12 Best Places to Live in Portugal (2026 Update)
Summary: Portugal offers a wide range of living options for expats, from major cities like Lisbon and Porto to smaller coastal towns and inland communities. Factors such as cost of living, access to international schools, proximity to the coast, and day-to-day lifestyle vary significantly by location. Areas like Cascais, the Algarve, and parts of northern Portugal continue to attract expats for different reasons, depending on priorities. Choosing where to live ultimately comes down to balancing these factors with individual needs and long-term plans.
Where are the best places to live in Portugal? Expats often debate this topic and offer recommendations to people considering a move to Portugal. Deciding where to live in Portugal depends upon each individual - work, schools, weather, proximity to the coast, population and are all factors. "Your preference of where to live depends on your personal interests. Porto and Faro are both portals with cheap travel to other European cities, Coimbra gives you Atlantic coast activities. Elvas and Evora put you in an amazing history rich area if you are interested in the peninsular wars, archaeology or roman times," advised one expat in Portugal.
We've pulled together our list of the best places to live in Portugal based upon the cities and towns that are repeatedly recommended by our expat members. We've included information about international and bilingual schools when they are in the vicinity.
- 1. Lisbon
- 2. Cascais
- The Algarve
- North of Lisbon
- 6. Ericeira
- Portugal's Silver Coast (Costa de Prata)
- 6. Caldas da Rainha
- 7. Tomar
- 8. Nazare
- 9. Coimbra
- 10. Porto
- The Green Coast
Lisbon continues to attract expats from around the world, with a mix of neighborhoods that support very different lifestyles. Central areas offer walkability and access to culture and dining, while more residential districts and nearby suburbs provide additional space and a quieter pace. Many expats also choose to live just outside the city in places like Cascais or Oeiras while commuting in as needed.
The city has a well-established international community, strong infrastructure, and reliable public transportation, making it relatively easy to settle in without a car. While the cost of living has increased in recent years as Lisbon has grown in popularity, many expats still find that the overall quality of life, access to the coast, and day-to-day convenience make it a worthwhile choice.
Tip: You can move easily around the city using the Lisbon Metro system, which connects most central neighborhoods and key residential areas.
International Schools: PaRK International School has three campuses: Praca de Espanha (Years 1 to 4), Alfragide (Years 1 to 12) and Restelo (Years 1 to 4). CAISL (Carlucci American International School Lisbon) is located in the suburb of Linho and welcomes students from early childhood (3 yrs old) through 12th Grade and offers the American High School Diploma and the IB Diploma. International Sharing School is located in the suburb of Oerias and welcomes children as young as 4 months through 18 years. It offers all IB Programmes (PYP, MYP and DP).
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Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
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Lamares, Capela & AssociadosLamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
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2. CascaisPopulation: approximately 200,000Climate: Temperature reaches mid to high 70s to low 80s from May through September. Winter temps range from lows in the upper 40s to highs in the high 50s. Location: Coastal. 30 minutes west of Lisbon by car, 30-40 minutes on Comboios Portugal (Trains) |
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Cascais is a top choice for expats who want to live near Lisbon while enjoying a more relaxed coastal setting. The train connection to Lisbon makes commuting straightforward, and many residents split their time between the two areas. Cascais and nearby Estoril offer a range of residential options, from apartments near the center to larger homes in quieter neighborhoods.
The area has a well-established international community and a strong concentration of international schools, which makes it particularly appealing for families. While Cascais is one of the more expensive areas in Portugal, many expats feel the combination of ocean access, infrastructure, and proximity to Lisbon justifies the higher cost. Day-to-day life tends to revolve around outdoor activities, local restaurants, and easy access to both city and coast.
Tip: Many residents rely on the Comboios Portugal (Trains) for regular trips into Lisbon, making commuting straightforward without a car.
