Forbes has ranked Portugal as the cheapest place to live for Americans in 2023. In an article called “Quit Your Job And Move Abroad: 10 Cheapest Places To Live”, Forbes senior contributor Laura Begley Bloom looked at International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index of the top places to retire.
Bloom argues “this list isn’t just for retirees” but for all those looking for a better and more affordable life. She even goes on to write that some places on this list are “so cheap that you might not have to work.”
This year, Portugal takes the number one spot “in part because of the strength of the US dollar today,” as well as Portugal’s visa options that facilitate staying there long-term.
The Annual Global Retirement Index states that “the day-to-day cost of living is low compared to the States.”
According to the survey, a couple can live comfortably on around $2,800 a month, whereas a single person could live very well on around $2,000 a month (less in rural areas).
The best places to move to were Lagos, Vilamoura, and Tavira, as well as the silver coast. Lisbon and Porto are also suitable options, but they are more expensive than the others.
International Living’s list includes categories such as cost of living, climate, visas, housing, healthcare, and more. However, it is not just numbers and figures as it contains input from real people living in these countries.
Some locations have been dropped from this year’s list due to their current visa situation, despite having a cheap cost of living such as Malaysia and Vietnam.
World Youth Day Lisbon 2023, known as the Jornada Mundia da Juventude or JMJ in Portuguese, takes place in the Portuguese capital this year from August 1 to 6. World Youth Day (WYD) is a Catholic pilgrimage event for young people from all over the world, which includes a visit by the Pope.
World Youth Day will take place in various spaces in Lisbon, such as Parque Tejo, Parque Eduardo VII, Terreiro do Paco, and more. The Portuguese government estimates that it will be spending over 35 million euros on WYD.
According to its website, the event is “a gathering of young people from all over the world with the Pope. Simultaneously, a pilgrimage, a youth celebration, an expression of the universal Church and a strong moment of evangelization of the youth world.”
Pilgrims between the ages of 14 to 30 are encouraged by WYD to attend the event, but responsibility for those under 18s must be entrusted to an adult with the written consent of legal guardians.
If you are a pilgrim coming to Lisbon this August for World Youth Day, this guide has everything you need to know about the event and your stay in Lisbon. From World Youth Day prices and the best hotels to how to get around the city, we have got you covered!
Let’s take a look at JMJ prices. According to WYD Lisbon’s website, pilgrims can participate in the central events for free: Opening Mass, Welcome Ceremony, Via Crucis, Vigil, and Missioning Mass). There will be specific areas for non-registered pilgrims.
However, WYD encourages pilgrims to register and pay the participation fee. Pilgrims must register in groups, and there must be a leader and a second leader, both over the age of 18.
There are three different types of registration with different packages, depending on the needs of pilgrims and the days they wish to attend.
Keep in mind that the accommodation included in these packages will accommodate pilgrims in family houses, pavilions, schools, gyms, and similar spaces. Each person must bring a sleeping bag and travel mattress.
For the full week of July 31 to August 7, Packages range from €95 for transportation, insurance, and pilgrim kit package to €355 for accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, and pilgrim kit package.
For the weekend of August 4 to 6, packages range between €100 without accommodation and €140 for a full package with food, transport, etc.
For the Vigil and Missioning Mass of August 5 to 6, prices range between €50 without food to €60 with food. Accommodation is not available for this package.
Where to Stay for World Youth Day 2023: JMJ Accomodation
If you have opted for a pilgrim package without accommodation or prefer to sleep more comfortably or privately, you will have to find accommodation on your own! Luckily, Lisbon has a great variety of hostels available at different price points.
The prices for low-cost accommodation in Lisbon can range anywhere from €10 to €40 a night for a bed for one person and around €60+ for a private room. Let’s take a look at our favorite hostels in Lisbon for World Youth Day Lisbon 2023.
Located in the heart of the city, this youth hostel won the best “Hostel in the World” in 2019. You are very close to the best places in the city, like Alfama and Bairro Alto. The hostel offers everything you need, from a lounge room for socializing, 24-hour reception and security services, laundry facilities, and even a PlayStation and book exchange service.
Lisbon’s first eco-hostel, Urban Garden wants to minimize its environmental footprint through “green initiatives.” The hostel has an extensive recycling program, dual flush toilets, only use recycled paper products, and more.
Ever heard of a hostel in the middle of a city with a pool? Well, Selena Secret Garden is at your service. The hostel also has a rooftop deck, CoWork space for professionals, and a movie room.
In the heart of Cais do Sodre, you are close to contemporary art galleries, bars with riverfront views, and within walking distance to Chiado. The cool thing about Selena is that they also have weekly programs with activities such as yoga, meditation, and Portuguese lessons.
Often known as The Dorm, LX Hostel is located within the creative hub of LX Factory, a trendy industrial area with restaurants, contemporary art exhibitions, and stores. The hostel has a beautiful rooftop terrace and a large kitchen perfect for communal living.
