Moving to Porto: A Newcomer’s Guide to Settling In

Porto is a vibrant coastal city in northern Portugal, known for its rich history, stunning views, and world-famous port wine. Located where the Douro River meets the Atlantic, Porto is a mix of medieval and modern. With its affordable cost of living and Mediterranean climate, it’s an attractive city for travelers and immigrants alike. Here’s Remitly’s guide to settling into Porto.

 

 

Table of Contents

Quick facts about Porto, Portugal

• Population: 240,000 (city); 1.7 million (metropolitan area).
• Expats: growing numbers, largely from European countries, USA, and Brazil.
• Universities: 30,000+ students, mainly at University of Porto.
• Climate: Mediterranean; mild in winter, warm in summer.
• Major industries: tourism, wine, tech, education.
• Transport: metro, buses and trains to Braga, Lisbon, and Spain.
   

Getting to know the city of Porto

Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city, with an economy that thrives on tourism, tech startups, and wine production, especially its famous port wine. It’s also a center for higher education, home to the prestigious University of Porto.

Porto’s history spans back to Roman times, but it gained prominence in the Middle Ages as a key trading port, which gave rise to its famous wine industry. Today, Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its historic center and the colorful houses lining the river. The city’s culture reflects a blend of traditional Portuguese heritage and modern influences. It’s also well-known for the azulejos (traditional blue-and-white tiles), which adorn many of its buildings, giving the city a unique aesthetic.

While Portuguese destinations like Lisbon and the Algarve region often steal the spotlight, Porto offers a more laid-back and affordable alternative, with all the charm of a historical European city.

Although many people in Porto speak English, learning Portuguese will enhance your experience and make it easier to integrate into local life. To get started, check out this list of top language apps that can help you learn Portuguese.

Finding accommodation in Porto

Neighborhoods for all budgets and lifestyles

Porto offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each catering to different budgets and lifestyles:

• Baixa (Downtown): bustling with cafes and nightlife, ideal for young professionals.
• Foz do Douro: upscale, family-friendly, with stunning coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Cedofeita: artsy and trendy. Popular among creatives.
• Bonfim: affordable, authentic Portuguese atmosphere.
• Paranhos: budget-friendly, near the University of Porto.
• Boavista: upscale area with cultural landmarks and modern apartments, ideal for professionals and families.

Rental prices, housing market trends, and where to look for listings

Rental prices in Porto can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood. In the city center, expect to pay between 800-1,200 EUR per month for a one-bedroom apartment. In more affordable areas like Bonfim or Paranhos, you may find similar accommodations for around 500-800 EUR per month. The housing market in Porto has seen increased demand in recent years, particularly from expats and digital nomads, which has led to a rise in rental prices. However, Porto still remains more affordable than Lisbon.

To find rental listings, websites like Idealista, Imovirtual, and CASASAPO are popular platforms. Additionally, local real estate agencies such as RE/MAX or Century 21 can assist with more personalized services, especially if you’re looking for long-term rentals or buying property.

Renting and buying property

If you’re unsure about where you want to live or only planning a short stay, short-term rentals are a flexible option. Platforms like Airbnb or local service providers such as Spotahome offer furnished apartments available on a month-to-month basis, allowing you to get a feel for different areas of the city before committing to a longer-term lease.

For long-term rentals, landlords often require a one-year lease, along with a two- to three-month deposit.

For those considering buying property, Porto’s real estate market offers a variety of options, from historic apartments to modern condos. Neighborhoods outside the main tourist zones, such as Campanhã, have avoided the worst of the recent price inflation and may still offer good deals. Consider hiring a local real estate agent to help you navigate the process. Buying could pay off in the long term; many expats consider Porto a smart investment due to the city’s rising popularity.

Navigating the city of Porto

Public transportation in Porto

The city’s well-developed and efficient public transportation system includes buses, trams, and the Metro do Porto. The metro comprises six lines that cover most of the city and extend into surrounding suburbs, and it’s modern, reliable, and affordable. Buses are operated by STCP, and while they cover areas not served by the metro, they tend to be slower due to traffic.

The train system connects Porto with other major cities in Portugal and is managed by Comboios de Portugal (CP). Trains depart from stations like São Bento, known for its beautiful Portuguese tiles, and Campanhã, the city’s main railway hub.

For tourists or those seeking a nostalgic experience, Porto also has historical trams, though these are more geared toward sightseeing than practical commuting.

Cycling

If you’re looking for alternative ways to get around, biking is becoming increasingly popular, especially since Porto has made efforts to improve its cycling infrastructure. The Riverside Cycle Path (Ciclovia Marginal) along the Douro River is a scenic route, and there are companies that offer bike-sharing and e-bike programs, with various docking stations throughout the city. Be warned, though—Porto is hilly!

However, it’s also compact, so many residents choose to walk, especially when traveling short distances within the city center.

Driving

If you’re an EU/EEA citizen, your existing driving license is valid in Portugal. For non-EU citizens, you may need to exchange your foreign license for a Portuguese one after living in the country for more than 185 days. The process involves visiting the IMT (Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes) and submitting documents such as your residence permit, current driving license, and a medical certificate.

Porto’s roads are often narrow and winding, especially in the historic center, so driving can be challenging. Public transport is often an easier alternative, particularly for everyday commuting.

Essential services and amenities

Portugal has a strong public healthcare system, Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), which offers comprehensive services; however, private health insurance is also available, with hospitals like Hospital de São João and Hospital Lusíadas offering both public and private options. To access public healthcare, you’ll need to register with your local Centro de Saúde (health center) and obtain a Cartão de Utente (user card).

