Skip to content 
Looking for the perfect place to live in Portugal? The Silver Coast has quickly become one of the top choices for expats in 2026, offering a mix of coastal beauty, historic cities, and affordable living that’s hard to match. Stretching from Porto to Lisbon, this region combines long sandy beaches, charming towns, mild weather, and a relaxed lifestyle ideal for families, retirees, and remote workers alike.
What sets the Silver Coast apart is its balance: you get stunning ocean views and peaceful communities without the high prices of Portugal’s major cities. Excellent infrastructure, easy access to both international airports, and a growing expat presence make settling in smoother than ever.
Where is the Silver Coast?
The Silver Coast is a long stretch of Portugal’s western shoreline, positioned between Porto in the north and Lisbon in the south. This region extends across some of the country’s most scenic and culturally rich areas, blending golden beaches, historic towns, and vibrant mid-sized cities along the Atlantic.
Geographically, the Silver Coast includes a diverse collection of places—from lagoon cities like Aveiro and university hubs such as Coimbra to coastal towns like Figueira da Foz, Nazaré, and Peniche. Inland, you’ll find charming spots such as Óbidos, while areas like Caldas da Rainha and São Martinho do Porto offer a mix of everyday convenience and seaside living. Farther south, Ericeira brings world-class surf and a lively international community.
Running parallel to major highways like the A8 and A17, the Silver Coast is easy to reach from both Lisbon and Porto airports. Its central location, beautiful landscapes, and well-connected towns make it one of Portugal’s most appealing regions for expats seeking a relaxed yet accessible lifestyle.
The Best Places on the Silver Coast Portugal to Live in 2026
The Silver Coast of Portugal offers an impressive variety of places to live, ranging from lively cities to peaceful seaside towns and beautifully preserved historic villages. Expats usually explore a few main types of areas when deciding where to settle:
- The Major Cities
- The Relaxed Coastal Towns
- The Surf Lifestyle Spots
- The Historical Villages
1. Top Major Cities on the Silver Coast Portugal
Aveiro
Aveiro is a charming coastal city in central Portugal, about 70 km south of Porto. Often called the Venice of Portugal, it’s known for its canals, colorful boats, and Art Nouveau buildings. The district has around 371,000 residents, with about 3.8% foreigners, giving it a calm and increasingly international feel.
Life in Aveiro is relaxed and affordable. The city center is flat and easy to navigate, with cafés and restaurants around Praça do Peixe and along the canals. Many residents spend time cycling through town or heading to the coast, with places like Costa Nova and Barra Beach close by for seafood, beach walks, and water sports.
Aveiro is also a university city, home to the University of Aveiro, which brings a younger, international crowd and regular cultural events. With good healthcare, shopping, and fast train connections to Porto and Lisbon, Aveiro suits expats looking for a quieter city with strong infrastructure and a high quality of life.
Pros of Living in Aveiro
- Affordable lifestyle compared to Portugal’s major cities
- Beautiful beaches nearby for year-round outdoor living
- Safe, family-friendly, and easy to navigate
Cons of Living in Aveiro
- Limited job opportunities outside tourism, education, and tech
- Quiet nightlife compared to larger cities
- Windy, rainy winters along the coast
Average Property Price in Aveiro
- €1,975 per m2
Leiria
Leiria is a welcoming city in central Portugal, about 120 km north of Lisbon. As a district capital, it has around 130,000 residents, including roughly 6% foreigners, and is known for its affordability, safety, and easygoing pace of life—qualities that appeal strongly to expats.
The city feels calm and community-oriented. Green spaces like Jardim Luís de Camões and the riverside areas are part of everyday routines, while the historic center offers cafés, small squares, and a relaxed social scene. Nature is close by, with quick access to forests, trails, and the coast near São Pedro de Moel.
Leiria also has a strong cultural identity. Leiria Castle overlooks the city and is a local landmark, alongside sites like the Convento de São Francisco and cultural venues such as the Teatro José Lúcio da Silva. With good healthcare, shopping, universities, and transport links to Lisbon, Coimbra, and Porto, Leiria offers comfortable living without big-city pressure.
