Portugal’s second metropolis, Porto, is an more and more in style vacation spot amongst digital nomads and different distant staff. I’ve spent fairly a little bit of time on this vibrant, artsy metropolis over the previous few years and I can confidently say that it’s an incredible place to stay and work remotely.
On this complete information to residing in Porto, I’ll share every part it’s essential find out about residing on this distinctive and fun-loving metropolis.
I really like spending time in Porto. It feels far much less polished than Lisbon and has a extra informal, hipster, and inventive vibe. In case you’re contemplating making Porto your subsequent dwelling base, this submit is for you.
Learn on for a full lowdown of the perfect neighborhoods, the way to discover lodging, the perfect cafes and coworking areas, money-saving suggestions, issues to do in your free time, the professionals and cons of residing right here, info on digital nomad visas, and extra.
About Porto, Portugal
Porto is a significant metropolis on the Atlantic coast within the north of Portugal. With a inhabitants of round 1.3 million, it’s the second-largest metropolis within the nation. It’s a perfect base for exploring different components of Portugal (considered one of my favourite nations in Europe) and neighboring Spain.
Porto is understood for its historic middle, a UNESCO World Heritage Website with a maze of atmospheric backstreets and centuries-old buildings. The town can be well-known for its stunning riverfront, its many ornate bridges, and (after all) top-quality port wine.
Porto has the entire facilities and comfort of a giant metropolis however with a pleasant small-town ambiance and a comparatively low value of residing, making it ultimate for digital nomads. The town is made up of many alternative neighborhoods, every with a singular vibe, as I’ll talk about in additional element under.
Digital Nomad in Porto: Private Expertise
Final yr, I lived in a tiny village within the mountains simply outdoors of Porto. Throughout this time, I spent numerous my keep within the metropolis. I’ve additionally visited Porto a number of occasions on different events over the previous few years.
It has a very distinctive ambiance that manages to mix cobbled medieval streets and old-world appeal with a contemporary, inventive vitality. I really like how casual it’s, too. In my expertise, folks don’t normally trouble to decorate up a lot to exit right here, which fits me completely!
I discovered it extremely inspiring being a digital nomad in Porto. You’ll discover a numerous vary of individuals from all all over the world residing and dealing right here. And, the digital nomads I met right here had been, on the entire, friendlier than in lots of different locations I’ve traveled to.
Virtually, town is nicely arrange for distant staff. There are loads of coworking areas and laptop computer-friendly cafes, web speeds are good, and the price of residing is comparatively low. I’ll go into extra element on every of those within the under sections.
Is Porto Secure?
Porto, like the remainder of Portugal, is general a really secure place to go to and stay. The crime fee in Porto is much decrease than in cities like New York or London, so that you don’t should be overly involved about security right here.
Whereas petty crimes like pickpocketing can and do happen, particularly in crowded spots, ranges of violent crime are comparatively low. I’ve by no means as soon as felt unsafe in Porto, in the course of the day or the night time, and my accomplice would fortunately stroll by herself at night time in most areas of town with out concern.
After all, as with every different giant metropolis, it’s at all times a good suggestion to train frequent sense and pay attention to your environment, particularly at night time.
The same old guidelines apply. Be conscious when carrying round any expensive-looking devices and jewellery, attempt to keep away from poorly lit areas at night time, and hold a watchful eye in your belongings always.
Finest Areas to Stay in Porto
There are various great neighborhoods in Porto, every with a particular vibe and loads of hidden corners. It’s a implausible place to stay and discover – each time I go to I uncover someplace new that I like.
Listed below are a few of my favourite areas of town. Every of those would make a perfect place to stay in Porto as a digital nomad.
1. Ribeira
Ribeira, with its cobbled streets and riverside appeal, is the historic coronary heart of Porto. It’s brimming with character and is a good place to base your self if you wish to be near all of the motion.
Ribeira is vibrant and delightful, packed filled with hidden courtyards, quaint eating places, cafes, and bars. A Tasquinha Dos Guindais is considered one of my favourite little eateries tucked away on the steps main all the way down to the river. It’s splendidly casual and chaotic, and their barbequed sardines are unbelievable.
