Top 10 Notable Cities to Reside in Portugal

Portugal, a charming European country known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and relaxed pace of life, has become an attractive destination for expats, retirees, and families. With its welcoming environment, diverse culture, and overall good tax schemes, Portugal offers a variety of options for those seeking a new place to call home.

One of the happiest metropolises in Europe and one of the best cities in the world to retire in, Braga, the fourth biggest city in Portugal, has recently made history by completing Portugal's first-ever 100% crypto transaction. With a low cost of living and a growing crypto-friendly atmosphere, Braga is an appealing choice for both retirees and tech-savvy individuals.

Madeira, an attractive destination for foreign investors, saw €377 million invested in its property market in 2022. The unique island charm, tax incentives, and mild climate make Madeira an appealing option for those seeking a balance of urban and island living.

The Algarve, the most popular place for retirees, offers a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful coastlines, and a mild climate. Lagos, a popular Algarve hotspot, has developed high-quality coastal real estate close to family-friendly beaches. The region is also renowned for its golf courses.

Faro, a small city in the Algarve, boasts a far more affordable cost of living than Lisbon. Faro's airport is well connected to the rest of Europe and beyond, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Lisbon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a safe city, attracts remote workers and offers English-speaking services, making it easier for expats to settle in. Lisbon's population of at least 3 million makes it larger than Porto, Portugal's second-largest city with an estimated 1.3 million residents.

Porto, located on the banks of the Douro River estuary in northern Portugal, offers a low cost of living in comparison with areas more popular with tourists. The city is well connected by train to both Lisbon and Porto.

Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a top destination for expats to live in Portugal. Known for its historic charm and varied real estate market, property prices in Sintra are generally higher near the town center and famous attractions.

Alentejo, situated in southern Portugal near the Algarve, is Portugal's agricultural heartland and largest region. Ideal for retirees, Alentejo offers stunning hilltop towns and locally produced wines.

Aveiro, located on the west coast of Portugal, is a striking city with canals, Art Nouveau buildings, a cathedral, and museums. Property prices in Aveiro are steadily increasing.

Cascais, a 25-minute train journey from Lisbon, is known as Lisbon on Sea and offers trendy beach cafes. Lisbon and Cascais are popular destinations for families due to their excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.

The Azores, a North Atlantic Ocean archipelago located around 1,000 miles west of the Portuguese mainland, offers relatively affordable property compared to mainland Portugal.

Coimbra, a city in west-central Portugal with close to 107,000 inhabitants, is known for its historic downtown, which has UNESCO World Heritage status, and its prestigious university.

Portugal's expat population is approximately 10.6 million people, making it one of the most welcoming European countries. The best cities for expats to live in Portugal are Lisbon, for its vibrant city life and startup scene; the Algarve (especially Albufeira), for its beaches and relaxed lifestyle; and Funchal on Madeira Island, for a balance of urban and island charm. Castelo Branco is recommended for budget-conscious expats seeking affordable housing and quiet living.

In conclusion, Portugal offers a wide range of options for those seeking a new place to live. Whether you're looking for a bustling city, a peaceful countryside, a vibrant coastal town, or a charming island, Portugal has something for everyone. With its welcoming environment, diverse culture, and good tax schemes, Portugal is an excellent choice for expats, retirees, and families alike.