Portugal has declared three days of national mourning for Queen Elizabeth II on September 18, 19, and 20. The Portuguese Council of Ministers established the decree on Thursday to pay homage to the death of the Queen.
The Council of Ministers has said that “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland profoundly marked the second half of the 20th century and the first quarter of the 21st century”.
One of the days of mourning in Portugal coincides with the state funeral of the British monarch on September 19. The President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, will represent Portugal at the funeral.
É com tristeza que recebemos a notícia do falecimento de Sua Majestade a Rainha Isabel II. O seu reinado de 70 anos marcou a história britânica desde a segunda grande guerra. As minhas sentidas condolências à família real e ao povo do Reino Unido.
The funeral will be held at Westminster Abbey and will be one of the largest ceremonial events in Britain since World War II. US President Joe Biden will also be in attendance.
After the funeral, a private burial service will be held for close family and friends.
The longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, died last Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland at 96 years old. She became Queen of England in 1952 at 25 years old, after her father’s death.
Her 73-year-old son King Charles III is now the official monarch. His coronation is expected in 2023, although the exact date is still a secret under the name Operation Golden Orb.
Portugal has, in recent years, become more popular for health tourism. Medical tourism in Portugal is attractive to those coming from countries like the United States, where treatments and surgeries come at an elevated cost.
Portugal offers an excellent value-for-money alternative! You will get the same quality of care (depending on the field) without the exuberant costs. Under the World Health Organization (WHO)’s ranking of healthcare systems, Portugal takes 12th place.
However, keep in mind that you cannot access public healthcare without Portuguese residency. You will need to head to private hospitals and clinics, which offer quality care as well as comfort. Let’s take a look at Medical tourism in Portugal.
Medical tourism is when someone travels outside their country of residence to receive medical care. Initially, the term referred to patients from less developed countries that traveled for better care. Today, people from all over the globe travel elsewhere for health tourism.
But why medical “tourism” instead of travel? Medical tourism usually involves people staying in the country after their medical treatment. While the amount of tourism will be limited by the after-effects of the treatment, people tend to visit sights and explore the country.
Medical Tourism in Portugal: Why is Portugal a good place for health tourism?
Portugal has a quality medical system, offering a great value-for-money alternative, particularly for those coming from the United States. The Portuguese healthcare system offers excellent equipment and professionals.
The system is regularly analyzed by independent bodies and has been recognized internationally in neuroscience, oncology, and more.
Moreover, you can tailor your recovery in Portugal after your medical treatment. From relaxing in the sun to more active experiences, Portugal is the perfect place to recover from medical treatment.
Photo by Luis Melendez (Unsplash)
Top Medical Treatments in Portugal
Oncology: Portugal offers excellent cancer treatment, while the best has been argued to be in the public system, which you won’t be able to access. However, Portugal’s private sector also offers great palliative care.
Reproductive Services: IVF is available to all, including single women, at a more affordable price than in other countries.
Dental Care: Dental care in Portugal is some of the best in the world, ranking 5th in the 2020 Healthiest Teeth Index. It is also a lot more affordable. For example, teeth whitening costs around €200, and braces start at €800.
Cosmetic & Plastic surgery: Portugal offers high-quality cosmetic and plastic surgery at an affordable price. While a breast augmentation in the US can cost around €10,000, in Portugal, it costs around €4,000.
Where to get medical treatment in Portugal?
Best Hospitals & Clinics in Portugal
Portugal has 14 facilities accredited by the Join Commission International. When you travel to Portugal for medical tourism, you will need to access a private hospital instead of a public institution. Here are some of the top hospitals and clinics in Portugal for medical tourism:
CUF Infante Santo Hospital
CUF Cascais
Private Hospital of the Algarve
Hospital da Luz
Hospital Lusiadas Albufeira
Medical Tourism: Recovering in Portugal
Agencies have now started to focus on health tourism in Portugal. Many will help you find the best place to recover. Most medical treatments will be carried out in Lisbon and Porto.
Praia do Guincho, Cascais. Photo by Manuel Inglez (Unsplash)
However, depending on your condition and type of care, here are some cities in Portugal that could help you relax during your recovery:
Seven districts in Portugal are facing a yellow warning due to heavy rain on Thursday. According to the Portuguese Institute of the Ocean and Atmosphere (IPMA), this heavy rain will occasionally be accompanied by thunder.
The seven districts with a heavy rain warning in Portugal are Viana do Castelo, Porto, Braga, Aveiro, Vila Real, Viseu, and Coimbra.
