Best cities in Portugal for Brazilians in 2026

If you want a quick list, some of the best cities in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, Almada, Amadora, Vila Nova de Gaia, Setúbal, and Leiria. However, the "very best" spot really comes down to your own priorities – let’s have a closer look at our options.

Portugal – the top choice for Brazilian citizens

Many Brazilians choose Portugal because of the language: even though Brazilian Portuguese differs from Portuguese, you can still talk to a landlord, handle a job interview, and read government forms without a translator or prior preparation.

Brazilians in Portugal are now the biggest group of foreigners in the country, taking around 31.4% of the total foreign population, according to Portugal’s Agency for Immigration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA) 2024 annual report. You will see our community everywhere, but every city will still have its own feel. Here is our breakdown of the best cities to live in Portugal for expats.

Explore:

• Where Brazilians live in Europe.
• Portugal holidays in 2026.

The best cities in Portugal for Brazilians – Full breakdown

In our review, we focus on what actually matters for expats: jobs, community, and prices. These seven cities are the ones that actually make sense for a fresh start for Brazilians in Portugal. 

Lisbon: The main gateway

Starting our list with the capital and the biggest city in Portugal, Lisbon.

• Pros: 

1. The strongest job market in the country. So if you work in tech, finance, or tourism, this is your place.
2. Great transportation system. You don't need a car because trains and buses go everywhere.
3. Variety of Brazilian restaurants and shops.

• Cons: 

1. High prices compared to other Portuguese cities. According to Numbeo, the monthly rent of a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre is 1,336.21 EUR as of March 13th, 2026. The utilities are not included, by the way.

Porto: A major city with more breathing room

Porto has all the perks of a major hub but feels a bit more relaxed than the capital.

• Pros

1. World-class food culture. Try the iconic Francesinha and Port wine.
2. Cheaper rent than in Lisbon. Currently, it's 1,099.38 EUR for a 1-bedroom flat in the city centre. Approximately 236 EUR cheaper than in Lisbon.
3. Beautiful and historic city with a strong sense of community.

• Cons

1. Geography. Porto is very hilly, so you may get a leg workout just walking to the shop.
2. Grey and rainy winters. The climate can be a shock if you are used to the sun in Brazil.
3. Housing issues. Some houses, especially the older ones, aren't always well–insulated, so be ready to feel the cold indoors during January.

Almada: Lisbon’s affordable neighbour

Almada is just across the river from Lisbon, but without the massive price tag.

• Pros

1. Pleasant ferry trips. You can take a 10–minute ferry to Lisbon and skip the traffic.
2. Cheaper rents (approximately 1,066.67 EUR per month).
3. Closeness to the great beaches in Costa da Caparica.

• Cons

1. Awful bridge traffic during the rush hour. 
2. Ferry workers’ strikes, which turn getting into the city into a huge mission.

Amadora: Practical living near the metro

Only 15 km from Lisbon's centre, Amadora is a very popular "plan B" for people working in the capital.

• Pros

1. Accessible metro. It gets you to central Lisbon in 20 minutes.
2. Household convenience. There are lots of big shops, supermarkets, and services nearby.
3. Lower costs of living. You get much more space for your money here compared to central Lisbon.

• Cons

1. Districts with a rough reputation. Most areas are actually quiet and safe, but try to avoid 6 de Maio, Cova da Moura, and Bairro Casal da Mira and other shady areas.
2. Many urban, concrete–heavy areas. So don't expect much green space.

Vila Nova de Gaia: Porto’s cheaper side

Gaia is right across the river from Porto, with the same feel but cheaper.

• Pros

1. Lower prices. Houses and apartments are generally cheaper here than in Porto (around 820.00 EUR for a 1-bedroom apartment).
2. Beautiful beaches and the historic wine cellars.
3. Peace and safety. It’s a bit quieter than Porto, which is great if you have a family or just want some peace after work.

• Cons

1. Crowded bridges. If you work in Porto, try to live near a metro station so you don't have to drive.
2. Feeling of isolation. Some parts of Gaia are quite spread out, so you might feel a bit isolated without a car if you aren't near the centre.

Setúbal: The nature lover's escape

About 45 km south of Lisbon, Setúbal is a favourite for people who want a slower pace.

• Pros

1. The Arrábida mountains and beautiful beaches surround the city.
2. Affordable housing (around 877.80 EUR for a 1-bedroom apartment).
3. Incredible fresh fish at the local markets.

• Cons

1. Occasional industrial smells and pests.
2. Limited "metropolitan" life. If you love late-night events or a huge variety of international food, you might find Setúbal a bit lacking.
3. Exhausting commuting to Lisbon, if you have to do it every day.

Leiria: The hidden gem

Leiria is a clean, safe city in central Portugal, between Lisbon and Porto.

• Pros

1. Low cost of living. You can find a one–bedroom flat for 500-800 EUR – prices that just don't exist in the big cities anymore.
2. Safety. It’s a good place to raise kids.
3. High quality of life.

• Cons

1. Smaller international scene.
2. Limited nightlife. If you're looking for parties and festivals, you might find the city a bit too quiet.

Best cities in Portugal: Brief summary

If you need a career boost, go for Lisbon or Porto. If you work from home or have a family, Almada, Gaia, or Setúbal can give you a better life for less money. And if you want a quiet, cheap base, Leiria is a great shout.

Before moving to Portugal, we recommend visiting a few of these places so that you can commit to one.

FAQ – The best cities in Portugal

What is the cost of moving to Portugal?

The total expenses depend on:

• Your visa fee – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that it’s 110 EUR for a national visa application.
• Plane ticket prices – 700-1,000 EUR on average in 2026.
• Your initial moving expenses.
• The cost of living in Portugal. In 2026, you need around 670 EUR + rent per month to live comfortably.

How do I move to Portugal as a Brazilian?

You should be eligible for one of the following visa types: Digital Nomad, D2 (Entrepreneur/Freelancer), Job Seeker, Study/Internship, Family Reunification and Golden Visa.

Tips: How to get Portuguese citizenship, 2026 guide.

Is Lisbon or Porto better?

The choice depends on your personal preferences. Lisbon is sunnier and more active, while Porto is cheaper and has a stronger historic touch.

What part of Portugal is best in winter?

The Algarve is often mentioned as the best destination in Portugal during winter. The area is sunny, mild and slightly dry.

Where do most Brazilians live in Portugal?

In Lisbon. According to Statista, approximately 77,110 Brazilians reside in the capital.