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Looking for the perfect place to live in Portugal? The Silver Coast has quickly become one of the most attractive regions for expats in 2026. Known for its long sandy beaches, historic towns, and lower property prices compared with Lisbon or Porto, the region offers an appealing balance between lifestyle and affordability.
Stretching along Portugal’s western shoreline between Porto and Lisbon, the Silver Coast combines relaxed seaside living with strong infrastructure and authentic Portuguese culture. Families, retirees, and remote workers are increasingly choosing the region for its mild climate, welcoming communities, and easy access to major cities.
In this guide, we explore the best places to live on Portugal’s Silver Coast, comparing lifestyle, property prices, and the types of towns expats typically choose when relocating to the region.
If you’re still deciding where to move in Portugal, you may also want to read our guide to the Best Places to Live in Portugal, which compares Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, Madeira, and the Silver Coast.
Where is the Silver Coast Portugal
Portugal’s Silver Coast stretches along the Atlantic between Lisbon and Porto, covering some of the country’s most scenic coastal areas and historic towns.
The region includes vibrant mid-sized cities such as Aveiro, Leiria, and Coimbra, alongside well-known coastal towns like Nazaré, Peniche, and Figueira da Foz. Smaller places such as São Martinho do Porto and Óbidos offer a quieter lifestyle, while Ericeira has developed an international reputation as a surf destination.
Major motorways like the A8 and A17 connect the region efficiently with Lisbon and Porto, making travel straightforward. With beaches, historic landmarks, and affordable housing, the Silver Coast has become one of Portugal’s most appealing relocation destinations.
Who Lives on the Silver Coast of Portugal?
Living along Portugal Silver Coast are people from all around the globe. It is well-known for its diversity with seasonal visitors in addition to permanent residents. Official Pordata numbers show that around 865,000 people call the Silver Coast home.
In recent years, foreign buyers—especially retirees from Northern Europe, the UK, and North America—have been increasingly interested in the region. The laid-back way of life, gorgeous beaches, and rich cultural legacy of the area appeal to them.
More than 36,500 foreigners (4% of the local population) live on the Silver Coast Portugal. You will find many people in this growing expat community – part-timers and full-timers. Moreover, there are business owners, artists, writers, and retirees living in this neighborhood.
A lot of expats are drawn to the area because it has lively and friendly towns and a beautiful, affordable environment where they can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Best Places to Live in the Silver Coast Portugal
The Silver Coast includes a variety of towns that appeal to different lifestyles. Some are larger regional cities, others are relaxed coastal communities, while some attract surfers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The table below highlights the main types of locations expats consider when choosing where to live in the region.
| Area Type | Silver Coast Locations |
|---|---|
| Major Cities | Coimbra, Leiria, Aveiro |
| Relaxed Coastal Towns | São Martinho do Porto, Figueira da Foz, Caldas da Rainha, Nazaré |
| Surf Lifestyle Spots | Peniche, Ericeira |
| Historical Villages | Óbidos |
Major Cities on the Silver Coast
Aveiro
Aveiro is a lovely city in the middle of Portugal, about 70 km south of Porto. It is known as “the Venice of Portugal” because of its canals, brightly colored boats, and Art Nouveau buildings.
According to official records, about 3.8% of the 371,318 people living there are not from there.
For people from outside of Silver Coast Portugal who want to live in Aveiro, it is a quiet, friendly city with a low cost of living compared to other European towns. The city’s tourist sector is doing so well; hence, there is plenty of employment in the hotel sector for foreigners.
Aveiro also boasts several colleges, drawing professionals and students from throughout the globe. This makes the city vibrant and culturally different, as well as provides outsiders lots of opportunities to meet new people and befriend others.
From supermarkets and retail centers to public transport and medical treatments, Aveiro boasts all the comforts you might wish for. The city is also accessible from other parts of Portugal. There are daily bus and train services to Porto and Lisbon.
Average Property Price in Aveiro: €1,975 per m²
Leiria
Leiria is a city in the middle of Portugal, about 120 km north of Lisbon. Around 130,000 people live there, with 7,500 being foreigners (almost 6% of the local population). It is the capital of the Leiria area. Expats like to move to Leiria because it is centrally located, has a low cost of living, and has a laid-back vibe.
