Portugal hit me right in the feels. Sitting at this tiny cafe in Porto, watching locals greet each other with kisses while old trams rumbled by, I finally got why everyone’s moving here. The barista knew every customer’s name, the food was mind-blowing, and nobody was rushing. Plus, my coffee and pastel de nata cost less than a chain coffee back home.
The best places in Portugal mix old-school charm with modern life perfectly. In Braga, I watched people work from centuries-old cafes, then join locals for sunset drinks in the medieval square. Yeah, everyone’s talking about Portugal right now, but trust me, it lives up to the buzz. Ready to see why this country keeps stealing hearts? Let me show you around.
Most Desirable Places to Live in Portugal in 2025
Looking for places to live in Portugal in 2025? Discover the charm of Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal” with its canals and vibrant culture. Experience the dynamic lifestyle in Braga, a city rich in history and modern amenities. Enjoy coastal living in Cascais, a picturesque seaside town with stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. If you prefer a balance of tradition and innovation, Coimbra offers a historic university town with a lively cultural scene. Whether you seek history, coastal beauty, or urban excitement, these are the top places to live in Portugal in 2025.
- Best for surf and sand: Aveiro
- Best for family-friendly living: Braga
- Best for luxury living: Cascais
- Best for university town vibes: Coimbra
- Best for history enthusiasts: Evora
- Best for expat communities: Faro District
- Best for beach lovers: Lagos
- Best for vibrant city life: Lisbon
- Best for leisure and marina lifestyle: Portimão
- Best for cultural experiences: Porto
- Best for retirees: Sintra
- Best for a tranquil lifestyle: Tavira
1. Aveiro
A place where colorful boats glide through charming canals, Aveiro is often called the “Venice of Portugal”—but it’s more than just a pretty nickname. This coastal city blends a relaxed pace of life with rich cultural heritage, making it one of the best places to live in Portugal.
The streets are lined with Art Nouveau buildings, adding elegance to the already picturesque setting. Beyond its city center, Costa Nova Beach dazzles with its striped fisherman houses and golden sands. The food scene is just as inviting, with fresh seafood markets and the famous ovos moles pastry that locals swear by.
Affordable living, a mild coastal climate, and a strong university presence make Aveiro an ideal home. Whether you’re drawn to the waterways, the historic charm, or the seaside lifestyle, this city has something for everyone.
2. Braga
One of Portugal’s oldest cities and yet one of its most youthful, Braga thrives on a mix of historic grandeur and modern energy. Its university scene keeps the city buzzing, while its centuries-old landmarks like Bom Jesus do Monte remind residents of its deep-rooted heritage.
Life here moves at the perfect pace—cobbled streets lead to bustling markets, and charming cafés spill onto sunny squares. Braga’s cost of living is lower than in Lisbon or Porto, but it still offers top-tier healthcare, public transport, and green spaces. It’s an appealing spot for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
With its blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, Braga isn’t just a city to visit—it’s one to call home. The sense of community and tradition makes it one of the best cities to live in Portugal.
3. Cascais
Golden beaches, a scenic marina, and a relaxed coastal vibe—Cascais has long been one of Portugal’s most desirable places to live. Just a short train ride from Lisbon, this former royal retreat has evolved into a luxury coastal town where life feels like a permanent holiday.
Mornings can start with a surf session, afternoons with a fresh seafood lunch by the marina, and evenings with a stroll through charming historic streets. The town’s expat-friendly community, high-end restaurants, and laid-back lifestyle make it a top pick for those looking to enjoy coastal Portugal without sacrificing modern conveniences.
While the cost of living is higher here, the quality of life is second to none. With easy access to Lisbon, world-class beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene, Cascais is a dream destination for expats, retirees, and families alike.
4. Coimbra
As the home of one of Europe’s oldest universities, Coimbra is steeped in history, culture, and academic prestige. But beyond its ancient university halls and cobbled streets, it’s also one of the most livable cities in Portugal.
The city’s riverside charm adds to its appeal, with parks and promenades along the Mondego River offering a peaceful escape. Festivals, student traditions, and a growing tech scene bring an unexpected vibrancy to this historically rich town. Despite its cultural significance, Coimbra remains an affordable place to live, with excellent healthcare, a strong community feel, and easy access to Portugal’s countryside.
For those who love a mix of tradition, intellectual energy, and relaxed city life, Coimbra offers the perfect setting. Whether you’re a student, professional, or retiree, it’s a city that balances heritage and modern living effortlessly.
✈️ My #1 Tip for Cheap Flights:
If you’re not using Going, you’re probably overpaying for flights. I’ve scored roundtrips to Europe for under $300 - and I never would’ve found them on Google Flights.
Their free version is great, but Premium is where the real magic happens. I recommend doing the 14-day free trial. And right now, you can get 25% off Premium or Elite with my code: JON25.
Seriously, it’s the best travel decision I’ve ever made (in 8+ years).
5. Évora
Stepping into Évora feels like stepping back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage city in Alentejo is one of the best places to live in Portugal for those who appreciate history, culture, and a slower pace of life.
Inside its medieval walls, you’ll find a mix of Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and charming whitewashed houses. The Roman Temple of Évora and the eerie yet fascinating Chapel of Bones are just a glimpse of its rich past. But Évora isn’t just a city of monuments—it’s a place where life unfolds in quaint cafés, bustling markets, and peaceful plazas.