The IPMA emits a yellow warning when risk is associated with certain activities due to the meteorological situation.
The heavy rain is said to decrease in the afternoon in the north and center of the country.
On Wednesday, CNN Portugal reported that there were 94 incidents recorded due to the heavy rain between 12 AM and 7 AM. These include flooding and falling trees. The areas of Lisbon, Viseu, Coimbra, Braga, Setubal, Santarem, and Porto were most affected.
In the Alentejo region, there were 59 cases of flooding yesterday until 9:30 PM on public roads and houses. The incidents were primarily concentrated in the districts of Beja and Portalegre. No one was harmed.
The number of non-resident tourist arrivals in Portugal reached 9.6 million in 2021, a 48.4% growth compared to 2020. However, this also reflects a 61% decrease compared to 2019, according to a study by the National Institute of Statistics (INE).
Most tourists traveling to Portugal in 2021 came from Spain (30%), France (16%), the United Kingdom (10%), and Germany (8%). Tourism from Spain saw the largest growth in 2021 at 57.3%, with France following at 46.2%.
The number of guests in all kinds of tourist accommodations amounted to 16 million, and the number of overnight stays totaled 42,6 million. This actually amounts to a decrease compared to 2019, by 45.8% and 45.2%, respectively.
However, the regions of Acores and Madeira saw an increase in the number of overnight stays compared to 2019.
There was also an increase in the resident population traveling within Portugal. In 2021, 44% of the resident population made at least one tourist trip in Portugal.
The INE study also looked at the tourist accommodation capacity. In July of 2021, there were 1,829 hospitality properties, including hotels, guest houses, apartments, and more, a 16.6% increase since 2020.
The areas with the most tourist accommodations were the Algarve (21%) and Lisbon (36%). The regions with the most growth in hospital properties were the Azores (+41%) and Madeira (37.6%).
The most recently formed island in the Azores archipelago, Pico, is known as the Hawaii of the Azores. The island’s exotic vegetation and black soil provide an astonishing contrast to the blue ocean that surrounds it.
It is the second-largest island and is 46 kilometers long. Due to its volcanic soils, Pico is known as the Black Island. However, there haven’t been volcanic eruptions in over 300 years.
While other Azorean islands might have less to do, Pico remains a relaxing destination with plenty of activities to enjoy. Let’s take a look at the 6 best things to do in Pico, Azores.
A natural pool in Pico is quite a different experience than swimming on a regular beach. There are barely any sandy beaches in Pico. Rather, there are plenty of stunning natural ocean pools that provide a unique experience. Many of these have picnic tables and showers.
If you want to experience the pools like a local, you’ll need to know some secret spots. We recommend the Poço da Maré do Verdugo, Ponta do Admoiro, Lajes do Pico Natural and São Roque do Pico pools.
Be mindful that these pools often do not have a lifeguard, and the occasional waves cannot often make these dangerous.
2. Discover the flavors of Pico wine
To the surprise of many, the island of Pico actually has some of the best wine in Portugal due to its vineyards. These vineyards are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that are extremely unique.
Instead of the common fields of vines, Pico vines are located in small squares with black basalt stone walls around them. This way, the vines are protected from the wind, especially wind that brings salt from the ocean.
The two main regions to find larger vineyards are Paisagem da Cultura da Vinha da Ilha do Pico and São Mateus. You should book a wine tasting where you also get to visit a vineyard.
Vineyards in Pico. Photo by David Magalhães (Unsplash)
This one is for the brave ones. Mount Pico is the highest mountain in all of Portugal. It stands tall at 2,351 meters. Reaching the peak is one of the most rewarding experiences. You will be surrounded by clouds and a fulfilling view.
The hike is six to eight hours long and four kilometers long (don’t let the latter fool you). Due to the rocky terrain and steepness, this is a very tough hike, particularly the way down.
For your own safety, you should hike with a Certified Pico Mountain guide. Do not attempt to climb Pico without a guide if you have no experience. This is extremely dangerous.
If climbing Mount Pico is too intimidating, there are plenty of other hiking trails on the islands. Our favorites are caminho das Lagoas (22 KM, 7 hours), Calheta do Nesquim (8.6 KM, 2h30), and Prainha do Norte (7.8 KM, 2h30).
Pico island was for decades a hub for whale hunting, an activity that was a large part of the island’s culture and economy. However, fortunately, in the 80s, this practice was banned.
Since then, Pico island has been known for the conservation and research of marine life. Instead of whale hunting, ethical whale watching has become a large part of the island’s culture.
