Portugal is one of the most beautiful countries for summer holidays. Increasingly more people are moving here to start a new life, find work, or retire. Despite its small size, this country rewards visitors at every step. From golden beaches and amazing landscape to picturesque villages and architectural masterpieces, Portugal has something for everyone. Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, Viseu, and the Algarve are some of the best places to live in Portugal.
Lisbon
A recent study ranked Lisbon in 41st place of world cities with best quality of living. Portugal’s largest city ranks above Madrid, Rome and other emblematic capitals. With a population of 547,631, Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal and the ninth most populous urban area in the European Union. This city gas two sites classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site: Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Baroque, Gothic, Romanesque, and Modern constructions can be found all over Lisbon.
Viseu
A survey carried by Deco Proteste (a national magazine) has shown that Viseu is the best city to live in Portugal. The study has bee conducted on over 3,000 people in 21 different cities. Respondents said that Viseu offers the best safety facilities and employment opportunities in the country. It also provides excellent public transportation and nice neighborhoods to live in. This city has undergone a considerable economic growth, especially in education, trade, industry and telecommunications.
The Algarve
The Algarve region is considered to be the center of Portugal’s tourist industry. With a total area if 5,412 square kilometers, this region relies on tourism and related activities. It is the third richest region in the country, with a GDP per capita of 86 percent of the European Union Average. Those who want to move here can choose from several cities, towns, and villages, including Faro, Lagoa, Albufeira, Tavira, Silves, and Portimao.
Porto
With over 237,584 inhabits, Porto is the second largest city in Portugal. Many of the largest corporations from diverse economic sectors are headquartered in the municipalities of Porto, Mais, Vila Nova de Gaia, and Matosinhos. Porto gained its place as a city of culture, science, work, and leisure. In 2001, this city was named the European Capital of Culture.
Évora
According to a yearly survey, Évora was ranked number two in the Portuguese most livable cities. The many historic buildings and monuments constructed by major artists now testify to the city’s lively cultural and artistic heritage. Its historical centre has more than 4,000 buildings in various architectural styles.