This makes it the perfect location if you do not want the hustle and bustle of the center of Lisbon and want to avoid tourist crowds but still want to be close to tourist attractions.
On top of an amazing location, this hostel in Rossio has a free breakfast: waffles and Nutella. They also have a free “power hour”, a whole hour of free beer and sangria. If you want a hassle-free vacation, Goodmorning provides all-inclusive rates that give you three homemade meals a day (with vegan options!). Perfect for solo travelers, they organize fun activities to explore the city like pub crawls and themed dinners.
Lisbon Cathedral: This cathedral located in Baixa was built in 1147 and is the oldest church in the present-day capital. Also known as the Brave, King Afonso IV, who died in 1357 is buried in the cathedral.
Jeronimos Monastery: Mosteiro dos Jeronimos is a former monastery in Belem constructed in Portuguese Late Gothic Manueline style and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Church of St. Anthony: St. Anthony, the beloved patron of lost things, was actually born in Lisbon, Portugal, and so the Church of St. Anthony was built right over his birthplace.
Estrela Basilica: Ordered to be built by Queen Maria I of Portugal, the Estrela Basilica, is an ancient Carmelite convent and was the first church in the world dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Fatima Day Trip: The site of the Miracle of Fatima, the city of Fatima is around a one-hour drive from Lisbon and is on the bucket list of every Catholic.
Jeronimos Monastery. Photo by Amanda Yeung (Unsplash)
Public Transportation in Lisbon during JMJ
Public transport in Lisbon is cheap and accessible. The best way to discover the city is by far by foot, but you can access a wide range of public transport services such as trams, metros, buses, and trains.
You can purchase a 24-hour unlimited public transport ticket for metros, buses, and trams for €6.40. This ticket is charged to a reusable “Viva Viagem” card which you can purchase at metro stations for €0.50.
The metro (€1.50 single fare) is the fastest way to travel around Lisbon, and many of the stations are decorated with traditional Portuguese “azulejo”. There are four metro lines and 55 metro stations. The metro is open from 6:30 am to 1:00 am. During rush hour, it can get quite busy, so beware of pickpocketing and stay safe.
Lisbon metro. Photo by Kateryna Ivanova (Unsplash)
The trams (€1.50 single fare) are a perfect way to see the city, and they can access areas of the city where there are no metros. While there are newer modern trams, there are still many iconic yellow metros in the center of the city, which provide a great experience, such as the number 28 tram.
The bus (€1.50 single fare) system covers 172 routes and runs from 5 am to 1 am. Buy and top-up your “Viva Viagem” card beforehand, as it is more expensive to buy it with a driver.
You can also buy a 24, 48, or 72-hour Lisboa Card for exploring Lisbon, which offers unlimited free public transport, access to many museums, and gives discounts on some other tourist attractions, walking tours, entertainment, food, and shopping.
There’s a lot to consider when moving to another country, particularly if it’s extremely far away for you and your family. The main factor on your mind might be the cost. Portugal is incredibly beneficial on this front, particularly if you’re coming from the United States of America. Moving to Portugal will actually save you money!
Consumer prices are around 40% cheaper, and rent is over 50% cheaper in Portugal on average. However, keep in mind that salaries are, on average, 75% lower in Portugal. Let’s take a look at an overview of the cost of living in Portugal vs the USA in 2023.
Housing Prices and Rent
Buying a house in Portugal can be more affordable than in certain US states. In 2020, property prices in Portugal rose by 6.32% to a median price of €1,144 per square meter. This is a high increase, but it is still a decrease from the year before, which saw a 11.16% growth. However, post-COVID, prices are expected to rise even further and get back on track. The growth in 2020 does also differ by area. Let’s take a look:
Northern Portugal: rose by 6.54% to a median price of €994 per square meter
Central Portugal: rose by 3.87% to a median price of €833 per square meter
Alentejo: rose by 2.84% to a median price of €833 per square meter
Algarve: rose by 7.28% to a median price of €1,562 per square meter
Azores: rose by 3.41% to a median price of €940 per square meter
Madeira: rose by 2.55% to a median price of €1,168 per square meter
Rent is also more affordable in Portugal than in the US. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon is around €1,150, whereas this will cost you around $2,300 in Washington DC.
Houses in Lisbon. Photo by Luisa Azevedo (Unsplash)
Transport
Public transportation is relatively affordable in Portugal, including intercity buses and trains. A monthly public transportation pass in a Portuguese city is less than €50 a month, while in the US, these go for over $70 dollars, although prices can differ highly by state.
Food
Food prices are a lot more affordable in Portugal than in the US, even in the most expensive city of Lisbon. According to Numbeo, Knoxville, Tennessee, is one of the most affordable cities in the US. Even so, grocery prices in Knoxville are 44% higher than in Lisbon. Restaurant prices are around 16% higher.
