop you have to do. Lots of bars for every kind of music taste, you will find everything and it is really nice!; )

What advice would you give future students heading to Porto?

Don't take second thoughts, just come! I am sure you will love the city as much as I do! The students environment is awesome and you wont regret it! You only will if you don't come!