Moving, living, working, retiring abroad
Portugal is a beautiful country located on the west coast of Europe, on the southwestern tip on the continent. It is one of the two countries covering the Iberian Peninsula, which it shares with Spain. The Atlantic Ocean borders the country to the west and south, while Spain is its neighbor to the north and east.
Portugal is made up of the continental mainland and two island regions located in the Atlantic Ocean: Madeira and Azores. Its surface area totals 35,500 square miles, similar in size to the state of Maine in the United States. One of the best features is its spectacular coastline stretching almost 600 miles long from north to south, boasting a mix of dramatic cliffs and fine sand beaches.
Portugal is the westernmost of what are known as the southern European countries, alongside Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Albania, and Greece. Portugal has become the most attractive country in Europe for tourism as well as for living. Latin people at heart, the Portuguese value a work-life balance and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. Their favorite pastime is sharing time and delicious meals with family and friends.
Selecting the ideal European city to settle in is undoubtedly a complex undertaking. For those contemplating a move to Europe, the cost of living is a paramount concern, ranking alongside the overall quality of life. Though places offering a high standard of living may seem enticing, they often prove unaffordable for the average expatriate. So how … Read more
Lisbon, the charming capital of Portugal, has been capturing hearts worldwide. Among Lisbon’s greatest assets are its diverse neighborhoods, from centrally-located historic districts adorned with splendid architecture to Jacaranda-tree-lined streets hosting fruit markets and cozy cafes. This coastal city is a haven for expats, attracting people from all corners of the globe who seek a … Read more
Lisbon is the lively and cosmopolitan capital city of Portugal. With its historic beauty, vibrant culture, and coastal charm, Lisbon attracts expats from all over the world who are planning to start a new chapter of their lives in Portugal. If owning an apartment Lisbon seems like a distant dream, there is good news; finding … Read more
Located in central Portugal, Castelo Branco is renowned for its rich history, scenic landscapes, and unique cultural heritage. With its origins dating back to the medieval period, the city proudly showcases its architectural beauty, which stands as a testament to its historical significance. Castelo Branco is an ideal place to live for families, retirees, professionals, … Read more
Situated on Portugal’s stunning Silver Coast, Peniche is a true paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Not only does this charming destination have some of the most breathtaking beaches in Europe, but it also holds the title of being one of the world’s top surfing spots. With its rugged cliffs, ancient fortresses and … Read more
Évora Portugal is a historic city located in the center of the Alentejo region, famous for its beautiful countryside, delicious cuisine, incredible wine and relaxed way of life. With its rich cultural heritage, Évora has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike. If you are … Read more
Many people are moving to Portugal in search of a better lifestyle, a more relaxed life, better weather, and beautiful places. However, moving abroad with kids comes with a few worries for parents when it comes to childcare, or as they best say it in Portuguese, “cuidar de crianças”. Moving countries can be quite stressful … Read more
Nestled in the northwest part of Portugal is the fascinating city of Braga, the religious center of Portugal. With its perfect mix of history, culture and natural beauty, Braga is a popular location for those who are considering a move to Portugal. Whether you’re a retiree looking for a relaxed and affordable lifestyle, a sun-seeker … Read more
Nestled in the heart of the country, Coimbra is a welcoming city that offers an exceptional quality of life for those seeking to relocate to Portugal. Whether you are looking to retire, study or just start a new chapter in your life, Coimbra is a great option if you’re planning to move to Portugal. In … Read more
If you’re thinking about visiting or moving to Portugal, you might want to consider Nazaré. This scenic fishing town on Portugal’s Atlantic coast is famous for its awe-inspiring waves and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a surfing enthusiast, a history buff, or a retiree looking for a tranquil lifestyle, Nazaré can work for you. With … Read more
Get ready to embark on a journey to one of Portugal’s most gorgeous cities, Aveiro, also known as the “Venice of Portugal.” This unique coastal town in Northwestern Portugal will capture your heart with its stunning canals, colorful architecture, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re planning a vacation or considering relocating to Portugal, Aveiro is a … Read more
Located in the southern region of Portugal, Lagos boasts a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty and amazing weather. Whether you are a retiree looking for a peaceful and welcoming community, a sun lover seeking the warmth of the Mediterranean climate or a family wanting a safe and fun-filled environment, Lagos Portugal offers something … Read more
Located in the heart of the Algarve, Faro is a popular choice for expats and tourists alike who find the city highly desirable to live in. From the narrow alleys of the old town to the idyllic beaches, Faro offers a variety of amenities for everyone visiting or living in Portugal. Whether you’re seeking a … Read more
You’ve decided to take the plunge and start the process of moving to Portugal. Now, you have to consider things like applying for a resident visa and deciding on an ideal area to settle in. One of the very first steps early in the process is finding an apartment rental in Portugal. Why rent an apartment … Read more
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Portugal lies Cascais, a gem of a town with a unique blend of traditional charm and modern sophistication. Cascais, a former fishing village turned glamorous seaside resort, is a place where the Atlantic Ocean meets Portuguese culture and history. Located near Lisbon, Cascais Portugal is a very popular choice … Read more
More and more Americans are considering moving to Europe in search of a better quality of life, safety and good weather. But what are the best countries for Americans to move to? One European country in particular has been much talked about throughout 2022 as a highly sought-after destination by Americans to live in: Portugal. … Read more
Are you planning a trip to Portugal and want to know about mobile phone options? Moving to a new place can be an exciting yet unnerving experience. For those looking for the ideal balance between adventure and comfort, Portugal is fast becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after expat destinations. With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, … Read more
If you are a little confused about how to get prescriptions for medications when you live in Portugal, you’re not alone. The Portuguese healthcare system is excellent and well-organized, but some things are done a bit differently in Portugal compared to the US and other countries. There are some basic things you should know if … Read more
What is a NIF? It is essential to get acquainted with Portugal’s tax laws and acquire a NIF if you are an expat or foreign national living in Portugal. The NIF is a special tax identification number issued by the Portuguese Finanças (Finance Office) to people and companies in Portugal, required for multiple purposes, typically … Read more
If you’re an expat who has been driving in Portugal with a US license and plan to live in Portugal permanently, you may want to swap out your US driver’s license with a Portuguese driving license. Not only is this an option, but once you become a permanent resident in Portugal, you are required to … Read more