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Looking for the perfect place to live in Portugal? The Silver Coast has quickly become one of the top choices for expats in 2025, 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.
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.
The Best Places on the Silver Coast Portugal to Live in 2025
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. The Major Cities on the Silver Coast Portugal
Aveiro
Aveiro is a charming coastal city in central Portugal, located about 70 km south of Porto. Known for its canals, colorful moliceiro boats, and elegant Art Nouveau buildings, it carries the well-earned nickname “the Venice of Portugal.” The district has around 371,000 residents, with roughly 3.8% being foreigners, making it a peaceful and increasingly international place to live.
For expats, Aveiro offers a calm, welcoming lifestyle with a lower cost of living than many other European cities. Daily life often revolves around simple pleasures—grabbing a morning coffee near the canals in Praça do Peixe, cycling through the flat city center, or heading out to Costa Nova and Barra Beach for fresh seafood or wind sports. The traditional restaurants around the Fish Market are especially popular for anyone wanting authentic local flavors.
Aveiro is also a university city, home to the University of Aveiro, known both in Portugal and abroad for innovation in engineering and technology. This adds a youthful, energetic feel to the city and creates a steady flow of international students, researchers, and professionals. It also means expats have plenty of opportunities to meet people, socialize, and join community events.
When it comes to convenience, the city delivers. You’ll find everything from modern shopping centers like Forum Aveiro to reliable public transport, solid healthcare services, and easy connections to both Porto and Lisbon by train or bus. Tourism remains an important part of the local economy, so foreigners often find work opportunities in hospitality, especially around the coastal areas.
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, located about 120 km north of Lisbon. As the capital of the district, it has a population of around 130,000 residents, including roughly 7,500 foreigners—close to 6% of the community. Its combination of affordability, safety, and a relaxed pace of life makes it especially appealing for expats looking for a balanced lifestyle.
Life in Leiria tends to move at a comfortable, unhurried rhythm. Locals are friendly, and the sense of community is strong, which makes settling in noticeably easier. Many expats enjoy spending their mornings walking through Jardim Luís de Camões, relaxing in the gardens near the riverside, or grabbing a coffee in the historic center where local cafés spill into small squares. The city is also surrounded by natural landscapes—perfect for weekend hikes, bike rides, or a quick drive to the beaches of São Pedro de Moel.
Leiria also stands out for its rich history and cultural energy. The iconic Leiria Castle sits above the city and offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the region. Nearby landmarks like the Convento de São Francisco and charming corners of the old town add to the city’s character. Art and culture are part of everyday life here: you’ll find museums, local theaters, cultural festivals, and lively events at venues like the Teatro José Lúcio da Silva.
Despite its relaxed feel, Leiria has everything you need—shopping centers, good healthcare, modern gyms, universities, and strong transport links to Lisbon, Coimbra, and Porto. It’s a place where you can live comfortably without the rush of bigger cities.
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, known for its strong academic atmosphere, affordable lifestyle, and vibrant cultural scene. With a district population of 439,677 residents and about 4.15% foreigners, it offers an international touch while staying authentically Portuguese.
The University of Coimbra attracts students and professionals from all over the world, giving the city a lively, youthful energy. Many expats choose Coimbra for its lower cost of living—housing, food, and transportation are noticeably cheaper than in Lisbon or Porto, making it ideal for anyone looking to live comfortably on a budget.
Healthcare is a major advantage here. Coimbra hosts some of the country’s top medical facilities, including Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, along with plenty of clinics and pharmacies. Accessing care is easy and reliable.
Getting around is simple thanks to efficient buses, good train connections, and bike-friendly routes. It’s common to see residents cycling along the Mondego River or walking through the compact city center. Weekend getaways to Porto, Lisbon, or nearby beaches like Figueira da Foz are straightforward.
Coimbra also shines culturally. From Fado performances in the old town to festivals, open-air concerts, and student traditions, the city offers plenty of ways to meet people and immerse yourself in local life.
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 lively coastal city in central Portugal, known for its long sandy beaches, energetic nightlife, and year-round cultural events. With around 39,370 residents and about 5% foreigners, it offers a welcoming mix of locals and internationals without feeling overly touristy outside the summer season.