In Leiria, people take their time and enjoy life. There is a strong sense of community, and most people are friendly and open. If you want to live a healthy, balanced life, Leiria is a great place to live. There are many parks and grounds in the city where people can unwind and enjoy the view. You can also do a lot of active things, like climbing, biking, and swimming.
Leiria of Silver Coast Portugal is a terrific place to live if you enjoy history and culture. Among the city’s significant sites are the Leiria Castle, Convento de São Francisco, and Jardim da Estrela. Leiria boasts numerous museums, theatres, and art galleries, which contribute to its vibrant arts and cultural landscape.
Average Property Price in Leiria: €1,877 per m²
Coimbra
With a good quality of living, a welcoming community, and a lot of cultural legacy, Coimbra is a fantastic spot for outsiders to reside. Only 4.15% of the 439,677 people who live in the country are not citizens.
Many expats live and work in the city, including many foreign students and professionals. The low cost of living in Coimbra is one of the best things about living there. For those on a tight budget, this is a wise decision, as compared to other large European cities; housing, food, and transportation are not too costly.
Coimbra also boasts a first-rate healthcare system comprising both public and private providers. The city boasts several hospitals, clinics, and stores, so medical assistance is easily available when needed.
From Coimbra, buses and trains link other Portuguese cities as well as other nations. The public transit system is not overly costly and rather effective. With so many bike lanes and bike rental stations in the city, riding is also really easy.
Finally, the vibrant city and rich cultural legacy make it an excellent place to meet fresh people and understand Portuguese culture. Coimbra has a lively arts and music scene, with many shows, festivals, and other events all year long.
Average Property Price in Coimbra: €1,548 per m²
Relaxed Coastal Towns
Figueira da Foz
Figueira da Foz is a city on the Silver Coast of Portugal known for its lovely beaches, lively nightlife, and cultural events. According to official statistics, the city has about 39,370 residents, but only about 5.0% of them are from outside the country.
There are pros and cons for people from other countries who want to live in Figueira da Foz. The benefits of Figueira da Foz are that it has a lively and busy lifestyle and lots of places to have fun, like bars, restaurants, and music spots.
People from all over the world live in the city, which makes it easy for newcomers to fit in and make friends. Additionally, Figueira de Foz’s commercial centers, hospitals, and sports facilities are pretty handy.
Particularly during the busy season, the city boasts a robust tourism sector, which implies many employment in the service and hospitality sectors.
Conversely, Figueira da Foz may get really packed and hectic in the summer, so those who prefer a more quiet life may not enjoy it there. Particularly with regard to living, the city can also be somewhat expensive compared to other parts of Silver Coast Portugal.
Language barriers can also concern people who don’t speak Portuguese, though many people in the area speak English.
Average Property Price in Figueira da Foz: €1,732 per m²
Nazaré
Nazaré is a town on the Silver Coast of Portugal that is famous for its lovely beaches, traditional culture, and delicious fish. About 14,984 people live in the city, and only about 7.6% are from outside the country.
There are pros and cons for people from other countries who want to live in Nazaré. On the plus side, Nazaré has a low cost of living compared to many European places and a calm and easygoing way of life. Many of the routes connect the town to neighboring cities like Lisbon and Porto, therefore facilitating access to other areas of Portugal.
Nazaré is also a well-liked destination for visitors, so the travel industry presents several employment prospects. Moreover, the large waves at Nazaré are well-known. They can reach up to one hundred feet in height.
Every year, the town organizes the Nazaré Challenge, a surfing competition drawing some of the top surfers worldwide.
But if you don’t know Portuguese, it can be hard to get around because many people there don’t speak English. Also, the town can get bustling in the summer, which might not be ideal for people who like their life to be calm.
Average Property Price in Nazaré: €2,957 per m²
São Martinho do Porto
The Portuguese seaside town of São Martinho do Porto is known for its beautiful bay and sandy beach. If you are not from São Martinho do Porto and want to live there, there are some pros and cons you should think about.