To spot some whales (and dolphins) you need to book a guided tour. Over twenty different species of whales live in the Azores, making it one of the best places in the world for whale-watching.
The best season for whale-watching in Pico is between April to October, even though you can usually see them all year.
The churches in Pico always tell a story about the island. The best part – they are free to visit. Many have been rebuilt after sustaining earthquake damage. A lot of the Pico churches are also made of local black basalt volcanic stone, representing the island’s traditions.
One of our favorite churches on the island is the Church of Santa Maria Madalena. This 19th-century church is the largest in Pico and features beautiful Portuguese tiles.
Each tile portrays the daily lives of the locals on the island. Other great churches in Pico are Santa Barbara Church and Sao Goncalo Convent.
Santa Maria Madalena Church in Pico. Photo by David Stanley (Flickr)
6. Day trip to Sao Jorge
Pico is a part of the Triangle Islands with Faial and Sao Jorge. If you have time, we recommend visiting both. However, our favorite is Sao Jorge if you are short on time.
You can travel from Pico (Madalena) to Sao Jorge (Calheta) on a 2-hour ferry that costs around €10. We also suggest renting a car to be able to travel freely around the island.
Sao Jorge is known as the brown island of the Azores, as it features over 40 fajas. Fajas are small plains located at sea level created by lava flows.
Many of these fajas in Sao Jorge are small villages where locals live, as well as areas with natural pools. We recommend visiting Faja da Caldeira de Santo Cristo and Faja do Ouvidor.
Another must-see in Sao Jorge is Cafe Nunes, a coffee plantation in Faja dos Vimes. This place is owned by an Azorean family since 1997 who are coffee experts. You will get to try some of the best Azorean coffee.
However, fun fact, the coffee beans don’t grow in the Azores originally. The first coffee beans were allegedly brought in by someone in the late 18th century from Brazil.
Sao Jorge Fajas. Photo by Karim Sakhibgareev (Unsplash)
Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago consists of 9 islands that are an autonomous region of Portugal. The Azores are the perfect place to explore nature and are a suitable destination for all kinds of travelers, including families with children.
From exploring the unique islands’ cultures and cuisines, the Azores are a special place with activities for all. However, one of the best ways to discover the Azorean islands is through hiking, offering beautiful views.
There are over 80 hiking trails in the Azores archipelago, spanning 800 kilometers. Many of these are official trails, maintained and marked throughout by the Azores Tourism board. You can find the mapped route, duration, elevation, and more of each one of these online in Azores Trails.
Let’s take a look at the 5 best hikes in the Azores.
1. Lagoa do Fogo, Sao Miguel (PRC02 SMI)
Lagoa do Fogo is perhaps the most famous trail in all of the Azores. Located on the island of Sao Miguel, this circular trail begins on a direct road and goes into various green pastures, the valley of Ribeira da Praia, and more. Throughout the journey, you will find several fauna such as the Azorean blueberry, heather, and the Japanese Cedar.
Located on the island of Terceira, this circular hike in the Nature Reserve of Serra de Santa Barbara and Misterios Negros of Natural Park of Terceira is our favorite on the island. The route begins near Negro Lagoon, Gruta do Natal, and passes through three small lakes and the island’s central massif. We recommend stopping at Gruta do Natal, a lava tunnel with 697 meters. You will find various fauna, including a beautiful wood of Japanese Cedar.
The 10 Volcanos hike on the island of Faial goes along the natural reserve of Caldeira of Faiail in a protected area. The route ends in Capelinhos, a volcano that erupted in 1957 and marked the life of Faial’s population. During the hike, you will walk through woods and forests, as well as find gorgeous views at the viewpoint of Cabeco do Fogo.
Difficulty: Hard
Extension: 19.2 km
Time: 5h
Capelinhos Volcano. Photo by Yoko Correia Nishimiya (Unsplash)
4. Volta a Caldeira, Graciosa
This hike is our favorite in all of Graciosa. The hike takes you inside an old volcano, Gruta do Enxofre. Today, it is safe to visit this cave of lava origin. The trail begins in Canada Longa and goes towards Caldeira. You will reach the top of the Caldeira and be greeted with astonishing views.
Difficulty: Easy
Extension: 10.8 km
Time: 3h
Photo by Vita Marija Murenaite (Unsplash)
5. Mount Pico, Pico
Hiking Mount Pico is a once in a lifetime experience. It’s a rewarding experience but not an easy one. When you reach the peak, you will get one of the best views of your life, surrounded by clouds. Mount Pico is the highest mountain in all of Portugal, standing tall at 2,351 meters.
