Guimaraes, Portugal
Last updated on Jul 25, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Guimaraes, Portugal. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know about living in Guimaraes?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Guimaraes, they said:
"Expats considering retirement in Guimaraes, should be aware that the official language is Portuguese, and while English is spoken in many places, learning some Portuguese will be beneficial. The cost of living in Guimaraes is generally lower than in many other European cities, making it an attractive option for retirees. Healthcare in Portugal is of a high standard, with both public and private options available. Expats can access the public healthcare system if they are residents and contribute to the social security system. Private health insurance is also recommended for more comprehensive coverage. Guimaraes is known for its rich history and culture, with many historical sites and cultural events throughout the year. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters, which can be a significant draw for those from colder climates. Portugal has a Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) program that offers tax benefits for new residents for a period of ten years, which can be beneficial for retirees. However, it's essential to understand the local tax laws and consider consulting with a tax professional. Portugal is generally safe, but like any place, it's important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your property. It's also worth noting that Guimaraes is a small city, so while it offers many amenities, it may not provide the same level of entertainment or shopping as larger cities. Public transportation in Guimaraes is reliable and affordable, with a network of buses serving the city. However, owning a car can be beneficial for exploring the surrounding areas. Finally, it's crucial to understand the process of obtaining residency in Portugal. This typically involves proving you have sufficient income to support yourself, showing you have health insurance, and potentially passing a basic Portuguese language test," remarked one expat living in Guimaraes, Portugal.

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What do I need to know before moving to Guimaraes?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Guimaraes?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Guimaraes?
- What is the average cost of housing in Guimaraes?
- How do I meet people in Guimaraes?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Guimaraes?
- What should I pack when moving to Guimaraes?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Guimaraes?
- Will I be able to find a job in Guimaraes?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Guimaraes?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Guimaraes?
- What is the social scene like in Guimaraes?
- What advice to expats in Guimaraes have about housing?
- What are medical services in Guimaraes like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guimaraes?
- Is the cost of living in Guimaraes high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Guimaraes?
- Why do people move to Guimaraes?