You’ll stumble upon many different digital nomads in Ribeira, though the primary draw back is that it could get pretty crowded with vacationers in the course of the peak summer time months (particularly July and August). It’s nonetheless nice although, and there are such a lot of hidden corners it’s simple to discover a secluded spot.
2. Baixa
Simply north of Ribeira, Baixa is the downtown of Porto and the bustling industrial hub of town. Encompassing the world round Praça da Liberdade, and São Bento Station, Baixa is good for digital nomads who thrive in a vigorous setting.
The realm has a number of glorious coworking areas and tons of cafes, bars, retailers, and cultural landmarks so that you’ll by no means wrestle to seek out someplace to work or chill out and have enjoyable.
Lodging choices are numerous and plentiful in Baixa. Plus, its central location makes it simple to discover different components of town.
3. Bonfim
Bonfim is Porto’s stylish, up-and-coming hipster neighborhood. It’s a quieter, extra residential space, making it excellent for individuals who desire a peaceable work setting.
In true hipster trend, the streets are lined with quirky cafes and classic retailers and most of the once-run-down buildings have been transformed into inventive areas and studios for the world’s thriving inventive group.
The lodging choices in Bonfim are usually extra reasonably priced too, making it a pretty alternative for digital nomads on a funds.
4. Vila Nova de Gaia
Simply throughout the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia is greatest identified for its port wine cellars. It’s quieter than central Porto, but nonetheless accessible, and provides reasonably priced residing with spectacular views of the river, the bridges, and throughout to the outdated city.
Apart from the areas instantly across the well-known port warehouses, this space is fairly non-touristy, making it an amazing choice for those who’re seeking to immerse your self in genuine native life.
Lodging additionally tends to be comparatively reasonably priced right here too. To get to town middle, you’ll be able to stroll (or take the tram) throughout the spectacular and iconic double-decker Dom Luís I Bridge – not a nasty commute, all issues thought of!
5. Foz do Douro
In case you desire a extra laid-back, beachy vibe, Foz do Douro is the proper neighborhood for you. Positioned on the western fringe of Porto, this upscale space boasts stunning seashores and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
You possibly can count on to pay extra for lodging right here than in most different areas in Porto. Nonetheless, the tranquility and west-facing ocean views make this an especially fascinating place to stay.
If I may afford to purchase a home in Foz do Douro, I’d do it in a heartbeat. It has the ambiance and appeal of a small seaside city, however the facilities and comfort of a giant metropolis. You possibly can go online in your lunch break, and watch the sundown over the ocean each night.
How you can Discover Lodging in Porto
Discovering the best spot in Porto can really feel like a frightening activity, however there are a number of platforms that may assist make the search simpler. Listed below are a few of the important methods I like to recommend that will help you discover someplace good to stay.
- Airbnb: Airbnb is a handy choice for brief and medium-term stays. You will discover every part from budget-friendly rooms to luxurious flats. For longer stays, some hosts supply reductions, though I’ve discovered that negotiating with folks instantly can typically end in a good higher deal.
- Fb Teams: Becoming a member of native Fb teams (like Porto Expats) can join you instantly with landlords and different folks in search of tenants or housemates. That is considered one of my favourite methods to seek out low cost lodging because it cuts out the intermediary. Nonetheless, it’s vital to do your diligence (ideally go to the place and meet the folks in particular person) earlier than committing to something.
- Rental Companies: In case you’re planning to be round for some time, you can at all times go to a conventional rental company or property agent. There are a great deal of these dotted all through town. Keep in mind that the majority companies cost charges, and also you is likely to be requested for proof that you’ve got the best to stay and work in Portugal (e.g. an EU passport, or a digital nomad visa – see under).
- Strolling Round Door-to-Door: That is one other nice strategy to discover low cost long-term lodging, though it does require a bit extra effort. I like to recommend reserving a week-long Airbnb first and utilizing that point to discover a number of completely different neighborhoods, looking for indicators promoting properties to hire (alugar, in Portuguese). After all, it’s essential do your diligence too.
Value of Residing in Porto, Portugal
Porto is notably extra reasonably priced than many Western European cities. Your cash will go a lot additional right here than in locations like London, Paris, or Rome.