You need to be reasonably healthy to do this hike. It might seem like it is short length-wise, but trust us, this is not a hike for the inexperienced.
The hike is only around 8 hours, but the rocky terrain is quite hard to walk, particularly on the way down. It is best to do the hike with a Certified Pico Mountain guide to avoid any injury or challenges. Do not attempt to climb Pico without a guide if you have no experience. It can be very dangerous!
The home of British millionaire Carolyn Radford was robbed in early August in the Algarve. Four masked men robbed the home while the Mansfield Town president was watching television alone in bed.
Carolyn Radford described the robbery on Instagram, saying that over 1 million pounds of jewelry and watches were stolen from her Quinta do Lago home, leaving her “traumatized and devastated.”
The Judiciary Police is investigating the robbery, so she could not provide further details. However, she said that “more than the loss of our personal belongings, our sense of security and safety has been totally violated.”
Her three children were not home at the time. The robbery came just a year and a half after her engagement ring was stolen on a school run in Portugal.
She also said that “it also comes just under three years since our home in the UK was burgled by a gang specifically targeting the homes of high-profile businessmen and women, footballers and celebrities.”
The British millionaire is one of the youngest women in the UK to own a soccer team and reportedly has a net worth of over 8 million pounds.
The Algarve has one of the largest international communities in Portugal, with almost 25% of its residents being foreign. Many relocated to the region in Southern Portugal to chase the sun rays and enjoy a relaxed life by the beach.
If you’re planning to make the move and are not yet ready to buy property, gaining some knowledge of the rental market in the Algarve is important.
As of July 2022, it costs around €11.7 per m2 to rent in the Algarve. For a 120m2 home, this would cost around €1400 a month. This average is the highest it has ever been in the Algarve. In contrast, renting in Lisbon costs an average of €13.8 per m2.
This guide to renting an apartment in the Algarve has everything you need to know, from Portuguese rental culture to the best places to live.
If you’re looking for apartments to rent in the Algarve, let’s go through some pros and cons of renting there.
Pros of Renting in the Algarve
Large international community, particularly people from the UK and USA
Warmest area of mainland Portugal with plenty of sun all year round
Home to some of the best beaches in the country
Safe area
Many people speak English
Plenty of international schools
Cons of Renting in the Algarve
Overcrowded by tourism in the summer
Rent prices are increasing as more internationals move to the Algarve
Public transport is not great
Low salaries
How to Find a Place to Rent in the Algarve
Finding a place to rent in the Algarve can be difficult in populated cities. However, you won’t find it more difficult than in Lisbon or Porto. The Algarve offers a larger diversity of properties, from houses with gardens to smaller apartments. You will mostly only find furnished apartments, and landlords will not want to take the furniture out for you.
To find a place to rent, you can choose to enlist a rental agent from a well-regarded agency. Here are some of the most popular property portals and real estate agencies in Portugal that can help you find a home in the Algarve:
If you dream of moving to the Algarve while avoiding crowds, Tavira is a great option. Tavira is located around 40 kilometers from Faro and the Spanish border.
The city was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses that offer a fairytale-like environment. Tavira boasts some of the best beaches in the Algarve that, even in the summer, are less overrun by tourists than in other areas of the region.
You can find everything you need in the city center while enjoying Tavira’s slow-paced life.
Lagos is one of the top tourist destinations in the Algarve and all of Portugal. Located on the western tip of the Algarve, Lagos has a large international community. Lagos is the place to be if you want to live somewhere relaxing but with vibrant nightlife and community during the summer.
The city features smaller charming villages, as well as a large riverside promenade, churches, and historical attractions. It is also home to beautiful beaches such as Praia da Luz and Porto de Mos.
The capital of the Algarve and one of the largest cities, Faro is an expat hotspot and the most populated city. If you do not want to lose the feeling of living in a city but still want to be close to nature and beaches, Faro might be the right home for you.
Faro is where the Algarve’s international airport is located, as well as the university, shopping malls, and more. You will also find a thriving clubbing scene here, even in the winter! Everything you need, you will find in Faro.
If you’re browsing Idealist or another marketplace, you might find that the online adverts in Portugal differ from other countries. While the adverts seem to be getting more complete, it’s not uncommon for you to find adverts with little information. Sometimes you will only find one photo with the caption “T1 available in Faro”.
To find out more information, you will have to call the advert owner. While many also leave their email, it is always better to call in Portugal.
