If you’re over 30 and want to buy a house in Portugal through a mortgage loan, we have bad news. On Friday, April 1, 2022, the Bank of Portugal’s recommendation to limit the maximum duration of new mortgage loans comes into place. Only those 30 and below are now eligible for a 40-year mortgage loan.
This means that those over 30 in Portugal, including residents and non-residents, will not be able to enjoy more affordable monthly mortgage payments and will have to pay off their property in a shorter time.
Clients over 35 years old can receive a mortgage loan of a maximum of 35 years. Clients between the ages of 31 and 35 can receive a mortgage loan of a maximum of 37 years. Only those 30 or below can get a mortgage loan of a maximum of 40 years.
Let’s go through some numbers. If you are looking to buy a €200,000 property, a 30-year mortgage loan would cost you €643,28 a month, while a 40-year mortgage loan would cost you €505,71, a difference of €137,57 (with a 1% interest rate).
This new limit will not change existing mortgage loans but only apply to new ones starting on Friday. The average age for accessing a mortgage loan in Portugal is 33,2 years old. Portuguese banks offer mortgages to both residents and non-residents, making it easy for internationals to purchase property through a mortgage loan. However, non-residents must pay a minimum deposit for a mortgage of 30%, while for residents this stands at 10% – 15%, depending on the situation.
Did you know that the southernmost region of Portugal, besides having wonderful beaches, weather, golf courses, and landscapes, is also part of the Portuguese wine country? Even though tourism is the region’s main industry, there is a small space for wine production in the region’s economy in the far south of the country in Algarve.
The region is filled with history, being the one region in Portugal that stayed longer under Moorish control. Now, it’s known as the tourism capital of Portugal and now, to you, as a very unique wine region!
The Algarve wines are predominantly red, although some fresh white wines are produced, and made from both the Portuguese and international variety grapes. They are produced usually by co-operatives, but there are also some independent producers who are catching on.
These wines are traditionally high on alcohol volume, due to the region’s warm and maritime climate. The same climate that attracts tourists from all over the world is the one that makes these vines be more productive and have the alcohol volume it has.
So why not enjoy your vacation here, enjoy the incredible beaches and weather accompanied by a wonderful glass of Algarve wine?
Even though it is not so known, the history of the Algarve wine is as old as the history of Portugal itself. It dates back to the Phoenicians and Greek settlers in the region, who brought Greek wine to the region.
Later, they started to cultivate a native variety of a wild grape and this tradition stayed until the Romans came. These people decided to expand the production enormously, something that can be found, for example, on the ruins of Milreu (or Estói), which would have produced approximately 20.000 liters of wine per year!
When the Roman Empire fell, it’s believed that grape production fell immensely, but it carried on, with archaeological evidence and several texts from the Islamic period referring to the importance of grapes, raisins, and wine to the region.
After the conquest of the region by the Portuguese, grapes, and wine became once more one of the main parts of the Algarve economy.
From those days until ours, there have been many changes. Wine production has faced lots of bad times. However, in the 1940s, wine cooperatives were created. These companies played a huge role in modernizing the wine production in the region and elevated its standards.
In the 1960s, the government also started a huge expansion of infrastructure. This new infrastructure, in the Algarve region, created a boom in tourism, making the region what it is now, and this, in turn, created an interest in wine production there.
All of this created the perfect conditions for the Algarve to be recognized as a Vinho de Indicação Geográfica Protegida (I.G.P) or Protected Geographic Indication and, in the 1990s, for the creation of the 4 DOCs.
Today, there are over 2.000 vineyards and 30 producers in the region, all dedicated to making this unique wine.
The Algarve wine region is separated, in its easternmost part, by just 200km from Tangiers and is right on the border with the Alentejo, being protected by the Monchique Mountains. This means that the region has a warmer climate, which is perfect for fruit production since it makes the fruit juicier and sweeter. It does the same for wine production, but this makes the wine have a higher alcoholic volume.
This is because the climate accelerates the vine growing season, which makes the grapes juicier and sweeter before they achieved their full flavor potential. The grapes juice is, thus, filled with sugar, which will eventually turn into alcohol, at the end of the season. The wine becomes high in alcohol, but low in acidity (which would be perfect to have in this type of wine), tasting kind of baked, due to the vines staying all day and night in the hot climate.
As for the soil, it’s very diverse. It’s usually sandier near the coastline, there are also clays rich in limestone and even soils rich in schist. These last ones are the best, even though they are rarer since these regions also receive rain coming from the ocean and have a higher temperature variation.