Pros of Living in Leiria
- Affordable cost of living with excellent quality of life
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere
- Easy access to nature, beaches, and cultural sites
Cons of Living in Leiria
- Quieter nightlife than major cities
- Job market can be competitive outside certain sectors
- Public transport is good but not extensive in some suburban areas
Average Property Price in Leiria
- €1,877 per m2
Coimbra
Coimbra is one of Portugal’s most historic and welcoming cities, shaped by its academic tradition, affordable living, and active cultural life. The district has 439,677 residents, with about 4.15% foreigners, giving the city an international feel while remaining deeply Portuguese.
At the heart of Coimbra is the University of Coimbra, which brings a constant flow of students, researchers, and professionals from around the world. Many expats choose the city for its lower cost of living, with housing, food, and transport noticeably cheaper than in Lisbon or Porto.
Healthcare is a strong advantage. Coimbra is home to the Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, one of the country’s leading medical centers, alongside numerous clinics and pharmacies. The city is easy to navigate on foot, by bike, or by public transport, with pleasant routes along the Mondego River.
Culturally, Coimbra is lively and distinctive. Traditional Fado, academic ceremonies, festivals, and concerts are part of everyday life, and travel to Porto, Lisbon, or the coast near Figueira da Foz is simple, making Coimbra a well-rounded choice for expats seeking culture, affordability, and strong infrastructure.
Pros of Living in Coimbra
- Affordable lifestyle with good services
- Excellent healthcare facilities
- Energetic cultural scene
Cons of Living in Coimbra
- Steep hills in the historic center
- Job market limited outside academia and healthcare
- Quieter nightlife than larger cities
Average Property Price in Coimbra
- €1,548 per m2
2. The Relaxed Coastal Towns on the Silver Coast Portugal
Figueira da Foz
Figueira da Foz is a coastal city in central Portugal known for its long beaches, active social scene, and regular cultural events. It has around 39,370 residents, with about 5% foreigners, offering an international feel without being overly touristy most of the year.
Life here centers on the waterfront, with seafood restaurants near Praia da Claridade, a lively marina area, and events at the Centro de Artes e Espectáculos. The city has good infrastructure, healthcare, shopping, and seasonal job opportunities linked to tourism.
The main trade-off is summer crowds and higher housing prices near the beach. Outside peak season, Figueira da Foz offers a balanced mix of coastal living, culture, and everyday convenience.
Pros of Living in Figueira da Foz
- Vibrant coastal lifestyle with beaches, nightlife, and events
- Multicultural community that’s easy to integrate into
- Good amenities and strong seasonal job opportunities
Cons of Living in Figueira da Foz
- Very crowded in summer
- Higher housing costs in central and beach areas
- Language barriers for non-Portuguese speakers
Average Property Price in Figueira da Foz
- €1,732 per m2
Nazaré
Nazaré is one of Portugal’s most iconic coastal towns, known for its fishing heritage, long sandy beach, and world-famous giant waves. It has around 14,984 residents, with about 7.6% foreigners, combining a small-town atmosphere with an international presence.
The town revolves around the ocean, from walks along Praia da Nazaré to waterfront cafés and seafood restaurants. Living costs are lower than in many European seaside destinations, and road connections make travel to Lisbon or Porto straightforward.
Nazaré is globally recognized for the massive waves at Praia do Norte, formed by the Nazaré Canyon. Tourism brings seasonal work and energy, though summer months and major surf events can be very busy, and everyday interactions are easier with some Portuguese.
Pros of Living in Nazaré
- Laid-back seaside lifestyle with beautiful beaches
- Affordable cost of living
- World-famous surf scene and tourism job opportunities
Cons of Living in Nazaré
- Crowded during summer and surf events
- Portuguese is often necessary in daily life
- Limited nightlife and amenities compared to larger towns
Average Property Price in Nazaré
- €2,957 per m2
São Martinho do Porto
São Martinho do Porto is a small coastal town known for its shell-shaped bay and calm, family-friendly beach. It appeals to expats who want seaside living in a quiet, safe setting without the crowds of larger resort towns.