Negotiating Rent Prices: Can you negotiate rent prices in Portugal?
Yes! A big positive of the housing rental culture in Portugal is that negotiating rent prices is commonplace. While this is unheard of in places like the UK, it’s not perceived as rude to negotiate. This doesn’t always mean you will get the price you want, particularly in cities in the Algarve with a competitive market. However, it never hurts to try!
Lack of Contracts – Stay Away
This isn’t true for all landlords, but unfortunately, it is still a reality in the Portuguese rental culture. Many landlords try to persuade tenants into not getting a rental contract. They do this because they do not want to declare their rental income to the financas. This way, they do not need to pay the tax for non-tourism properties set at 28%. This is not legal!
Moreover, you have no protection against rent increases and waver your tenant rights without a contract. There are exceptions to this in the law, but you should still avoid this.
If landlords do choose to declare it and provide you with a contract, they will most likely add this 28% to your rent. The extra money seems to be worth the legal safety.
Tenant Rights
Portugal has strong tenancy rights. You will be protected under Portuguese law, even more than in most European countries as a tenant. Tenancy laws in Portugal tend to favor tenants over landlords. It is extremely hard for landlords to evict long-term tenants.
Let’s take a look at some of the many tenancy laws in Portugal:
Portugal’s laws protect people living somewhere for over 15 years that are over 65 years old or people living with disabilities from getting evicted. Landlords need to renovate contracts in these cases.
There are also laws to protect tenants from harassment and discrimination, so if a landlord is harassing you at your home or engaging in offensive behavior, this is illegal.
If a landlord needs to renovate a home and the tenant needs to leave the space to do so, the landlord must find temporary accommodation for the tenant in the same region.
The tenant also has the right to be refunded for any paid renovations that are necessary.
Tenants in Portugal have the right to live in a rental with their family up to the third degree and their partners. Tenants can also have three extra guests at any time.
Rental Contracts in Portugal
So you have found the perfect place, and it’s time to sign the contrato de arrendamento (rental contract)? What documents do you need for a rental contract? Let’s take a look!
Your tax identification number (NIF)
Identification document of landlords and tenants (including date of birth, nationality, and civil status)
Address of house
Number and date of house’s license
Rent amount and when it must be paid
Date of contract
Most Portuguese rental contracts allow you to leave a third of the way through the contract. However, if you have more than a year left on your contract, you must give 120 days’ notice. If you have less than a year left, usually 60 days is enough.
Rental Deposits & Guarantors in Portugal
Rental deposits are common in Portugal. Landlords usually expect two months’ rent. However, unlike in other European countries, there are no rules regarding how long your landlord can hold your deposit.
Still, a 2-month deposit does not mean you won’t be asked for a guarantor, also known as fiador. The guarantor must be Portuguese, which can be tough if you do not have close connections in Portugal. This person is legally obliged to pay the rent if you fail to do so.
However, there is still hope if you can’t afford a guarantor. Your landlord might ask you to pay the rent upfront, usually 6 to 12 months in advance.
The Algarve in Southern Portugal is the most popular tourist location in Portugal, boasting incredible beaches and sun all year round. Thousands of the millions that visit every year have decided to make it their permanent home.
In fact, the Algarve has one of the largest international communities in all of Portugal! It is the top choice for those coming from the UK and US, with a large population of English-speaking locals.
Don’t take our word for it; the numbers speak for themselves. Almost 25% of the residents in the Algarve are international! This region has the highest percentage of foreigners per population in all of Portugal. The number is just expected to increase.
Are you planning to add to this statistic? If so, relocating your whole life and moving to a new country can be daunting, even if you’ve only heard good things. To help you prepare, this expat guide to moving to the Algarve has everything you need, such as the pros and cons, housing arrangements, and more!
Pros and Cons of Moving to the Algarve
Pros of Moving to the Algarve
Large international community, particularly people from the UK and USA
Warmest area of mainland Portugal with plenty of sun all year round
Home to some of the best beaches in the country
Safe area
Many people speak English
Plenty of international schools
Cons of Moving to the Algarve
Overcrowded by tourism in the summer
While the cost of living in Portugal is not very high, the Algarve is becoming more expensive due to tourism
Public transport is not great
Low salaries
Cost of Living in the Algarve
The Algarve is an affordable option for those coming from more expensive countries such as the US. It is also still cheaper than living in Lisbon, although the rise in tourism is bringing up the cost of living. Rent in the city of Faro, for example, is 20% cheaper than in Lisbon.
