So you’re thinking of moving to Lisbon, guide or no guide? Are you dreaming of a new life in Lisbon or the surrounding coast? Whether you’re planning to relocate soon or just starting to explore the idea, you’ll find that Portugal’s capital and its neighboring towns offer an incredible mix of sun, history, culture, and opportunity. We are your moving to Lisbon guide.
As local real estate professionals who have helped people from all walks of life settle here, we’re excited to share our insights and help you make informed, confident decisions—no matter your timeline.
Why Lisbon and the Lisbon Coast Are So Popular
Lisbon is a city that captures the imagination. With its more than 280 days of sunshine each year, you’ll enjoy a Mediterranean climate that invites you outdoors year-round. The city’s history is on display in every neighborhood, from the ancient streets of Alfama to the grand avenues of Avenidas Novas. Culture lovers will find world-class museums, music, and festivals, while foodies can indulge in everything from fresh seafood to the famous pastel de nata.
What truly sets Lisbon apart is its warm, welcoming spirit. Locals are friendly and helpful, and English is widely spoken, especially in central areas and among younger people. The international community is thriving, making it easy to find friends, support, and a sense of belonging.
Despite its growing popularity, Lisbon remains more affordable than most Western European capitals, and the quality of life is exceptional—safe streets, clean air, great healthcare, and a relaxed pace that encourages you to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
Lisbon is also a city of opportunity. The tech and startup scene is booming, remote work is easy thanks to reliable infrastructure, and the city is a convenient gateway to the rest of Europe. Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, investment, or adventure, Lisbon and its coast have something for everyone.
Getting to Know Lisbon and Its Surroundings: Neighborhoods and Coastal Towns
Choosing where to live is one of the most exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—parts of moving to Lisbon. Each neighborhood and nearby town has its own personality, lifestyle, and property options. Here’s a detailed look at the most popular and promising areas, including those along the coast and just beyond the city limits.
Baixa and Chiado
If you love being in the center of it all, Baixa and Chiado are hard to beat. These historic neighborhoods are the heart of Lisbon, filled with grand plazas, neoclassical architecture, and a lively mix of shops, theaters, and cafes. Living here means you can walk to almost everything, from the riverfront to museums and gourmet restaurants. The area is always buzzing, and while prices are higher, the lifestyle is truly cosmopolitan.
Alfama
Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest quarter, a labyrinth of narrow lanes, colorful houses, and hidden courtyards. Here, you’ll find the soul of the city—Fado music drifting from traditional taverns, neighbors chatting on stoops, and spectacular views of the Tagus River. Properties here are full of character, though they may require renovation and can be compact. Alfama is perfect for those who want authenticity and a strong sense of community.
Mouraria
Bordering Alfama, Mouraria is known for its multicultural flair and creative energy. This area is undergoing a renaissance, with new cafes, art spaces, and boutique hotels popping up alongside traditional shops. It’s a great choice for those who want to be close to the center but enjoy a more local, diverse vibe. Apartments here are often more affordable than in neighboring Alfama or Baixa.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is famous for its bohemian spirit and vibrant nightlife. By day, the area is surprisingly quiet, with sunlight spilling onto cobbled streets and quirky boutiques. At night, it transforms into Lisbon’s party capital, with bars and music venues drawing crowds from across the city. Living here means embracing the energy and creativity of Lisbon’s younger crowd.
Príncipe Real
Príncipe Real has become one of Lisbon’s most desirable neighborhoods, especially for young professionals, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The area is known for its leafy gardens, organic markets, stylish boutiques, and a lively café culture. Properties range from grand historic apartments to beautifully renovated townhouses. The neighborhood is central yet relaxed, offering both convenience and a sense of community.
Graça
Perched atop one of Lisbon’s seven hills, Graça offers some of the best views in the city. This traditional neighborhood has a local feel, with bustling markets, bakeries, and a growing expat scene. The Miradouros (viewpoints) are a highlight, and the area is popular with creatives, remote workers, and families seeking authenticity and charm.
Avenidas Novas
If you prefer wide boulevards, modern apartments, and easy access to business districts, Avenidas Novas is an excellent choice. This area is well-connected by public transport and offers a mix of classic and contemporary properties. It’s popular with professionals and families who want space, comfort, and proximity to schools and shopping.
Campo de Ourique
Campo de Ourique feels like a village within the city. Known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and the famous Campo de Ourique Market, this neighborhood is a favorite among families and retirees. The streets are lined with independent shops, bakeries, and local restaurants, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Belém and Ajuda
To the west of the city center, Belém is famous for its monumental architecture, museums, and riverside parks. The area is quieter and greener than central Lisbon, making it ideal for families and those who appreciate space and history. Restelo, just above Belém, is an upscale residential area with spacious homes and embassies. Ajuda, nearby, offers a more traditional, residential feel with local shops and a strong community spirit.
Santos and Lapa
Santos and Lapa are known for their elegance and tranquility. These neighborhoods are home to embassies, historic mansions, and leafy streets. Santos has a creative edge, with design studios and riverside cafes, while Lapa is more residential and peaceful. Both are popular with diplomats, entrepreneurs, and families seeking a refined lifestyle close to the city center.