International Schools in Cascais: King's College School in Cascais offers the Cambridge International Curriculum, bilingual English Portuguese (for students through Year 5) curriculum and the IB Diploma program (Years 12 and 13). IPS Cascais British International School is located north of Cascais and welcomes students through year 7, but is expanding to include years 8-13 on a rolling basis starting in 2023. Santo Antonio International School is a K-12 British International School located in Estoril. St. George's and St. George's Primary Schools is a Cambridge International School located in Cascais. St. Julian's School is a British International School that welcomes students from ages 3 to 18. It is located in Carcavelos (Cascais) and offers the IGCSE and IB Diploma. Brave Generation Academy offers lower secondary, IGCSEs & A-Levels and is a unique, individualized learning model that may be a great option for expat families in Cascais.
The Algarve
The Algarve is one of the most popular regions in Portugal for expats, stretching along the southern coast and offering a wide range of living options from small towns to more developed coastal centers. While it's often associated with tourism, many expats choose the Algarve for its climate, access to beaches, and established international community. Towns vary significantly in feel, with some areas quieter and more residential, while others are busier and more seasonal.
Cost of living in the Algarve can vary depending on location, with some coastal areas pricing closer to Lisbon, while inland or less tourist-driven towns remain more affordable. Access to Faro Airport makes travel within Europe relatively easy, and there are several international schools across the region, which often factor into where families choose to settle. For expats looking for warm weather, coastal living, and a strong support network of other internationals, the Algarve remains a consistent choice.
International Schools: If you're moving to the Algarve with children and looking for an international school, finding a school may come before deciding which town to move to. In addition to the schools noted below that are in or near Lagos and Tavira, other schools in beautiful Algarve include:
- Nobel Algarve is a British International School with campuses in Lagoa and Almancil. Welcomes students ages 3-18
- Vilamoura International School (Colégio Internacional de Vilamoura - CIV) welcomes students from pre-school through secondary school. It incorporates three curricula: Portuguese National, British (adapted) National and the Cambridge International. It's located in Vilamoura near the coast between Albufeira and Faro.
- Brave Generation Academy has hubs in several parts of the Algarve. It's a unique learning model that's worth a look.
Lamares, Capela & AssociadosConnect
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Lamares, Capela & AssociadosLamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
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Lagos combines coastal living with a manageable size that appeals to many expats relocating to the Algarve. The town has a well-established international community, particularly among retirees and remote workers, and offers a range of housing options from historic properties to newer developments. While it's smaller than Faro, it still has access to essential services, and many residents find it easy to settle in. Costs are generally lower than Lisbon, though demand has increased in recent years.
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.
Tip: Lagos has a well-developed local infrastructure for its size, with grocery stores, pharmacies, and everyday services within easy reach of most residential areas.
International Schools: Vale Verde International School offers a British Curriculum and welcomes students ages 5 to 18. It offers the Pearson and Cambridge IGCSE qualification. Vale Verde is located in Burgau, a quaint beachside village, that is a 15-20 minute drive west of Lagos. barlavento International School follows the UK Early Years Foundation program for its youngest students and the National Curriculum of England for students in primary years. It is located in Luz just outside of Lagos. Aljezur International School is barlavento's sister secondary school that welcomes students ages 10 through 18 and is located 30 minutes north of Lagos in the coastal town of the same name, Aljezur. It follows the UK national curriculum with Cambridge IGCSE exams. The school offers coach service from Lagos, Alvor and Bensafrim.
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Tavira offers a quieter alternative within the Algarve, with a more traditional feel and a smaller international presence than some of the region's busier towns. The pace of life is slower, and many expats are drawn to its walkable center and proximity to nature. While it may feel less connected to the rest of Portugal by road, access to Faro Airport helps offset that for travel. The Gilão River runs through the center of Tavira, and nearby beaches such as Praia do Barril and Ilha de Tavira are part of daily life for many residents. If you're checking out Tavira, have a meal at Pessoa's Cafe or Tasquinha Da Paula.
Tip: Tavira is within easy reach of Faro Airport, which offers direct connections across Europe year-round.
International Schools: Colegio Santiago Internacional (CSi) welcomes students from ages 4 through 18. It follows the British National Curriculum and English is the primary language, but Portuguese is maintained for native speakers at a grade level proficiency and taught to non-native speakers as an additional language. CSi is located in a state of art 15th century building in the center of Tavira.
