Make the Algarve your home during retirement and uniquely experience your golden years.

Retirement is one of the most anticipated and significant phases in working life. It is time to retire and finally have control over your schedule. To enjoy a peaceful retirement, it's crucial to implement the plans developed over the years and consider stepping out of your comfort zone.

If you agree with everything, continue reading to discover how to retire in Portugal in this guide. We answer five questions about how to make the most of retirement in Portugal.

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1. Is Portugal a good country for retirement?

1. If you have ever considered retiring abroad, you should know that Portugal ranks among the top five countries for retirement. It consistently holds a prominent position and currently occupies second place in the Annual Global Retirement Index 2024. This ranking assesses countries based on various criteria, such as property costs, benefits, residence visas, and the healthcare system.

2.  

   Portugal is a small European country blessed with a mild climate for much of the year. The Algarve, the southernmost region, offers pleasant weather throughout the year. In summer, temperatures rise, attracting many tourists to the extensive sands of its beaches. These beaches have received several accolades, including the Best Beach Destination in Europe at the World Travel Awards in 2022 and 2023.

3.  

   The Algarve is a popular tourist destination, especially among Europeans, with visitors from the UK being the most frequent. Each year, numerous families travel to the south of Portugal to enjoy the pleasures of living simply, while others decide to relocate permanently from their home countries to the Algarve.

4.  

   In addition to its magnificent beaches, the Algarve also offers less populated areas in the mountains and the barrocal region. These spaces, away from the tourist crowds, are sought after by those wishing to reside here for their tranquillity, green landscapes, and quality of life.

5.  

   The best aspect of living in the Algarve - Portugal is the people. Since the 1960s and 70s, the Algarve has welcomed tourists from all over the world. Tourism is one of the most significant sectors in the region, which has enabled the locals to become skilled at welcoming visitors. In recent years, we have seen an increase in the population of foreign residents in the Algarve, making the region even more multicultural.

6.  

   Portugal may be small in size, but it is immense in charm. Spending retirement travelling around the country is an opportunity to discover the differences between its regions. Living in Portugal offers a continual journey of discovering new places, vibrant colours, enticing scents, and delightful flavours.

7.  

   To make travel easier, the country is well connected by a network of motorways and railways. In Lisbon, Porto, the islands, and the Algarve, it is possible to travel abroad through international airports or make shorter trips between cities. A flight from the Algarve to northern Portugal takes only 40 minutes.

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2. What is the best city in Portugal for retirement?

There are countless cities to choose from in Portugal, but if you are looking to enjoy your retirement, the Algarve is the best option. The tranquil atmosphere offers a picturesque idea of spending the best years of your life by the sea while soaking up the sun.

Would you like to know which city is the best for retirement? Here are some towns in the western Algarve to inspire you and help you start planning:

• Lagos

Lagos is a multicultural city with a population of 33,514, divided among four parishes. It is a dynamic and vibrant place that welcomes people of all ages. In the historic centre, the description of a lively city becomes evident.Concerts, dance performances, and spontaneous theatrical shows are held at Praça Gil Eanes.

The city boasts several award-winning beaches, with Praia D. Ana and Meia Praia standing out for their extensive sands, perfect for families. Lagos has a rich history linked to the Age of Discoveries and was the base of the Naval School of Prince Henry, the driving force behind Portuguese world explorations.

The gastronomy is abundant with quality products, prioritising local and fresh ingredients, such as fish and seafood caught off the coast.

Lagos is also known for its beachfront resorts. In these entertainment hubs, you can invest in an apartment or villa and live in a place others visit for their holidays. This option is increasingly popular, especially among retirees, as it offers a prime location property with 24-hour security and access to various amenities, including pools, restaurants, gyms, and spas.

To learn more about this option, read the article “The Best Resorts to Live In” or keep up with the latest properties available for sale in Algarve Resorts in our portfolio.

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• Portimão

Discover one of the most vibrant and promising urban centres in the Algarve. This city boasts one of the world's most renowned beaches: Praia da Rocha. Next to this beach is Portimão Marina, where boats and yachts from all corners of the globe are docked.

In the city centre, the cultural space TEMPO stands out, dedicated to music and theatre, as well as the award-winning Portimão Museum, housed in a former canning factory. This century-old venue features galleries for temporary exhibitions by various artists and a permanent exhibition about the canning industry and the culture of dried fruits.

Portimão nightlife is renowned and attracts everyone from young partygoers to retirees looking to enjoy themselves in beachfront bars. One of the liveliest areas for nightlife is Praia da Rocha, where you’ll find a casino, viewpoints, and quality restaurants, including one distinguished with a Michelin Star.

Portimão is a diverse city, offering lively spots and quieter areas, providing those wishing to live in the Algarve with the best of both worlds. Keep an eye on the latest properties available for sale in Portimão in our portfolio.

