Experience in Porto, Portugal by Inês

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

Living in Porto is different from every other city I've ever lived in. I changed to Porto almost 2 years ago and I fell in love with it. Porto is not very crowded, people are friendly and kind (they always help you if you ask). I would absolutely recommend it!

It is not a very big city but has a lot to see.

Only those who live in Porto for a few months can actually feel its routine and notice how beautiful it is in all ways, even in the way people walk on the streets.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

It depends on the faculty you study. I study in FCUP, and it doesn't have many parties but in other faculties I know that student’s life is really active!

In general, we have a lot of traditions, for example our traditional clothes called "traje" which make people think of Harry Potter. During all year you can see many students dressed like this and others being ordered to do things, like games or push ups after classes. It's ok, they are not being bullied, they are in "praxe". You can find many information about it on the Internet.

In the end of the year, the students have the biggest party ever, called "Queima das fitas" with many concerts during an entire week.

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Yes, as you can see, students have a lot of fun here.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

In my opinion it's not expensive here. You can find food at "normal" prices, even transportation is not expensive... For 1 month I can pay less than 400€ with everything (accommodation, bills, transportation, food and hang out). Of course I am Portuguese, and I know where things are cheaper or how to organize myself to spend as the least money possible in this city.

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

Rooms sometimes can be expensive, but if you will search better you can find something good for around 230€ with bills. If you don't find a room in the city center is ok, because if you stay near a metro station you can reach every part of the city in a very few minutes! I would recommend staying around Lapa, Casa da Música, Francos, Sete Bicas.

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

I love Portuguese food! It's not because I'm Portuguese, I've tried many foods from other countries, and nothing compares to our food. Traditional Portuguese food is a little fatty but is sooo delicious. You must try Bacalhau à Brás, Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, Bacalhau com natas, Carne de Porco à Alentejana/à Portuguesa, Feijoada, Cozido à Portuguesa and Francesinha.

What places would you recommend visiting in Porto?

My favourite place is the Bar Ponte Pênsil. While staying here, you can see the sun setting over the river and feel the breeze. You need to visit Torre dos Clérigos, Livraria Lello, Rua de Santa Catarina, Majestic, Ribeira, Matosinhos beach, Parque da Cidade and so on...

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

The very famous dish from Porto is Francesinha. You can find Francesinha everywhere, but the best one for me is the one from Café Santiago.

On the other hand, you can find many vegetarian restaurants and places with more healthy food.

Franceshina

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

Nightlife is good, but you need always to be with friends, never go alone. It is really nice to have drink some beers at the beginning of the night in Piolho or 77. Then you can go to Galerias where you will find many bars and discos. The best one for me is Plano B.

You have another disco, like Kasa da Praia and Eskada, they are very nice too but a bit "outside" of the city center.

In Ribeira is also really nice, and sometimes you can find very good prices! The advantage is the gorgeous view of the river.

What advice would you give to future students heading to Porto?

It is important to try find a "buddy" to help you during your first week. It is simple to live in Porto, but only Portuguese people can give you a proper advice.

If you're still thinking about it, don't be afraid and come study in Porto! This city has the perfect environment and a lot of adventure.