Portugal’s colourful capital, Lisbon, is the 2nd most popular place for foreign property buyers and with all the global attention it gains, it’s really no surprise that the region’s real estate market continues to thrive in 2025. The region’s continued popularity is driven by its mix of historic appeal, natural beauty, and convenient global connections. Lisbon offers a variety of properties to choose from. Whether you dream of a colourful city centre townhouse in Baixa or Chiado, or a coastal villa that makes surfing easy in Cascais and Estoril or you’d prefer to immerse yourself in expat communities in popular hubs like Areeiro and Parque das Nações, Lisbon region has a property for every type of buyer.
The Lisbon Region has seen prices rise to around the €480,000 mark, this price rise has been driven by strong domestic and international demand. Plus, the rise in urban regeneration projects and new development initiatives have created new housing opportunities across different market segments. Areas like Misericórdia, Estrela, and São Vicente have seen substantial investment volumes, while emerging neighbourhoods such as Beato and Ajuda have doubled their invested capital. You can learn more about Portugal's property market outlook in our article.
Despite high prices that don’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon, Lisbon continues to attract significant interest, keeping it firmly in the running for favourite places for foreign buyers to buy property.
What’s it like to live in Lisbon Region?
The National Pantheon, Lisbon
Lisbon is a region where modernity and Portuguese tradition blend perfectly, resulting in a vibrant mix of culture, charm and history. In addition to its pleasant climate with mild winters and sunny summers, Lisbon offers its residents easy access to buzzing city life with incredible food and wine while maintaining convenient transport links to some of the region’s most beautiful beaches and forest-cloaked mountains. In your new expat life, how would you like to spend your mornings munching on a pastel de nata in a city cafe, your afternoons surfing the waves off the coast, and your evenings sipping vinho verde in the mountains? A life like this is possible in the Lisbon region.
If you’re a fan of mesmerising architecture, the Lisbon region will take your breath away. Explore historic mansions within fairytale-like surroundings in Sintra, meander through the streets of Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama with its narrow streets and artistic ambience, or marvel at UNESCO World Heritage sites like Jerónimos Monastery and the historic Belém Tower on the Tagus River.
Geography & climate of Lisbon region
Pena Palace, Sintra
The Lisbon region offers a mild, sunny climate that’s perfect for outdoor living all year round. Lisbon city centre enjoys an average annual temperature of around 17.4 degrees Celsius, with warm, dry summers and mild winters. Coastal areas like Cascais and Estoril benefit from refreshing Atlantic breezes, while inland spots such as Sintra experience slightly cooler temperatures thanks to their higher elevation.
The region’s varied geography combines golden beaches, dramatic cliffs along the Costa da Caparica, and the lush, forested hills of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Whether you prefer seaside strolls or mountain hikes, the Lisbon area makes it easy to embrace an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Food and drink of Lisbon Region
Fancy a Pastel de Nata overlooking beautiful Lisbon?
Lisbon’s culinary scene is a vibrant celebration of Atlantic flavours, rich history, and indulgent pastries. While Portugal’s Algarve may be better known for its seafood resorts, Lisbon holds its own with a proud tradition of fresh catches and time-honoured recipes. Must-try dishes include bacalhau à Brás, a comforting mix of shredded salt cod, onions, and crispy matchstick potatoes bound together with creamy scrambled eggs, and ameijoas à Bulhão Pato—succulent clams cooked in a garlicky white wine and coriander broth, perfect for mopping up with crusty bread.
The region’s signature snack is undoubtedly the legendary pastel de nata. These silky custard tarts, with their blistered caramelised tops and buttery flaky pastry, were first created by monks at the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém. Today, locals and visitors alike queue outside Pastéis de Belém to sample the most famous version of this irresistible treat.
Lisbon's Time Out Market
Seafood lovers should head to the traditional marisqueiras (seafood restaurants) scattered throughout the city to feast on arroz de marisco, a richly flavoured seafood rice stew brimming with prawns, clams, and mussels. And for a taste of Lisbon’s more rustic side, try carne de porco à Alentejana—a surprisingly delicious combination of marinated pork and clams, served with golden fried potatoes.
Wash it all down with a chilled glass of vinho verde, or if you’re after something stronger, sample the city’s beloved ginginha, a sour cherry liqueur traditionally served in a shot glass—sometimes with a cherry lurking ominously at the bottom. And for a truly authentic night out, head to a tasca in the Alfama district, where you can enjoy these culinary delights to the soulful sounds of live fado music.
