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Retire in Evora, Portugal | Expat Exchange
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Retire in Evora, Portugal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 03, 2025

Summary: Retirees share their experiences living in Evora, Portugal. What are the challenges and rewards of retiring in Evora?

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

What is it like to retire in Evora?

"Life for a retiree in Evora, and its surroundings can be quite pleasant and fulfilling. Evora is a charming, historic city with a rich cultural heritage, offering a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere for retirees. The city is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Roman Temple of Diana and the Chapel of Bones, providing ample opportunities for cultural exploration and appreciation. While there may not be a large expat community in Evora, there are several expat groups and forums online where one can connect with fellow expats living in Portugal. These groups can be a great resource for making friends, seeking advice, and sharing experiences. Recreational activities in and around Evora are abundant, with options for both indoor and outdoor pursuits. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. Additionally, there are several golf courses in the region, as well as opportunities for wine tasting at local vineyards. Nightlife in Evora is relatively low-key, with a focus on traditional Portuguese experiences. Retirees can enjoy leisurely dinners at local restaurants, sampling the region's delicious cuisine and wine. There are also a few bars and cafes where one can enjoy live music, particularly Fado, a traditional Portuguese music genre. Overall, life for a retiree in Evora, Portugal, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and relaxation, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful and enriching retirement experience," said a retiree who moved to Evora, Portugal.

Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors
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Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retirees in Evora, advise others considering retiring abroad to research the cost of living and healthcare options in their chosen destination. They recommend learning the local language to better integrate into the community and make daily life easier. It's essential to understand the tax implications and legal requirements for residency, as well as to explore housing options, whether renting or buying. Retirees should also consider the accessibility of amenities and transportation, as well as the availability of social activities and expat communities. Finally, they suggest visiting the destination multiple times before making a decision and being open to adapting to a new culture and lifestyle," remarked one retiree in Evora.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Evora?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Evora, is the language barrier, as not everyone speaks English, and learning Portuguese can be difficult for some retirees. Additionally, the cost of living may be higher than in other parts of Portugal, particularly when it comes to housing and utilities. Access to specialized healthcare services may also be limited, as Evora is a smaller city and may not have the same range of medical facilities as larger cities like Lisbon or Porto. The public transportation system in Evora is not as extensive as in larger cities, which may make it challenging for retirees to get around without a car. Finally, adapting to the slower pace of life and integrating into the local community may take time and effort, especially for those who are used to living in more bustling urban environments," explained a retiree in Evora.

AnchorLess

AnchorLess provides services to help you settle into your new life in Portugal. you are guaranteed to have access to a convenient, quick and reliable service, with a team always ready to answer all of your questions about your new adventure.

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AnchorLess

AnchorLess provides services to help you settle into your new life in Portugal. you are guaranteed to have access to a convenient, quick and reliable service, with a team always ready to answer all of your questions about your new adventure.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Evora?

"Retiring in Evora, offers a rich cultural experience, as the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved Roman, Moorish, and medieval architecture. The pleasant Mediterranean climate provides warm summers and mild winters, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and exploration. The cost of living in Evora is relatively low compared to other European cities, allowing retirees to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. The local cuisine is delicious and diverse, with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional Portuguese dishes. The people of Evora are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making it easy for retirees to integrate into the community and make new friends. Additionally, the city's central location provides easy access to other parts of Portugal and Europe for travel and exploration," remarked one retiree in Evora.

What are healthcare services like in Evora?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Evora. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Evora, are generally of high quality and easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The city has a well-equipped public hospital, Hospital do Espírito Santo, which offers a range of medical services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and diagnostic services. Additionally, there are several private clinics and medical centers in the city, providing various healthcare services such as general practice, dental care, and physiotherapy. Pharmacies are also widely available throughout Evora, offering prescription and over-the-counter medications. The healthcare professionals in the city are typically well-trained, and many of them speak English, making it easier for foreign patients to communicate their needs. Portugal's national healthcare system, Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), covers most medical services for residents, while visitors from European Union countries can access healthcare services using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)," remarked one retiree in Evora.

How do I meet people in Evora?

When we asked people living in Evora about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Evora often join local clubs and organizations to meet people and immerse themselves in the local culture. These can include language exchange groups, where they can practice their Portuguese and help locals with English, or other languages they might speak. They might also join local sports clubs, such as football or tennis clubs, or take part in fitness classes or yoga sessions. Cultural and artistic activities are also popular among expats. They might join local theater groups, take part in painting or pottery classes, or attend concerts and exhibitions. There are also cooking classes where they can learn to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes. Expats often meet people through volunteering. There are many opportunities to volunteer in Evora, from helping out at local schools or hospitals to participating in environmental conservation projects. Networking events and social gatherings are also common ways for expats to meet people in Evora. These can range from informal meetups in local bars or cafes, to more formal events organized by the local chamber of commerce or other professional organizations. Many expats also meet people through their children's schools or daycare centers. Attending parent-teacher meetings, school events, or playdates can be a great way to meet other parents and make new friends. Finally, online platforms and social media groups can also be a useful tool for expats looking to connect with others in their community. There are several online forums and Facebook groups specifically for expats in Evora, where they can ask questions, share advice, and arrange meetups," remarked one retiree in Evora.

What is life like in Evora?

When we asked people living in Evora what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Evora is generally relaxed and peaceful. The city offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a warm, sunny climate. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive place for those who work remotely. The local community is friendly and welcoming, and while Portuguese is the main language, English is widely spoken, especially among the younger generation. The city is well-connected with reliable internet, making it easy for digital nomads to work. There are also several coworking spaces available. The food scene in Evora is excellent, with a variety of restaurants offering local and international cuisine. The city also has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs. Despite being a small city, Evora has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment. There are numerous museums, art galleries, and historical sites to explore. The city is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities. Healthcare in Evora is of a high standard, with both public and private options available. The city is also safe, with low crime rates. Overall, Evora offers a high quality of life for expats and digital nomads, combining the charm of a small city with the amenities of a larger one," said a person in Evora.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do I need to know before retiring in Evora?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Evora, they said:

"Expats considering retirement in Evora should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, the cost of living in Evora is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive option for retirees. However, it's important to understand that while some goods and services may be cheaper, others such as imported goods may be more expensive. The official language in Evora is Portuguese, so learning the basics of the language would be beneficial, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations. The city is known for its warm, Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, which could be a significant change for those from cooler climates. Healthcare in Portugal is of a high standard, with both public and private options available. Expats should research the best health insurance options for their needs and ensure they are covered. Evora is a city rich in history and culture, with many historical sites and museums to explore. It's also known for its food and wine, so food lovers will be in their element. Public transportation in Evora is reliable and affordable, but having a car can be beneficial for exploring the surrounding countryside. Portugal has a relatively low crime rate, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Finally, Portugal has a favorable tax regime for non-habitual residents, which can be beneficial for retirees. However, it's recommended to seek advice from a tax professional to understand the implications fully," said a retiree who moved to Evora, Portugal.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

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Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors

Let Portugal Residency Advisors help you with your move.
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Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

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