The town has a strong community feel, with a promenade, boardwalk, and cafés overlooking the bay. It’s especially popular with families and retirees thanks to the sheltered water and relaxed atmosphere. Road and rail links make it easy to reach Lisbon, Porto, and nearby towns like Nazaré and Caldas da Rainha.
Tourism brings seasonal activity and work opportunities in summer, while the rest of the year is much quieter. Outside peak season, knowing some Portuguese is helpful, as English is less commonly spoken in everyday situations.
Pros of Living in São Martinho do Porto
- Relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle
- Beautiful sheltered bay with calm waters
- Seasonal tourism job opportunities
Cons of Living in São Martinho do Porto
- Very quiet in winter
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
- Limited nightlife and year-round services
Average Property Price in São Martinho do Porto
- €2,719 per m2
Caldas da Rainha
Pros of Living in Caldas da Rainha
- Great balance of city convenience and coastal living
- Strong healthcare, markets, and daily amenities
- Well-connected to Lisbon and nearby beach towns
Cons of Living in Caldas da Rainha
- Portuguese often needed for daily life
- Nightlife is modest compared to larger cities
- Not a beachfront town, though beaches are very close
Average Property Price in Caldas da Rainha
- €2,206 per m2
3. The Surf Lifestyle Spots on the Siler Coast Portugal
Peniche
Peniche is one of Portugal’s best-known surf towns, set on a peninsula about 100 km north of Lisbon. Surrounded by the Atlantic, it attracts expats and visitors drawn to its beaches, strong surf culture, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The coastline is a major draw. Spots like Supertubos are world-famous for powerful waves, while other nearby beaches are calmer and better for swimming. Boat trips to the Berlengas Islands are another highlight, offering hiking, diving, and unspoiled nature close to town.
Peniche stays active year-round with cafés, surf shops, seafood restaurants, and local festivals such as the Festas da Cidade de Peniche. Infrastructure is solid, with transport links to Lisbon, healthcare, schools, and sports facilities in place.
Summer brings crowds and higher prices, especially during surf events. Outside peak season, the pace is much quieter, which suits those who value the ocean, outdoor activities, and a straightforward coastal lifestyle.
Pros of Living in Peniche
- Amazing beaches and world-class surf
- Lively town with great food, cafés, and festivals
- Good amenities and easy access to Lisbon
Cons of Living in Peniche
- Crowded and pricey during summer
- Quiet in the off-season
- Tourism-heavy economy
Average Property Price in Peniche
- €2,244 per m2
Ericeira
Ericeira is a coastal town about 50 km northwest of Lisbon, known for its dramatic cliffs, strong surf culture, and relaxed atmosphere. It has become a popular choice for expats who want seaside living while staying close to the capital.
The town has a close-knit feel, with cobbled streets, ocean-view cafés, and an active outdoor culture. Surf spots like Ribeira d’Ilhas—part of Europe’s only World Surfing Reserve—are a major draw, but the area also appeals to non-surfers thanks to coastal walks, swimming spots, and nature trails.
Ericeira has a growing wellness and international community, with yoga studios, healthy cafés, co-working spaces, and small local businesses. Good transport links, supermarkets, and everyday services make it easy to live here year-round, especially for expats seeking a calm, outdoor-focused lifestyle without feeling disconnected from Lisbon.
Pros of Living in Ericeira
- Exceptional beaches and world-class surf
- Relaxed lifestyle with a strong wellness culture
- Close to Lisbon while offering small-town charm
Cons of Living in Ericeira
- Can get busy in summer due to tourism
- Housing prices rising because of high demand
- Fewer big-city amenities compared to larger towns
Average Property Price in Ericeira
- €3,333 per m2
4. The Historical Villages on the Silver Coast Portugal
Óbidos
Óbidos is one of Portugal’s most picturesque medieval towns, known for its walled castle, cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses filled with flowers. With around 7.9% foreign residents, it attracts expats seeking peace, safety, and a strong sense of history.
The town’s appeal lies in its atmosphere—small streets inside the walls, local craft shops, and cafés set in historic buildings. Beaches such as Foz do Arelho and Bom Sucesso are a short drive away, while vineyards and countryside surround the town, ideal for outdoor activities and wine tasting.
