Do you dream of a life under the Portuguese sun, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and a rich culture? Living in Portugal is a dream that becomes shared reality for many. Whether you are looking for a bustling city, a quiet village, or a spectacular sea view, Portugal offers an unparalleled quality of life. At Atlanticasa, we understand your desire for a dream home in this beautiful country and are happy to guide you through every step.
01Why choose living in Portugal?
In recent years, Portugal has gained enormous popularity as a destination to live and invest in. This is not without reason. The country offers a unique combination of factors that make it an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees alike:
- Climate: With over 300 days of sunshine per year, you can enjoy wonderful winters and long, warm summers.
- Cost of living: Compared to many other Western European countries, the cost of living is significantly lower, especially outside the major cities.
- Quality of life: The relaxed lifestyle, the hospitable population, and the emphasis on family and community contribute to a high quality of life.
- Safety: Portugal consistently ranks in the top 10 safest countries in the world.
- Natural beauty: From the golden beaches of the Algarve to the rugged coastlines of the Costa Vicentina and the rolling hills with vineyards in the Alentejo, the nature is breathtakingly diverse. For a comprehensive guide through Portugal's diverse regions, we recommend consulting our Map of Portugal: your guide to the perfect place.
02Choosing the perfect region for your life in Portugal
Choosing the right region is crucial for a successful relocation and residency. Portugal is a country of contrasts, and each region has its own unique charm and advantages. These are some popular options:
The versatility of the Algarve
The Algarve, located in the south of Portugal, has been a favourite destination for expats for decades. And rightfully so! Here you will find a beautiful coastline with spectacular cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque bays. The interior offers rolling hills, citrus groves, and rustic villages. The infrastructure is excellent, with plenty of golf courses, marinas, and world-class restaurants. Those who dream of luxury living on the Portuguese coast will quickly feel at home here. For more information about this region, also read our guide on Moving to the Algarve: luxury living on the Portuguese coast. Particularly cities such as Lagos offer a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. If you are considering Moving to Lagos: a guide to living and lifestyle, it offers in-depth insights.
The charm of Central Portugal
Central Portugal is ideal for those seeking a more traditional Portuguese experience. Here you will find rolling landscapes, rivers, and mountains. The cities of Coimbra and Aveiro are known for their universities and historic centres. The Silver Coast (Costa de Prata) offers beautiful seaside towns, less crowded than the Algarve but with the same Atlantic charm. It is a region where prices are (still) more attractive and authenticity has been preserved.
The vibrancy of Lisbon and surroundings
The capital Lisbon is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history, impressive architecture, and a dynamic cultural life. From the historic districts of Baixa and Alfama to the trendy Príncipe Real and Chiado, every neighbourhood has its own character. The surroundings of Lisbon, such as Cascais and Estoril, offer exclusive residential areas and a beautiful coastal landscape, perfect for those who want to live close to the city but still enjoy peace and space.
The tranquility of the Alentejo
The Alentejo is the largest and most sparsely populated region of Portugal, known for its rolling plains, ancient cork oaks, vineyards, and breathtaking starry skies. Here you will find ultimate peace and space. Cities like Évora (a UNESCO World Heritage site) offer a rich history and culture. The Alentejo is perfect for those seeking a rural life, perhaps even in their own quinta, what you didn't know, far away from the crowds.
“As an Atlanticasa advisor, I see every day how the dream of living in Portugal inspires people. It is more than just buying a house; it is investing in a new lifestyle, surrounded by beauty and hospitality. We are happy to help you achieve this dream, exactly as you envision it.”
03Practical considerations when living in Portugal
In addition to finding the perfect location, there are several practical matters that require attention when you decide to start living in Portugal. Atlanticasa is, of course, here to assist you with this:
- Visa and residency permit: For EU citizens, the procedure is relatively simple. For non-EU citizens, there are various options such as the D7 visa or the Golden Visa (recently modified, but still relevant for certain investments).
- Tax advice: Portugal offers attractive tax regimes such as the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) status, although these have recently been adjusted. We always recommend seeking expert tax advice.
- Language: Although many Portuguese people, especially in tourist areas, speak English, learning Portuguese is an enrichment and facilitates integration.
- Healthcare: Portugal has a reasonable public healthcare system, but many expats choose supplementary private insurance for faster access to specialists and broader coverage.
- Bank account and NIF: A Portuguese tax number (NIF) is essential for almost all administrative procedures. A local bank account is also indispensable.
- Buying real estate: The property purchase process in Portugal is different from the Netherlands. A reliable real estate agent like Atlanticasa is invaluable in guiding you through this process. We ensure legal certainty and transparency at every step.
04Finding your dream home in Portugal with Atlanticasa
At Atlanticasa, we specialise in quality real estate and guide you from A up to Z in your search for a property in Portugal. Whether you are looking for a luxury villa in the Algarve, a charming quinta in the Alentejo, or a modern apartment in Lisbon, we have the selection and the expertise.
We work with an extensive network of local professionals, from lawyers and tax advisors to bankers and architects. This ensures you a smooth and worry-free transition to your new life in Portugal.
Has the thought of wisely investing in a holiday home on the Portuguese coast been on your mind for a long time, or are you looking for a permanent residence? We are happy to help you explore your options and find the perfect match. View our extensive selection of exclusive real estate.
05Frequently asked questions about living in Portugal
Can I easily live in Portugal as a Dutch citizen?
Yes, as an EU citizen, you can easily settle in Portugal. You must register with the local municipality and apply for a tax number (NIF). Atlanticasa can guide you through this.
What are the main benefits of living in Portugal?
The main benefits are the mild climate, lower cost of living, high quality of life, friendly people, and beautiful diverse nature. Additionally, there are often attractive tax arrangements for newcomers.
Is it wise to hire a real estate agent when buying a house in Portugal?
Absolutely. The Portuguese real estate process can be complex and differs from what you might be used to. An experienced agent like Atlanticasa understands the local market, speaks the language, knows the legal aspects, and can protect you from common pitfalls. We ensure a safe and efficient purchase.
Ready to take the step and realise your dream of living in Portugal? Contact Atlanticasa today. Our experts are ready to answer all your questions and help you find your ideal home in this beautiful country.
