Porto is a beautiful destination in Portugal that has gained popularity over the recent years. Though the city has always been well-known, it is now turning into a digital nomad hotspot.
Nomads from all over the world have been compelled by its pleasant weather, affordable cost of living, European charm, and much more. However, there is so much more to this city than meets the eye.
Let’s delve into this subject and explore what it’s like to live in Porto as a digital nomad.
Where is Porto located?
Located in Portugal, Porto lies along the Douro River Estuary. It is also one of the oldest European cities.
Fact: Did you know that Porto has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Why Choose Porto as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
This city is becoming famous at a fast rate but it still has some flaws. Let’s delve into Porto’s pros and cons to see if this vibrant city is the right place for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable cost of living | Paperwork upon arrival |
| Welcoming local community | touristy crowds |
| Mild climate | |
| Attractive option | |
| Beautiful country | |
| European charm | |
| Reliable internet |
In addition to these, Porto also has a vibrant culture and friendly locals. You’ll feel right at home and blend in! There are also a lot of cultural events and recreational activities so you can spend time enjoying festivals and events.
How to Get to Porto?
You can get to Porto in multiple ways.
By air
Travelling via aeroplane is one of the easiest ways, especially if you are travelling from abroad. You can get direct flights or connecting flights to land at The Aeroporto de Portela (LIS), also known as the Lisbon airport. It is fairly near to the city centre so you won’t face much problem getting to your desired location.
By car
You can also get to Porto by car. However, this option is only viable if you are in the Iberian peninsula. Car travel is a great option because it provides freedom of movement. You can make as many stops as you prefer and travel at your own pace.
By train
For those of you who are already in Portugal, travelling by train is a great option. You can travel between cities and you can even get a train from Spain. While this form of transport is slow, it is highly recommended for the sake of experience.
Transportation and How to Get Around Porto?
When it comes to transportation in Lisbon, there are plenty of options.
On foot
One of the best ways to get around this city is on foot! You get to explore the beautiful architecture and admire Porto’s beauty. While it’s quite hilly, you won’t feel it at all.
Metro
Much like any other place, the metro is affordable in Porto as well. Not only is it convenient and accessible but comfortable as well. You can reach your desired location quickly and save money as well.
Tram network
You can also access the city’s tram network to get around. The tickets are surprisingly budget-friendly and this mode of transport is convenient as well. Tram networks are also good because you can see all the beautiful sights while travelling.
Buses
Usually, Buses are a commonly used way of transport but Porto’s network is quite slow. While you can travel via buses, make sure to remember that they are not the most reliable.
Ubers
Luckily, Ubers are easily and widely available in Porto. You can simply download the app and get rides to your preferred location at your preferred time. Since Uber is a reputable name, it’s certainly safer than some other forms of public transportation.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Porto
Even though Porto is a small city, there are plenty of good and diverse areas to choose from.
Cedofeita
If you want to live in a trendy and hip area, consider seeking residence in Cedofeita. This neighbourhood is a creative hub that is home to a big digital nomad community. You’ll find a bunch of cute coffee shops, trendy stores, and artsy businesses here. It’s a good option for innovative digital nomads and remote workers.
Ribeira
Ribeira is another good place for digital nomads in Porto. Located in downtown Porto, this neighbourhood lies right along the Douro River. Ribeira has a tangible charm, complete with stunning cobbled streets and colourful houses. If nothing else, you’ll certainly enjoy the beautiful landscapes of this area.
Baixa
Baixa is one of the most popular and preferred neighbourhoods in the city. Located in the heart of Porto, this area experiences a bustling and lively atmosphere. However, it can get pretty crowded and noisy during peak season.
Internet Connectivity in Porto
Remote workers would be happy to learn that they can keep a healthy work-life balance in Porto, thanks to high-speed internet and good coverage. Portugal has a median download speed of 173.57 and an average download speed of 106.53 which is excellent for remote work.
You can ensure extra reliability by purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. There are a bunch of good providers in the city and most offer affordable packages. In addition to that, most cafes, local restaurants, and coworking spaces offer free wifi as well.
E sim
If you don’t like the hassle of a physical SIM card, then consider opting for Esims. They are a reliable and efficient alternative.
Make sure to compare these data packages before you make a decision.