Tourism keeps Óbidos active, with restaurants, small shops, and major events like the Medieval Fair and Chocolate Festival adding seasonal energy. The trade-off is scale: services and job options are limited compared to nearby Caldas da Rainha or Leiria. For expats who value slow living and historic charm, that quieter rhythm is often the main attraction.
Pros of Living in Óbidos
- Beautiful medieval atmosphere with castle walls and historic streets
- Close to beaches and surrounded by nature
- Charming, relaxed lifestyle
Cons of Living in Óbidos
- Limited job opportunities
- Fewer big-city amenities
- Tourism can make the center busy at times
Average Property Price in Óbidos
- €2,733 per m2
Real Estate Market on the Silver Coast Portugal: An Overview
The Silver Coast of Portugal has become increasingly popular among foreigners who want to relocate to Portugal but also prefer a more affordable cost of living compared with the major cities. When measured against Lisbon or Porto, property prices can be up to 25% lower, making the region especially attractive for those looking to invest while still enjoying excellent value and a high quality of life.
Over the past two decades, the Silver Coast has gone through a significant transformation. In 2004, both Aveiro and Coimbra were host cities for the UEFA Euro Cup, which led to the construction of new stadiums and major infrastructure upgrades. These facilities continue to support cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions, adding to the region’s vibrancy.
A major milestone came in 2008–2009 with the completion of the A8 and later the A17 motorways, creating a coastal route that connects Lisbon to Porto much more efficiently. These highways dramatically improved accessibility across the Silver Coast, making travel faster, easier, and far more convenient for residents, visitors, and commuters.
At the same time, the steady inflow of Americans moving to Portugal, Canadians, British, and other nationalities boosted international interest in the region. As a result, the Silver Coast is now one of the top choices for expats seeking a balanced lifestyle, coastal beauty, and strong long-term investment potential in Portugal.
How We Can Help
Local Expertise
We know Portugal. Due to our extensive local knowledge, we believe that concentrating our services in a single country destination is the best way to give you the most thorough and useful information.
Honest Guidance
We recommend what’s best for you based on an extensive process experience that saves time and money to clients. Our pricing is clear and competitive, and we don’t sell services that make us more money.
All-in-One Solution
One single channel of communication for the entire process. We provide you with a comprehensive service that covers all aspects of your move, from identifying the ideal residency visa to finding your new home or helping you to settle.
Seamless Process
Technology plays a very important role in our company. We minimize our clients’ involvement in paperwork. We are customers ourselves and we know how to serve you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Silver Coast in Portugal?
The Silver Coast, or Costa de Prata, is a scenic coastal region in central Portugal known for its stunning beaches, charming towns, and authentic Portuguese culture. It stretches from just north of Lisbon to the region of Aveiro.
Is the cost of living affordable on the Silver Coast?
Yes, the cost of living on the Silver Coast is relatively affordable compared to Lisbon and the Algarve. Housing, dining, and utilities are reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for expats.
Is the Silver Coast a good option for retirees?
Absolutely! The region offers a relaxed lifestyle, a mild climate, affordable living, and access to quality healthcare. It also has a growing expat community, making it ideal for retirees.
What are the best beaches on the Silver Coast?
The region boasts beautiful beaches like Praia da Nazaré, Praia do Baleal, Foz do Arelho, and São Martinho do Porto. These beaches are perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and scenic walks.
Is the Silver Coast family-friendly for expats?
Yes, the Silver Coast is a family-friendly region with safe communities, excellent international and local schools, and plenty of outdoor activities for children and families.
What is the weather like on the Silver Coast?
The Silver Coast enjoys a mild climate with warm summers and cooler, but not harsh, winters. Coastal breezes keep the temperatures comfortable year-round.
Can I find a community of expats on the Silver Coast?
Definitely! Many expats, particularly from the UK, USA, and other European countries, have settled in towns like Nazaré, Caldas da Rainha, and São Martinho do Porto, creating a welcoming and supportive community.
Excellent
4.9 | 48 Reviews
