Experience in Porto, Portugal by Teresa

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

Porto is one of the most cosmopolitan and vibrant European cities! I would definitely recommend it to everyone!

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How much does it cost to live in Porto?

The cost of living in Porto is not too high, specially when compared to other cities in Europe. You have lots of special prices for students (for example, metro pass costs €22. 60 a month for students).

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

It is not difficult to find accommodation in Porto, but it is very difficult to find good accommodation! The best rooms are quickly taken, so you need to start your "househunt" some time in advance. It is very important that you choose a house close to the metro. Public transport is very good in Porto, so if you are close to the metro, you can get everywhere very quickly.

Personally, I think that it is much better to share a house with other Erasmus students (you can learn a lot from different cultures if you live in an international environment - this can make your Erasmus the best time of your life! ). There are very good options in Porto Ehouses, for example, they have really great houses. Everyone loves it there! You can also look for rooms at http://stayinporto.pt/en/book-a-room/.

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

The food in Porto is amazing! There are lots of dishes that you need to try: Bacalhau, Cataplana de Marisco, Alheira de Mirandela and, of course, Francesinha!

What places would you recommend visiting in Porto?

Porto is a beautiful city that has lots of monuments/churches/must go places to visit! S. Francisco de Assis Church, Lello Library, Arquivo Histórico, Ribeira, wine cellars, etc.

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

There are several really cool (and not too expensive) restaurants in Porto. My favourite spots are Casa de Pasto da Palmeira, Brick Clérigos, Empadas & Co. and Casinha Boutique Café but there are much more! (I always check the website http://stayinporto.pt/en/restaurants/ because they give really good advice on where to eat out in Porto).

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

Nightlife is really good in Porto! The best places to go out are in "Baixa", Porto´s downtown. You have lots of options, such as Plano B, Armazéns do Chá, etc. Of course, house parties can be really fun as well!

What advice would you give future students heading to Porto?

Enjoy your Erasmus in Porto! (and also take this opportunity to travel around Portugal there are many beautiful places to visit).