Find your new life
Transforming from a country in economic crisis to Europe’s top destination for investment and expatriation in just a few years, Portugal, and particularly its capital Lisbon, has become one of the favorite destinations for both vacations and long-term relocation. Young graduates, families, retirees—there's no age limit for settling by the Tagus River, in one of the continent’s most dynamic and pleasant cities.
Why is Lisbon so Attractive? Although the tax benefits for foreigners are no longer in effect, the appeal of the Portuguese capital rests on many other aspects: quality of life, sunny climate, accessible real estate market, affordable cost of living, and above all, a rich culture and unique historical heritage!
Lisbon is located on the west coast, in the center-south of Portugal. Built at the mouth of the Tagus River, on the right bank, the city is divided into 24 districts (called freguesias), which are further divided into neighborhoods. Two bridges connect the city to the southern bank: the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
Lisbon is by far the most populous region in Portugal, concentrating 27% of the country’s population on just 3.3% of its territory. It’s also home to 30% of the companies in Portugal, but we’ll discuss the job market further down!
As the capital, Lisbon is very well connected! Lisbon International Airport is one of Europe’s main air hubs, offering direct flights to many major European cities and beyond. This makes the region easily accessible for visitors and international residents.
The rail network is also well developed, with fast and comfortable trains connecting Lisbon to other major Portuguese cities like Porto and Faro. Public transportation within the city, including a network of metro, trams, and buses, is efficient and affordable.
The road infrastructure is well-maintained, with modern highways allowing quick access to different regions of Portugal. The Lisbon region is thus well-connected, facilitating travel for work, leisure, and vacations.
Lisbon is a diverse city; there is no “best” neighborhood, as each has very different characteristics that will appeal to some and not to others. It all depends on your lifestyle, whether you are alone or with family, where you work, whether you prefer a house or an apartment, in the city or near the beaches, in a quiet or lively area, etc.
Expat families tend to look near international schools, in neighborhoods like Rato, Estrela, Lapa, Campo de Ourique, Campolide, Príncipe Real, or Restelo.
Those looking for individual houses in peaceful and upscale neighborhoods will go to the chic villages of Cascais, located 20 kilometers from the capital, or Guincho.
Finally, many choose the city center: the Alfama neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and colorful houses, or Bairro Alto and Chiado for those seeking a vibrant nightlife, with a multitude of bars, restaurants, and shops. These neighborhoods are among the most affected by rising prices, and it’s not uncommon to see apartments costing nearly €10,000 per square meter.
Appart from the city, the region of Lisbon is made up of a set of very beautiful cities, sometimes even more sought-after than the capital itself! Among them are Sintra, Odivelas, and Loures to the north, Oeiras to the west, Amadora to the northwest, and Cascais and Guincho mentioned earlier. On the other side of the Tagus, we find Almada, Seixal, Barreiro, Moita, Montijo, and Alcochete.
In 2022, Lisbon was voted the 4th best city in the world for expatriation, after Valencia (Spain), Mexico City (Mexico), and Dubai (United Arab Emirates), according to a ranking by InterNations among expatriates living in 50 countries around the globe.
This ranking was based on several criteria, such as:
Lisbon attracts for its not just pleasant but ideal climate, with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, mild winters, and warm but not too hot summers thanks to the Atlantic sea breeze. However, be cautious: like many hot countries, Lisbon can be poorly equipped for winter! Be sure to check the heating system before buying a house or apartment, as winter without radiators can be difficult.
In summer, many Lisboetas prefer a cool, air-conditioned interior, while expatriates look for large terraces and balconies to enjoy the sun.
This favorable climate allows for a multitude of outdoor activities, such as golf, hiking, cycling, and water sports. If you choose to live in the city center, the city’s parks and gardens, like Eduardo VII Park and Lisbon’s Botanical Garden, are perfect places to relax and enjoy the good weather.
One of Portugal’s major attractions is its relatively low cost of living compared to other European destinations. Even though Lisbon and its region are more expensive than the rest of the country, most essential products, restaurants, and leisure activities are often cheaper than elsewhere.
However, some costs, like electricity and telecommunications, are 30% higher than in other countries like France. These bills, which you don’t notice when visiting or on vacation, can surprise new arrivals. It’s important to know the cost of things when budgeting!
Lisbon is renowned for its relaxed and friendly lifestyle, which attracts many expatriates. Lisboetas are known for their hospitality and sense of community, creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The city offers a pleasant pace of life, where you can enjoy simple pleasures like relaxing in a terrace café, strolling along the river, or savoring delicious local cuisine.
For foreigners, know that there are many expatriate communities, making integration easy. The best way to meet them: take Portuguese classes!
Lisbon is a very dynamic city and very internationally oriented. As mentioned earlier, a third of the country’s companies are in Lisbon. In recent years, many international companies have settled there, boosting the job market for foreigners.
Lisbon also hosts many teleworkers. Its great accessibility allows for easy commuting while benefiting from a better quality of life on-site.