Let’s take a look at the average monthly budgets for single expats and a family of four in Faro.
Cost of Living for a Single Expat – Less than €1400
The monthly budget for an expat in Faro is less than €1400. This can be reduced if you decide to rent a room or share bills with a partner.
Rent: A one-bedroom apartment costs around €750. However, you can save here by renting a room for less than €400.
Transportation: A monthly transportation pass is around €50 or less for buses. You can also get a train to many cities from Faro, such as Lisbon and Porto. However, owning a car will make it easier to commute around the Algarve. If so, expect to pay at least €200 a month on fuel.
Utilities & bills: Utilities cost around €150, including phone data and cable TV.
Leisure: For exploring Faro, eating out at your favorite restaurants, and exploring the nightlife, budget around €200 a month. You can easily spend less or more, depending on your lifestyle.
Groceries: Groceries for a single person average out at around €50 a week.
Health care: 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 not the case, you should to purchase health insurance to access the private system, which costs around €50 a month.
Cost of Living in Lisbon for a Family of Four – At least €2600
The monthly budget for an expat in Faro is at least €2600. This can be a lot higher depending on various factors, particularly education.
Rent: A three-bedroom apartment in Faro will set you back around €1400. However, prices can go up to €1900 or more, depending on the apartment type and amenities.
Transportation: Budget around €200 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 at least €200 a month.
Utilities & bills: Utilities cost around €150, including phone data and cable TV. However, this can be much higher in the winter or depending on your family’s consumption.
Leisure: For eating out once a week, going to the movies, and enjoying other activities, budget at least €400 a month.
Groceries: Groceries for a family of four in Faro should cost around €125 to €150 a week, so budget at least €500 a month.
Health care: If you need to purchase health insurance for the whole family, this will cost you at least €200 a month.
Education: 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.
Finding Housing in the Algarve
Renting in the Algarve
As of July 2022, it costs around €11.7 per m2 to rent in the Algarve. For a 120m2 home, this would cost around €1400 a month. This average is the highest it has ever been in the Algarve. In contrast, renting in Lisbon costs an average of €13.8 per m2.
To find a place to rent, you can choose to enlist a rental agent from a well-regarded agency. Here are some of the most popular property portals and real estate agencies in Portugal that can help you find a home in the Algarve:
ReMax
Spotahome
Custojusto
Century21
Imovirtual
Idealista
Buying a Home in the Algarve
As of July 2022, the average price for a house in the Algarve is €2815 per m2. Prices have been increasing exponentially, by 14.6% since last year. With this average, a 120 m2 house would cost around €338,000.
If you are looking to get a mortgage in Portugal, this will be hard if you are not a resident. Non-residents will only be offered loans up to 65-75% of the value of the home or the sale price (whichever is lower).
However, if you are a fiscal resident, you can borrow up to 90% of the sale price (whichever higher).
Most banks will also not allow your existing debts and your new mortgage payments to go over 35% of your monthly income. Portuguese banks will usually give you a mortgage that runs for 25 years, sometimes up to 30.
However, this will depend on your age. The mortgage loan quality will also depend on your salary and assets, which a guarantor could help with. Make sure to get many pre-approvals from various banks before choosing the right one. It’s also advised that you have a professional look over these.
Before you move to the Algarve, we recommend scouting the area and exploring as much of the region as possible. While most of the Algarve has a similar environment, you will find that each city has its unique characteristics and fit different lifestyles. Here are the 3 best cities to live in the Algarve, so you know where to explore before making the big move.
If you dream of moving to the Algarve while avoiding crowds, Tavira is a great option. Tavira is located around 40 kilometers from Faro and the Spanish border. Around 29% of the population of Tavira is international.
The city was built alongside River Gilão, in an intricate of narrow roadways and white houses that offer a fairytale-like environment. You can find everything you need in the city center while still being able to enjoy Tavira’s slow-paced life.
Tavira boasts some of the best beaches in the Algarve that, even in the summer, are less overrun by tourists than in other areas of the region. Praia do Barril is our favorite, featuring a quaint wooden bath over golden sand.
Ilha de Tavira. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Unsplash)
Lagos is one of the top tourist destinations in the Algarve and all of Portugal. Located on the western tip of the Algarve, Lagos has a large international community, with over 38% of its population being foreign.
If you want to live somewhere relaxing but with vibrant nightlife and community during the summer, Lagos is the place to be.
