Porto is Portugal’s second largest city, a place where history and culture blend seamlessly with modern comfort. From its cobblestone streets to its Medieval churches and colorful, azulejo buildings, the city exudes charm and vitality. Though traditionally overshadowed by Lisbon, in recent years the city has become a hotspot for tourists, retirees, and digital nomads. So whether you’re searching for adventure or just a warm spot to settle down, this short guide will help make the transition to the “Unvanquished City” as seamless as possible, with valuable tips for navigating the challenges and opportunities of living in Porto. 
According to the EF (Education First) English Proficiency Index, Porto is the best English-speaking city in Portugal. But while English is common in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, most residents prefer Portuguese. Porto is a tolerant, welcoming community. People are happy to converse in English, however learning the native language will help you fit in and make friends with locals.
Porto attracts people from all over the world, including Brazil, Turkey, Ireland, Italy, and the United States. Settling into a new country takes time, but connecting with other expats helps get the ball rolling faster. They not only provide a familiar social environment; they can also give you practical advice on housing, healthcare, and the other everyday necessities you’ll need to adjust to life in Portugal.
Porto is situated on the Atlantic Coast, near the mouth of the Duro River. It enjoys around 2,500 hours of sunshine every year, roughly 220 days. Just a short distance from the city center you’ll find miles of golden, sandy beaches with seagrass, crashing waves, and wide, panoramic views of the cliffs, hills, and ocean.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can surf, kayak, and sail through the shimmering blue water. Summer temperatures can reach close to 90°F, though the average is somewhere around 76°F. After you’re done splashing around and working on your tan, relax at one of the bars, boardwalks, and restaurants in Portugal’s coastal villages.
Thanks to Porto’s excellent public transit system, a car is more of an encumbrance than a convenience. There are six metro lines and 81 stations providing fast, convenient access to every part of the city. For shorter trips, hop on a tram or take the bus, but be warned. Porto’s bus drivers aren’t afraid to step on the gas if it might save a few minutes. Though it’s a change of pace for most new arrivals, it won’t be long before you take it in stride.
If you’re traveling from the waterfront to the top of the city, consider purchasing a ticket for the Funicular dos Guindais, a cable railway that takes riders up a 922-foot cliff at a 61 percent incline. Not for the faint of heart, but a thrilling experience that offers a stunning overview of the Duro River and Porto’s historic landscape.
Before deciding on a place to live, most experts recommend you spend a few weeks at a hotel, getting to know the city. Porto is full of colorful communities, each with its own particular flavor. Once you’ve got a feel for the neighborhoods, you’ll know which one is the best fit for you. The most sought after homes are normally located along the riverfront or near the city center, which make them a good place to start. These include:
Competition for homes and apartments has been raising housing costs throughout the city. New arrivals should consider hiring a real estate agent to help them find an affordable place in a neighborhood they’re comfortable with.
Porto is paradise for food lovers. Traditional Portuguese recipes center around stews, sandwiches, and fresh shellfish. It also features a wide range of pastries and desserts. According to diners, must-try dishes include:
In addition to its food, Porto is also renowned for its fortified wine, simply called “Port.” Sweet and smooth, it rose to prominence during the Napoleonic Wars, when French wineries were forbidden from shipping their products overseas, and remains one of the country's biggest exports.
Besides leading the field in culinary arts, Porto is one of the cultural capitals of Europe, home to some of the most creative institutions on the continent, including:
But you don’t have to visit the theater to experience the depth and variety of the region’s culture. Porto holds regular public festivals, such as the Serralves em Festa, a massive celebration of dance, music, and theater, which even includes live circus performances! Another, the Festa de São João do Porto honors John the Baptist. An annual tradition for over six centuries, participants light bonfires, stage concerts in public parks and squares, release paper lanterns into the sky, and bop each other on the head with toy mallets.
While its prices have been trending up for the past few years, Porto remains one of the most affordable cities in Western Europe. Residents pay relatively little for basic services such as water, electricity, and internet. Medical care is also affordable, thanks to Portugal’s national health system, which is open to both citizens and foreigners. Rent and housing are less costly as well, though the steady stream of expats has led to increased competition in the city’s most desirable neighborhoods. But no matter where you choose to live, money goes further here, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on a smaller income.
Starting over in a new country is an adventure, but it isn’t always easy. Fortunately, with the right team behind you, getting there is a simple and straightforward process. Allied Van Lines helps every step of the way. Our agents not only coordinate shipping and delivery, but guide you through customs regulations as well, making sure the right forms are filed with the right agencies, to help everything run smoothly from start to finish. We do the heavy lifting, leaving you free to focus on the destination. Contact us today for a free quote!