If you live in Lisbon, spending less than €70 to €50 a week on a one-person grocery shop is doable. Weekly groceries for a family of four cost around €150 a week, depending on your lifestyle. An inexpensive meal should cost around €10 to €15, while a mid-range restaurant around €20.
Ameijoas. Photo by Adrien Sala (Unsplash)
Education
Education in Portugal is a safeguarded right that, for the most part, is either relatively affordable or completely free. In fact, the years of mandatory education (between 6 and 18 years old) are completely free in the public school system.
Nevertheless, nurseries, known as creches, and preschools are generally paid for by the parents, although the government does provide support in relation to your tax bracket. However, a recent change in Portugal has made it so that creches with agreements with the social security services are free for children up to 1 year old!
Portugal has both free public Portuguese schools, private Portuguese schools, and private international schools. International schools are a lot more expensive than Portuguese private schools. Private international schools tend to cost anywhere between around €7,000 to almost €20,000 a year, depending on the school and your child’s grade.
Private and international schools are a lot more affordable than in the US where they can cost over $35,000 a year.
Healthcare
Under the World Health Organization (WHO)’s ranking of healthcare systems, Portugal takes 12th place, featuring both a private and public health sector.
In Portugal, health care is extremely affordable under the public health care system, being completely free for the elderly and children. Most treatments and appointments are free from all, except for specific ones that should not cost you more than 10 to 15 euros.
Non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well. If this is the case for you, health care could be almost free.
The private health care system is also relatively affordable in comparison to the United States, with an appointment costing around 50 euros.
In contrast, a visit to the ER or a routine check-up in the United States can cost you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Insurance in the United States could also set you back around $400 a month, while this will cost you less than 50 euros in Portugal.
From Porto to Braga, the country of Portugal features plenty of well-renowned museums. If you are planning a visit to Portugal anytime soon, there are a few museums you cannot miss. With a rich history and cultural heritage, a visit to a museum is one of the best ways to find out more about Portugal. Let’s take a look at the 9 best museums in Portugal.
1. Calouste Gulbenkian Museum
Located in Lisbon, the Gulbenkian Museum is one of the world’s best museums, housing a collection of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian, and European art. The private art collection belongs to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, gathered over 40 years.
If you are an art lover, do not miss it. You will see pieces by Paula Rego, Rembrandt, Monet, and Peter Paul Rubens. The beautiful Gulbenkian gardens are also open to the public and are the perfect place for a picnic.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum. Photo by Rui Alves (Unsplash)
Serralves Museum is probably the most famous museum in all of Porto. Located on the grounds of the Serralves Estate, it actually ranks among the top 100 most visited museums globally.
Serralves Museum features 14 exhibition galleries over three stories, displaying modern and contemporary pieces from all over the globe. You will also find a cinema, library, auditorium, and restaurant. All of this is surrounded by the most beautiful green gardens!
Known as the Museu da Marinha, the Maritime Museum is located in Belem, Lisbon, and is administered by the Portuguese Navy. The museum is located on the neo-Manueline Western wing of the iconic Jeronimos Monastery with the National Museum of Archeology.
The life of the museum began centuries ago with 17th century King Luis I’s interest in oceanographic studies and navigation. He collected items of Portuguese maritime history, culminating in a large collection that can be seen at the Maritime Museum, which was inaugurated in 1963.
You will find historical paintings, archaeological items, and models of ships used in Portugal during the times of navigation.
Photo by FCH Digital Hub (Unsplash)
4. National Coach Museum
Known as the Museu Nacional dos Coches, this museum holds the most important collection of royal coaches in the world from the 16th to 19th centuries. The National Coach Museum opened in 1905 in Lisbon by Queen Amélia of Orleans and Bragança, the Princess of France married to King Carlos I of Portugal.
Today, the museum’s unique collection of 9,000 objects has made it one of the most visited museums in Portugal. These include horse-drawn coaches that once belonged to Philip II of Spain in the 16th century and carriages that belonged to Pope Clement XI.
Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Unsplash)
5. Coleção Berardo
Located in the Belem Cultural Center, Berardo Collection Museum opened in 2007. Ever since, it has been one of the most impressive museums in Portugal. There are around 1000 pieces in the collection, starting in the 20th century.
The initial collection from 2007 had around 860 pieces and was valued by Christie’s at 316 million euros.
The collection focuses mostly on European and American art, including Mondrian, Duchamp, Paula Rego, and more, across two floors.
Museu colleccao berardo. Photo by endless autumn (Flickr)
Founded on October 2016 in Lisbon, the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT) is an innovative project designed by Amanda Levete Architects’ studio and Central Tejo Power Station. With impressive architecture, the outside of this building is art itself.
Inside, you will find four exhibition spaces: the Galeria Oval, the Galeria Principal, the Video Room, and Project Room. You will find national and international exhibitions at MAAT from artists, architects, and contemporary thinkers about current themes.
