posted 10th March 2026
Best Places to Live in Portugal for Expats: Top 10 Destinations (2026 Guide)
Portugal remains one of Europe’s most popular destinations for people looking to start a new chapter abroad. Great weather, strong communities, and a high quality of life make it extremely appealing. But choosing where to live is only half the decision.
The other half is getting the right professional support (legal, property, tax, relocation) so your move is smooth and stress free.
Below are ten of the most popular places people emigrate to in Portugal, and what each is best known for.
1) Lisbon
Portugal’s capital is the top choice for many expats who want city life, international connections, and career opportunities. Lisbon offers a strong mix of culture, neighbourhood variety, and access to services - but it can be more expensive than other regions.
Best for: city lifestyle, international community, networking, convenience.
2) Porto
Porto is often described as Lisbon’s more relaxed counterpart. It’s known for its historic charm, riverside living, and strong food and wine culture. Many expats choose Porto for a slightly lower cost of living while still enjoying a major city.
Best for: culture, walkability, value vs Lisbon.
3) The Algarve (Faro, Lagos, Albufeira and beyond)
The Algarve is one of the most established expat regions in Portugal, especially for retirees and lifestyle movers. Beach towns, golf, and a large English-speaking community are major draws.
Best for:sunshine, coastal living, established expat networks.
4) Cascais
Cascais is a premium coastal area close to Lisbon, popular with families and professionals who want beach access without giving up city proximity. It’s polished, safe, and well-connected - but typically higher priced.
Best for: families, coastal lifestyle near Lisbon, high-end living.
5) Sintra
Sintra is known for its green hills, historic architecture, and cooler climate. It appeals to people who want a quieter, scenic lifestyle while staying within reach of Lisbon.
Best for: nature, calmer pace, proximity to Lisbon.
6) Coimbra
Coimbra has a strong academic feel thanks to its famous university. It’s a popular option for people who want a central location, a more traditional Portuguese atmosphere, and good value.
Best for: students, quieter city living, central Portugal access.
7) Braga
Braga is one of the fastest growing cities in northern Portugal, and is increasingly popular with younger expats and families. It offers a lower cost of living, strong infrastructure, and a more local feel than the big expat hubs.
Best for: affordability, families, northern Portugal.
8) Aveiro
Sometimes called the ‘Venice of Portugal’, Aveiro is a coastal city with canals, beaches nearby, and a relaxed vibe. It’s also well-positioned between Porto and Coimbra.
Best for:coastal city living, calmer lifestyle, good location.
9) Setúbal
Setúbal is a working city with beautiful nearby beaches and access to nature (including Arrábida). It’s often chosen by people who want proximity to Lisbon but prefer a less tourist-driven environment.
Best for: value near Lisbon, nature, authentic local living.
10) Madeira (Funchal)
While not on the mainland, Madeira is a major destination for expats - especially those seeking year round mild weather, scenery, and a slower pace. Funchal is the island’s main hub with services and community.
Best for: island lifestyle, climate, scenery, relaxed pace.
How to choose the right place in Portugal (quick checklist)
Before you commit, consider:
• Your lifestyle:city energy vs quiet coastal vs countryside
• Work needs:remote work setup, coworking, transport links
• Healthcare access:proximity to hospitals/clinics you’re comfortable with
• Budget:rent and purchase prices vary significantly by region
• Community: expat-heavy areas vs more local immersion
Don’t overlook the most important factor: trusted professional support
Wherever you choose to live, most people will need help with at least one of the following:
• Property search and purchase/rental process
• Legal checks and contracts
• Tax planning and compliance
• Immigration/residency support (where applicable)
• Insurance and financial services
The challenge is that when you’re moving abroad, it’s hard to judge who’s genuinely reliable - especially if you’re dealing with unfamiliar systems, language barriers, or high-stakes decisions.
Why EXAPS matters
EXAPS exists to help expats find ethical, reliable professional service providers - so you can improve your chances of a smooth move and avoid costly mistakes. Instead of relying on guesswork, random recommendations, or unclear online claims, you can use EXAPS to find professionals who commit to clear standards and a Code of Conduct.
Important note: EXAPS is not a regulator, ombudsman, or accreditation body, and we don’t provide legal, financial, tax, or immigration advice. We also can’t guarantee outcomes. What we do provide is a clearer, more transparent way to identify professionals who are serious about integrity and accountability when serving expats.
Next step
If you’re planning a move to Portugal, start by choosing your destination - then make sure you choose the right people to support you.
Use EXAPS to find trusted expat facing professionals and give yourself the best possible chance of getting the right support.
