Portugal regularly tops lists as the best place to retire in Europe. With gorgeous sandy beaches, spectacular scenery and charming towns and villages, it’s no wonder.
Whether you’re seeking an active retirement or a peaceful retreat, Portugal has a town for you. Here are four of our favorite retirement spots in Portugal
Lagos
Lagos is a charming town in Portugal’s popular Algarve region. The coastal town is just an hour’s drive from Faro airport and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive rock formations and pretty walled old town.
Although it can get quite busy in the summer, Lagos has a laid back feel making it the perfect retirement destination. It would particularly suit active retirees as there is an endless list of outdoor activities to enjoy such as water sports, golf, hiking and even horse riding. And with lovely year-round temperatures, there is no better place to be outdoors.
Average property prices in Lagos are around € 2,700 / m2.
Elvas
Next, we look at a completely different retirement location. Elvas is a town in Northern Portugal, just seven miles from the border with Spain. An interesting fact about Elvas is that it has the most fortifications in the whole of Europe and has subsequently earned itself UNESCO World Heritage status.
Unsurprisingly, this town is brimming with history. Many of the fortifications date back to the seventeenth century when Portugal fought Spain for its independence in the War of Restoration.
Elvas boasts an authentic feel, with relatively few tourists, so retirees can really immerse themselves in the Portuguese culture. Being so close to Spain also presents the opportunity to explore and enjoy the Spanish culture too.
Average property prices in Elvas are very affordable at € 789 / m2
Pico Island
Have you thought about retiring to a Portuguese island? Islands have a certain charm that you cannot find on the mainland. Pico Island is the second largest of the Azores and is truly breathtaking. With a dramatic volcanic landscape, lush vegetation and crystal clear beaches it would be the perfect location to escape the bustle of modern life.
However, it is important to note that the Azores are about 1,000 miles from the mainland, so it is not a case of simply hopping between the islands and the mainland. This may be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on what you are looking for in your retirement.
Average property prices in the capital Madalena are € 1,692 / m2.
Cascais
Just 20 miles from Lisbon lies the coastal town of Cascais. It is a favorite among retirees as it feels relatively rural but is still well connected to larger cities and amenities.
Once a small fishing village and holiday destination for the rich and noble, Cascais is now a thriving and elegant seaside resort.
With beautifully clean beaches, a good range of cafes and restaurants and a quaint historic center, Cascais would make a wonderful retirement base.
Average property prices in Cascais are more expensive at € 5,152 / m2, due to its proximity to Lisbon. Prices are, however, cheaper than in Lisbon.
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If you would like further advice on the buying process in Portugal, download your free Portugal Guide.
Why not split the cost and double the fun of owning a holiday home in Portugal by buying with family or friends? Read our guide to Buying Abroad with Family
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