History and culture of Lisbon region
Lisbon’s history is a captivating journey through time, shaped by explorers, conquerors, and artists who left their mark on the city’s streets and skyline. Its story begins with ancient Phoenician traders who established a settlement at the mouth of the Tagus River, drawn by its strategic location. The Romans later transformed it into Olissipo, an important administrative centre of the empire, remnants of which can still be seen at the Roman Theatre Museum and the ruins beneath the Cathedral.
View of the Tagus River
In 714 CE, the Moors took control of Lisbon, ushering in over four centuries of Islamic rule. During this time, the city became a flourishing hub of science, architecture, and trade. The influence of this period lives on in the twisting alleys of the Alfama district and in architectural details like the azulejos—the intricate, colourful tiles that adorn facades across the region.
Christian forces led by King Afonso I recaptured Lisbon in 1147 during the Second Crusade, a turning point that established the city as the capital of the newly formed Kingdom of Portugal. From the 15th century onwards, Lisbon rose to global prominence during the Age of Discoveries. Legendary explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan set sail from its shores, and the wealth flowing in from new colonies transformed the city into one of the grandest capitals of Europe.
Barreiro, Setubal, Portugal Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic church
This golden age is immortalised in the imposing Belém Tower and the ornate Jerónimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage sites that stand as monuments to Portugal’s maritime might. However, Lisbon’s history also bears scars—none more devastating than the Great Earthquake of 1755, which destroyed much of the city. The elegant Baixa district you see today was rebuilt under the visionary leadership of the Marquês de Pombal, with wide boulevards and grand neoclassical architecture designed to withstand future disasters.
Alfama neighbourhood
Modern Lisbon embraces its layered past with pride. From the melancholic strains of fado echoing through Alfama’s ancient streets to vibrant festivals like Santo António in June, the city is a living celebration of its rich cultural heritage and enduring spirit.
The beauty of Lisbon region
The Lisbon region effortlessly combines historic grandeur with natural beauty, offering everything from golden beaches and dramatic cliffs to rolling vineyards and lush forested hills. Framed by the wide expanse of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean beyond, the city itself is a visual masterpiece—its terracotta rooftops tumbling down steep hillsides, punctuated by grand plazas and hilltop viewpoints known as miradouros. For panoramic views, head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or the iconic Castelo de São Jorge, where you can gaze across the patchwork of pastel buildings and shimmering river below.
Vasco di Gama bridge, Lisbon
Beyond the city, the enchanting town of Sintra awaits. Nestled in misty pine-covered hills, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its fairytale palaces and romantic gardens. Don’t miss the flamboyant Palácio da Pena, perched high above the town, or the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, with its secret tunnels and spiral initiation well.
For a breath of fresh sea air, venture west to Cascais, a charming coastal town known for its elegant promenade, sandy beaches, and excellent seafood. Nearby, the windswept cliffs of Cabo da Roca mark the westernmost point of mainland Europe—a dramatic spot where rugged landscapes meet the endless Atlantic horizon.
Cascais
If you’re seeking sun and sand, the Costa da Caparica stretches for miles just south of Lisbon, offering lively beach bars and quieter stretches perfect for a peaceful escape. And for wine lovers, a trip to the Setúbal Peninsula rewards you with stunning coastal views and the chance to sample the region’s famous Moscatel de Setúbal wine.
Setúbal vineyards
Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of the historic Alfama district, enjoying a river cruise at sunset, or exploring the unspoilt beauty of the Arrábida Natural Park, the Lisbon region offers a dazzling array of experiences that will stay with you long after you leave.
Essential information
Population and Lifestyle
The Lisbon region is home to approximately 2.9 million residents, including a growing international community that makes up around 12% of the population. Living here offers the best of both worlds—cosmopolitan city life paired with easy access to beaches, forests, and historic towns. Whether you settle in the heart of Lisbon or in charming coastal towns like Cascais and Estoril, the region is known for its relaxed pace, excellent cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene.
Getting Around
Lisbon boasts an efficient and affordable public transport network. The city’s main airport, Humberto Delgado Airport, is just 7 km from the city centre and offers direct flights to major European, American, and African cities year-round.
Lisbon is well connected by train, with high-speed Alfa Pendular and Intercidades services linking it to Porto, Coimbra, and the Algarve. The iconic 25 de Abril Bridge and Vasco da Gama Bridge connect the city to the southern bank of the Tagus River, making travel across the region easy by car.
Within the city, the Metro is the fastest way to get around, while the famous yellow trams and funiculars add a nostalgic charm to everyday travel. Buses and modern electric trams also serve the wider metropolitan area. For intercity travel, coach services like Rede Expressos and FlixBus offer regular routes across Portugal and into Spain.