Photo by Michiel Annaert (Unsplash)
7. Museum of the Sanctuary of Fatima
Founded in 1955, the Museum of the Shrine of Fatima holds permanent exhibitions at the Sanctuary of Fatima: Fatima Light and Peace, The House-Museum of Aljustrel, and other temporary exhibitions.
The Fatima Light and Peace includes the crown of the statue of Fatima, offerings made by the pilgrims, and more. House-Museum of Aljustrel is a house that once belonged to Lucia’s godmother, allowing you to see how the local population lived in the 20th century.
The museum is located in the Sanctuary of Fatima. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima, a site with Catholic religious buildings was built in the place where three children were allegedly visited by the Virgin Mary.
The first building was built in 1919 by the locals and others developed over the decades. The sanctuary was officially consecrated in 1953 and a year later, it was given the title of Basilica by Pope Piux XXI.
Today, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima has multiple religious buildings, monuments, and statues of saints.
8. Image Museum
Located in Braga, the Image Museum is dedicated to photography within a beautiful medieval tower which opened in 1996. The Image Museum has over 200,000 images taken by classic and contemporary photographers.
You will also find a display of cameras from throughout the decades, as well as a library with magazines and photography books.
9. Casa da Musica
Casa Da Musica (House of Music) is an iconic concert hall in the historical center of Porto, built in 2005. Designed by architect Rem Koolhaas, Casa da Musica features a resident orchestra and also hosts top international orchestras from all over the world. You can get a tour inside this architectural beauty, as well as enjoy its facade that is covered in white cement and plane glass windows.
Aveiro is a city located on the northern coast in the Central Region of Portugal. This city is often called the “Portuguese Venice” since it is dominated by the Ria de Aveiro and the arms of water that penetrate the urban space and have permanently marked the history, heritage, culture, and local identity.
While Aveiro has not been fully discovered by storms of tourists like Lisbon, many are choosing this less-known city as their new temporary and permanent home. But how much does it cost to live in Aveiro? Aveiro is around 15% cheaper all around than Lisbon, while rent is almost 50% cheaper!
If you’re considering Aveiro as a permanent or temporary home, let’s take a look at the average monthly budget for expats without children, families, and digital nomads.
The monthly budget for an expat in Aveiro is at least €1070.
A one-bedroom apartment costs around €570 in the city center, but you can find cheaper apartments outside the center.
A monthly transportation pass is around €30 or less for buses.
Utilities cost around €130, including phone data and cable TV.
For exploring Aveiro, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget around €160 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle.
Groceries for a single person average out at around €45 a week.
Health care could add to your monthly budget in Aveiro. EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal. This allows them time to get registered as legal residents to continue using the public health system.
However, non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.
Even if this is the case, they must purchase private health insurance to cover medical care before arriving in Portugal and becoming a legal resident.
Cost of Living in Aveiro for a Digital Nomad
The cost of living in Aveiro for a digital nomad is at least €1140 a month. This is the case if you sleep in a hostel’s dorm and cook most of your meals. If not, expect to need around double this amount.
If you opt for the budget option of a shared dorm in a hostel, expect only to need to pay €20 a night, so around €600 a month. However, a private Airbnb would cost you around €1500.
Renting a desk at a co-working place in Aveiro costs around €130. Transportation costs around €30.
Budget at least €200 for leisure such as eating out, bars, and tourists to discover Aveiro.
Food can easily max out your monthly budget. If you want to save and have a kitchen at your disposal, a weekly shop shouldn’t cost more than €45.
However, if you plan to eat out, an affordable meal is around €10. This would set you back around €1,000 in a month.
Cost of Living in Aveiro for a Family of Four
Expect to spend at least €2200 a month for a family of four in Aveiro.
A three-bedroom apartment in Aveiro will set you back around €1400. However, prices can go up to €1900 or more, depending on the apartment type and amenities.
Budget around €150 a month for monthly transport passes. However, it is definitely more convenient for a family of four to own a car and drive. Fuel will cost you anywhere between €150 and €250 a month.
Utilities cost around €160 and include electricity, heating, water, etc. However, this can be much higher in the winter or depending on your family’s consumption.
Groceries for a family of four in Aveiro should cost around €125 a week, so budget at least €500 a month.
If you need to purchase health insurance for the whole family, this will cost you at least €200 a month.
However, you might be eligible to use access to healthcare for free. EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal. After becoming legal residents, they can continue to use the SNS.
Non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.
If you want your kids to attend a private school, this will cost you! While public schools are free, private international schools can cost between €6,000 and €10,000 a year in Aveiro.
In 2023, a record number of hotels will be inaugurated in Portugal, 75 in total, to be exact. This means a new hotel will technically be born every five days in Portugal, with almost 6,000 new rooms nationally.