When it comes to banks, options like Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Millennium BCP, and Novo Banco have branches across Porto, offering everything from basic savings accounts to mortgage services.

Families with children can choose between public schools and a range of international schools like Oporto British School or the Colégio Luso Internacional do Porto (CLIP), offering English-language education.

You must register with the local government to establish residency. In Porto, you’ll need to visit the Câmara Municipal (City Hall) to handle tasks like registering your address and obtaining a residence certificate. EU citizens simply need to register for a Certificate of Registration after 90 days, while non-EU citizens must apply for a residence permit at the foreigners’ office, called Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF). You’ll need to bring your passport, proof of income, and housing documentation.

Utilities

Setting up utilities in your new home is straightforward in Porto. For electricity and gas, providers like EDP or Galp dominate the market. To set up these services, you’ll need your ID, proof of residence, and your NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal), which is a tax number. Water services are managed by Águas do Porto, and registration typically requires your residence contract and NIF.

For internet and phone services, you can choose from companies like NOS, MEO, or Vodafone, which offer bundled packages that include TV, internet, and mobile services.

Managing your finances in Porto

Opening a local bank account

Most banks will require your NIF, proof of residence (e.g. a rental contract), your passport, and potentially proof of employment or income. You can open an account by visiting local branches of banks like Santander Totta, Millennium BCP, or Caixa Geral de Depósitos. Some banks also offer online account setup, particularly for expats.

Of course once you’re settled, Remitly makes sending money back home easy.

Budgeting in Porto

Porto offers an affordable cost of living compared to many other cities in Western Europe. Groceries, dining out, and public transport are relatively affordable. Utilities typically cost 100-150 EUR per month.

Financial regulations and taxes

Portugal has a progressive tax system, with income tax rates ranging from 14.5% to 48% depending on your earnings. If you are a resident for more than 183 days per year, you’ll be taxed on your worldwide income. You must register with the Autoridade Tributária e Aduaneira (Tax Authority) and obtain your NIF (fiscal ID number), necessary for filing taxes, opening a bank account, and signing contracts. Expats may also qualify for the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax scheme, offering tax benefits for the first 10 years of residency. Consider consulting a local tax advisor to understand obligations.

Social life and community in Porto

Meeting new people in Porto

Porto has a vibrant expat community and offers plenty of ways to meet people. Join expat groups like InterNations or participate in Meetup.com activities, ranging from hiking to language exchanges. Porto also has a welcoming community of French, American, and other international residents.

Entertainment, dining, and nightlife

Porto’s social scene is dynamic, with plenty to offer for entertainment, dining, and nightlife. For a unique dining experience, try traditional Portuguese dishes like francesinha or bacalhau at local restaurants such as Café Santiago or Taberna Santo António. The Ribeira district is a lively spot with riverside cafes and bars, perfect for enjoying a glass of Port wine. For nightlife, the Rúa das Galerias de Paris area comes alive at night with bars and clubs.

Culture and recreation

Porto offers countless opportunities for cultural and recreational activities. Visit the Serralves Museum for contemporary art galleries or enjoy a concert at Casa da Música. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Praia de Matosinhos, a popular beach for surfing, and Parque da Cidade, Portugal’s largest urban park. If you’re a football fan, Porto’s biggest local team, FC Porto, is a major source of pride for residents. During the holiday season, Porto’s Christmas markets and festive decorations bring extra charm to the city.

Working and studying in Porto

Job market

Porto’s job market is growing, particularly in tech, tourism, and the wine industry, making it a key economic hub in the north of Portugal. Major employers include companies like Farfetch and Efacec. Although salaries are generally lower than in other European cities, the cost of living is also more affordable.

For job opportunities, websites like Net-Empregos, LinkedIn, and Expresso Emprego are good resources. Networking through meetups and professional events can also help you find local job openings.

Studying in Porto

The University of Porto is one of Portugal’s top universities, with over 30,000 students. Porto also has several language schools like CIAL and Portuguese Connection, offering courses to help expats learn Portuguese.

Work and study permits

For EU/EEA citizens, no work permit is required to work in Porto, but you’ll need to register as a resident. For non-EU citizens, a work visa is required, which can be applied for at the Portuguese consulate in your home country. There is also a digital nomad visa (D8 visa) for those who will be either self-employed or working for employers located outside of Portugal. Student visas are also available for people studying at local universities.

Other residency permits

If you rely on passive income or are moving with the D7 Visa, a popular option for retirees and remote workers, Porto is a fantastic option, offering a high quality of life at a lower cost than other major European cities. And while Spain is ending its golden visa program, Portugal has simply restructured golden visa requirements, taking the emphasis away from real estate and providing foreigners a way to earn residency by investing in culture-focused and sustainable investment options.

Once you have your visa, you’ll need to register with SEF upon arrival in Portugal. For more details on work or study permits, see Remitly’s guide to moving to Portugal.

Tips for newcomers to Porto

Safety in Porto

Porto is generally safe, with a low crime rate compared to other European cities. However, like any city, stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas like Ribeira or on public transport. Common scams include pickpocketing and rental fraud.

Customs and etiquette

Portuguese people are known for their hospitality, so polite greetings are important. A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and in more casual settings, a kiss on both cheeks is typical. Being punctual for appointments is appreciated, though casual social gatherings tend to be more relaxed about timeliness.

Useful local resources

For everyday living, several apps and websites can make life in Porto easier. Moovit and CP Comboios de Portugal are useful for navigating public transport, while Uber and Bolt offer convenient ride-hailing services. For expat support, Portugalist and Expat.com provide helpful information, and in case of emergencies, the local helpline 112 is the number to call for police, fire, or medical assistance. 

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