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North of Lisbon
Many expats also choose to live north of Lisbon, where you'll find a mix of small fishing villages, coastal cities, and inland towns. The area offers a range of lifestyles, from quiet seaside living to more traditional communities, all within reach of Lisbon for work, travel, or cultural activities.
Ericeira has become a popular choice for expats looking for coastal living within easy reach of Lisbon, offering a balance between a laid-back atmosphere and practical day-to-day amenities. The town attracts a mix of remote workers, retirees, and part-time residents who are drawn to its smaller scale and walkable center. While it remains more affordable than nearby Cascais, demand has increased in recent years as more people move into the area.
Daily life in Ericeira often centers around the coastline, with beaches, cafes, and local shops forming the core of the community. The town retains its village feel, but still provides enough infrastructure to support longer-term living. Its proximity to Lisbon—roughly 30 to 40 minutes by car—makes it possible to access the capital when needed while enjoying a quieter setting by the ocean.
Tip: Ericeira is part of the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve, which helps preserve the coastline and shapes development in the area.
International Schools: Prime International School has a campus in Sintra, which is 30 minutes from Ericeira.
Portugal's Silver Coast (Costa de Prata)
The Silver Coast is a popular stretch of Portugal's Atlantic coastline, often referenced by expats looking for more affordable alternatives to Lisbon. The exact boundaries of the region can vary depending on who you ask, but it generally runs along the central coast between Lisbon and Porto, encompassing a mix of beach towns, smaller cities, and inland communities. This area offers a range of living options, from surf-oriented coastal villages to quieter towns just a short drive from the ocean.
Caldas da Rainha offers a quieter lifestyle about an hour north of Lisbon, with a lower cost of living and easy access to the coast. The town has a practical, lived-in feel rather than a tourist focus, which appeals to expats looking for something more low-key. Nearby Foz do Arelho provides access to the beach and lagoon, making it easy to combine inland living with time on the coast.
Ten minutes south of Caldas da Rainha, the town of Obidos offers additional amenities and attractions. The Literary Man Hotel is a notable stop for visitors and residents alike, with a large English-language book collection and on-site restaurant.
Tip: Caldas da Rainha has a daily local market in Praça da Fruta, where residents can buy fresh produce, fish, and regional goods at lower prices than in larger cities.
International Schools: International School of Torres Vedras (ISTV) is located approximately 30 minutes south of Caldas da Rainha in Torres Vedras and offers National Curriculum (Portuguese), Dual-Degree American High School Diploma and Cambridge International (through age 14).
Tomar appeals to expats looking for a quieter inland lifestyle with lower costs and good connections to other parts of Portugal. The town offers a walkable center, everyday amenities, and a strong sense of local community. While it is smaller than cities like Lisbon or Porto, it provides enough infrastructure for day-to-day living, along with access to surrounding nature and nearby towns. For those seeking a more traditional setting with a slower pace, Tomar is a practical option.
Tip: Tomar is connected by rail through Comboios de Portugal (CP), making it possible to reach Lisbon and other cities without driving.
Nazare offers coastal living at a significantly lower cost than Lisbon, which is a major draw for expats. Housing and dining tend to be more affordable, while groceries and utilities remain similar across the country. The town is smaller and more seasonal, with a quieter pace outside of peak months, which appeals to those looking for a more relaxed environment. Daily life centers around the ocean, with easy access to the beach, local markets, and a walkable town center. While Nazare may not offer the same range of services as larger cities, many expats appreciate the simplicity, strong local character, and direct connection to the coast.
Tip: The Nazaré municipality website is a useful resource for local services, events, and community updates.
International Schools: CLIC (Colegio Internacional do Centro) is located about 30 minutes north of Nazare. The school offers English National Curriculum and the Cambridge International Examinations Programmes, but is adapted to follow the Portuguese National System for some subjects.
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Coimbra attracts expats looking for a central location with lower costs and access to major cities. The city has a university-driven pace of life, with a mix of cultural activity and a more manageable day-to-day environment than larger urban areas. Train connections to Lisbon and Porto make it easy to travel, while the surrounding region offers additional options for living and recreation.
