1. Food & drink: from refreshing Vinho Verde to creamy pastéis de nata
Fresh seafood, world famous wine and iconic pastries are just some of the foodie highlights to look forward to if you buy a property in Portugal. The Portuguese love their seafood, and dishes like bacalhau a bras (codfish with onions and potatoes) and grilled sardines are menu staples. Fancy a freshly baked pastel de nata for breakfast? Pick up one of Portugal's beloved custard tarts in one of its hundreds of historical pastelarias. Indulge in the iconic francesinha sandwich, a meaty, cheesy, and spicy marvel found in Porto. Portugal is home to rich ports, the Vinho Verde wines of the north, and the famous Douro Valley vineyards. We also love the ginja liqueur beloved by locals, flavoured with sour cherries. With delectable flavours around every corner, Portugal is a true paradise for food and drink enthusiasts.
2. Cheaper cost of living: low-cost food, transportation and affordable housing
One of the most appealing aspects of living in Portugal is its cost-effectiveness. According to Numbeo, Portugal is the cheapest country to live in Western Europe. Housing, dining out, transportation, and everyday expenses are all reasonably priced. Moreover, Portugal provides an affordable yet efficient healthcare system that's accessible to both residents and expatriates. The cheapest places to buy a property in Portugal include Castelo Branco and central Portugal, Santarém, Matosinhos, Viana do Castelo and Figueira da Foz.
3. Weather: Sun-drenched days and mild winters
Portugal boasts a Mediterranean climate with a mild, temperate influence from the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoying approximately 300 days of sunshine a year, Portugal offers a fantastic climate. Summers are long and hot, making it perfect for beach days along the Algarve coast, home to some of the world's most beautiful beaches like Praia da Marinha and Praia da Rocha. In contrast, the winters are mild, especially in the Algarve, where it remains warm and sunny during most of the year. This appealing climate provides the perfect environment for outdoor activities and exploring the picturesque landscapes of this beautiful country.
4. Beautiful landscapes: explore pristine beaches, lush national parks and historic towns and villages
Portugal's diverse landscapes cater to every taste. Its extensive coastline, stretching over 1,794 km, includes dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and golden sands. The Algarve region is famous for its breathtaking beaches and pristine golf courses, while the Silver Coast presents charming towns like Nazaré and Peniche, known for their big-wave surfing spots. Inland, discover the picturesque Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with terraced vineyards cascading down to the meandering Douro River. Portugal's national parks, such as Peneda-Gerês and Arrábida, offer hiking enthusiasts stunning trails amid lush vegetation. The country is dotted with charming cities and towns, from historic Lisbon and Porto to the idyllic Sintra, known for its fairytale palace. Each region showcases a unique charm, making Portugal a paradise for explorers.
5. Safety: Portugal is a peaceful and friendly nation
In an increasingly uncertain world, Portugal stands out as a safe haven. According to the Global Peace Index 2022, Portugal ranks as the sixth safest country in the world, following New Zealand, Iceland, Ireland, Denmark, and Austria. The country enjoys a low crime rate, and its people are known for their welcoming and friendly nature. The combination of safety and friendly locals creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making Portugal an ideal choice for property buyers.
Bonus: Portugal is great place to invest in property
The continuing popularity of Portugal means that if you choose to rent out your property, you’re likely to find it occupied for most of the year, depending on the location. In August 2023, the country reached a historic high in overnight stays and the highest monthly revenue from tourist activity ever recorded with more than 3.5 million guests (+4.8%) and 10.1 million overnight stays (+1.4%), which corresponded to EUR 878.3 million in total revenue. So you’ll never be short of tourists seeking accommodation, or digital nomads looking for their next Portuguese crash pad.
Portugal's charm extends far beyond its picturesque landscapes and delectable cuisine. It's a country that’s affordable, safe, and which boasts an enviable quality of life. With its welcoming people and idyllic atmosphere, it's easy to see why Portugal ranks among the top countries to live in the world.
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