Holafly
| Data Package | Availability | Prices |
| unlimited | 7 days | 29.00$ |
| unlimited | 15 days | 37.00$ |
| unlimited | 10 days | 51.00$ |
| unlimited | 20 days | 62.00$ |
| unlimited | 30 days | 75.00$ |
Airalo
| Data Packages | Availability | Prices |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 10.00$ |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 17.00$ |
3 Best Places to Work from in Porto
Another good thing for digital nomads is that Porto has numerous co-working spaces. Some of the best options include the following.
Synergy Coworking
Synergy Coworking is undoubtedly one of the best coworking spaces in the city. They provide various facilities including but not limited to podcasting rooms, 3D printers, and recording studios. You can let your creative juices flow here and have a productive work day. You’ll certainly enjoy their pet-friendly environment.
Porto i/o
Porto i/o is another great option for coworking in Porto. Their bright and modern interior promotes productivity; meanwhile, their amazing working environment makes remote work easy. They also offer complimentary tea and coffee to accommodate dedicated workers! It’s also a good place to network with fellow nomads and interact with like-minded individuals.
CRU creative hub
If you want to experience an innovative working environment and a great atmosphere then CRU creative hub is the perfect place for you. Not only do they have great memberships but they also have a convenient location. You can work here for hours and enjoy facilities such as private offices, meeting rooms, Skype rooms, and ping-pong tables.
Cost of Living in Porto
Porto is known for its affordable cost of living. It’s one of the reasons why it’s becoming a digital nomad hotspot. This city offers a range of facilities and a high quality of life but it costs way less than other digital nomad destinations. Here’s a rough breakdown of general prices in Porto, Portugal.
| Meal | 7.89$ |
| Beer | 2.26$ |
| Utilities | 125.05$ |
| Coffee | 1.78$ |
| Internet | 36.10$ |
| Rent (One-bedroom apartment in the city centre) | 754$ |
| Transport | 1.58$ |
As you can see, Porto is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Porto
Porto is a beautiful blend of a lively environment and rich culture. Portuguese culture is celebrated throughout this city and depicted in local traditions. The locals are friendly and they appreciate local culture via different festivities and events. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and feel right at home.
As for nature, the beautiful city is simply abundant with it. Nature lovers would be glad to learn that there is a lot of natural beauty in Porto. From beautiful beaches and cool waters to scenic landscapes and stunning views, this city has it all. There is also a wide scope for outdoor activities.
Portuguese food is one of the most delicious cuisines so make sure to try traditional recipes during your time here. There are a lot of good restaurants, coffee shops, and street food vendors in the city that offer flavourful local cuisine.
Best Time to Visit Porto
Porto has mild weather all year round which means you can visit at any time and expect to have a good time!
Even though Porto’s location puts it in a subtropical climate, its geography (Northern Hemisphere) changes the temperatures a lot. Porto can get chilly in winter months so visitors should expect heavy winds. This slight change improves the weather and attracts more tourists.
Southern Portugal cities do not experience a rainy season. Summer months are as dry as it gets. However, Porto has rainfall between October and May.
Apart from that, the best time to visit depends on your taste. Summer months are a good time to visit as they are a good time to explore the city. You can also engage in outdoor activities, participate in water sports, and enjoy the beach.
12 Best Things to Do in Porto
One thing about Lagos is that there’s plenty to do. Make sure to do these 12 things during your time in the city.
1. Tour the city
One of the first and most important things to do in Porto is touring the city properly! Since this city is filled with tourist attractions and popular destinations, guided tours can ensure that you don’t miss anything. While you can tour at your own pace, exploring with like-minded people might end up being more fun. In addition, guides can provide essential information as well.
2. Try the local cuisine
Another great thing to do in Portos is try their local cuisine. Portuguese food is not simply delicious, it’s overly flavorful and rich as well. Since there are a plethora of good restaurants and coffee shops in the city, make sure to try everything you possibly can. From traditional recipes to newer dishes, Porto excels at all.
3. Climb the Arrabida Bridge
If you want to engage in an adventurous and unique activity then climb the infamous Arrabida Bridge. Not only will you experience an unforgettable time but also see unparalleled views from the top. You can even sign up for guided climbs.
