Top places to live in Portugal

Portugal is one of our most popular European destinations, as it offers a large variety of wonderful places to live, each with it’s unique charm and advantages. If you’re moving to Portugal, but are indecisive about where your new home will be, then this article is for you! We have put together a list of the top three places to consider when looking for a place to live in Portugal:

1. Lisbon

Lisbon, the vibrant capital city of Portugal, has captured the hearts of people from all over the world. With it’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder why so many choose to make this enchanting city their home. We have listed some of the reasons why people are drawn to the charm of Lisbon and why it has become such a sought-after place to live.

• The irresistible blend of old and new: One of the aspects that make Lisbon truly special is its seamless fusion of old-world charm and modern cosmopolitan living. The city’s narrow cobblestone streets, tiled facades, and ancient landmarks transport residents back in time, while the contemporary art scene, trendy cafes, and busting nightlife add a vibrant energy to the city. Living in Lisbon means experiencing the best of both worlds, where history meets modernity in perfect harmony.
• Breathtaking scenic surroundings: Perched on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon is blessed with some of the most stunning views in the country. From the iconic viewpoints of Sao Jorge Castle and Miradouro da Senhora do Monte to the riverfront promenade of Belem, the city’s panoramic views are just breathtaking. Additionally, Lisbon’s proximity to beautiful beaches and natural parks such as Cascais, Sintra and Arrabida, offers residents the opportunity to escape into nature, within a matter of minutes.
• Warm and welcoming atmosphere: Lisbon is renowned for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, making it an inviting place to live. The Portuguese people are known for their warm hospitality, making it easy for newcomers from all over the world to feel at home. Whether it’s striking up a conversation at a local café or participating in local activities, Lisbon fosters a strong sense of community and connection among its residents.
• A city steeped in culture: The city breathes culture and embraces creativity. Its art, music and literary scenes are thriving, offering endless opportunities for inspiration and enjoyment. Museums, galleries, and street art can be found in every corner, making Lisbon a popular place for artists, museums and art enthusiasts to settle in. Living in Lisbon truly means immersing yourself in a rich cultural tapestry.

Lisbon’s allure lies in its ability to captivate residents with its perfect blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and warm community spirit. The city offers an extraordinary quality of life, where residents can immerse themselves in the past, embrace the present and anticipate the exciting future. It’s no wonder that people from all around the world are irresistibly drawn to Lisbon’s charms and choose to call this remarkable city their home.

2. Porto

Porto, the second largest city in Portugal and offers a very unique blend of history, culture and modernity. The city is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and vibrant lifestyle, making it the perfect place for an expat to live. There are plenty of reasons why people choose to live in Porto, some of which include:

• Unique historic architecture that lines the streets: Porto’s architecture is one of the reasons why people love living in Porto. The historic center of Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning it is considered to be of ‘Outstanding Universal Value’, with buildings and structures that date back to the 12th century. The city’s iconic blue-tiled buildings, impressive churches, and unique character make Porto a beautiful place to call home.
• A city oozing in culture: The culture in Porto is another reason why people love love living here. The city is a hub of creativity, with a thriving art scene, music festivals, and a vibrant street culture. As well as this, the food and wine are also a major draw, with residents enjoying many traditional Portugese dishes such as Francesinha, Tripas à Moda do Porto, and Vinho Verde.
• A wonderful quality of life: The quality of life in Porto is also a huge factor that attracts people into the city. Despite being one of the largest cities in Portugal, Porto still has a small-town feel to it, with friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life. The cost of living in Porto is also relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an affordable place to live.
• Always getting better and better: Porto is a city that is always evolving, and there are always new things to discover. From the latest music festivals to the hippest restaurants and bars, there’s always something happening in Porto. The city is also surrounded by incredibly beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and scenic countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

If you’re looking for a vibrant and welcoming city to live in, Porto should definitely be on your list.

3. Faro

Faro, the capital city of the Algarve region in southern Portugal, is a beautiful city. It is famous for its beaches, historic center, and varied culture, among other things. People who have visited this city often fall in love with it, and some even decide to make it their home. We are going to explore why people love to live in Faro:

• Home to the best climate in Portugal: Faro has a warm and temperate climate throughout the year. The average temperature in the city is around 19°C, and the sun is always shining—making it an ideal place for people who dislike cold weather. Also, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and this city has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Praia de Faro and Ilha da Culatra.
• A city submerged in culture: The city has a rich history, and there are several museums, galleries, and monuments. For instance, the Old Town of Faro is a popular attraction that showcases medieval architecture, including the Faro Cathedral that dates back to the 13th century.
• An affordable place to live: The city is an affordable place to live compared to other European cities. The cost of living is relatively low, and this means that residents can enjoy a lifestyle that is comfortable and affordable. With affordable transportation options, food, and excellent housing options, it is easy to see why people love to live in Faro.
• Home to multiculturalism: There is a diverse mix of people from different cultures and backgrounds. This diversity means that people can learn new things, interact with different cultures, and enjoy a rich cultural exchange.

Faro is a beautiful city that offers a high quality of life, affordability, excellent education options, and a rich and diverse culture. It is no wonder that people who have visited this city often fall in love with it and decide to make it their home.

Looking to move to Portugal? Get a quote online today to find out how much your upcoming move is going to cost you.