The cost of living here is lower than in Portugal’s major cities, and the warm climate, great local wine, and strong sense of community make it an appealing option for retirees, remote workers, and history lovers.
6. Faro District
Known as the gateway to the Algarve, Faro offers a mix of historic charm, coastal beauty, and modern amenities. While many tourists pass through en route to the region’s famous beaches, those who stay find a laid-back lifestyle with all the perks of city living.
Faro’s Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and Moorish architecture, provides a glimpse into Portugal’s past, while the Ria Formosa Natural Park offers a stunning escape into protected lagoons and wildlife-filled wetlands. The city’s international airport, good public transport, and affordable cost of living make it a practical choice for expats.
Unlike other parts of the Algarve, Faro isn’t overrun with tourists, so it retains a genuine Portuguese feel. If you want a coastal city with a relaxed vibe, access to some of the country’s best beaches, and a strong expat community, Faro is a fantastic place to call home.
7. Lagos
Lagos is the perfect blend of beach life, history, and vibrant energy, making it one of the best places to live in Portugal. Nestled in the Algarve, this coastal town is famous for its stunning beaches, with Praia Dona Ana and Ponta da Piedade boasting some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Europe.
Beyond the beaches, Lagos’ historic old town is a delight to explore, with its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and lively squares. The town is full of local markets, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops, offering a fantastic mix of authentic Portuguese culture and modern comforts.
Lagos has a growing expat community, a laid-back lifestyle, and plenty of outdoor activities, from surfing and sailing to hiking the rugged coastline. Its warm climate, excellent amenities, and welcoming vibe make it a top choice for those looking to embrace a relaxed yet active way of life.
8. Lisbon
Portugal’s vibrant capital needs no introduction. Lisbon is a city of golden rooftops, historic trams, and endless ocean views—a place where the past and future come together in perfect harmony.
Each neighborhood has its own personality, from the charming, Fado-filled streets of Alfama to the trendy cafés and boutiques of Príncipe Real. The culinary scene is unmatched, with fresh seafood, pastéis de nata, and Michelin-starred restaurants around every corner. And with a thriving tech industry, creative hubs, and co-working spaces, Lisbon has become a magnet for entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and professionals.
Despite being Portugal’s most expensive city, Lisbon’s quality of life is undeniable. Sunshine year-round, cultural events, excellent public transport, and easy access to beaches make it one of the best places to live in Portugal—whether you’re here for work, retirement, or the love of adventure.
9. Portimão
Life in Portimão is all about sun, sea, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. This Algarve city may be known for its golden beaches and bustling marina, but it also has a strong sense of community, rich cultural heritage, and plenty of modern comforts.
At the heart of the city is Praia da Rocha, one of the most stunning beaches in Portugal, where turquoise waters meet dramatic cliffs. The waterfront is lined with cafés, seafood restaurants, and bars, making it easy to soak in the local atmosphere. The Portimão Museum, housed in an old sardine factory, gives a fascinating look into the city’s maritime history.
For those looking for a mix of coastal beauty, affordability, and convenience, Portimão delivers. With a growing expat community, excellent healthcare, and year-round sunshine, it’s one of the best Portugal towns to live in—whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or just seeking a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
10. Porto
Porto has all the charm of Lisbon but with a grittier, more authentic feel. Porto’s historic riverside district, Ribeira, is a maze of colorful buildings, lively cafés, and breathtaking views of the Douro River. But beyond its postcard-perfect beauty, Porto is a city of innovation, culture, and opportunity.
Famous for its Port wine cellars, gothic churches, and the stunning Livraria Lello, Porto is a place where tradition and creativity thrive side by side. The city has a flourishing startup scene, excellent universities, and a cost of living that’s lower than Lisbon, making it a top choice for young professionals, students, and expats.
Public transport is efficient, the food scene is incredible, and there’s always something happening—whether it’s local festivals, street markets, concerts. For those looking for a dynamic yet affordable city with a rich history, Porto is undoubtedly one of the best cities to live in Portugal.
11. Sintra
Tucked into the misty Sintra Mountains, this fairytale town is one of the most magical places in Portugal. With its palaces, lush gardens, and historic estates, Sintra feels like a place straight out of a storybook.
The iconic Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira make Sintra a dream for history lovers. But beyond its tourist appeal, it’s a wonderful place to call home. The town offers a tranquil atmosphere, cooler climate, and a strong sense of community—all within a short train ride from Lisbon.
For those who love nature, hiking, and a peaceful way of life, Sintra is a top choice. The cost of living is reasonable, and its proximity to the capital means you can enjoy the best of both worlds—quiet village charm with easy access to city amenities.
12. Tavira
Last but certainly not least, Tavira is one of the Algarve’s most charming hidden gems. While other coastal towns are bustling with tourists, Tavira has managed to retain its authentic Portuguese charm and relaxed pace of life.
Strolling through Tavira’s historic center, you’ll find whitewashed buildings, ancient churches, and a picturesque Roman bridge spanning the Gilão River. The nearby Ilha de Tavira offers some of the best unspoiled beaches in Portugal, reachable by a short boat ride. The town’s local markets, fresh seafood, and traditional Fado music add to its warm, inviting atmosphere.
Tavira is perfect for retirees and expats looking for peace, affordability, and natural beauty. The cost of living is lower than in other Algarve hotspots, yet it still offers excellent amenities, healthcare, and a friendly community. For coastal living without the crowds, Tavira is the ideal place to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
