Our list of top tips for remote workers in Porto is meant to be helpful to those coming to the city for the first time and those looking for some inside pointers on how to manage this popular destination. A positive aspect of life in Porto is certainly that there is an existing community of international individuals, meaning you shouldn’t ever be too far from sources of support and advice in the city.
Some general tips from other who have worked remotely here include wearing comfortable walking shoes to deal with the city’s hilly streets, and to be vigilant in terms of your belongings when it comes to popular touristic areas. If it is your first time in Porto, it could also be a good idea to take your time to experience several of the city’s neighborhoods before settling in one definitively.
Below, we outline some further popular tips for remote workers in Porto.
This is a hugely important tip for remote workers in Porto and any major destination popular among digital nomads. The international community may not be as large here as it is in Lisbon, but Porto is still popular among expats remote workers looking for a more relaxed alternative to Portugal’s capital. Many communities in Porto, including language exchanges and art groups are likely to provide you with useful skills to manage life in the city and meet other locals and foreigners alike. Knowing other people around town will give you a welcome sense of belonging as you settle in, and give you access to local sources of support and advice.
Learning at least some of the local language is always a good idea for slow travelers. Being able to understand and speak some Portuguese will give you the confidence to visit the city’s bustling markets and the skills to deal with any complicated situations that may arise during your stay. Furthermore, there are lots of opportunities to learn here - international communities, coworking and coliving spaces, and language exchanges are all likely to provide you with a chance to improve your Portuguese language skills. If you’re serious about learning the language well then joining a local school is likely to be the best option - Inlingua and Oficina de Portugues are established schools in the city.
Without a doubt, enjoying the local beaches will be a popular activity among all visitors. The coast is within easy reach from all parts of the city and visiting it is one of our top tips for remote workers in Porto looking to relax and see some of the city’s natural beauties. Indeed, the beaches around the Foz do Douro neighborhood are known for being filled with cool beach cafes, bars and upscale restaurants meaning you are also likely to find places to work from close to the water. Surfing is also extremely popular in Porto and there are opportunities to take part here for experts and beginners alike. Praia dos Ingleses and Praia Matosinhos are among Porto’s most popular beaches.
For more information about living in Porto as a remote worker, check out our complete Porto guide.