Expats often appreciate the city’s vibrant lifestyle. Evenings can be spent along the waterfront, enjoying seafood restaurants near Praia da Claridade, or listening to live music around the marina area. The city also hosts festivals, surf competitions, and events at the Centro de Artes e Espectáculos, giving residents plenty to do throughout the year. Its multicultural atmosphere makes it relatively easy to meet people and settle in.
Daily life is convenient, with good infrastructure, shopping centers, healthcare services, sports complexes, and easy access to nearby nature. And because tourism is a major part of the local economy, there are job opportunities in hospitality and services—especially from spring to early autumn.
However, there are a few downsides. Figueira da Foz becomes very busy during the summer, which may feel overwhelming for those who prefer quieter surroundings. Housing is also more expensive than in some other Silver Coast towns, particularly near the beachfront. And while many locals speak English, not knowing Portuguese can still pose challenges in day-to-day situations.
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, famous for its golden beaches, fishing traditions, and world-record-breaking waves. With around 14,984 residents and roughly 7.6% foreigners, it offers a small-town feel while still attracting an international crowd—especially surfers and ocean lovers.
Life in Nazaré is relaxed and centered around the sea. Mornings often start with a walk along Praia da Nazaré, watching fishing boats come in or stopping for coffee in the beachfront cafés. The cost of living is lower than in many European beach destinations, making it a comfortable place for expats who want coastal life without paying city prices. The town is also well-connected, with straightforward access to Lisbon, Porto, and inland towns like Alcobaça.
Tourism plays a big role in the local economy, which creates seasonal job opportunities in hospitality, rentals, and water sports. Nazaré’s fame comes from its giant waves at Praia do Norte, formed by the underwater Nazaré Canyon. These swells can reach 100 feet and have put the town on the global surfing map. Every year, the Nazaré Challenge draws elite surfers and visitors from around the world, turning the area into a buzzing hub of activity.
On the downside, Portuguese is important here—many locals, especially older residents, do not speak much English, so newcomers may need time to adapt. The town also gets very busy during summer and major surf events, which may not suit those who prefer a quieter, more private environment.
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 charming coastal town best known for its stunning shell-shaped bay and calm, family-friendly beach. For expats, it offers a peaceful lifestyle with a close-knit community feel—perfect for those who want coastal living without the crowds of larger resort towns.
Life here moves at a relaxed pace. Many residents enjoy morning walks along the wooden boardwalk, sunset strolls along the bay, or coffee on the promenade overlooking the water. The setting feels safe, friendly, and ideal for families, retirees, or anyone seeking a slower, more balanced routine. The town is also well-connected to Lisbon, Porto, and nearby hubs like Nazaré and Caldas da Rainha, making day trips and commuting easy.
Tourism is an important part of the local economy, bringing seasonal job opportunities in hospitality, rentals, and restaurants—especially in summer when the bay fills with visitors.
However, São Martinho do Porto becomes very quiet in the off-season, which may not appeal to those who prefer more activity year-round. Portuguese is also helpful here, as not all locals speak English, especially outside the tourist areas.
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
Caldas da Rainha is a lively mid-sized town on the Silver Coast, known for its thermal history, daily food markets, and welcoming local atmosphere. It’s a favorite among expats who want the convenience of a small city while staying close to the beaches of São Martinho do Porto, Foz do Arelho, and Nazaré.
Daily life here feels easy and practical. Many residents start the morning browsing fresh produce at the Praça da Fruta, one of Portugal’s oldest open-air markets. The town center has cafés, museums, and ceramics shops, giving Caldas a creative, cultural edge. Families appreciate the strong healthcare services, including the well-regarded Hospital Termal, and the range of schools, parks, and sports facilities.
Caldas da Rainha is also well-connected, sitting just minutes from the A8 motorway, which makes trips to Lisbon quick and straightforward. The town has consistent year-round activity—more lively than small beach villages but still relaxed compared to larger urban centers.
However, while English is increasingly common, Portuguese is still helpful for everyday tasks. And although Caldas offers a good mix of amenities, nightlife and entertainment options are more limited than in bigger cities.