The city features smaller charming villages, as well as a large riverside promenade, churches, and historical attractions. It is also home to beautiful beaches such as Praia da Luz and Porto de Mos.
The capital of the Algarve and one of the largest cities, Faro is an expat hotspot and the most populated city. If you do not want to lose the feeling of living in a city, but still want to be close to nature and beaches, Faro might be the right home for you.
Faro is where the Algarve’s international airport is located, as well as the university, shopping malls, and more. You will also find a thriving clubbing scene here, even in the winter! Everything you need, you will find in Faro.
If you want to be close to the city center but prefer a slower-paced life, consider moving to the islands in the Ria Formosa, such as Culatra. These are smaller communities, a few steps from the beach, that are great if you work remotely.
Due to decades of a vibrant international community, the Algarve features plenty of international schools at a more affordable price than the capital. These private schools usually follow a curriculum from the US or the UK and tend to teach in multiple languages.
You will find that most international schools operate between the ages of 3 years old and 18 years old. However, there are also a few international primary schools and even a Montessori school for young children.
Tuition fees in international schools in the Algarve vary from around €4,000 to €20,000 a year, with the average being less than €10,000 a year.
Here are some of the most well-known and top-ranked international schools in the Algarve:
Aljezur International School (Aljezur)
Algarve International School (Faro)
Vilamoura International School (Vilamoura)
Eupheus International School Algarve (Loule)
Brave Generation Academy (Lagos)
Healthcare in Portugal
Under the World Health Organization (WHO)’s ranking of healthcare systems, Portugal takes 12th place. Featuring both a private and public health sector, the country offers universal health coverage through the Servico Nacional de Saude (SNS).
All residents in Portugal, as well as visitors with a European Health Insurance Card (for up to 90 days), can access universal healthcare. All you need to do when you receive your residency permit is register with your local health center. You can then access public healthcare!
Health care in the SNS is not 100% free, but it is pretty close. The SNS occasionally charges low amounts for particular treatments and prescriptions.
However, children under 18 and people over 65 can enjoy 100% free healthcare. However, you usually won’t pay a dime if you are sick and access emergency services.
If you prefer to use private healthcare, there are many clinics and hospitals available. Private healthcare is less expensive than in most countries, with an appointment costing around €40 to €50. Certain specialists, such as dermatologists, tend to be more expensive.
We recommend getting private health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare. The average price for health insurance is around €50, but this can increase again depending on factors such as age.
Some insurance companies in Portugal only offer health insurance to people under 55, while others make it a lot more expensive for those in retirement.
It’s harder to live in places like Lisbon or Porto without knowing Portuguese. The Algarve has had an expat community for decades, so many there speak English. However, you will feel more welcomed if you put in the effort to learn Portuguese.
You will likely be treated better and are less likely to receive bad service. Not knowing Portuguese also limits your ability to travel freely around the country and visit hidden gems like old villages with elderly people who don’t speak English.
If you want to learn Portuguese, it will take you at least 600 hours to learn to speak it fluently. It will be a bit harder if you only speak English, but if you know French or Italian, this is an advantage.
Here are other platforms to learn Portuguese online:
If you are already setting up the final details of your move, chances are this section isn’t necessary. However, if you are still figuring out how to legally move to Portugal, you’ll need an overview of Portuguese visas. If you are an EU national, you don’t need a visa to live or work in Portugal.
To find out which visa is best for you, let’s take a quick look at the most popular long-stay residency visas in Portugal: the Golden Visa,D7 Visa, and D2 Visa.
You need to be a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national to be eligible for these. All of these visas share similar benefits:
The Portugal Golden Visa might be suitable for you if you have the funds to invest in the country. For example, if you are already considering buying a house, this could get you your visa. However, you can no longer buy a primary home in Algarve to qualify for this visa.
Nevertheless, you can make other investments such as an investment fund, capital transfer, job creation, and donation.
Need a more affordable visa? The Portugal D7 Visa is great if you want to retire in the Algarve or if you are a digital nomad. It requires no investment!
This visa is for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who want residence in Portugal and have a reasonable passive income. This income can come from real estate, a retirement pension, a salary, etc.
The minimum passive income required is €8,460 per year for the main applicant. For a spouse, you must add 50% to this (€4,230); for a dependent child, you must add 30% to this (€2,538).
Are you an entrepreneur, freelancer, or independent service provider? The Portugal D2 Visa could be the right path for you!
You might be eligible for a D2 Visa if you want to start a business or startup in Portugal, transfer your existing one to Portugal, and invest in a business in Portugal.