Ride-hailing apps including Uber, Bolt, and Free Now operate widely in the Lisbon area, and taxis are readily available. Cycling infrastructure has improved significantly, and the city offers a public bike-sharing system called Gira. If you plan to explore the region’s smaller towns and beaches, owning a car is convenient, but not essential for daily life in Lisbon itself.
Schools and Education
The Lisbon region offers a wide range of educational options, from public schools to prestigious international institutions. Public education follows the Portuguese national curriculum, and many public schools participate in bilingual programs.
For younger children, there are numerous creches (nurseries) and jardins de infância (preschools), both public and private. Formal education begins at age 6 with Ensino Básico (primary education), followed by Ensino Secundário (secondary education) from ages 15 to 18.
The region is home to several international schools catering to expat families, including the Carlucci American International School, St. Julian’s School, and International School of Lisbon, offering British, American, and International Baccalaureate curricula. There are also Montessori and Waldorf schools for those seeking alternative educational approaches.
Higher education is a major draw in Lisbon, with institutions like the University of Lisbon and NOVA University ranking among the best in Portugal. These universities offer a wide range of courses and attract international students from around the world.
Ericeira
Healthcare
Portugal’s public healthcare system (SNS) provides high-quality, affordable care, and residents are entitled to public health services once registered. Major hospitals in the Lisbon region include Hospital de Santa Maria, Hospital São José, and Hospital da Luz (a top private hospital).
There are numerous public centros de saúde (health centres) providing GP services across the region, and pharmacies are easy to find in both urban and rural areas. Private healthcare is also widely available, with many expats choosing private insurance for faster access to specialist treatments and private hospital facilities.
Belém Tower
Work
Lisbon’s economy is diverse and dynamic, with key sectors including technology, tourism, finance, education, and healthcare. The city has become a hotspot for startups and digital nomads, especially in areas like Parque das Nações and LX Factory. Lisbon also hosts major international conferences, including the annual Web Summit, making it a thriving hub for innovation and business.
Tourism remains a major employer, particularly in hospitality, food services, and cultural industries. English-speaking jobs are widely available in these sectors, as well as in tech companies and call centres catering to international clients.
Remote work is well supported by excellent internet infrastructure—the average broadband speed in Lisbon is around 230 Mbps. Coworking spaces like Second Home, Cowork Central, and Avila Spaces are popular with freelancers and remote workers.
For job searches, websites like NetEmpregos, Indeed Portugal, and LinkedIn are useful. While many opportunities exist for English speakers, particularly in tourism and tech, learning Portuguese will significantly expand your options and help you integrate more fully into local life.
Looking to settle long-term? The Lisbon region’s combination of urban sophistication, coastal charm, and a welcoming international community makes it one of the most desirable places to live in Europe.
Ericeira coastline
Where to Move
Wondering where to live in the Lisbon region? Here are some of the best places to consider, whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, seaside charm, or peaceful countryside living.
For those who want to be at the heart of the action, Lisbon’s central neighbourhoods offer an unbeatable lifestyle. From the historic charm of Alfama and Mouraria to the grand avenues of Avenida da Liberdade and the trendy vibe of Príncipe Real, there’s something for everyone. Property options range from beautifully restored period apartments to sleek modern penthouses. You’ll have world-class restaurants, cultural venues, and excellent public transport on your doorstep.
This elegant coastal town offers a sophisticated lifestyle with a laid-back seaside atmosphere. Known for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and cosmopolitan community, Cascais is just a 30-minute train ride from Lisbon. Properties here range from luxurious ocean-view villas to modern apartments. It’s a popular choice for families and retirees seeking a high quality of life close to the capital.
If you’re drawn to fairy-tale landscapes and historic charm, Sintra is hard to beat. Nestled in forested hills just 40 minutes from Lisbon, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its palaces, gardens, and romantic atmosphere. Expect grand manor houses, traditional Portuguese homes, and some beautifully renovated rural retreats. Sintra is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, culturally rich lifestyle.
Located south of the Tagus River, Setúbal offers a more affordable coastal lifestyle without sacrificing natural beauty. Known for its working port, vibrant market, and proximity to the stunning Arrábida Natural Park, this lively town is perfect for lovers of the outdoors and authentic Portuguese living. Property options are varied, and the cost of living is lower than in Lisbon or Cascais.
Known as a surfing hotspot, Ericeira is a charming seaside town with a laid-back, youthful vibe. Just under an hour from Lisbon, it offers beautiful beaches, a lively café culture, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re after a holiday home or a permanent move, Ericeira is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone dreaming of life by the ocean.