After all, the precise prices for a digital nomad residing in Porto, Portugal will range from individual to individual in keeping with particular person life-style and preferences. Nonetheless, I’ve given a number of indications under of what a median particular person may count on to spend residing right here.
Eating places and Groceries
It’s simple sufficient to eat out in an informal restaurant for lower than €10 per particular person, excluding drinks. A 3-course meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant normally prices round €40 together with a few beers or a bottle of home wine.
For a fast lunch on the go, you’ll be able to sometimes seize a freshly made sandwich from an area bakery for €5. After all, if you wish to push the boat out, it’s simple to spend upwards of €50 per particular person consuming in a elaborate restaurant. However usually, consuming out in Porto doesn’t have to interrupt the financial institution.
For on a regular basis gadgets, a cup of espresso sometimes prices round €1-€2, an area beer is about €1-€2.50, and a glass of excellent Portuguese wine could be discovered for round €2-€4.
Primary groceries are moderately priced right here too, particularly within the supermarkets the place you’ll be able to decide up a loaf of contemporary bread for €1 and a mid-range bottle of wine for €6.
Lodging Prices
As you’d count on, the value of lodging in Porto varies fairly a bit relying on location, measurement, and spec.
On common, renting a one-bedroom residence within the metropolis middle prices round €900 monthly. In case you don’t thoughts being a bit additional out, that value can drop to €700 and even decrease.
After all, costs are inclined to fluctuate primarily based on proximity to in style areas, facilities, and the general situation of the property. Utilities, together with electrical energy, heating, cooling, water, and rubbish, sometimes add an additional €100 monthly, give or take.
Some (however not all) rental agreements embody utilities and web within the hire, so it’s vital to test the phrases rigorously earlier than you commit.
Transportation Prices in Porto, Portugal
Porto has an environment friendly public transport community, together with buses, trams, and a metro. A single metro or bus ticket prices round €1.85 and a month-to-month limitless cross prices €40.
Taxis and ride-sharing providers like Uber are extensively obtainable and comparatively cheap in comparison with cities like London and Paris. In my expertise, a typical Uber experience inside the metropolis normally prices between €5 and €10.
Strolling can be a sensible choice for getting round, particularly within the central districts. Porto’s compact measurement and scenic streets make it a really pedestrian-friendly metropolis.
SIM Playing cards and Knowledge
Buying an area Portuguese SIM card (or eSIM) is reasonable and comparatively simple. Portugal’s important mobile suppliers embody Vodafone, MEO, and NOS, all of which supply a wide range of plans, together with pay-as-you-go choices.
You possibly can purchase a limiteless knowledge plan with speeds of as much as 1 Gbps from NOS for €35 for 30 days. In case you don’t want an enormous quantity of knowledge (and/or for those who join an extended interval), it’s cheaper.
To buy a SIM card, head to one of many many cell phone retailers which might be dotted across the metropolis, or purchase one from the airport. You’ll want to indicate a sound type of identification, comparable to a passport.
Cash Saving Ideas for Porto, Portugal
Having high quality of life in Porto prices lower than in lots of different giant Western European cities. Nonetheless, there are some tricks to stretch your funds even additional:
- Go to Off-Season: Avoiding the summer time months can prevent cash on lodging and flights.
- Guide in Advance: Planning forward will help you snag discounted charges on long-term leases and transport.
- Store Native: Native markets supply contemporary produce at decrease costs than supermarkets.
- Purchase a Porto Card: Investing in a Porto Card offers you reductions on transport, museum entries, and even some eating places.
- Take Benefit of Free Actions: From exploring town’s parks and gardens to visiting free museums, and even lounging on the seashore, there are many nice actions right here that gained’t value you a penny.
- Use Public Transport: Strolling is nice for brief distances, however public transport is reasonable and environment friendly for longer journeys across the metropolis.
- Self-Cater: Renting an residence with a good kitchen lets you prepare dinner meals for your self and keep away from having to spend cash on consuming out on a regular basis.
- Blissful Hours: Reap the benefits of completely satisfied hour offers at bars and eating places for reasonable drinks and meals.
Coworking Areas in Porto and WiFi Pace
Working remotely in Porto is a breeze. WiFi in Porto is usually quick and dependable, with typical obtain speeds of round 180 Mbps and add speeds of 95 Mbps.
