A City You Just Have to Experience

Why Porto?

When Chuck and I first began exploring the idea of moving to Europe, we quickly realized that our options were more focused than endless. But as it turns out, that clarity led us straight to one incredible country—Portugal. Why Portugal? Well, navigating European visas as Americans can be a bit complex without a job offer in hand, substantial overseas investments, or familial sponsorship. But even with those factors in play, Portugal stood out to us in the best way.

For “people like us” (translation: responsibly saved, planning ahead for retirement, but not exactly Scrooge McDuckies), Portugal felt approachable, relatable, and genuinely welcoming. The D7 visa presented itself as a practical and exciting doorway to a new adventure—creating a path that felt uniquely suited to our situation. And honestly, the more we learned about Portugal, the more we connected with its people, culture, and livable vibe. It felt like the perfect match.

Our family vacation to Portugal in August 2024 wasn’t initially meant to be part of our “let’s uproot our lives” plan. It had been booked before our dual job losses from Nike earlier that spring (Chuck had a hunch we’d want to scope Portugal out—not just as tourists but as potential future residents). But it was during that vacation that our decision-making process gained clarity.

We arrived in Lisbon, and worked our way north, exploring smaller gems like Cascais, Coimbra, Aveiro, and Leiria, along the way. These cities were chosen partly because of their proximity to international schools for our son, Nicklas. By the time we reached Porto, with just three days to explore (including a day trip to Braga and Guimarães), we were exhausted but captivated. Porto’s hills, stunning views, and the Douro River left a mark. Still, I’ll admit—despite loving Portugal, we weren’t instantly sold on moving here.

But once we got home, we couldn’t get it out of our heads. After countless chats (each over a glass—or three—of Port wine), we made the call: Portugal was it. And Porto just clicked in as the city of choice. Like love at first sip.

Porto: A Gritty Gem

I call Porto a “gritty city”—not in a bad way. At first glance, it can seem weathered—its age showing in ways that might be mistaken for neglect. But look closer, and you’ll find its soul: a stunning mix of history, culture, and modern charm. It’s old, sometimes feels a little rough around the edges, but that’s just the surface. Beneath, there’s a vibrant, historic, and beautifully chaotic charm that’s uniquely Porto. It’s picturesque, yes, but not in a postcard-perfect way. It’s real. And the more time you spend here, the more it reveals itself, and its magical allure.

Top Reasons Americans (Like Us!) Move to Porto

It’s no secret that Portugal has captured the attention of Americans—whether retirees, digital nomads, or families with kids still in school, like us. Here’s why:

1. Affordable Cost of Living
Portugal is way easier on the wallet compared to the U.S., especially if you’re used to that West Coast “$10 latte and $22 burger” life (yep, still bitter about it). Housing, healthcare, and daily expenses are so much more affordable here. Whether you’re renting a cute apartment in Porto or grabbing a bite at a cozy local café, your money stretches a lot further.

That said, it’s good to keep Portugal’s economic reality in mind. While the cost of living might feel like a steal for expats, many locals face lower wages and financial struggles. What’s cheap for us might not be for them. So maybe skip the loud, “Wow, it’s so cheap here!” remarks. A little mindfulness and respect go a long way in connecting with the culture and the people.

2. Residency Visas Made Doable
The D7 visa is a game-changer for those looking to relocate. It offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals seeking to live in Portugal while enjoying the benefits of residency. While the application process can feel a bit tedious at times, it’s absolutely manageable—especially with the right tools and resources at your disposal. One such incredible resource is the Facebook group “Americans and FriendsPT.” This group is a treasure trove of information, with detailed guides that break down the process step-by-step, making it much easier to navigate. The admins of the group truly deserve medals for their dedication and willingness to answer countless questions from members. Their expertise and support are a lifesaver for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork or requirements. If you’re considering the D7 visa, connecting with communities like this can make all the difference.

3. High Quality of Life
Portugal consistently ranks high for its laid-back vibe, safety, and excellent healthcare system, making it an increasingly popular destination for expats and retirees. Porto, in particular, stands out with its unique charm, offering a fantastic mix of vibrant city life, rich history, and easy access to stunning beaches like Matosinhos, known for its golden sands and great surf. The city is packed with colorful architecture, world-renowned wine, and a welcoming community that makes settling in easy. We’ve gladly exchanged Oregon’s endless rainy days for a life filled with more sunshine, a gentler pace, nearly top-tier (and far more affordable) healthcare, and the simple joy of daily walks along the sea. From exploring Porto’s cobblestone streets to enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront, there’s little room for complaints here.

4. Mild Climate
Speaking of sunshine, Porto’s weather is a revelation. The city enjoys mild seasons, with long, sunny days in the summer and cool, crisp winters that are perfect for cozying up with a warm drink in one of its many cafés. Sure, it gets a bit chilly in the winter months, but space heaters or a warm blanket usually do the trick. We live in a small apartment and rely on public transportation in Porto (easy here… the transportation is far-reaching and excellent!), and our little toy poodle needs constant energy-releasing walks, so we’re outside a lot. We haven’t had a single day where we felt too cold (though there was one morning when Oreo the puppy was shivering from the chill on the cobblestone!). We have seen a lot of rain – sometimes torrential! But we love the weather near the ocean, and coming from Portland, Oregon, this is nothing. Unlike Portland in the winter, it rains a lot, but it dries out in between, so you don’t feel “soggy” all the time. An added bonus is that there is about an hour or so more daylight in Porto in the winter than Portland. One little hour makes such a huge difference!