To apply, you must put together a viable business plan that will be evaluated in terms of its economic, technological, and cultural impact.
Regarding cost, the D2 Visa would sit right in the middle between the D7 Visa and the Golden Visa. You must invest in the company’s share capital, which immigration firms advise should be at least €50,000.
Located south of the city of Porto, on the other side of the Douro river lies the city of Vila Nova de Gaia. Known for its Port cellars, gardens, and astonishing views, Gaia provides a quieter tourist experience than Porto.
However, with over 300,000 inhabitants, Gaia is not a tiny Portuguese city. While it’s known for its Port cellars, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, even for those who are not wine lovers. Let’s take a look at the 5 best things to do in Vila Nova de Gaia, our top picks for hotels, and more!
5 Best Things to Do in Vila Nova de Gaia
1. Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia
Vila Nova de Gaia houses some of the most well-known wine cellars in the country. A visit here definitely requires a wine tasting and tour to immerse you in the traditional wine culture.
One of our favorite spots in Vila Nova de Gaia is Caves Ferreira. Founded by a family of winemakers in 1751, Caves Ferreira is the only wine company in the Porto area that has always remained Portuguese throughout its history.
Another great place is Ramos Pinto, an incredible vineyard established in 1880 by Adriano Ramos Pinto. They have over 80 hectares of vineyards across four farms.
You can enjoy a tour of their port wine cellars (Ramos Pinto Cellars) and a visit to their museum (Adriano Ramos Pinto Museum) in Gaia that teaches you about the brand’s history.
Photo by Hayffield L (Unsplash)
2. Enjoy the views from the Yeatman Hotel
The Yeatman is a five-star hotel in Vila Nova de Gaia, featuring a terraced Michelin-star restaurant. It provides a full view of Porto across the Douro river. The view is magnificent, especially at night when the lights in Porto create a beautiful atmosphere.
The 2 Michelin awarded restaurant is led by Chef Ricardo Costa, offering an interpretation of traditional flavors of Portugal in favor of a more contemporary flair. Guests can enjoy seasonal tasting menus.
However, the Yeatman is also a great spot for sunset drinks. We recommend looking at their extensive wine list or opting for a signature cocktail.
3. Ride the Gaia cable car
Known as the teleferico de Gaia in Portuguese, the Gaia cable car is one of the best ways to get a view of Porto and Gaia since it opened in 2011. The cable car is not just a tourist attraction but a sustainable transport option that connects the D. Luis bridge to the pier of the city of Gaia.
The cable car rides up the Douro river and provides views of the rustic roofs of cellars in Gaia and the historic area of Porto. The trip is around 5 minutes at 300 meters of altitude, and only 8 passengers are allowed per cabin.
Photo by Nan Palmero (Flickr)
3. Walk the Dom Luis I bridge to Porto
The Dom Luis I bridge features a metal arch and is 60 meters high, connecting the Ribeira district of Porto to Gaia. The bridge was built in the 19th century by Theophile Syrig, a cofounder of the Eiffel company.
Although cars drive through the bridge, pedestrians can walk on the upper level of the bridge safely. This is a fun way to get to Porto, offering views of the Douro river and the city. The walk is only 1 kilometer and is the perfect activity for after dinner.
Photo by Renan (Unsplash)
5. Explore beaches in the region
Vila Nova de Gaia might be better known for its Port wine to tourists, but it is closeby to some amazing beaches for a relaxing afternoon. If it’s not the warmest day, grab some snacks and a book for a picnic.
Praia de Salgueiros is one of our top favorites in Gaia. This white sand beach with black rocks is known for its underwater fishing and surfing.
Another local favorite is Praia de Miramar. This beach features blue waters and golden sand, surrounded by luxury homes. It is a great beach for windsurfing and paddling.
Praia de Miramar, Gaia. Photo by Andreia e Amandio IG @beabadomundo
Praia de Canide is a large beach that is divided into main areas. The southern part is best for surfing, while the northern part is used for kiteboarding and football. However, you can head to any area to spend the day sunbathing.
Praia de Canide, Gaia. Photo by Americo Emanuel Oliveira IG @aoliveira_7i
Porto has a larger public transportation network than Vila Nova de Gaia. Forget the metro and trams. However, the bus system is still pretty efficient. The cable cars also allow you to commute to certain areas while enjoying beautiful views.
However, if you are looking to explore as must of the region and head to some beaches, renting a car is very useful. This way, you can even enjoy a day trip to the Douro region without the crowds.
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.AcceptPrivacy policy
