Best Neighbourhoods for Americans Ex-Pats in Porto

You now know where to live in Portugal, and you saw some of the best neighbourhoods in Lisbon, but now it’s time to focus entirely on Porto. It is very diverse and multicultural as a student city, making it an excellent choice for any foreign visitor. Below are just a few of the best neighbourhoods for Americans in Porto.

Popular with students and artists alike, this district has two main selling points: the affordability of rentals and the place's vibrant culture. With artsy cafés, theatres, and clubs, this place is bustling with life, making it an exciting place to live (though not a calm one). It should be no surprise then that this district has attracted many people from all over the world, including the US. If you like city districts that have an alternative side, this is the place for you.

Indeed, a more historical district, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an excellent pick for any visitor of Porto. Its small and crooked medieval streets with the towering cathedral called the Se all give this district a unique atmosphere that attracts people worldwide. As such, it provides a lot of entertainment, especially if you enjoy going to wine bars and spending some time along the quiet riverside.

Foz do Douro is one of the prime locations in Porto. With a view towards the Atlantic Ocean, the district has moved past its roots as a small fishing village and has become home to Porto’s upper class. But the price reflects the services and opportunities it offers. Not only will you be surrounded by splendid historical architecture, and you will have access to beautiful beaches and promenades, but the district is also home to the Oporto British school, making it an excellent place for English speaking families. This district has pretty much everything Porto has to offer.

This often-overlooked district should be on your radar when looking for rentals in Porto. Many people dismiss it as not part of the city since it is on the other side of the river, but this is nonsense. Vila Nova da Gaia is a beautiful district with affordable property prices, over sixty port wine cellars, beautiful beaches like Praia da Madalena and tons more. Even though you’ll have to commute to the rest of the city for work and some services, there will also be a lot that will be just around the corner from your home. If you are looking for something unique and affordable, Vila Nova da Gaia is the place for you.