Many expats appreciate the balance between affordability, community, and access to the coast, which is less than an hour away. With its combination of history, infrastructure, and a steady rhythm of life, Coimbra continues to be a practical and appealing option for those relocating within Portugal.
Tip: The University of Coimbra plays a central role in the city's infrastructure, including healthcare, research, and cultural life.
International Schools: St. Paul's School is located in Coimbra and offers a bilingual Portuguese-English program for children from Kindergarten through Junior School.
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Porto offers a balance between city living and a more manageable scale than Lisbon. Expats often highlight its walkability, strong public transportation, and access to nearby cities like Braga, Guimaraes, and Aveiro. The city provides a mix of historic neighborhoods and newer areas, giving residents a range of living options depending on lifestyle and budget.
Costs are generally lower than in Lisbon, though they have increased in recent years as demand has grown. Daily life includes access to the Douro River, nearby beaches, and a wide range of cultural and dining options. For expats looking for an urban environment with good infrastructure and slightly lower costs, Porto remains a practical choice.
Tip: The Metro do Porto connects the city center with surrounding neighborhoods and the airport, making it easy to get around without a car.
International Schools: Oporto International School (CLIP) follows a curriculum based on the National Curriculum for England with modifications to meet the educational needs of local students. CLIP welcomes students from pre-K through grade 12. Lycee Francais International Porto is a school that caters to French-speaking students. Colégio Júlio Dinis (CJD) welcomes students from ages 5 though 18 and has recently started to offer the Cambridge Curriculum. Oporto British School is the only IB World School in northern Portugal and welcomes children from age 3 though grade 12.
The Green Coast (Costa Verde)
From Porto north to the border with Spain, you'll find Costa Verde, or The Green Coast, a region that appeals to expats looking for a cooler climate and a more traditional setting. The area includes a mix of coastal towns and inland cities, with easy access to beaches and nearby Spanish destinations. Temperatures are generally milder than Lisbon, with winter highs in the 40s and 50s and summer in the 60s and 70s, and the region's greener landscape and quieter pace attract those seeking a less tourist-driven environment.
Guimaraes appeals to expats looking for a smaller, more traditional city within easy reach of Porto and Braga. The town offers a walkable center, lower living costs, and a quieter pace, while still providing the essentials for day-to-day life. Many residents appreciate the balance between historic surroundings and practical infrastructure, along with access to nearby green spaces and surrounding towns. For those who want a more low-key environment without being isolated, Guimaraes is a solid option in northern Portugal.
Tip: The Guimarães municipality website provides information on local services, planning, and community resources.
Braga has become an appealing option for expats who want access to a larger city without Lisbon or Porto pricing. It offers a mix of modern amenities and historic character, with a range of housing options and a growing number of services that support day-to-day living. Its location makes it easy to reach the coast, the mountains, and Spain, which adds to its appeal for those who like to travel or explore nearby regions. For expats looking for a practical base in northern Portugal with a slightly slower pace, Braga is a strong choice.
Tip: Braga benefits from access to Portugal's national rail network, making travel to Porto and other cities straightforward.
International Schools: The Braga International School (aka CLIB, Colegio Luso Internacional de Braga) offers instruction in English with enough attention to Portuguese language, history, culture and geography to serve the student body, which is primarily Portuguese.
Lamares, Capela & Associados
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
Lamares, Capela & Associados
Lamares, Capela & Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, SP, RL is a well-established law firm located in Lisboa, Portugal. The firm provides a wide range of legal services, including immigration, corporate law, real estate, litigation, labor law, and intellectual property. With a team of experienced attorneys, Lamares, Capela & Associados is known for its expertise, professionalism, and commitment to delivering tailored legal solutions to meet the needs of its clients. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, ensuring high-quality legal representation and strategic advice. Its dedication to excellence and client satisfaction has made it a trusted name in the legal community in Portugal.
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.
Additional Information:
- Portugal Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Real Estate in Portugal
- Guide to Real Estate in Portugal
- Pros & Cons of Living in Portugal
- Cost of Living in Portugal
- 15 Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Italy vs. Portugal
- Spain vs. Portugal
- 11 Best Places to Live on the Coast in Portugal
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Portugal
- More Advice about Retiring in Portugal