Positively, São Martinho do Porto presents a quiet and laid-back lifestyle apart from the bustle of larger cities. The town boasts a strong feeling of community, which makes it an ideal spot for those wishing to live in a close-knit area.
Since São Martinho do Porto is near Lisbon and Porto, it is straightforward to reach other areas of Portugal. Furthermore, it is well-liked by tourists around the world. This implies that the travel industry presents many employment possibilities, particularly in line with the busy season.
On the other hand, this Silver Coast Portugal town might not be as busy during the off-season, which some people might not like. People who don’t speak Portuguese may also find it hard to get around.
Average Property Price in São Martinho do Porto: €2,719 per m²
Caldas da Rainha
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Surf Lifestyle Spots
Peniche
There is a town called Peniche on the western coast of Portugal. It is about 100 kilometers north of Lisbon. Travelers and surfers adore visiting because of the stunning beaches and ideal surf conditions. Peniche is an excellent spot for foreigners to settle because of its unusual mix of beach appeal and contemporary comforts.
One of the nicest things about living near Peniche is the natural beauty surrounding it.
The town is on a small peninsula that is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. This gives the people who live there beautiful views and easy access to the beach. People like to hike, watch birds, and dive at the nearby Berlengas Islands.
Peniche is also rather vibrant and full of stores open to residents and guests, as well as pubs and restaurants. Festas da Cidade de Peniche, which features traditional cuisine, live music, and street performances, are among the several cultural events and celebrations held throughout the year.
As for infrastructure, Peniche has a good way to get around. There are regular bus and train links to Lisbon and other nearby towns. There is a hospital, schools, and other essential services in the city, which makes it a good place for families with kids.
Living in Peniche may have one drawback: it gets somewhat touristy in the summer, which might jam the beaches and raise hotel rates due to service expenses.
Average Property Price in Peniche: €2,244 per m²
Ericeira
Ericeira is a beautiful town on the Silver Coast Portugal. About fifty kilometers northwest of Lisbon. It is well-known for its laid-back attitude, world-class surf areas, and lovely beaches. Over the past few years, more and more foreigners have been arriving in Ericeira. Their preferred lifestyle is laid-back, has an inexpensive cost of living, and is near Lisbon.
Ericeira is a small town where everyone knows each other well. Life moves at a slow and easy pace, and most people are friendly and open. Many people in the city like to surf, but there is fun for everyone, from swimming and sunbathing to climbing and exploring.
Ericeira’s outdoor lifestyle attracts many people from beyond the town. You can also be occupied in many other ways: surfing, swimming, cycling, and hiking, among others. The town boasts several parks and gardens where people can relax and take in the surroundings.
If you want to live a healthy, balanced life, Ericeira is a great place to live. There are a lot of healthy food shops and restaurants in town, and the number of people who are interested in wellness and living a more balanced life is growing.
Average Property Price in Ericeira: €3,333 per m²
Historical Villages
Óbidos
Óbidos is a beautiful town in western Portugal that is known for its small streets, medieval castle, and traditional white houses that are decorated with bright flowers. 7% of the residents are not from the area. It offers a unique fusion of natural beauty, culture, and history.
One of the best things about Óbidos is how close the Atlantic Ocean is—a short drive away. There are also wineries, olive groves, and rolling hills all around the town, which makes it an excellent spot for people who like being outside.
Because Óbidos is a popular tourist spot in Silver Coast Portugal, it has a good infrastructure with lots of shops, restaurants, and bars that serve both locals and tourists.
Though it has maintained its classic appeal and calm pace of life, it is a common choice for foreigners wishing to escape the noise and bustle of major cities.
Living in Óbidos has one drawback: the town is not very large. This means that there might be fewer job chances and fewer ways to get to some amenities than in bigger cities. But for people who like things to move more slowly, the pros of living in this cute town may trump the cons.
By and large, Óbidos can be an excellent place for tourists to live, especially those who like history, culture, and beautiful nature.
