Portugal's second-largest city, Porto, is becoming more and more popular among digital nomads. Famous for its riverside views, port wine, and historical architecture, Porto offers an affordable and inspiring European experience.
With fast, reliable internet, a thriving coworking scene, and a growing expat community, it’s an ideal destination for remote workers from around the world who look to experience a more relaxed pace of life compared to Lisbon.
- Why Porto?
- Best time to visit
- Visas
- Accommodation
- Cost of living
- Itineraries
- Coworking spaces
- Public places for remote work
- Must-try dishes
- Transportation
- Essential services
- Top activities
- Networking
- Best neighborhoods
- Top places to visit
- Tips for digital nomads
- Basic phrases in Portuguese
- FAQs
- Other Useful Information
This guide offers the essential information you need to settle in the city as a digital nomad, including coworking spaces, practical tips, accommodation for rent in Porto, and more.
Why Porto?
Porto is a city that blends modern conveniences and old-world charm. Located along the Douro River, it’s famous for its historic buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful sunsets.
The city offers an excellent balance between leisure and work, with a slower pace when compared to Lisbon but still lots of activities to keep you entertained and engaged.
Porto is more affordable than the capital, making it an excellent place for nomads on a budget. What’s more, its coastal location means you’re always close to beautiful beaches, which are perfect for unwinding after work.
Best time to visit Porto
Porto has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year:
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant and warm, with temperatures typically between 15°C and 22°C. Suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Summer (June to August): Dry and hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching up to 30°C. It’s the busiest time for tourists, and the beaches are great for cooling off.
- Fall (September to November): Cooler but still comfortable (15°C to 25°C). Fewer tourists means it’s a good time to visit for those who prefer less crowded places.
- Winter (December to February): Rainy and mild, with temperatures about 10°C to 15°C. It’s a cozy time to explore Porto's indoor attractions and cafes.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, we suggest you visit the city in fall or spring.
Source: Photo by Everaldo Coelho on Unsplash
Visas
Portugal is in the Schengen Area, so your visa requirements depend on the purpose and length of your visit and your nationality:
- Schengen visa: Non-EU citizens are allowed to stay in Portugal (and other Schengen member countries) for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa.
- Digital nomad visa: Portugal has introduced a digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to live and work legally in the country for up to a year. Applicants are required to show proof of income and remote work.
- D7 visa: A popular visa for remote workers and freelancers, allowing for longer stays. It’s primarily designed for individuals with a passive income, is valid for two years, and can be renewed.
Make sure to check your visa requirements depending on your country of origin.
Accommodation in Porto
Finding accommodation to rent in Porto is relatively fast and easy, with options that range from long-term leases to short-term rentals. The cost of living in Porto is lower than in the capital, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious digital nomads.
Accommodation types
- Short-term rentals: Suitable for those nomads who plan to stay for a couple of weeks or months. Look for fully furnished studios or apartments in central neighborhoods.
- Long-term rentals: Ideal for those who intend to stay six months or longer. Options include modern apartments and traditional Portuguese flats.
- Co-living spaces: Co-living is increasing in popularity in Porto, offering a community-focused experience with shared living areas and workspaces.
Rent prices in Porto
Rent prices are more affordable in Porto than in Lisbon, but they vary based on the neighborhood:
- Shared apartments: €300-€600 a month.
- Studio apartments: €600-€800 a month.
- One-bedroom apartments: €700-€1,000 a month.
- Two-bedroom apartments: €1,000-€1,500 a month.
The most expensive neighborhoods include Foz do Douro and Ribeira, while areas such as Bonfim and Cedofeita offer more affordable stays.
Flatio: Flexible, deposit-free stays in Porto
Are you looking for flexible, reasonably priced, and deposit-free accommodations to rent in Porto? Take a look at the listings on Flatio and we believe you will find a suitable accommodation in the city center of Porto and beyond.
Source: Photo by Nick Karvounis on Unsplash
Cost of living in Porto
Porto is regarded as one of the most affordable destinations in Western Europe. Here’s an estimate of monthly living expenses that you can expect as a digital nomad:
- Accommodation:€600-€1,200
- Food & groceries: €250-€400
- Transportation:€35-€45 (monthly pass)
- Coworking spaces:€100-€200
- Leisure & miscellaneous: €100-€300
With a monthly budget of about €1,200-€2,000, you can live and work in Porto comfortably.
Itineraries
3 days
- Day 1: Visit the Dom Luís I Bridge, explore the historic Ribeira district, and take a cruise on the Douro.
- Day 2: Go to the Clérigos Tower, visit the Livraria Lello bookstore, and walk around Bolhão Market.
- Day 3: Enjoy a tour of a Port Wine Cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia, and watch the sunset at Foz do Douro.
1 week
- Days 1-3: Follow the 3-day itinerary.
- Day 4: Go on a day trip to Matosinhos beach for relaxing by the sea or surfing.
- Day 5: Explore the Crystal Palace Gardens, and visit the Palácio da Bolsa.
