Portugal Regions
North West ·North East ·Northern Central ·Eastern Central ·Central ·Silver Coast ·Lower Central ·Northern Alentejo ·Lisbon Coast ·Southern Lisbon Coast ·Central Alentejo ·Coastal Alentejo ·Southern Alentejo ·Western Algarve ·Central Algarve ·Eastern Algarve ·Madeira ·The Azores ·Cape Verde
About Portugal
Portugal is divided into Regions which are then sub-divided into municipalities. The municipalities generally consist of a main town (or large village) which they are named after and several parishes - usually villages and hamlets. The Region pages on our website give general information about that region together with information about the main towns and villages.
PROPERTY IN PORTUGAL - A MARKET OVERVIEW
What is it about Portugal that impressed the experts enough to vote in the number one location for overseas property investment, when a cursory glance at the global property market reveals opportunities in numerous locations where apparent bargains can be acquired at ridiculously low prices?
As the discerning buyer knows, investing abroad is not simply a matter of price - there are many other factors that need to be considered when acquiring property outside the UK.
squaremetres has identified the following as some of the reasons why their buyers choose Portugal above all other locations:
- Steady and Consistent Market Growth
The overall trend of the property market in Portugal has been one of steady growth with squaremetres clients continuing to see their asset increase in value. This is a national trend with the Algarve maintaining its place as market leader – a position it has held for several decades. However, as the market in the Algarve nears saturation, the more astute investor is looking to other regions of the country where growth is predicted to accelerate at a greater rate, offering higher returns. - Value for Money
There are still many regions in Portugal where property prices are relatively low. Consider the less well-known areas of the country to discover a good selection of properties representing excellent value for money. - Economic Forecast
The signs for the forthcoming year are good. Inflation is under control and, coupled with low interest rates, the indications are for sustained growth. - The Costs of Living & the Expenses of Running a Home
As a general rule, but particularly in rural areas, the cost of living in Portugal is inexpensive with prices averaging half, or less, of their UK equivalents. Food and drink is particularly reasonable and a weekly supermarket shop for four will typically cost a third of its UK price. It is also less expensive to run a car with car tax at 80% cheaper than the UK and both petrol and diesel at much reduced prices. Property Rates and the costs of services are very reasonable, for example electricity is about half that in the UK. Labour is relatively cheap in Portugal therefore builders, decorators, cleaners and gardeners command low daily rates and are in plentiful supply. - Accessibility
Three international airports serve the country - at Lisbon, Faro and Porto, with flight times from London approximately 2.5 hours – and there are plans for a new international airport northeast of Lisbon. Thanks to the expansion of low-cost airline services, cheap fares are now available into Portugal. Since joining the EU, Portugal has made huge investments in its infrastructure – improving the existing road network and opening new motorways - making it one of the most advanced road systems in Europe. Portugal also boasts one of the most efficient intercity railway services in Europe linking Lisbon, Coimbra and Porto and plans are in place to extend this high-speed service into other areas of the country. - The Country and Climate
Portugal is one of the smallest European countries but is arguably the most geographically diverse. Bordered on the west and south by the Atlantic Ocean, it has an impressive coastline of approximately 840 kms. Dramatic mountains and lush, green valleys in the north gradually recede into the gently undulating arid plains of the south. Mountain ranges are a feature throughout the length of the country – breaking up the southern plains and sheltering coastal regions. Generally temperatures in Portugal average 10-12ºC higher than those in Southern England. The climate in the north is milder and damper than the rest of the country, with warmer, drier weather in the south. The Atlantic influences the weather and tempers the summer heat on the coast to an average of 27-28ºC. Continental winds vary temperatures inland, which can reach 35+ºC in the summer. In the winter, the average national temperature is a mild 11ºC. - Recreation
Portugal is renown for its leisure facilities – particularly, but certainly not exclusively, for golfers. This country offers something for everyone from: Championship Golf Courses set in the most beautiful locations to outstanding riding country; some the most challenging surfing conditions in Europe to numerous tranquil lagoon or river beaches; and secluded mountain walks to a rich selection of culture and nightlife. - The Portuguese, Lifestyle and Language
The Portuguese more than justify their reputation as some of the most friendly and helpful people in Europe. Their ethos is one of “working to live” and they do live life to the full. Children and the elderly are treated with respect and, like many Southern European cultures, family is important. The way of life is much more relaxed, especially away from the large cities, and nothing is rushed. For the non-linguist, Portuguese is a challenging language to master although, as it is Latin-based, it is generally easy to read. The good-natured Portuguese will do everything they can to help you communicate. Historically French was the second language and many people over the age of 40 will use this. The younger generations all have English as their second language and an impressive number of them are fluent. - Effective Building Regulations
Strictly applied building regulations, which are applied to renovations as well as new-builds, afford purchasers peace of mind. - The Portuguese Property Laws
have been long established and are reputedly some of the most reliable in Europe. Buying property in Portugal is not the gamble it can be in other European destinations where there have been some appalling incidences of foreign investors losing everything.
