Last Updated on June 12, 2023 by Laila Oliveira
Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and historical sites is the birthplace of Portugal. Guimarães offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether wandering through the city center’s cobblestone streets or enjoying delicious local cuisines, living in Guimarães will captivate and enchant you.
The city’s closeness to Porto and the stunning Douro Valley opens up day trips and weekend getaway opportunities. So, if you’re seeking an immersive and fulfilling experience, living in Guimarães is an excellent choice that will leave you longing for more.
In this article, we’ll discuss what life is like here, the best neighborhoods to reside in, property prices, and a lot more! Keep reading to get a holistic perspective of the birthplace of Portugal!
What is living in Guimarães like?
Guimarães, located in Braga, is a charming city in northern Portugal. The northern region is very famous for its stunning landscapes, historic cities, delicious cuisine, and warm-hearted people.
It’s a fantastic place for expats to explore and experience authentic Portuguese culture. This is why Guimarães is perfect for expats seeking just that, as it captures the entire essence of the northern region.
The city is known as the “Cradle of Portugal” because it’s where the country was born. With its rich history and stunning architecture, living in Guimarães makes exploring the cobblestone streets and stumbling upon hidden cafés an everyday adventure.
You’ll find that making meaningful connections and adjusting to the community is easy because of the amiable locals. Also, Guimarães offers a vibrant cultural scene, with regular festivals and events celebrating its heritage.
As an expat, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the mouthwatering Portuguese cuisine and savor the local wines. And if you’re a nature lover, you’re in for a treat! Breathtaking landscapes surround Guimarães, so you can embark on scenic hikes or enjoy peaceful picnics as you wish.
Who lives in Guimarães?
Guimarães is home to a diverse community, so you’ll settle in pretty well. The population includes locals who have been rooted in the city for generations and a growing number of expats who have chosen Guimarães as their new home.
For example, from a population of 156,656, 12.7% are children, 67.3% are working-age individuals, and 20.1% are elderly. Of these, 2,686 comprise the expat community, which is nearly 1.7%. Not bad for a small town in northern Portugal!
Expats from different countries have found a welcoming and inclusive environment in Guimarães. If what you’re looking for is a change of scenery, Guimarães offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that caters to residents.
Why are expats moving to Guimarães?
So, why exactly are expats moving here? There is so much more than the city’s quality lifestyle at an affordable cost. Guimarães is not just beauty and landscapes but also has a sound transport system and other facilities which attract expats.
Let’s talk about the top three reasons expats find this to be a decent option among many other popular cities.
Guimarães is well-connected and has facilities
The city is known for more than its aesthetics and views. You’ll find all the necessities for a complete lifestyle. To name one, Guimarães’s efficient public transportation makes navigating and exploring the surrounding areas easy. Its bus network covers various routes, ensuring easy access to different neighborhoods and attractions.
For example, Guimarães’s transport provides access to neighborhoods such as Azurém, where the University of Minho is located. Public transport links also allow expats to reach nearby cities like Braga easily.
To add on, the healthcare system is outstanding in Guimarães, with modern facilities and highly skilled professionals. And if you’re a student or the guardian of one, you will find enough reputable schools for education. The city has international and local schools, providing quality education for children and young adults.
Northern Portugal is affordable and peaceful
This charming area offers a lower cost of living compared to major cities and a high quality of life.
If you compare it with Porto, rent prices are 77.7% lower, and grocery prices are 14.6% lower in Guimarães.
Surrounded by serene landscapes and in a region renowned for its tranquility, Guimarães allows you to enjoy a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community. Since there aren’t many people living here, unlike Lisbon and the Algarve, roads are empty, and traffic is minimal.
You can enjoy your cup of coffee in peace and take a deep breath of fresh air to cleanse your soul. It’s also not a major business center, so there’s considerably less amount of hustle and bustle here.
Another reason why it’s more affordable is because of the low number of expats here. Cities with a higher number of expats and tourist inflow tend to be very pricey. Keep reading to get a cost breakdown for a single person and a family of four!
It’s an excellent place for retirees and digital nomads
If you’re seeking a tranquil retirement or an inspiring workspace, living in Guimarães is the right choice.
Expat retirees can enjoy a peaceful and affordable lifestyle in parishes like Nossa Senhora da Oliveira or São Sebastião, with their charming streets and historical landmarks.