- Day 6: Travel by train to Guimarães and Braga to discover historical towns.
- Day 7: Walk through Serralves Park and explore the Serralves Museum of Contemporary Art.
1 month
- Week 1: Settle in by exploring Porto’s central attractions, like the Ribeira, Clérigos Tower, and Bolhão Market.
- Week 2: Take day trips to nearby cities like Braga, Aveiro, or Guimarães.
- Week 3: Explore Porto’s coast, which includes Matosinhos and Foz do Douro.
- Week 4: Get a taste of Porto’s cultural scene by visiting local galleries or attending a concert.
3 months
- Month 1: Explore the city’s main sights and learn more about the local neighborhoods.
- Month 2: Focus on creative work or personal projects, and take regular day trips to nearby areas like Douro Valley or Gerês National Park.
- Month 3: Improve your Portuguese, Join local events, and connect with fellow digital nomads.
Are you curious to find out more about Portugal?
On our website you can explore a range of topics related to Portugal, including:
- Portugal weather
- Portugal education system
- Portugal accommodation
- Portugal renting tips
- Portugal tax
- Portugal things to do
- Portugal best places
- Portugal cost of living
- Portugal advice
- Portugal FAQs
- Portugal visas
- Portugal residency
Coworking spaces
Porto’s coworking scene is developing and growing fast, offering a wide and diverse range of spaces for startups, freelancers, and digital nomads.
- Porto i/o: A popular coworking brand with several locations in the city. Their Downtown and Ribeira spaces are great for those who want to work close to the city's historic center.
- Selina Navis Cowork: Located near the Douro River, this space is part of the Selina hostel chain and is suitable for nomads who want to combine travel and work.
- CRU Cowork: A creative space in the Cedofeita neighborhood, which offers workspaces for freelancers in the design, arts, and technology industries.
- Typographia Cowork: A coworking space with a strong community vibe, located in the heart of the city, close to Clérigos Tower.
Source: Photo by Eugene Zhyvchik on Unsplash
Public places for remote work
If you want to work from a public place or a café, Porto has some great options:
- Cafés:
- Combi Coffee Roasters: A trendy café that serves excellent coffee and offers fast, free Wi-Fi and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Mesa 325: A cozy space for remote work in the Bonfim district, with great coffee and a spacious layout.
- Café Progresso: Porto's oldest café, which offers free Wi-Fi and a productive, calm atmosphere.
- Libraries:
- Biblioteca Municipal Almeida Garrett: Located in Palácio de Cristal gardens, this library provides visitors with free Wi-Fi and peaceful workspaces.
- Biblioteca Pública Municipal do Porto: A historical library featuring free internet access and a quiet reading room.
Must-try dishes in Porto
Portuguese cuisine is varied and delicious, and Porto has its unique dishes that you must try:
- Francesinha: A hearty sandwich that’s filled with layers of sausage, ham, and steak. It’s topped with melted cheese and served with a spicy tomato sauce.
- Tripas à Moda do Porto: A traditional Porto dish that’s made from beans, tripe, and different kinds of meats. It's an acquired taste!
- Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá: A local variation of Portugal’s well-known codfish dish, which is made with onions, potatoes, and olives.
- Bolinhos de Bacalhau: Tasty codfish fritters, which is typically served as an appetizer.
- Pastéis de Nata: While this world-famous pastry is not specific to Porto, it’s a must-try across Portugal.
Transportation in Porto
Porto has a well-developed, reliable public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around the city.
- Metro: The Porto Metro is quite affordable and efficient, which covers most parts of the city and nearby areas.
- Trams & buses: Porto’s historic trams are a convenient, fun way to explore the city, while buses provide good coverage for neighborhoods not served by the metro.
- Walking: Porto’s compact layout makes it very easy to discover the city on foot, although some areas are quite hilly.
- Taxis & ride-sharing: Taxis are widely and readily available, and ride-sharing apps are a very convenient option.
- Bicycles: Porto is becoming a more bike-friendly destination, with dedicated bike rentals and lanes available through various services.
Essential services
Porto is a modern city that offers all the essential services you may need as a digital nomad:
- Healthcare: Portugal’s healthcare system is reliable, with both private and public options available. Private healthcare is preferred by many expats due to shorter waiting times.
- SIM cards: You can buy a local SIM card at any mobile store. Plans usually cost about €10-€15 for 30 days of data.
- Post offices: Porto has many post offices for mailing packages or letters, with central locations such as Cordoaria being very convenient.
Top activities
Porto has a wide, diverse range of activities to engage in during your downtime:
- River cruise: Enjoy a boat tour along the Douro River and experience stunning views of Porto’s famous bridges.
- Port wine cellar tour: Visit the famous wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia and learn about Porto’s well-known export, which is port wine.
- Livraria Lello: One of the world’s most beautiful bookstores, which is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s vision of Hogwarts.
- Foz do Douro: Take a stroll along the coastline, relax by the sea, and enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- São Bento Station: Visit this stunning train station, which is famous for its intricate azulejo (tile) panels that depicts historical scenes.