4. Enjoy the nightlife
Porto happens to have a very vibrant community and amazing nightlife. If you are looking for a fun experience, visit the unique bars and clubs in the city. A range of nightlife activities are available, filled with entertainment, live music, delicious traditional food, and a bustling environment.
5. Wake surfing
Another great activity in Porto is Wake surfing. You can sign up for professional classes and enjoy this refreshing water activity. It’s certainly a great way of dealing with the summer heat.
6. Visit the temples
Porto is home to a variety of temples, each historically and culturally significant. When you are in the city, make sure to visit the famous temples and admire their beauty. The stunning temples, located all over the city, have mesmerising architecture and great value attached to them. Make sure to visit the following.
- Soul temple
- Bud temple
- Porto Cathedral
7. Visit the Art galleries
If you are an art admirer then Porto is the perfect place for you. This city is home to numerous art galleries that perfectly portray Portugal’s unique culture. Some of the best options include:
- Bairro das Artes
- Nuno Centeno Gallery
- Galeria Municipal do Porto
- Ó! Galeria
8. Attend the cultural festivities
If you happen to be in the city at the same time as some famous cultural festival, celebration, or activity, make sure to attend it and network with the locals. Portos has a beautiful and vibrant culture that can elevate your spirits and improve your trip. Some of the best festivities include Festa de São João and Queima das Fitas’ in Porto.
9. Visit the Museums
If you are a history enthusiast then make sure to visit the historical museums in Porto and learn about its rich history. This city houses multiple museums but some of the best options include:
- World of Discoveries
- Casa do Infante
- FC Porto museum
10. Visit the Bolsa Palace
Bolsa Palace is one of the best historical sites in the city. This 19th century building is a sight to behold so make sure to visit it and admire the architecture. Visitors especially enjoy its neoclassical interior.
11. Take a day trip
Once you are done exploring most of the city, consider taking a day trip and visiting nearby touristy areas. Porto has a very convenient location which puts it only a short distance away from other great destinations. You can rent a car, get on a bus, or travel via train to explore other beauties of Portugal.
12. Meet the digital nomad community
When you are in Porto (or any other popular digital nomad destination, for that matter) make sure to connect with the digital nomad community there. You can form lifelong connections and feel a sense of community while being away from home. Porto has a thriving digital nomad community that can be found via Facebook groups, WhatsApp groups, local events, etc.
Is Porto safe?
Yes, Porto is a safe city overall (especially for tourists and foreigners). While petty crimes such as pocket-picking and tourist scams are not unheard of, they are rare and unlikely. The low crime rate and presence of friendly locals make Porto a great place for solo travellers. As long as you stay vigilant, you are likely to find it safer than other European countries and major cities.
All in all, you can travel alone with ease of mind and expect to have a safe trip. However, if you encounter any criminal activity or feel threatened, make sure to report it at your earliest convenience. The local authorities are efficient, reliable, and helpful in this city.
As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighbourhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Porto
Portugal started offering a digital nomad visa in 2022 which makes it easy for freelancers, remote workers, and nomads to settle here. Since the country is a part of the Schengen area, European Union citizens can enter without a visa. They can also live, work, and settle here without any legal procedures or formalities.
As non-EU citizens, they can easily obtain the Portugal digital nomad visa if they fulfil a certain set of eligibility requirements.
US and Canadians are allowed to stay in the country for 90 days without a visa but if they plan to stay longer, working visas or a digital nomad visa will need to be acquired.
Here are some basic visa requirements for a Portugal digital nomad visa:
- Minimum age requirement of 18
- Minimum income requirement of 3548 euros
- Employment contract (freelance or remote)
- Proof of residency/ secure accommodation
- Must not be an EU/EEA citizen
Conclusion
Porto is a land of good weather and amazing people. If these two things aren’t quite enough to push you over the edge, then you’ll be happy to learn that this city is a popular digital nomad hotspot!
Porto, Portugal, offers everything a remote worker dreams about low cost of living, wide scope of activities, tons of cafes, coworking spaces, and most importantly, that vibrant culture.
Reading this comprehensive guide, did you like the idea of living in Porto as a digital nomad? If your answer is yes, we wish you good luck on your adventure. If you have any further queries, feel free to ask.
Did You Like This Porto Guide For Digital Nomads?
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