The town has a nice vary of coworking areas providing fashionable amenities, comfy workstations, and glorious networking alternatives. Listed below are a number of of my favourite choices:
1. Porto i/o Riverside (Ribeira)
Porto i/o Riverside is considered one of my favourite coworking areas in Porto. It’s positioned within the historic Ribeira district, inside a transformed Sixteenth-century townhouse.
This enviable location provides beautiful views of the river, the well-known bridges, and the outdated city. It’s additionally simply accessible from most components of town and is inside simple strolling distance of Porto’s central prepare station.
This coworking area provides day passes (many in Porto don’t), which value €20, so you’ll be able to strive it out while not having to decide to a membership. In addition they supply a 5-day cross for €70, or a 10-day cross for €135. A month-to-month membership prices €150 and grants you entry 24/7.
2. Work Clever Co-Working & Workplaces (Bolhão)
Work Clever Co-Working & Workplaces has an amazing vary of facilities and open-plan workspaces unfold throughout its two flooring. I really like the sunny rooftop terrace right here the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from superb views of Porto.
They’ve state-of-the-art assembly rooms, ergonomic workplace chairs, standing desks, private storage lockers, and a kitchen with free tea and occasional. The area is simple and handy to achieve through public transport with Trindade metro station solely a brief stroll away.
You may get a month-to-month hotdesking membership from €89 monthly, which I feel is superb worth for cash. In case you’d slightly hire a personal workplace, these begin from €600 monthly.
3. PortoSoul Cowork (Ribeira)
PortoSoul Coworking is one other glorious coworking area housed inside a gorgeous historic constructing within the Ribeira district. It provides a few of the quickest WiFi within the metropolis (as much as 400 Mbps) and a variety of comfy, versatile workspaces.
I actually like the truth that every desk comes geared up with a good quantity of bodily storage. Month-to-month members additionally get 1,000 free prints monthly and entry to 10 GB of personal cloud storage.
Extra perks embody standing desks, a snug lounge/chill-out space, and a kitchenette with a espresso machine and free espresso. You may get a day cross for €12.50, weekly entry for €50, or a month-to-month membership for €100.
Finest Cafes to Work From in Porto
If coworking areas aren’t actually your jam, Porto has many laptop-friendly cafes which you could work from. Simply remember to purchase one thing each hour or two – don’t be that one who nurses a single espresso all day simply to benefit from the free WiFi…
Listed below are some high cafes in Porto which might be nice for getting via a number of hours of labor:
- FÁBRICA Espresso Roasters: Wonderful espresso roasted on-site and a relaxed ambiance that’s conducive to focus. I really like the decor right here too.
- Combi Espresso: One other glorious spot for espresso lovers and distant staff. The vibe is relaxed, the chairs are comfortable, and the WiFi is dependable.
- C’alma Espresso Room: This place is cool too, providing loads of seating, a mix of contemporary and classic decor, and a tasty number of pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
Actions and Issues To Do in Porto
Residing in Porto is enjoyable! There are such a lot of nice issues to do right here if you’re not working, no matter your pursuits. Listed below are a number of ideas:
1. Port Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
Port wine has been aged and exported from Porto (and the neighborhood of Vila Nova de Gaia particularly) for hundreds of years. The stuff known as “port” for a purpose!
After a protracted day of working, head over to Gaia the place you’ll be able to take a tour of the historic port warehouses and style a few of the metropolis’s most well-known fortified wines.
Most excursions embody a guided tasting and an informative tour of the cellars. Click on right here to guide.
2. Chill on the Seashore
As soon as the weekend comes round – or, if in case you have your individual on-line enterprise, any day you are feeling prefer it – I extremely advocate spending a day enjoyable at Matosinhos Seashore.
It’s a simple metro experience from town middle, and the seashore is lined with eating places and cafes the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from contemporary seafood together with a glass or two of native wine.
Or, why not carry your laptop computer for a change of surroundings and get some work performed whereas having fun with these candy ocean views?
3. Go Browsing
In case you’re a surfer, there are a number of implausible breaks positioned a brief distance from Porto. In case you’re disciplined sufficient (I’m not), you’ll be able to even slot in a cheeky surf earlier than work!