Lisbon offers a full range of quality services and amenities, ensuring a high level of comfort for its residents. The healthcare system is excellent, with modern hospitals and private clinics providing high-quality care. Renowned international schools, such as St. Julian's School and the Carlucci American International School, guarantee top-notch education for expatriate families.
The city also boasts numerous shopping centers, luxury boutiques, and local markets, catering to all shopping and leisure needs. Sporting facilities, including golf courses, tennis clubs, and gyms, are plentiful and well-equipped.
Lisbon is a city rich in history and culture. Every corner tells a story, from the ancient streets of Alfama to the majestic monuments of Belém. The city has preserved its heritage while embracing modernity, offering a unique setting where the past and present coexist harmoniously.
The Alfama neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and colorful houses, is one of the oldest and most picturesque in Lisbon. Here, the traditional Portuguese music Fado, telling stories of daily life and saudade, still resonates. In contrast, the Belém district pays homage to Portugal’s era of great maritime discoveries. The Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery are emblematic examples of Manueline architecture and attract visitors from around the world.
But the history and culture extend beyond the capital: just 30 km north of the city lies Sintra, a town hidden in the cool, misty mountains. Sintra is renowned for its Palácio e Quinta da Regaleira, an extravagant Gothic manor, and its mystical gardens with countless secret passages, the Moorish Castle built in the 9th century, and the very famous Palácio da Pena, a burst of yellow and orange color amid Sintra’s lush vegetation.
Lisbon is also a dynamic city in terms of cultural and artistic events. The city is home to many museums, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, which features an extensive art collection, and the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology), which features contemporary exhibitions. Art galleries, theatres and concert halls contribute to a rich and varied cultural life.
Annual events, such as the NOS Alive music festival and the IndieLisboa film festival, attract thousands of visitors and enhance the city's appeal. Gastronomy is also a central part of Lisbon culture, with food markets like the Time Out Market offering a unique dining experience.
Lisbon is a city where history and culture are lived on a daily basis, offering residents and visitors an unparalleled wealth of experiences. For investors, this cultural richness adds an extra dimension to the region's appeal, making it not only a place to live, but also a destination of choice to discover and savor Portuguese culture.
The Lisbon region is blessed with a diversity of natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate nature’s beauty. The Atlantic coast, with its golden beaches and spectacular cliffs, offers a perfect setting for sun lovers, surfers, and water sports enthusiasts. Beaches like those in Cascais and Estoril are very popular for their crystal-clear waters and quality infrastructures.
Beyond the beaches, the region is home to natural parks of great ecological richness. The Sintra-Cascais Natural Park is a true gem, with its green hills, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes. Sintra, in particular, is famous for its enchanting palaces and lush gardens, such as those at the Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira, which attract visitors from around the world.
The Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, located south of Lisbon, is another example of the region’s natural beauty. With its steep mountains, green valleys, and pristine beaches, it’s an ideal place for hiking, wildlife observation, and outdoor relaxation.
The real estate market in the Lisbon area is dynamic and expanding, attracting many foreign and local investors. In recent years, real estate prices have seen a significant rise, reflecting the growing demand for residential and vacation properties. Despite this increase, prices remain competitive compared to other major European capitals, offering excellent value for money.
This growth in the real estate market is supported by strong demand for quality housing in sought-after neighborhoods, as well as investments in renovation projects and new infrastructure development. Investors thus benefit from an interesting potential for appreciation, both in the short and long term.
Investing in Portugal presents excellent opportunities, both for the variety of properties available and for the rental potential in this highly coveted region. And who knows, buying a house in Portugal may represent the promise of a retirement in the sun!
The Lisbon area offers a variety of property types to meet the needs and tastes of all buyers. You’ll find modern apartments in the city center, offering stunning views of the Tagus River and easy access to urban amenities.
For those seeking a more traditional and picturesque setting, the surrounding villages offer typical houses with authentic charm. Villages like Cascais and Sintra offer a tranquil atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and exceptional quality of life.
Luxury seaside villas are also in high demand. Located in exclusive areas like Estoril and Costa da Caparica, these properties offer high-end amenities, landscaped gardens, and often a direct ocean view.
If buying abroad scares you, know that the purchase process in Portugal does not differ significantly from that for Portuguese citizens. If you do not reside in Portugal, you can authorize a representative (lawyer or tax advisor established locally) to manage the process for you.
For Europeans, there is no need for a visa: as a member of the Schengen Area, you can live and work wherever you like in Portugal. If you intend to settle long-term, you must apply for a long-term residence permit from the Portuguese government.
For non-EU residents, a visa application to the government will be necessary to settle in the country. There are different types of visas for different situations; feel free to consult the Portuguese government’s website to find the one that suits your needs.
In conclusion, the Lisbon region offers diverse real estate opportunities and an exceptional living environment. Between its dynamic real estate market, varied natural landscapes, modern infrastructure, and friendly lifestyle, Lisbon provides an ideal setting for those looking to buy a second home or prepare for retirement. The city’s cultural and historical richness, combined with a high quality of life and enhanced security, makes it a top choice for European real estate investors.