At the same time, digital nomads may find Guimarães to be an ideal base with its reliable internet connectivity, coworking spaces, and supportive community. Also, digital nomads can take advantage of coworking spaces such as Guimarães Cowork or explore cozy cafés like Café Milenar.
As mentioned earlier, the city really is a hub for all age groups and professions. And the slow pace of lifestyle is great for people who’re here with the D7 Visa. If your post-retirement budget is low and you still wish to live a life of comfort, this is the place for you.
The same goes for freelancers who want the New Visa For Digital Nomads and wish to spend time in Portugal. It’s easy to get both of these Visas if you choose to live in Guimarães. The amenities and cost of living are ideal if you don’t look for a luxurious lifestyle in a busy city.
Buying a property in Guimarães
If you’re considering buying a property in Guimarães, you’ll be pleased to find various options to suit your preferences and budget.
For example, in the charming neighborhood of Azurém, you can find apartments ranging from €80,000 to €180,000. These offer a mix of affordability and convenience due to their proximity to the University of Minho.
But if you’re seeking a more central location, the city center offers apartments from €100,000 to €250,000. Other neighborhoods like Creixomil and Urgezes also provide a variety of properties, priced from €60,000 to €300,000.
Knowing that these prices vary depending on the property size and amenities is essential. But with such diverse options, finding your dream property in Guimarães is within reach.
Renting a flat in Guimarães
Not sure whether this will be your permanent home? Don’t worry; you can experiment and test it out by renting an affordable property!
If you like a vibrant urban atmosphere, you’ll find a mix of historical buildings and modern amenities for rent in the city center. But if a quieter residential area is to your taste, neighborhoods like Fermentões or Mesão Frio offer a more tranquil setting.
Their prices range from €1,500 to €4,600. Also, students may find Azurém or Couros appealing due to their proximity to the University of Minho.
Whichever area you choose, it’s advisable to consult local real estates websites like Idealista or Kipper Tree. This would help you understand current rental prices and availability in different neighborhoods. And if you need help, feel free to reach out to experts from Viv Europe to get a better deal!
Is it better to live in Guimarães or Porto?
Although this is a personal decision, we’ll help you compare the two cities so you can assess which one is better for you.
Porto, another famous city located in the north of Portugal, boasts a thriving urban lifestyle with a rich cultural scene, diverse dining options, and an excellent business atmosphere. The city balances affordability and modern amenities, making it an attractive place to live. It’s a very popular option for expats that love Lisbon but want a bit less crowd around them.
While Porto is larger than Guimarães, the latter holds its charm. The city provides a more affordable living cost than Porto, allowing expats to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. As we mentioned earlier, rent is considerably more expensive in Porto.
Also, Guimarães offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful living environment. And the city’s smaller size creates a sense of community and a closer connection with the local culture.
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Is living in Guimarães better than living in the Algarve?
Another comparison that many people ask for is between Guimarães and the Algarve.
Though the Algarve in the South is known for its stunning beaches and year-round sunshine, Guimarães offers a different appeal many expats prefer. There aren’t many similarities, but we’ll still try to compare life in both areas.
Guimarães boasts a rich cultural heritage, and an “old city” vibe, providing a unique and immersive living experience. While the Algarve offers a more cosmopolitan and tourist-oriented lifestyle with beautiful beaches and a milder climate.
Less pricey than the Algarve, Guimarães’s affordability and peaceful atmosphere make it an attractive choice if you have a low budget. Prices in the Algarve for rent, groceries, and entertainment are a little higher because of its popularity and appeal to tourists.
Also, Guimarães is in Northern Portugal, allowing for easy exploration of charming towns, breathtaking landscapes, and the vibrant city of Porto. Whereas the Algarve is 4 hours away from Porto.
To conclude, living in Guimarães gives expats a well-rounded experience of a more authentic and traditional Portuguese lifestyle. But honestly, even the Algarve is a great choice for many. It all depends on what you’re looking for.
What is the cost of living in Guimarães?
As mentioned, Guimarães is more affordable than larger cities like Porto. Even the housing expenses, such as rent or property prices, tend to be lower.
The everyday expenses, such as groceries, dining out, and transportation, are reasonably priced. Also, the supermarkets offer various affordable options, and eating at local restaurants is inexpensive compared to major urban areas. But thanks to Portuguese culture, many people make home-cooked meals with fresh organic produce.
Another pro is that public transportation costs are affordable, with bus fares within the city usually ranging from €1 to €2. Overall, Guimarães offers expats the opportunity to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without straining their budget.