In the last five years, almost 300 hotels opened around the country, according to Cushman & Wakefield’s data for CNN Portugal/TVI.
The 2023 predictions reflect a large growth in comparison to the pre-pandemic period.
Gonçalo Garcia, director of the hospitality sector of Cushman & Wakefield in Portugal told CNN, “Surely 2023 will be one of the years where we see the most hotels opening all over Portugal, from north to south. A growth of 75 new hotels a year is not normal. In fact, it is an extraordinary number.”
Cushman & Wakefield’s analysis also examined how this industry has grown in the last five years, despite the pandemic. From 2019 to 2023, 292 hotels have been inaugurated, adding up to almost 20,000 rooms.
In 2019, 63 hotels opened, while a year later in 2020, 40 hotels opened. In 2021, 70 hotels were integrated due to having been postponed the year before due to the pandemic.
In 2022, once again, only 40 hotels opened due to these effects. Therefore, the year 2023 is one of pandemic recovery that exceeds prior numbers.
In Portugal, there are around 1800 hotels. These figures include 1572 establishments of 1 to 5 stars, 43 lodges/inns, and around 153 apart-hotels.
In more recent years, surfers from all over the world have been taking notice of Portugal. Along with amazing waves, Portugal’s surf culture has been booming. From waves for beginners to more challenging waves for pros, Portugal has it all.
If you are planning to travel to Portugal for some waves, we have made a useful surf itinerary with the best places to surf in Portugal.
During two weeks, you will drive throughout Portugal to surf the Portuguese coast. The itinerary becomes in the iconic city of Nazare where Garret McNamara conquered the world’s biggest wave to the south of Portugal.
Let’s take a look at our 14-day Portugal surf itinerary for surfing the Portuguese coast in 2 weeks!
What is the best time of year for surfing in Portugal?
The best time of year for surfing in Portugal depends on your experience. If you are a beginner, we recommend visiting Portugal for surfing in the summer. During this season, waves are smaller. However, popular surf spots could get crowded during this time.
If you are an experienced surfer, the best time of year for surfing in Portugal is between the late winter and early spring, so between September and April. During this time, you will see heavy waves between 2 to 4.5 meters for experienced surfers.
Day 1 – 3: Nazare
We recommend flying to Lisbon airport. However, since you are here to surf, when you arrive, travel directly to the city of Nazare, around 1h30 away. We recommend renting a car at the airport so you can get to remote locations and carry your surfboard easily.
If you want to enjoy Lisbon, you can also cut your Nazare trip by a day. Take a look at our Lisbon travel guide here.
Nazare is home to the largest surfable waves on the planet, particularly Praia do Norte. Nazare became the stuff of surfing legend in 2011 when Garret McNamara conquered the world’s biggest wave at Nazare’s Praia do Norte.
Since then, it has become a place of pilgrimage for the world’s most dauntless surf riders, with Brazilian surfer Rodrigo Koxa outdoing McNamara and setting the world’s Guinness record for surfing the world’s largest 24.4m wave in 2017.
A 45-minute drive away, Peniche is another popular surf town. The sea, the views, the cliffs, the colors, and the flavors make this area one of the most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes in Portugal.
Peniche is known as one of the surf capitals of Portugal, featuring protected surf beaches to the north that are best for beginners and less-protected areas to the south.
Every year, Peniche hosts the Rip Curl Pro on the legendary Supertubos beach. This year, the Rip Curl Pro in Peniche will take place between March 8 to 16, 2023.
Ericeira is an hour’s drive away from Peniche. A seaside town in Mafra, Ericeira is known to many as the surfing capital of Europe. The only World Surfing Reserve in Europe, Ericeira has the perfect coastline conditions for surfing.
Being labeled a surfing reserve, Ericeira is a protected surfing area covering 3 kilometers of great wave quality. The official Ericeira World Surfing Reserve spots are Cave, Pedra Branca, Reef, Crazy Left, Ribeira D’Ilhas, Coxos, and Sao Lourenco.
The great thing about surfing in Ericeira is that the conditions cater to all, including newbies and those advanced. For beginners, we recommend booking a surf class! The best beaches for beginners are Foz do Lizandro and Praia do Sol. Beaches like Sao Lourenco and Ribeira D’Ilhas are more suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers.
A 40-minute drive from Ericeira, Carcavelos is located between Lisbon and Cascais. Carcavelos is a lively area with a long stretch of sandy beach. In the winter, the Carcavelos beach is filled with surfers due to its large waves. In the summer, this is a great time for beginners to take surfing lessons at the beach.
Only a 20-minute drive from Carcavelos or a 10-minute train, the town of Cascais is another popular surf town. Cascais is known for its three stunning bays and boasts delicious upscale restaurants, luxurious hotels, and amazing beaches.
However, the best beach in Cascais for surfing is not in the center of Cascais. Rather, it’s the larger Praia do Guincho, a 25-minute bus ride from the center of Cascais or a 15-minute drive.
