The Foreign Exchange
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Expat Exchange
A World of Friend Abroad
May 3, 2024

12 Best Places to Live in Portugal

Last week we introduced the 12 Best Countries to Live Abroad for 2024. One of those countries, perhaps most predictably, is Portugal. Portugal is a safe, expat-friendly country with stunning beaches, cities, popular beach towns and sleepy fishing villages. With that in mind, here is our list of 12 of the best places to live in Portugal based upon expats' recommendations.

Lisbon

According to one expat, "Lisbon is remarkably diverse. The area of intendente itself is home to 87 nationalities! Portuguese are very friendly people and accepting of all people from every background. There is a little India area, little Chinatown, African cafes, Nepalese restaurants and also lots of options for vegan and vegetarian people. Lisbon is a great city for socializing. There are many expats and digital nomads here who are always open to meeting new people. It is great for young people, as well as older expats with is wide range of options and close proximity to the beaches and lots of bars, clubs and restaurants."

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Lagos

Lagos is home to several unbelievably stunning beaches such as Praia do Camilo, Praia do Porto de Mos and Praia Dona Ana. If you're checking out Lagos, have a meal at Mar d'Estorias which is a combination restaurant, rooftop bar with amazing views, shop and art gallery.

Porto

"Porto is a medium-sized city that feels like a real city," said one expat. "I live in Porto which is a fantastic city. Beautiful architecture, excellent gastronomy, has good people, is small and has the sea and is 50 minutes, in good and cheap transport (train) to Braga, Guimaraes, Aveiro, Viana do Castelo. In summer, you can take a boat ride along the river Douro to see the vineyards, and you will find an unknown paradise! We have excellent medical services," added another expat living in Porto.