Here’s an estimate of the living costs in Guimarães:
| Expense | Costs |
|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | €566 |
| A single-person estimated monthly costs without rent | €580 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | €816 |
| A family of four estimated monthly costs without rent | €2,005 |
Estimates are from Numbeo (as of June 2023).
Safety living in Guimarães
Like every Portuguese city, Guimarães provides a reassuring and safe environment. The city is known for its safety and low crime rates, making it a secure place to live.
Whether exploring the city center’s charming streets or strolling through the peaceful neighborhoods, you can feel safe. Also, the locals are friendly and helpful, contributing to a sense of community and a shielded atmosphere.
To top it off, Guimarães has well-maintained public spaces and efficient security measures. You can enjoy a worry-free lifestyle, knowing that Guimarães prioritizes safety and offers a peaceful environment to call home.
Access to health care in Guimarães
The city has modern healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. Facilities like the Hospital da Luz Guimarães are prominent medical institutions offering various services, including emergency care and specialized treatments.
Also, numerous private clinics and healthcare providers cater to various medical needs. The healthcare professionals in Guimarães are highly skilled and knowledgeable, providing quality care to residents and expats.
With such reliable and accessible healthcare services, you can rest assured that your health needs will be well cared for.
- Save yourself from trouble and learn how to Access Public Hospitals In Portugal As A Foreigner.
Work labor in Guimarães
Although the work opportunities aren’t as abundant as in Lisbon and Porto, Guimarães has a diverse economy with various industries, including textiles, manufacturing, technology, and services.
Textile companies like Têxtil Manuel Gonçalves and Calvelex are prominent employers in the region. Other than textiles, Guimarães is known for its thriving startup ecosystem, with companies like VPS and RUPEAL leading the way in innovation.
Expats with skills in engineering, IT, design, and management skills may find promising job prospects in these sectors.
The local government also encourages entrepreneurship, supporting initiatives that foster economic growth. Given this dynamic job market and a range of industries, you’ll be able to find fulfilling and rewarding career opportunities in Guimarães.
Education in Guimarães
Guimarães provides excellent opportunities for expats seeking quality education for their children. The city is home to various educational institutions, including public and private schools, that offer comprehensive curricula and a supportive learning environment.
Two well-known schools are Escola Secundária Francisco de Holanda and Secondary School Martins Sarmento.
But if you are looking for international education, the Agrupamento Santos Simões is a popular choice. This provides an international curriculum and a multicultural setting that will help your child feel at ease.
All the schools prioritize academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and the holistic development of students.
How can a foreigner move to Guimarães?
Are you getting excited about living in Guimarães? We’re here to help!
Moving to Guimarães is not a complicated process. You simply need to apply for a relevant Visa, and there are several options you can choose from.
If you plan to work in Guimarães, you’ll need a Work Visa, which typically requires a job offer from a local employer. If you need help with Visa applications, Viv Europe’s experts are here to guide you!
A long-stay visa or a Residence Permit may be applicable for retirees or those seeking to live in Guimarães without employment. You can also apply for a Passive Income Visa if you meet the requirements.
For any Visa, you’ll need more or less the same documents:
- Valid Passport;
- Proof of accommodation;
- Proof of financial means;
- Clean criminal record.
You must submit the required documents to your home country’s Portuguese embassy or consulate and attend an interview. It’s advisable to consult the embassy to ensure you have accurate and up-to-date information for a smooth transition to Guimarães.
Is it worth living in Guimarães?
As seen throughout the article, Guimarães’s affordability, peacefulness, and strong sense of community create an inviting environment for expats. To top it off, the city is a secure hub with efficient healthcare facilities and educational institutions.
Whether you’re enjoying the local cuisine, attending cultural events, or simply taking leisurely walks through its charming streets, Guimarães has a way of making you feel at home. It’s where you can create lasting memories and embrace a high-quality lifestyle.
You are the only person that can truly decide whether this city is with it. From what we know, expats love it in Portugal, no matter how big or small their city is.
Do you need help moving to Guimarães?
If the Visa process seems a little confusing or you just need more information, get in touch with Viv Europe, and the team will guide you throughout. It’s always better to have professional guidance so you can save time, effort, and money.
If you’re interested in learning from the experiences of other expats currently in Portugal, join our Facebook Group – All About Portugal For Expats. Post questions, participate in discussions, and learn from others!
See you soon!