5. Culture and History Everywhere

Porto is a place where history clings to every cobblestone, and culture seems to ooze out of the very air you breathe. It’s the kind of city that blends timeless charm with a playful energy—ancient bridges, iconic tiles, and centuries-old customs somehow coexist with funky street art, local dives, and a population that knows how to have a good time. This is a city that doesn’t just tell you its stories, it makes you live them. You can’t walk five minutes without stumbling across a historic building, a jaw-dropping view of the Douro River, or a ridiculously charming café where you’re basically required to sip a coffee and contemplate how romantic your life has suddenly become. It’s a mix of tradition and liveliness that makes Porto hard not to fall for, and beckons you to stay longer once you’re here.

6. Welcoming Locals
At first, you might find the locals a bit quiet or reserved, especially if you’re used to the smiley, chatty vibe of America, where small talk is everywhere. They might come across as serious at first, but don’t let that fool you—people here are incredibly warm, welcoming, and always happy to lend a hand if you need it. Plus, many of them speak excellent English, so starting a conversation is easy. And if you want to practice your Portuguese, they’ll be super patient and kind, cheering you on as you learn. Take a little time to connect, and you’ll discover a friendly and supportive community just waiting to meet you! And while this is all about the locals, it needs to be mentioned that there is an incredibly helpful and vibrant expat community here, who are eager to reach out, connect, have coffee, and share their experiences, tips, and tricks!

7. Europe at Your Doorstep
Porto’s airport is your gateway to Europe, making travel easy, exciting, and surprisingly affordable. Thanks to a variety of budget airlines, you can snag flights to Paris, Rome, or London for less than the cost of dinner back home. Picture this: a spontaneous weekend getaway to stroll by the Eiffel Tower, marvel at the Colosseum, or experience London’s bustling charm—all without draining your wallet. From iconic landmarks to incredible local cuisines, unforgettable adventures are just a flight away. If you’re in Porto, the world truly is at your fingertips!

Wine Lovers, Uncork!

You can’t talk about Porto without mentioning wine. This city is the gateway to the Douro Valley, a breathtaking region known for its terraced vineyards and home to world-class reds and, of course, the iconic Port wine. While Port isn’t my first love (yet), I’ve come to appreciate it as a delightful mid-day treat or the perfect companion to dessert. Whether you’re sipping it at a cozy cafe or during a riverside tasting session, there’s something magical about enjoying it where it was born. And let’s not forget the affordable, high-quality wines available on practically every corner—bold, flavorful, and often at prices that feel like a steal. It’s a wine lover’s paradise and a place that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about wine. For example… green wine (vinho verde)…? What is that? Well, come on out and taste it for yourself! It’s a real refreshing treat after a long, hot, but amazing stroll through the city streets!

So Many More Reasons!

Here are just a few of the often-overlooked reasons to settle on this side of the Atlantic. And this is only the beginning! There’s a world of surprises waiting, and we’ve barely scratched the surface of what there is to discover.

- The Atlantic, Delivered Fresh to Your Door – Whether you’re a pro surfer (we’re not), a professional beach lounger (that’s more like it!), or just here for the dramatic wave-watching (let’s be honest, who isn’t?), the ocean is always close by and ready to impress.

- Seafood Dreams That You’ll Never Wake From – Grilled sardines, cod a million ways, and tender octopus (confession time—we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s on the “yes, we will do that!” list!)—seafood here isn’t just on the menu, it’s the main event—fresh, flawless, and won’t sink your wallet.

- Solid Excuse for Day-Trip Addicts – Thanks to Portugal’s train system, you can be in a historic village, a gorgeous vineyard, or even Spain by the time you’ve finished your podcast episode.

- Dining as an Art Form – Long dinners and late-night chats over multiple courses aren’t just meals—they’re a full-on lifestyle.

- Fado’s Emotional Rollercoaster – Sure, it’s a little over-the-top with all the heartache, but trust us, sitting in a dim room letting those soulful voices hit you is a memory worth making.

- Tile Your Heart Out – Those blue-and-white azulejos turn every corner into a masterpiece. Bonus points for effortlessly upgrading your Instagram game.

- The Fine Art of Café Loitering – Spending hours sipping espresso as life whirls around you isn’t lazy—it’s a perfectly acceptable activity here (and every café is a front-row seat).

- Small Town Energy, Big City Perks – Porto somehow pulls off this magical mix of intimate, friendly vibes with all the conveniences of a city. It’s like having your cake and eating it too.

Porto is a city that leaves a lasting impression with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. From sipping rich, velvety Port wine in the cellars along the Douro River to admiring the jaw-dropping beauty of its blue-and-white azulejos, every corner seems to spark curiosity. Take in the stunning artistry of São Bento Railway Station, where walls adorned with intricate tilework narrate Portugal’s history, or climb the iconic Clérigos Tower for panoramic views that will take your breath away. The Ribeira district, with its colorful façades and riverside cafés, invites you to soak in the lively atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a place where life slows down—long dinners turn into late-night conversations, and coffee breaks are never rushed. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old architecture, indulging in fresh seafood by the Atlantic, or hopping on a train for a spontaneous day trip, Porto invites you to truly savor every moment. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

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