Portugal is increasingly spoken abroad. Beaches of excellence, rich gastronomy, historical legacy and a welcoming lifestyle make the country a much sought after destination. This time it was the Irish magazine International Living to highlight it in the article “8 secret cities in Europe where you can live better for less”. According to the same source, four of the eight most attractive European localities to live well and spend less are located in Portugal. The publication adds that, in one of them, “a couple can live comfortably with $ 1,800 (about 1,580 euros) a month.” Find out the cities indicated and notice why they continue to attract foreign and national residents.
Guimarães – The Cradle of Portugal
“Known as the cradle of Portugal”, Guimarães combines the medieval heritage with contemporary vitality. The same source describes the historic center, classified by UNESCO, such as a maze of stoned alleys, forged iron balconies and gothic buildings that welcome modern coffees, restaurants and author stores.
In addition to heritage, the city has green parks, art galleries and music festivals that appeal to creatives and nature lovers. Although it brings with it centuries of history, Guimarães maintains a dynamic environment thanks to the student population and a growing international projection. It is only 40 minutes of train from Porto Airport, offering quality of life at a calmer pace.
According to International Living, a couple can live here with about $ 1,800 a month (approximately 1,580 euros), which covers housing, food, health and leisure.
ESPOSENDE-Sileness by the sea
Located in the Braga district, Esposende has a soul of coastal village. “It is conducive to a quiet lifestyle, perfect for those who work at a distance or look for a quiet reform,” says International Living. The historic center is flat and easy to circulate, ideal for all ages, and is distinguished by the source sculpture that honors the maritime tradition.
Surfing, golf, horse riding and pedestrian tracks complement each other with local markets and archaeological traces. The publication recalls that a legal resident has access to the National Health Service, reinforced by nearby private hospitals. Once covered the income – between $ 872 and $ 1,090 (approximately 760 euros at 950 euros) for a T2.
Santo Tirso – Riverside charm and quiet life
The city of Santo Tirso, bathed by Rio Ave, combines historical monuments with extensive public gardens. The tenth -century Benedictine monastery dominates the landscape, but there are also thermal spas, riverside parks and even an “urban beach” that refreshes the hot days.
International Living highlights the “relaxed atmosphere” and competitive incomes: a furnished apartment for a couple around 925 monthly dollars (about 810 euros). The local hospital operates 24 hours, and access to Porto’s clinical network is done in less than half an hour. Explains the same source that although English is not yet widespread, the community is welcoming and the pace of life, quiet, attracts those seeking serenity and nature.
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Vila Nova de Famalicão – Youth and Opportunity
Famalicão is a modern expanding city, the scarce 20 minutes of Porto. “Solid infrastructures, great railway connections and a vibrant cultural scene,” says International Living, who considers her to “ready to receive” new residents. The municipality invests in green spaces, libraries with cowork areas and initiatives for young entrepreneurs.
Prices remain accessible to the region: a T1 can be purchased from $ 179,000 (about 157,000 euros) and a four-bedroom housing relate to $ 1,516 (approximately 1,330 euros). A couple who want to combine professional opportunity with average city environment can find a balanced solution here.
Other featured locations
In addition to the four Portuguese cities, the list includes Villefranche-sur-Mer and Toulon (France), Litochoro (Greece) and Ascoli Piceno (Italy).
Portugal thus emerges as the country most represented in the article, which reinforces its international reputation as an accessible and high quality destination.
Whether you are looking for history, sea, nature or urban dynamism, Portugal can present options for all tastes without large budgets.
As it remembers, it is possible to “live better by spending less” in many of our cities.
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