Average Property Price in Óbidos: €2,733 per m²
Quick Comparison of Silver Coast Towns
| Location | Lifestyle | Best For Expats Who… |
|---|---|---|
| Coimbra | Historic university city | want culture, history, and strong local infrastructure |
| Leiria | Regional inland city | prefer a practical lifestyle with services and good transport |
| Aveiro | Lagoon city with canals | enjoy a lively coastal city with strong economy |
| Nazaré | Famous surf and fishing town | want dramatic ocean views and surf culture |
| Peniche | Surf and fishing port | enjoy surfing, outdoor lifestyle, and ocean access |
| Ericeira | International surf town | want a vibrant surf community near Lisbon |
| São Martinho do Porto | Calm bay beach town | prefer relaxed seaside living and family-friendly beaches |
| Figueira da Foz | Large seaside resort town | want beach living with city amenities |
| Caldas da Rainha | Coastal service town | want local markets, healthcare, and access to beaches |
| Óbidos | Medieval walled village | enjoy historic charm and traditional Portuguese atmosphere |
Each of these locations offers a different experience on Portugal’s Silver Coast, from historic inland cities to relaxed coastal towns and world-class surf destinations.
How is the Weather in Silver Coast Portugal?
The Silver Coast Portugal weather is usually mild and pleasant, which makes it a popular holiday spot for people who want to relax and have a good time. The climate is Mediterranean, so summers are hot and winters are cool.
Summer
In the summer, from June to September, the Portugal Silver Coast usually has temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. July and August are the hottest months. This is also the warmest time of year for the sea, which makes it great for fishing and other water activities.
Autumn
From October to November, the fall’s pleasant weather spans temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. But the sea’s water temperature begins to decline, which lessens swimming enjoyment. To savor the natural beauty of the area, visit Silver Coast Portugal’s historical landmarks, and eat its cuisine, which is the greatest time of year.
Winter
The Silver Coast of Portugal has winter from December to February when temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C. Even though it’s not as hot as summer, it’s still nice enough to do things outside, like climbing and biking. The water is the coolest it has ever been, which makes swimming less appealing.
But winter is a great time to learn about the area’s cultural history, go to events, and try winter sports like skiing and snowboarding in the nearby Serra da Estrela mountains.
Spring
From March to May, spring comes to the Silver Coast Portugal. Temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C. With warm weather and fewer people around than in the summer, now is a great time to do things outside, like hiking, riding, and surfing.
The water temperature starts to rise, making it easier to swim, and flowers start to bloom all over the countryside, making it an excellent time for people who love nature.
Real Estate Market on the Silver Coast
The Silver Coast has become one of Portugal’s most attractive regions for foreign buyers seeking coastal living at more accessible prices than Lisbon or Porto.
Property values across many towns in the region remain 20–25% lower than in Portugal’s largest cities. This affordability has made the area particularly appealing to expats relocating to Portugal for retirement, remote work, or lifestyle investment.
Infrastructure improvements have also contributed to the region’s growth. The completion of the A8 and A17 motorways significantly improved access between Lisbon, Porto, and the coastal towns of the Silver Coast.
If you are planning to relocate, our guide to Cost of Living in Portugal explains typical expenses such as housing, groceries, transportation, and daily living.
Foreign buyers can purchase property in Portugal without restrictions. If you’re considering a home purchase, our guide to Buying Property in Portugal explains the legal process, taxes, and due diligence involved.
How Can I Move to The Silver Coast
EU/EEA citizens
People who are from the EU can live and work in Portugal without a visa or residence card. They do, however, have to obtain the CRUE within 90 days of arriving in the country.
These things can be done at the nearby City Hall. EU people will need to show their passport or national ID card, proof that they have health insurance and proof that they have a job or income in order to register.
Non-EU/EEA citizens
Those not from the EU or EEA must live in Portugal with a visa or residence pass. Their intended stay and the reason behind it will determine the type of visa or permission they need.
Short-term visas are good for both business and leisure and last up to 90 days. Those from outside the EU or EEA must seek a temporary visa at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in their own country.
Non-EU/EEA people who want to work, study, or live in Silver Coast Portugal for a long time need long-term visas (more than 90 days). In order to get a long-term visa, they will need to apply at the Portuguese office or consulate in their home country and show proof of things like their income, where they will live, and health insurance.