Head to Matosinhos Seashore, Foz do Douro, or Espinho for some glorious waves and a laid-back surf scene. There are waves for all ranges, from mellow seashore breaks for freshmen to difficult reefs for intermediate and superior surfers.
There are many retailers at every of the above spots the place you’ll be able to hire boards. Plus, many browsing faculties supply classes for all ranges. Click on right here to be taught extra.
4. Take a Meals Tour
On the weekend, or throughout another free time, expertise Porto’s culinary delights with a guided meals tour.
You’ll go to native eateries and markets the place you’ll have the chance to style traditional native dishes like francesinha (some of the unbelievable sandwiches I’ve ever eaten), pastel de nata, grilled sardines, salted cod, and numerous different seafood delicacies.
Your information may even educate you in regards to the meals tradition and historical past of Porto, making it an especially satisfying and enriching expertise. Click on right here to guide.
5. Be a part of a Historic Strolling Tour
If you wish to be taught extra about Porto’s distinctive structure, and wealthy historical past, tradition, and traditions, take into account taking a historic strolling tour of town.
These excursions sometimes go to a number of of town’s most iconic websites like Porto Cathedral, Avenida dos Aliados, Livraria Lello, Clérigos Church, Rua Santa Catarina, Mercado do Bolhão and São Bento Railway Station, identified for its mesmerizing Azulejo tiles.
This can be a notably well-reviewed strolling tour of Porto. And for those who’d slightly not stroll, take a look at this enjoyable tuk-tuk tour of Porto as a substitute!
Climate in Porto, Portugal
Porto has 4 distinct seasons, with heat, dry summers and funky, wet winters. Resulting from its latitude and Atlantic coastal location, town usually doesn’t expertise any excessive climate; making it a year-round vacation spot.
That stated, I feel the perfect time to go to Porto is from late spring to early autumn (Might to September) when the climate is warmest and the times are longest. Throughout this era, common most daytime temperatures vary from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
The most popular months are normally July and August, though these are additionally the busiest and most costly occasions to go to. Personally, my favourite month in Porto is September.
Professionals and Cons of Residing in Porto
As with wherever on the earth, there are each execs and cons of residing in Porto. A few of these are the execs and cons of residing in Portugal usually, whereas others are extra particular to Porto itself.
Professionals of Residing in Porto, Portugal
- Inexpensive value of residing
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Pleasant locals
- Nice meals and wine
- Lovely structure and historic websites
- Proximity to seashores and pure magnificence
- Rising expat and Porto digital nomad group
- Excessive-quality healthcare system
- Comparatively secure metropolis
- Compact and walkable, ultimate for exploring on foot
- Gentle winters in comparison with different European cities
- More and more numerous and worldwide ambiance
Cons of Residing in Porto, Portugal
- Humid climate, notably in summer time
- The language barrier can pose challenges
- Public transportation could be crowded
- Restricted direct flights from some worldwide locations
- Comparatively excessive unemployment charges
- The paperwork could be gradual and irritating
- Winter months carry vital rainfall
- Restricted job alternatives for non-Portuguese audio system
- Some areas have gotten gentrified, pushing up prices
- The summer time months could be fairly touristy
- Occasional points with avenue cleanliness and upkeep
- The rental market could be aggressive, notably in central areas
Digital Nomad Visa for Porto
Portugal has just lately launched a digital nomad visa permitting non-EU residents to stay and work in Portugal. This visa lasts for one yr and could be renewed as much as 4 occasions, offering you proceed to satisfy the necessities.
For residents of the United States, Canada, the UK, and different non-EU nations, there’s an earnings requirement of at the least €3,040 monthly. For probably the most correct and up-to-date info relating to the applying course of, see this submit and/or converse with an immigration specialist.
In case you aren’t eligible for the digital nomad visa, residents of many nations (together with the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand) can enter and keep within the EU (Portugal is an EU Member State) for as much as 90 days each 180 days as per the Schengen zone laws.
In Conclusion
Porto provides an enviable mixture of tradition, creativity, and cost-effectiveness. It’s an amazing place to stay and work, whether or not for a brief interval or long run.
I hope this digital nomad information to Porto has been helpful and informative. And for those who’re nonetheless on the fence, simply go for it – you’ll have a implausible time there, I’m certain.