Student accommodation in Porto: flats and rooms for rent

Located in northern Portugal, Porto is known for its culture, traditions, and wonderful monuments. It’s a great place to study and work, with locals making you feel at home. Every year, it attracts many Erasmus students and young professionals who decide to live in this city for a while.

Student apartments for rent in Porto

One common option for accommodation is the studio apartment. These are self-contained flats perfect for one person or a couple, with the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom all located in a single, compact space. However, they tend to be more expensive because of the privacy they offer and the need to cover all expenses yourself.

A more budget-friendly option for living in Porto for a short period of time is sharing an apartment. This way, you can save a lot on rent each month and also meet new people from different places as soon as you arrive in the city.

Student rooms for rent in Porto

In this Portuguese city, single rooms are the most common type of accommodation. These rooms provide space for one person and offer privacy whenever you need it. You’ll also find shared rooms, usually for two students. These are cheaper but come with the downside of not having your own personal space anywhere in the apartment.

Generally, these rooms include basic furniture such as a bed, desk, chair, and closet, and offer access to common areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Also, keep in mind that shared rooms are typically rented to people of the same gender.

Student accommodation in Porto

Here are some of the best areas to look for accommodation in the Portuguese city:

Flats for rent in the centre of Porto

Neighbourhoods like Miragaia, Clérigos, Bolhão, and Fontainhas put you close to some universities as well as popular spots for young people to hang out at. Plus, the centre of Porto has excellent public transport connections to the rest of the city. However, living here can come with a higher rent cost than in surrounding areas, so it’s best to start looking for your accommodation early.

Apartments in Baixa

This is one of the most beautiful and busy areas of Porto, situated by the Douro River and with a great atmosphere in its surrounding streets. In this area, you’ll find historical monuments like the Torre dos Clerigos. Its location is ideal for getting around the city comfortably.

Rooms for rent in Lapa

Many young students choose this area for its good location in Porto. The prices are slightly lower than in the previous areas, and there is a wide availability of spare rooms and student accommodation. Plus, it’s very close to several campuses of the city’s institutions.

Erasmus accommodation near the University of Porto

To find accommodation near this institution, you first need to determine which of its campuses (Known as Polos) you’ll be attending. For instance, if you’re studying at Polo 1 in the centre, consider neighbourhoods like Miragaia, Clérigos, Bolhão, and fountains. For Polo 2, we recommend the Asprela area, and for Polo 3, the Massarelos neighbourhood. Read this other article to find out more on how to rent convenient housing near the UPorto. Also, here's a link to an interactive map of the campus.

Student residences in Porto

In Porto, there are several universities, many of which manage their own student residences. These residences usually have long waiting lists, as most spots are reserved for local students. Many international students opt for accommodation in private residences or rent a spare room in a shared apartment.

Frequently asked questions about studying in Porto