For day 9, it’s time to head to the south of Portugal! Your first trip will be Arrifana in Aljezur, a 3:30 hour drive from Lisbon. On the way to your next destination, feel free to stop at places like Vila Nova de Milfontes for a quick swim or surf.
The Arrifana beach has a south-westerly orientation that provides consistent waves, even in the summer. This beach is great for surfers of all levels, as the beach break features a sandy bottom for beginners, as well as areas with larger waves.
Arrifana also boasts many surf shops, such as Aljezur Surf Shop, as well as inviting bars and restaurants.
A 40-minute drive from Arrifana, Lagos is one of the most popular towns in the Algarve. Lagos is a beautiful city in the Algarve that welcomes thousands of tourists yearly, many coming for the surf. This is an all-year surf destination for all surf levels.
The town also features plenty of surf shops, schools, hostels, bars, and restaurants. In the summer, it has a very lively atmosphere and can actually get quite busy with tourists.
It’s time to go home! You can either drive close by to Faro airport and fly back to your home country or take the 3-hour drive to Lisbon airport. Depending on the season of the year, prices will vary, but during the winter, flights from Faro tend to be cheaper.
Of the 1 million tourists traveling to Madeira every year, it seems many end up deciding to relocate permanently. If you are thinking of becoming an expat family in Madeira, childcare and education must be on your mind.
Will your kids be going to a private school? Are there international schools in Madeira? At what age does schooling become mandatory in Madeira? Luckily, we have all the answers to your questions about childcare and education in Madeira!
Education System in Portugal
Let’s take a look at the education system in Portugal, which also applies to Madeira. Schooling is only compulsory from 6 to 18 years old. Before that, nurseries and preschools are not mandatory.
Nurseries, known as creches in Portugal, are for children under three years old in Portugal. Children in Portugal spend over 39 hours per week in a nursery, just like a full-time job.
Portugal has private and IPSS creches. An IPSS is a Particular Social Solidarity Institution. As a general rule, these are always paid by the family, although the government subsidizes a part of the value in relation to the tax bracket of each family for most facilities.
The general value for a creche in Portugal is around €200 and €300 per child. Again, this depends on your family’s tax bracket.
For example, in Cascais, a family in the first tax bracket might pay around €80 to €100, while a family in the third tax bracket might pay around €200, depending on the child’s age.
However, the Portuguese government announced back in April of 2022 that daycares, with agreements with the social security system, would be free for all children up to one year old for the years 2022/2023.
Photo by CDC (Unsplash)
Here are some popular creches in Funchal, Mandeira:
Refugio do Bebe
O Canto dos Regulias
O Sapatinho
Os Louros
O Pimpao
Quinta Betania
Jardim De Infância Dona Lívia Nosolini
In preschool or kindergarten, children from the ages of three to five years old are taught to read, write, count, and draw, as well as take part in activities and sports.
State preschools are free of charge. Still, disadvantaged families are given priority due to the limited number of places. Therefore, almost 50% of Portuguese children are attending private preschools at the moment.
A private kindergarten will cost you anywhere between €350 a month to €1,800, the latter mostly for international schools. Private kindergartens always teach a foreign language and tend to have no long waiting lines.
For a public school, expect to wait for 1 to 2 years. Although these are free, meals and transport could cost you around €50 a month.
Compulsory Education
School only becomes compulsory from 6 to 18 years old. At six years old, basic education begins, also known as Primeiro Ciclo.
Take a look at the stages of mandatory education in Portugal:
Primeiro Ciclo (1st Cycle): Ages 6 to 10 (1st to 4th grade)
Segundo Ciclo (2nd Cycle): Ages 10 to 12 (5th and 6th grade)
Terceiro Ciclo (Third Cycle): Ages 12 to 15 (7th to 9th grade)
Ensino Secundario: Ages 15 to 18 (10th to 12th grade)
Photo by Redd F (Unsplash)
International Schools in Madeira
There are only two international schools in Madeira: the International School of Madeira and the International Sharing School Madeira, both located in Funchal.
These are a lot more affordable than international schools in mainland Portugal which can cost up to €20,000 a year.
International Sharing School Madeira
The International Sharing School in Madeira is a school for students from the age of 3 to 16 from 23 different nationalities. Each class has a maximum of 18 students and the whole school has less than 200 students.
The school offers the prestigious IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). These programs allow students to build confidence in managing their own learning and prepare for IB Diploma examinations.
Students are learning in a bilingual environment from the age of 3, prepared for the PYP with a bilingual foundation by the age of 6. Along with English and Portuguese, students can learn German, Spanish, French, Mandarin, and Russian.
Yearly fees range between €4,950 and €10,945.
International School of Madeira
The International School of Madeira offers a bilingual education for kids from the age of 3 to 10 years old in both English and Portuguese. Classes are kept small, with a maximum of 12 students per class, so that every pupil gets the attention they need.
