Experience in Porto, Portugal by Ieva

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

The city is a cultural center for music and arts in Portugal. People tend to be warmer and friendlier than in the capital, and it's easy to find activities. There aren't many green spaces and it's not the cleanest city, but it's relatively easy to get around with public transportation.

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

In Porto, many local uni students participate in Praxe, an academic organization that does hazing of younger students but also integration and cultural activities. You can see them around in black capes that look like Harry Potter robes. These students have a very lively party culture that is open to outsiders.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

Tourist popularity in recent years has driven prices up but it is still cheaper to live there than in many other European countries. Food is affordable and so is entertainment, but rent cost is on the rise.

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

It can be difficult right before the start of each semester, and especially during holiday seasons as tourism takes up a big share of rentals and drives up prices. Landlords often don't want to sign a contract and require a deposit that can be equivalent or more than the value of the first month's bill. I suggest looking online (Uniplaces, Erasmusu, Facebook groups) and also finding housemates.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There is plenty of tasty food: typical treats include francesinhas, Port wine, pastéis de nata, tripas, etc.

What places would you recommend visiting in Porto?

Casa da Música (they have a 50 % discount for youths, so be sure to go to a concert), the riverside bars and quaint streets, Clérigos tower and Avenida dos Aliados, Palácio de Cristal, Parque da Cidade, Foz (the seaside), Rua de Sta. Catarina for shopping...

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

Yes, there are many restaurants and cafés at pretty much every price point. If you want to go fancy, Majestic Café is an unbelievably beautiful turn of the century café. More affordable options include Casinha Café, Ponto 2 bakery, Frankie's hot dogs, Spirito cupcakes, Amorino ice cream, Ramen Break (remember to make a reservation, it's popular), O Diplomata pancakes and many many sushi spots.

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

I'll admit I'm not an expert, but there are tons of fun bars by the riverside. The Galerias area has the Galerias de Paris bar which is fun to start your night, and nearby there is an Erasmus café where international students tend to gather. Beyonce Fest parties are popular with the LGBT+ scene (at Maus Hábitos/Armazém do Chá bars).

What advice would you give future students heading to Porto?

Talk to the locals! Many Portuguese people (and most younger folks) speak passable English and will be very happy to show off their city to visitors.

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