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• Aljezur

One of the most tranquil towns in the Algarve is nestled between the region's breathtaking beaches and the Barlavento Algarvio mountains, specifically the Espinhaço de Cão and Monchique ranges. The beaches are very popular with surfers, while sunbathers flock to the extensive stretches of pristine, nearly deserted sands.

Outdoor activities in this municipality are a must, thanks to its beautiful beaches and areas of native vegetation. Cycling or hiking while enjoying the fresh air are excellent ways to embrace a relaxed retirement.

Buying a house in Aljezur is a winning investment! Whether for living or investing in holiday rentals, this is one of the most promising regions to do it. Here, you can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle throughout the year, all at an affordable cost of living. If you're considering investing in a property for holiday rentals, know that this area attracts visitors throughout the year.

Contact us through our website to explore the finest homes in this municipality.

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The Western Algarve region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, which includes majestic mountains, picturesque countryside, and, of course, beautiful beaches. Inland villages and towns showcase more traditional areas where age-old customs are still cherished. If you like to know local traditions, you'll discover that items such as medronho spirit, handcrafted wicker and reed baskets, and Monchique scissor chairs are all made with care by skilled artisans.

In addition to the quality of life in the countryside, the coastline boasts internationally renowned beaches alongside hidden gems, where nature remains pristine, and the turquoise waters enhance the region's charm. Living in the Algarve provides a revitalising experience for those seeking to make the most of their retirement.

3. What activities are there for retirees in the Algarve?

The options are endless, and you'll never be short of things to do or places to visit. Here are some suggested activities you can and should engage in while enjoying your retirement in the Algarve.

• Hiking in the Western Algarve

As mentioned, the region offers inland and coastal areas filled with incredible lush landscapes. The Costa Vicentina is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. There are circular trails, clearly marked, with routes available for GPS along the coast, showcasing stunning views. Go hiking and discover the beauty of living in the Algarve!

• Birdwatching in the Algarve

This activity attracts millions of people, and in autumn, many wish to be in Sagres to observe migratory birds. The passage of birds through the skies of Vila do Bispo has given rise to a festival dedicated to birdwatching (the event typically takes place in early October). While endemic species can be seen throughout the year, many other birds migrate along the Sagres coastline on their way to Africa.

• Golf in the Algarve

In the Algarve, golf is the sport of choice! The region features high-quality golf courses that host numerous tournaments, attracting golfers from around the globe. Thanks to the mild climate, you can enjoy this sport all year round, whether with friends or family. Discover where you can perfect your swing at some of the best golf courses in Europe. Learn more here.

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We believe that the benefits of living in Portugal highlighted so far are more than sufficient to inspire you to spend your retirement here. However, we would also like to address two additional questions:

5. How to buy a property to live in Portugal?

Before starting your search for homes in Portugal, it is essential to understand the process of relocating to the country. The first step is to obtain a residence visa. For retirees, the D7 Visa is one of the most effective options. To learn more about the D7 visa and the steps to obtain it, please refer to our comprehensive guide in this article.

Buying a house in Portugal can be relatively simple, especially for those not requiring a bank loan.

1. Choosing the City: The first step is to identify the city that best meets your requirements for living in the Algarve or Portugal.

2. Type of Property: Next, decide on the type of property you're looking for, whether it's an apartment or a villa. In Portugal, it's common to see terms like "T2" or "T3" in property listings, which refer to the number of bedrooms. If you search for a home on your own, without the help of an estate agent, the process can be more complicated. Casas do Barlavento always recommends hiring a real estate professional. Local agencies have a better understanding of the market and can secure more favourable prices based on your desired features. Be sure to research estate agents in your preferred area, and if you need assistance in the Barlavento Algarve, Casas do Barlavento is here to help.

3. Property Viewings: The third step is to visit the property. If you are still in your home country, you can arrange a virtual tour through the Casas do Barlavento website. Ask the estate agent everything you need to know, including information about the surrounding area, such as access to public transport, markets, banks, post offices, playgrounds, or nearby schools.

4. Documentation: Once you have chosen your future home, gather the necessary documents for the purchase. The estate agent will ensure nothing is overlooked, helping to facilitate a swift and well-informed transaction.

5. Signing the Deed: Finally, you will need to be present to sign the deed. At this stage, both the buyer and seller will attend, along with a representative from the bank if you've secured a loan. Should you opt for financing, please note that a deposit of 10% of the property's total value is typically required.

5. Do you know how to find the ideal apartment or villa?

The answer is simple! Once you have identified the perfect area to spend your retirement in the Algarve, the next step is to get in touch with a local estate agency. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Casas do Barlavento. With nearly 20 years of experience in the market, we operate in the western Algarve, helping families fulfil their dream of living in this beautiful region.

Contact us and enjoy your golden years in this paradise called the Algarve!