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 most iconic surf towns, located about 100 km north of Lisbon on a dramatic peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic. It attracts both tourists and expats thanks to its beautiful beaches, excellent waves, and relaxed coastal energy. Living here offers a blend of seaside charm, outdoor lifestyle, and all the basic amenities you need for day-to-day comfort.
Nature is one of Peniche’s biggest advantages. Residents enjoy easy access to beaches like Supertubos, famous worldwide for its powerful waves, and calmer spots ideal for swimming or sunbathing. The nearby Berlengas Islands, a protected nature reserve, offer unforgettable trips for hiking, birdwatching, and diving—an everyday luxury for ocean lovers.
Peniche is lively year-round, with plenty of cafés, surf shops, seafood restaurants, and bars. Cultural events and festivals like Festas da Cidade de Peniche bring music, food stalls, and local traditions to the streets, adding to the town’s energetic, community-oriented feel.
The town also offers solid infrastructure: regular buses and train links to Lisbon, good healthcare services, schools, sports facilities, and everything families need for daily life. It’s a practical place to live despite its laid-back vibe.
However, Peniche becomes very busy in summer, especially during surf competitions, leading to crowded beaches and higher prices in tourist areas. Outside the high season, the town is quieter, which may feel too slow for those wanting more year-round activity.
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 beautiful coastal town about 50 km northwest of Lisbon, famous for its world-class surf, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back vibe. Over the last decade, it has become a major hotspot for expats looking for a slower lifestyle while staying close to the capital. Its mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a friendly community makes it especially appealing to surfers, families, and digital nomads.
The town has a close-knit feel, with narrow cobblestone streets, ocean-view cafés, and locals who are generally warm and welcoming. Many people start their mornings with a walk along the cliffside paths, coffee in the historic center, or a surf session at beaches like Ribeira d’Ilhas—part of Europe’s only official World Surfing Reserve. Ericeira’s surf culture is strong, but even non-surfers find plenty to love: swimming, hiking, cycling, and long beach days are all part of daily life.
A wellness-focused lifestyle is also growing here. You’ll find health-food stores, yoga studios, vegan restaurants, and a community that values clean eating and outdoor living. It’s the kind of place where people naturally spend more time outside and adopt a more balanced routine.
Despite its small size, Ericeira has solid amenities—supermarkets, cafés, co-working spaces, and good transport links to Lisbon. This makes it an ideal base for expats who want peaceful coastal living without feeling isolated.
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 decorated with vibrant flowers. With around 7.9% foreign residents, it attracts expats who want a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by history, culture, and beautiful landscapes.
Despite its small size, Óbidos offers a special charm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Many residents enjoy morning walks through the medieval streets, browsing local craft shops, or stopping for coffee in the historic center. The town’s proximity to the Atlantic coast—just a short drive away—adds to its appeal, giving easy access to beaches like Foz do Arelho and Bom Sucesso. The surrounding vineyards and rolling hills also make it a great area for hiking, cycling, and weekend wine tastings.
As a popular tourist destination, Óbidos has a good range of restaurants, cafés, and small stores, especially near the castle. Events like the Medieval Fair and the Chocolate Festival bring extra energy to the town and create opportunities for seasonal work.
The main drawback is its size. Because Óbidos is small, job options and certain services are more limited than in nearby cities like Caldas da Rainha or Leiria. However, for expats who appreciate slow living, safety, and historic charm, this quieter rhythm is often part of the town’s appeal.
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
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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.
What are the best towns for foreigners to live on the Silver Coast?
Popular towns include Nazaré (famous for surfing), Óbidos (a medieval gem), Caldas da Rainha (a vibrant spa town), Peniche (a fishing and surfing hub), and Foz do Arelho (known for its lagoon and beaches).
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.
How accessible is the Silver Coast for international travelers?
The Silver Coast is easily accessible via Lisbon Airport, which is about 1 to 1.5 hours by car or public transport. The region also has good road networks and bus services connecting its towns.
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.
Are there good amenities and healthcare facilities on the Silver Coast?
Yes, the Silver Coast has modern healthcare facilities, including public hospitals, private clinics, and pharmacies. Towns like Caldas da Rainha and Leiria are known for their excellent amenities.
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.
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