Two of the most common pathways include the D7 Passive Income Visa, which is popular among retirees and individuals with stable passive income, and the Digital Nomad Visa (D8) designed for remote workers earning income from outside Portugal.
You can explore the full visa options and requirements in our Portugal Immigration Guide, which outlines the main residency pathways available to foreigners moving to Portugal.
Pros of Living on the Portugal Silver Coast
Mild Weather
The weather on the Silver Coast Portugal is mild all year, with mild winters and pleasant summers. So, it’s a great place to go for outdoor sports like hiking, surfing, and biking.
Lower Cost of Living
Second, the Silver Coast usually has lower costs of living than other popular places for expats to live in Europe. It is cheaper for expats to live a good life without going broke because housing, food, and other costs are lower. People who are retired and want to find a place to enjoy their golden years without having to pay a lot of money are especially interested in this.
Alternative of Algarve
A lovely but less crowded alternative to the Algarve is the Silver Coast of Portugal, midway through Portugal. Its lovely beaches, historic cities, and low cost of living have made it a sought-after location for expats as well as visitors.
The area boasts a variety of properties, from contemporary villas and flats to classic Portuguese houses. For those wishing to rent or purchase a house in Portugal, this makes it a wise option.
Beautiful Coastal Towns
People love the Silver Coast’s cute towns and villages with sandy beaches, historical sites, and easygoing ways of life. A slower pace of life can appeal to many people in this area compared to bigger towns.
Growing Expat Group
The Silver Coast is becoming more and more popular with tourists, especially those from English-speaking countries. Because of this, a group of helpful people with similar views has grown, which can be helpful for people moving to a new country.
Cons of Living in the Silver Coast Portugal
Limited Job Opportunities
The main industries that make up the Silver Coast’s income are tourism, farming, and fishing. Because of this, there aren’t many job chances for professionals looking for work in other fields.
Limited Healthcare Facilities
There are medical facilities on Silver Coast Portugal, but they might not have all the services or access to expert care that you need. People who live abroad and have long-term health problems may need to get treatment in bigger towns.
Seasonal Travel
The Silver Coast Portugal’s primary business is tourism, but it only happens during certain times of the year. This means that the area may be bustling and crowded in the summer but not as busy or crowded during the off-season.
Transportation
Particularly in more rural places, Silver Coast Portugal might not provide many options for public transit. An expatriate without a car may find it difficult to travel about and observe the surroundings.
Explore Other Places to Live in Portugal
While the Silver Coast has become increasingly popular among expats, other regions in Portugal offer different lifestyles and property markets.
You may also want to explore:
- Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon for Expats
- Best Cities in the Algarve for Expats
- Best Neighborhoods in Porto for Expats
- Best Places to Live in Madeira
If you’re still deciding where to relocate, our main guide to the Best Places to Live in Portugal compares the country’s most popular destinations.
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Your Questions Answered
Is the Silver Coast a good place for expats?
Yes, the Silver Coast is one of the most popular regions for expats relocating to Portugal. It offers affordable housing, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle while still being close to Lisbon and Porto.
What is the best town on the Silver Coast for expats?
Popular choices include Nazaré, Caldas da Rainha, and São Martinho do Porto. Each offers different lifestyles, from surf culture to relaxed seaside living.
Is the Silver Coast cheaper than Lisbon?
Yes. Property prices on the Silver Coast are often 20–30% lower than in Lisbon, making it attractive for expats seeking better value.
Can foreigners buy property on the Silver Coast?
Yes. Portugal allows foreigners to buy property without restrictions. Many expats choose the Silver Coast for investment and lifestyle purposes.
Which Silver Coast town is best for surfing?
Ericeira and Peniche are the most famous surf destinations, attracting surfers from around the world.
The Silver Coast offers one of the most balanced lifestyles in Portugal. From historic university cities like Coimbra to relaxed seaside towns such as São Martinho do Porto and world-famous surf destinations like Nazaré, the region offers something for every type of expat. With affordable property prices, beautiful Atlantic beaches, and growing international communities, the Silver Coast continues to attract families, retirees, and remote workers looking for a high quality of life in Portugal.
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