Parque das Nações
Parque das Nações represents modern Lisbon. Built for Expo ’98, this waterfront district features contemporary high-rises, spacious promenades, and family-friendly attractions like the Oceanarium. The area is popular with professionals, families, and anyone seeking new-build apartments with amenities such as parking, gyms, and river views.
Marvila
Marvila is one of Lisbon’s most exciting up-and-coming areas. Once industrial, it’s now a hub for artists, start-ups, and craft breweries. The neighborhood offers a mix of converted lofts, new developments, and investment opportunities. If you’re looking for growth potential and a creative atmosphere, Marvila is worth exploring.
Arroios and Intendente
These central neighborhoods are known for their multiculturalism, affordable housing, and urban renewal. Arroios and Intendente attract young buyers, creatives, and those seeking a dynamic, diverse lifestyle. The area is lively, with street art, markets, and a growing food scene.
Cascais
Just a short train ride from Lisbon, Cascais is a coastal gem beloved by expats, families, and retirees. The town combines golden beaches, a charming historic center, and a vibrant marina. Properties range from seaside apartments to luxury villas. Cascais offers international schools, golf courses, and a relaxed, sophisticated lifestyle—perfect for those who want the best of both city and beach living.
Estoril
Neighboring Cascais, Estoril is famous for its casino, elegant promenade, and beautiful beaches. The area has a cosmopolitan feel, with grand hotels, golf courses, and a lively expat community. Properties here include apartments with sea views and spacious family homes. Estoril is ideal for those seeking a resort-like atmosphere within easy reach of Lisbon.
Oeiras and Caxias
Both Oeiras and Caxias are located between Lisbon and Cascais, offering a blend of urban convenience and coastal tranquility. Oeiras is known for its business parks, green spaces, and family-friendly vibe. The town has excellent schools, parks, and a beautiful waterfront. Caxias, slightly smaller, offers a quieter, more residential feel with easy access to beaches and the city.
Costa da Caparica
Across the river from Lisbon, Costa da Caparica is famous for its long stretch of sandy beaches and laid-back surf culture. The area is popular with young professionals, families, and anyone who loves the sea. While the town itself is relaxed, it’s well-connected to Lisbon by bus and ferry, making it possible to enjoy a beach lifestyle while working in the city.
Setúbal
Further south, Setúbal is a vibrant port city known for its fresh seafood, lively markets, and access to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park. The city offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, with affordable property prices compared to Lisbon. Setúbal is a great option for those seeking a more relaxed pace, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community.
Sesimbra
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Sesimbra is a picturesque fishing town that has become a favorite for holidaymakers and full-time residents alike. The town offers beautiful beaches, excellent seafood restaurants, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. Properties range from traditional homes to modern apartments, often with spectacular ocean views.
Seixal
On the south bank of the Tagus River, Seixal is growing in popularity thanks to its affordable housing, riverside promenades, and easy ferry access to central Lisbon. The area has a youthful, creative energy, with new cafes, cultural spaces, and a focus on sustainability. Seixal is ideal for those who want proximity to Lisbon without the city’s higher prices.
Ericeira
Ericeira is a world-renowned surf town north of Lisbon, famous for its stunning coastline, relaxed lifestyle, and vibrant expat community. The town has a charming historic center, excellent seafood, and a range of properties from cozy cottages to modern villas. Ericeira is perfect for those who love the ocean and a laid-back, outdoorsy lifestyle.
Mafra
Just inland from Ericeira, Mafra is known for its magnificent palace and tranquil countryside. The area offers a slower pace of life, with traditional markets, green spaces, and affordable homes. Mafra is popular with families and those seeking space and value within easy reach of Lisbon and the coast.
Amadora
Amadora is a large, diverse suburb just northwest of Lisbon. It’s well-connected by train and metro, making it a convenient choice for commuters. The area offers a mix of apartments, townhouses, and new developments, often at more accessible prices than central Lisbon. Amadora is a practical option for families and young professionals looking for value and convenience.
The Property Buying Process in Portugal
If you’re considering buying a home in Lisbon or the surrounding coast, you’ll find the process transparent and welcoming to foreigners. Start by clarifying your needs and budget, including the type of property, preferred neighborhoods, and total costs. You’ll need a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and a local bank account—both are straightforward to obtain, and we can guide you through the process or take care of it for you.
Working with a licensed real estate agent ensures you see the best properties (many of the best properties are “off-market” silent listings), get honest advice, and have support at every step.
Many purchase property without a mortgage, but most do get a mortgage of some sort for any number of reasons. We work with several credit brokers who can make sure you get a mortgage that is best for your situation and they do the work for you at no cost to you!
Once you find a property you love, you’ll make an offer and, if accepted, sign a promissory contract and pay a deposit. Your lawyer will handle due diligence, checking for any legal or financial issues. We have a team of lawyers that we can introduce you to if you do not already have one. The final deed is signed at a notary, and the property is registered in your name.
Foreigners face no restrictions on ownership, and mortgages are available for non-residents.
If you are moving to the Lisbon area, we would be happy to help you. Contact us today!