- Clérigos Tower: Climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Networking
Porto’s digital nomad community is growing, and there are various ways to meet and connect with like-minded people:
- Coworking events: Many coworking spaces, such as Selina and Porto i/o, host regular networking events, social gatherings, and workshops.
- Meetups: Join digital nomad meetups, professional workshops, or language exchanges through platforms such as Facebook groups and Meetup.com.
- Expats Porto: A popular Facebook group catering to expatriates who live in Porto, where you can find events, ask questions, and connect with the community.
Best neighborhoods
Porto’s neighborhoods each have something unique to offer. These are some of the best areas to consider:
- Ribeira: The historic center of Porto, near the river and many of the main attractions. It’s more touristy than other areas, but incredibly scenic.
- Cedofeita: A trendy neighborhood featuring a creative vibe, art galleries, and independent shops. Popular among nomads and expats.
- Foz do Douro: For those who want to be by the sea, this upscale neighborhood provides beach access and amazing waterfront views.
- Bonfim: A hip area that has grown in popularity because of its affordable rental prices and growing number of coworking spaces and cafés.
- Vila Nova de Gaia: Located across the river from Porto, Gaia is a quieter area and home to many of the port wine cellars.
Interested in learning more about other destinations in Portugal?
On our website you will find travel guides and information about destinations in Portugal beyond Lisbon, including:
Top places to visit in Porto
While working remotely in Porto, make time to explore some of these major attractions:
- Dom Luís I Bridge: Walk across this double-deck bridge for picturesque views of the river and the city.
- Palácio da Bolsa: A historic building characterized by beautiful architecture, which offers guided tours.
- Serralves Museum: One of the most significant contemporary art museums in Portugal, which is set within lush gardens.
- São Francisco Church: Famous for its intricate Baroque interior that’s covered in gold leaf.
- Crystal Palace Gardens: Enjoy peaceful walks through these refreshing gardens with nice views over the Douro River.
- Casa da Música: A concert hall and an architectural marvel, offering a range of musical performances.
Source: Photo by Rui Alves on Unsplash
Tips for digital nomads
- Language: Many people speak English in Porto, particularly in tourist areas. However, learning basic Portuguese is always helpful and appreciated.
- Weather: Porto may get quite rainy in winter. Remember to bring waterproof clothing. Summers are warm and ideal for beach visits.
- Currency: Portugal uses the Euro (€), and most shops and places accept credit cards, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
- Safety: Porto is a generally safe city, but like anywhere, you have to be cautious in crowded areas.
- Electricity: Portugal uses Type C and F plugs with a standard voltage of 230V.
Basic phrases in Portuguese
It’s helpful to learn a few phrases in Portuguese, and it’s appreciated by locals:
- Olá! – Hello
- Bom dia! – Good morning
- Obrigado/Obrigada – Thank you (male/female)
- Por favor – Please
- Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
- Onde é o metro? – Where is the metro?
- Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?
FAQs
- Do I need to speak Portuguese to be able to live in Porto?
No, English is widely spoken in Porto, but learning some basic Portuguese will definitely enhance your experience. - Is Porto an affordable city for digital nomads?
Yes, Porto is more affordable than Portugal’s capital, and you can comfortably live in the city on a monthly budget of €1,200-€2,000 a month. - What is the weather like in Porto?
Porto has warm, sunny summers and mild winters with some rain. The best time to visit Porto is from late spring to early fall. - Can I work remotely in Porto with a tourist visa?
Yes, for short stays (up to 90 days), you are allowed to work remotely in Porto with a Schengen tourist visa. For longer stays, you can apply for the Portuguese digital nomad visa.
Other Useful Information
- Time zone: Western European Time (WET), GMT+0. Remember that daylight saving time moves this to GMT+1 in the summer.
- Currency: Euro (€).
- Tipping: Tipping 5-10% is appreciated in restaurants, but it’s not mandatory.
- Emergency number: For emergency services, call 112.
- Electricity: Porto uses Type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V.
Find perfect apartments for rent in Portugal
Flatio: Rental accommodation in Porto
Why choose Flatio to rent accommodation in Porto? Discover the unique features that make us the perfect choice:
- Flexible, reasonably priced, remote work-friendly stays (from days to months)
- Wide range of accommodation options (rooms, apartments, houses, etc.)
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included
- Visa-friendly lease agreements
- Online signing of lease agreement
- Renting directly from hosts
- No deposit required for stays under 180 days (unless required by local laws)
- Balanced lease agreement, translated into multiple languages
- Very attractive cancelation policy
- StayProtection for Tenants: assistance with emergencies and accidental property damage
- Move-in Guarantee with a 24/7 emergency line
- 100% money protection
- Support team available every day of the week
- No hidden fees
- Secure and simple payment system, including Bitcoin option
Cover Image Source: Photo by ♂ L.Filipe C.Sousa© ꆜꆜ on Unsplash
