Why Expats are Flocking to Portugal for Retirement

Portugal has become progressively more popular with expats, especially those of retirement age. 

Why has this fascinating European country become so significant on the expat radar? 

There are more than a few reasons. Let's go over them here! You just might decide that Portugal is the place for you.

Portugal has a low cost of living

Portugal has one of the lowest costs of living of any country in Western Europe. 

Pretty much every element of life is affordable in Portugal, including rent and groceries. In smaller cities and in the interior part of the country, rents can be as low as $375 a month for apartments with one or two bedrooms. 

If you want to live in Lisbon, you can expect to pay around $650 a month if you want an apartment located within a 30-minute walk of the city's most popular tourist neighborhoods.

Tourists often end up falling in love with Portugal

It's not just Portugal's low cost of living that is attractive to expats. The fact is that many people who visit Portugal end up falling in love with the country. A remarkably historic country with a plethora of fascinating cultural attractions, Portugal is a great place to be.

The locals are known to be extremely friendly and laid back, making tourists feel more comfortable about being in a foreign country. 

Portugal also has lovely hotels, with many that have won awards. You'll also enjoy the delicious cuisine. If you love seafood, you'll be in paradise. 

As if that wasn't enough, Lisbon is the sunniest capital city in Europe. If lovely weather comes high on your list of things to look for in your dream destination, Portugal is certainly worth looking into. It has the balmy weather that the older among us tend to crave.

There are so many fascinating sights to see in Portugal

There is another simple reason why people fall in love with Portugal and it's a magnet for expats: it's many fascinating historic and cultural attractions. Let's talk about just a few of them here. 

While in Portugal, check out the Mosteiro des Jeronimos, one of the country's most significant buildings. You'll also want to see the Castle de Sao Jorge. This castle in Lisbon is situated atop a hill. It looks over the city and the Baixa district. 

Silves Castle is another popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It's found in Xelb, and it was once the most significant location of the Moorish Algarve. This structure is comprised of red sandstone. 

If you're visiting in August, you'll be able to enjoy the annual Medieval Festival. Also pay a visit to the Convento de Cristo. This landmark is found in Tomar, which is a charming town with a riverfront location. This location was established in 1160 and was once used by the Order of the Knights of the Templar.

Portugal is the place to be with many expats and retirees, and it's easy to see why.