This article looks at the 5 best places to retire in Portugal. If you want to check out our detailed analysis of how Portugal is a digital nomad hub and outsourcing hotspot, go to 12 Best Places to Retire in Portugal.
5. Coimbra
Insider Monkey Score: 7
Coimbra, Portugal’s riverfront city, boasts a relative cosmopolitan aura, historical charm, natural beauty, and affordable cost of living. The best thing about living here is that retirees can get by with speaking English primarily as most of the locals can speak it too. The Mondego River and the nearby Serra da Estrela mountains add to the appeal of retiring here. The climate is temperate, with an average summer temperature of 73°F and coldest averaging 51°F. There are modern healthcare facilities, too, and even healthcare professionals can speak English. An individual retiree can manage living here for $1,200 per month.
4. Madeira
Insider Monkey Score: 8
Madeira, one of the best island destinations in Europe, is blessed with lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque coastal scenery. The Laurissilva Forest, in particular, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering retirees the chance to enjoy recreational opportunities such as hiking and nature exploration. Madeira wine, a fortified wine in Madiera, is renowned here. Temperatures on the island are mild and temperate. Moreover, healthcare facilities are top-notch and meet international standards. An individual retiree can expect to live well under $2,000 per month.
3. Cascais
Insider Monkey Score: 8
Cascais is a beautiful coastal town situated along the stunning Atlantic Ocean coastline. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which makes living here comfortable all year round. Lisbon is only a short drive away, so modern amenities are well within reach. A charming old town, along with historical sites and museums, is waiting to be explored. The town also boasts many restaurants and cafes, and retirees get to relish seafood, local wines, and traditional Portuguese dishes. A retiree’s living cost is around $2,152 per month. One-bedroom apartments are rented out for an average $1,144 per month.
2. Sintra
Insider Monkey Score: 9
The charming and historical town of Sintra appeals to retirees for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and mild climate. From the colorful Pena Palace to the romantic Quinta da Regaleira and the Moorish Castle, the town has various architectural gems waiting to be explored. The lush greenery of the Sintra mountains adds to the appeal of retiring here, and so does its peaceful ambiance. Traditional eateries, restaurants, and cafes make living here all the more worthwhile. On average, $1,500 per month is sufficient for an individual retiree to live a comfortable lifestyle.
1. Lisbon
Insider Monkey Score: 11
Known as Portugal’s metropolitan heart, Lisbon tops our list of best places to retire owing to its beautiful viewpoints or “miradouros”, its rich heritage, and modern amenities. Panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River are well worth relishing, and so are its historic neighborhoods, such as the Alfama. Retirees can explore the Belém Cultural Center or enjoy the many festivals, art exhibitions, and theatre performances throughout the year. The city is home to modern healthcare facilities, too. An individual retiree can expect to live here on $2,300 per month on average.
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