Experience in Porto, Portugal by Žiga

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

The city of Porto with it's abundance of parks on sunlit hilltops and the natural gifts of the River Douro and the ocean close by, treats it's inhabitants with great kindness and generosity. Incredibly lively throughout the year, with streets bustling with energy of the young and old alike, it will make you crave for your own little living space right there in the historic center, just to be a part of it all.

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

Host to the largest University in the country, Porto has a huge student population, that the city has embraced and taken into it's guardianship. With very affordable rents, the city offers a vast array of lively night-clubs, student bars and hang-out spots, that are kind to the skinny student wallet.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

With a bit of ingenuity and some effort made in your own kitchen, you can lead a comfortable life, with about 450-550e per month, without having to miss out on too much modest leisure or nightlife.

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

Finding accommodation is very easy and straightforward. With a substantial part of the old city being vacant and for rent, there is no shortage of incredible flats to rent, ranging from big to small, from new or renovated, to antiquated. As most landlords are primarily concerned with your comfort and not your money, you can also expect to be given assistance with your search by the friendly Portuguese.

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

The food is diverse, complex and local. Consisting of a steady mix of diverse vegetables, meats, dairy products, fruit and sea-food, there is something for everyone's taste. The Francesinha, a large juicy meat-filled double toast is the local delicacy, that will send you on a adventure through the city's restaurants in search of the best one.

What places would you recommend visiting in Porto?

The old historic center with it's chaos of narrow streets and green parks, Ribeira and Vila nova de Gaia with incredible views all the way to the ocean, Foz a beautiful small fishing town right on the estuary of the River Douro and Matosinhos with it's beautiful sandy beach and good surf.

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

Porto is incredible for eating out. With lots of restaurants to choose from in all price ranges, you will be able to feast on everything from traditional Portuguese cuisine to contemporary cooking. My favorite places are: Senhor Carlos's for the Francesinha, Almada for a quick lunch or dinner, and Brasa dos Leões for mouthwatering Brazilian food.

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

With a huge student population and a quest for fun in their national character, Porto does not disappoint when it comes to nightlife. There is a party everyday of the week in the bars of the Ribeira district by the river, but it really comes to life on Monday evenings, with student friendly prices for drinks. For a night out on the town, hit the Galerias de Paris, a whole neighborhood packed with every kind of club and grab a beer from one of the many people selling booze on the street. In the historic city center alone, there are tons of clubs and bars to choose from, and there is always the possibility of partying on the beach.

What advice would you give future students heading to Porto?

Go for the whole academic year, do not miss Noite de São João, Porto's own local party of the year, and make sure to keep returning.