Along with Portuguese and English as first languages, students learn maths, information technology, science, and social studies in both languages.
There are also enrichment courses such as art, music, and physical education as part of the curriculum, as well as extracurricular activities such as swimming, zumba, and piano.
Yearly fees range between €2,750 for 3 and 4-year-olds to €3,300 for 9-year-olds.
Braga is becoming an increasingly popular relocation destination for expats from all over the world. The oldest city in Portugal, Braga is located in the north of Portugal and is known as the “Rome of Portugal” due to its abundance of churches and astonishing architecture.
But is it expensive to live in Braga? Braga’s cost of living is relatively lower than other Portuguese cities like Lisbon. Consumer prices are around 16% lower than in Lisbon, and rent is almost 50% lower.
If you’re considering Braga as a permanent or temporary home, let’s take a look at the average monthly budget for expats without children, families, and digital nomads.
The monthly budget for an expat in Braga is at least €1090.
A one-bedroom apartment costs around €590 in the city center. However, you can save by renting outside the city center for around €445.
A monthly transportation pass is around €30 or less. You can also get a train to many cities from Faro, such as Lisbon and Porto.
Utilities cost around €130, including phone data and cable TV.
For exploring Braga, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget around €160 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle.
Groceries for a single person average out at around €45 a week.
Health care could add to your monthly budget in Braga. EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal. This allows them time to get registered as legal residents to continue using the public health system.
However, non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.
Even if this is the case, they must purchase private health insurance to cover medical care before arriving in Portugal and becoming a legal resident.
Cost of Living in Braga for a Digital Nomad
The cost of living in Braga for a digital nomad is at least €1140 a month.
If you are looking to stay at a private Airbnb, this could almost triple your budget as it will cost around €2000 a month.
A shared room in a hostel starts at around €20 a night, and a private room is around €40 a night.
Renting a desk at a co-working place in Braga can cost around €150 a month. Transportation costs around €30. There are plenty of buses in the city and a train station connecting you to other main Portuguese cities.
Budget at least €200 for leisure such as eating out, nightlife, and trips to nearby cities and villages.
Food can easily max out your monthly budget. If you want to save and have a kitchen at your disposal, a weekly shop shouldn’t cost more than €40.
However, if you plan to eat out, an affordable meal is around €10 nowadays.
Cost of Living in Braga for a Family of Four
Living with Braga with kids is a lot more affordable than in another European cities. Expect to spend at least €2035 a month for a family of four in Faro. This amount can be a lot higher depending on your kids’ education and healthcare.
A three-bedroom apartment in Faro will set you back around €916. However, prices can go up to €1000 or more, depending on the apartment type and amenities.
Budget around €150 a month for monthly transport passes. However, it is definitely more convenient for a family of four to own a car and drive. Fuel will cost you anywhere between €150 and €250 a month.
Utilities cost around €160 and include electricity, heating, water, etc. However, this can be much higher in the winter or depending on your family’s consumption.
Groceries for a family of four in Braga should cost around €125 to €150 a week, so budget at least €500 a month.
If you need to purchase health insurance for the whole family, this will cost you at least €200 a month.
However, you might be eligible to use access to healthcare for free. EU citizens with a valid European Health Insurance Card can use the National Health Service (SNS) for free for up to 90 days in Portugal. After becoming legal residents, they can continue to use the SNS.
However, non-EU citizens are only entitled to use the public health system if they are employed and pay social security in Portugal, having to be registered as legal residents as well.
If you want your kids to attend a private school, this will cost you. While public schools are free, private international schools can cost between €6,000 and €20,000 a year. You could pay around €2000 a month for two kids just for education.
Lisbon is magical on New Year’s Eve. Not just because this night brings about the start of the new year celebrations but because the remnants of Christmas remain. In fact, they only really end on January 6, the Day of the Kings.
The Portuguese capital has so much to offer. Whether you are looking for an intimate dinner or a gala event, Lisbon has the perfect New Year’s Eve plans for you. But first, let’s take a look at the most popular New Year’s Eve traditions in Portugal.
New Year’s Eve Traditions in Portugal
New Year’s Eve looks different all over the globe. In Portugal, there are a set of traditions and practices to celebrate the new year that might seem unusual to many. Let’s take a look at the most common New Year’s Eve traditions in Portugal:
12 Raisins: At the stroke of midnight, the Portuguese begin eating their 12 raisins to represent the 12 months for good luck. If you are spending New Year’s Eve at a restaurant, these will usually be handed out to you.
Champagne toast: It’s customary to toast with your friends in attendance, making sure not to cross your arms with others and to make eye contact.
Money: Portuguese superstition says that you should have money with you when the clock strikes midnight for wealth. The tradition varies, with some holding the money in their hands and others keeping it in their wallet or even shoes.
New outfit: It is said to bring about good luck to wear a brand new outfit. Everything should be brand new, particularly your underwear!
