How to Find the Best Place to Live in Portugal (That Matches Your Lifestyle)

Moving to Portugal is more than choosing a house, it’s about choosing the life you want to live. Whether you're dreaming of ocean views, vibrant city energy, or quiet countryside serenity, the country offers a variety of lifestyles, climates, and communities. But how do you decide what place fits you best?

As architects and consultants who specialize in guiding foreigners through this process, we know the questions you should be asking and the ones you don’t even know you have yet.

1. First, Define Your Lifestyle Priorities

Before falling in love with a view or a neighborhood, take time to reflect on your values and needs:

• Do you want to walk everywhere or prefer driving?

• Are you seeking cultural life or peace and quiet?

• Do you need to be close to international schools and medical services?

• Are you investing for the future or building a home for your family?

This step will save you time and money and guide every decision that comes next.

2. Understand Portugal’s Lifestyle Zones

Portugal may be small, but its diversity is immense. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular regions and what they offer:

• Lisbon & Surroundings
  For those who want culture, international connection, and a dynamic lifestyle. Great for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and urban families.

• Cascais & Estoril
  A blend of beach-town calm and sophistication. Ideal for families, retirees, or anyone craving a more relaxed pace with top-tier services.

• Comporta & Alentejo Coast
  Trendy but low-key. Perfect for creatives, nature lovers, and those seeking design-forward simplicity.

• Porto & North
  A cultural hub with authenticity, history, and value for money. Often chosen by investors or those seeking a more traditional atmosphere.

• Algarve
  Known for sunshine and golf, but also great for remote workers, families, and those who love outdoor living year-round.

3. Test Before You Invest

If possible, visit the areas you're considering. Even a short stay can reveal a lot:

• How do you feel walking those streets?

• Do you feel safe?

• Does the pace match your rhythm?

When a client can’t visit, we offer virtual scouting with video walk-throughs and local insight to help them make informed decisions.

4. Think Long-Term (and Legally)

Finding a place to live also means thinking about:

• Residency requirements and visas

• Property taxes and buying rules

• Access to schools, healthcare, and transport
  A local team makes all the difference here. At FOUND, we offer architectural and bureaucratic guidance tailored to your lifestyle, not just the property.

5. Let the Right Place Find You

Sometimes, what you think you want isn’t what truly fits. That’s why our process always starts with listening to your story, your values, your vision. We don’t just find properties. We help you find where you belong.

Whether you're moving from the U.S., Canada, the UK, France, Germany, China or Brazil, Portugal can feel like a dream but only if the place you choose aligns with your life. Take time, ask for guidance, and remember: the best decision is the one that feels right.

Ready to explore your next chapter in Portugal with clarity and confidence?
Book an Orientation Meeting with FOUND – and let us guide you home.