Ocean swim the next day: Many heads to the beach on the morning of January 1. The brave ones enjoy the first dip of the year in the ocean.
If you want to go all out for this special night, nothing says luxury like a Four Seasons! Whenever celebrities come to visit Lisbon, this is where they stay.
The Ritz in Lisbon is planning a magical New Year’s Eve dinner and party at its Grand Ballroom. You will be served dishes by Chef Pascal Meynard, including Dublin Bay prawn with Neuvic Oscietra caviar, daikon, and yuzu. If you want a more intimate setting, opt for a dinner at Chef Pedro Pena Bastos’ CURA Restaurant.
The hotel has an updated Louis XVI style and has views of the Lisbon hills, located in central Lisbon. The Ritz has everything you would need: a high-end restaurant called CURA, a bar terrace, a gym, and a spa. If you fancy some shopping, Avenida da Liberdade is a 10-minute walk away.
The Ritz is probably the most expensive hotel in all of Lisbon. Therefore, expect high New Year’s Eve rates.
A member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”, Pestana Palace is located in a 19th-century palace. It is the only resort in Lisbon and has a lake pool, a spa, and large gardens. With views of the Tagus river, this hotel includes a sophisticated restaurant that serves iconic Portuguese dishes.
This year, Pestana Palace Lisbon is offering New Year’s packages from 482 euros a night. For dinner, expect welcome drinks, a 5-course gala dinner with drinks, live music, fireworks, and a DJ to dance the night away.
This hotel is situated in the best location in Lisbon, between Bairro Alto and Chiado in an 18th-century building in central Lisbon. It is uncommon for a luxury hotel of this standard to be located here. It is also the only luxury boutique hotel in Lisbon that has under 100 rooms. The hotel features a restaurant with award-winning Chef Nuno Mendes and Executive Chef Bruno Rocha. We recommend heading to the bar on the top floor of the hotel, which has some of the best views of the city!
A stylish 5-star hotel, Corinthia Lisbon features two restaurants and the largest spa area in Lisbon of 3000m2. The large Sky Lounge is located on the 24th floor, featuring panoramic views of the city.
Stay in a lovely refurbished guest room for a luxurious night. Corinthia Lisbon’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner has a glamorous theme: The Great Gatsby. In a jazzy celebration, you will get inspired by the roaring twenties. You will also get to enjoy some live music with Joana Lobo Anta’s Quintet. After dinner, dance the night away with drinks and a DJ.
The next morning, a large breakfast buffet is available to celebrate the first day of the year. Prices start at 527 euros per night.
Top Restaurants for New Year’s Eve in Lisbon
Alfaia
One of the oldest restaurants in all of Lisbon, Alfaia opened in 1880. If you’re looking to try some traditional Portuguese food that tastes like a homecooked meal, Alfaia is the place to be for an old-fashioned meal. We recommend the cozido à Portuguesa, a classic Portuguese stew with beef, pork, blood sausage, and vegetables, as well as the old-fashioned shredded duck with rice.
Alma
Founded by Portuguese Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa, Alma offers an exclusive fine dining experience. The two-Michelin star restaurant’s dishes reflect Portuguese cuisine with an influence of the Chef’s international travels. Located in the heart of the Chiado district in an eighteenth-century building, Alma offers two tasting menus and an à la carte menu. The two tasting menus are Costa a Costa, a sea-focused tasting, and Alma, the Chef’s favorite dishes.
Belcanto
Awarded two Michelin stars, Belcanto is 42nd on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Located in Chiado, this restaurant is one of the most expensive in all of Portugal, welcoming celebrities from all over the world. Founded by Chef José Avillez, you’ll taste some of the best flavors of Portuguese cuisine, reinvented for a more elevated dining experience. You can opt for choosing dishes à la carte or select the tasting menus, the latter being the most unique option.
Palacio Chiado
Palácio Chiado is located in the eighteenth-century Quintela Palace in the heart of Chiado, a palace that was closed to the public for decades. The restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere, with music playing at night setting a more bar-like experience. Curated by Chef Manuel Bóia, the restaurant’s dishes are diverse in origin, from Portuguese food to international cuisine.
Photo provided by restaurant.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Lisbon
Lisbon puts on a show on New Year’s Eve. There might be no iconic ball drop, but the fireworks don’t disappoint. But where can you watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Lisbon? Terreiro do Paco, translating to Commerce Square. This large square has plenty of room for all and is the best place to watch the fireworks above the Tagus river.
Moreover, Terreiro do Paco hosts entertainment prior to the fireworks. Local bands start playing music at around 10 pm. The fireworks only come on at midnight, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes. After the fireworks display, more bands play, and even a DJ takes the stage.
However, the fireworks are visible from loads of places across the city, including some hotels.
Subscribe to our newsletter below to get the latest news, reviews, info and more!
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