Grape and Wine Types
The Algarve region is divided into four subregions: the DOC Lagos, DOC Portimão, DOC Lagoa, and DOC Tavira, all of them with their own unique wines.
DOC Lagos
Geographical Area: Parts of the municipalities of Aljezur, Vila do Bispo and Lagos.
Grape Types
Red Wines: Negra Mole, Trincadeira, and Castelão (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Bastardo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Monvedro, and Touriga Nacional.
White Wines: Arinto, Malvasia Fina, and Síria (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Manteúdo, Moscatel Graúdo and Perrum.
Wine Characteristics
Red Wines: Velvety, light-bodied wines, with a fruity aroma and a low acidity. They age well, starting with a ruby color and acquiring a topaz hue.
White Wines: With a color between the citrine and straw, these wines are very delicate and smooth, with a characteristic aftertaste of warm area wine.
DOC Portimão
Geographical Area: Parts of the municipality of Portimão
Grape Types
Red Wines: Negra Mole, Trincadeira, and Castelão (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Cabernet Sauvignon, Monvedro, Syrah and Touriga Nacional.
White Wines: Siria (Roupeiro) and Arinto (with at least 70% of the vines being from these grapes), plus Manteúdo, Moscatel-Graúdo, Perrum and Rabo-de-Ovelha.
Wine Characteristics: Extremely similar to the Lagos red wines, with all the same characteristics.
DOC Lagoa
Geographical Area: Parts of the municipalities of Albufeira, Lagoa, Loulé and Silves.
Grape Types
Red Wines: Negra Mole and Trincadeira (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes), plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Cabernet Sauvignon, Monvedro, Castelão, Syrah, Moreto, Touriga-Franca, and Touriga Nacional.
White Wines: Siria (Roupeiro) and Arinto (with at least 70% of the vines being from these grapes), plus Manteúdo, Moscatel-Graúdo, Perrum, Sauvignon and Rabo-de-Ovelha.
Wine Characteristics
Red Wines: They are velvety, warm, and fruity wines that evolve really well and can last a long time. Just like the other two DOCs, these red wines also age well, starting with a ruby color and, with time, gaining a topaz tone.
White Wines: More of a citrine color, compared to the other wines, being robust and smooth. They have a good body and are capable of evolving really well.
DOC Tavira
Geographical Area: It encompasses parts of the municipalities of Faro, Olhão, Sao rás de Alportel, Castro Marim, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo António.
Grape Types
Red Wines: Negra Mole, Castelão, and Trincadeira (either together or separate, with at least 70% of the vines being of these grapes) plus Alicante-Bouschet, Aragonez, Cabernet-Sauvignon, Syrah and Touriga Nacional.
White Wines: Síria and Arinto (with at least 70% of the vines being from these grapes), plus Diagalves, Manteúdo, Moscatel-Graúdo e Tamarez.
Wine Characteristics: Similar to the first 2 DOC wines.
Algarve Wine Suggestions: Best Algarve Wine
On the XIII Concurso de Vinhos do Algarve (13th Algarve Wines Contest), in 2021, these were some of the highest ranked wines, considered of outstanding quality:
Try the authentic Algarve wine on this family farm! You will have access to the farm’s pool with a view to the amazing vineyards, where you can enjoy the taste of this high quality (and high in alcohol volume) wines. You can try all the different wines they produce there while making the most of your trip to the Portuguese holiday capital, in a calm, familiar, and sharing environment.
This is a full trip around Algarve in a minivan, where you will visit the countryside of the region and the ancient Moorish village of Silves. See the amazing Algarve oranges, ancient Cork trees, and of course, the vineyards, where you will be able to try the wines from the different farms you will visit, as well as the production and wooden barrel rooms to understand the whole process.
António Costa has been sworn in as Prime Minister of the XXIII Constitutional government by the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Wednesday at Palacio Nacional da Ajuda.
The new socialist-majority government includes 17 ministers and 28 secretaries of state. For the first time ever in the history of Portugal, the majority of ministers are women, 9 out of 17. The cabinet is 20% smaller than usual.
António Costa has been sworn in as Prime Minister of the XXIII Constitutional government by the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa on Wednesday at Palacio Nacional da Ajuda.
The new socialist-majority government includes 17 ministers and 28 secretaries of state. For the first time ever in the history of Portugal, the majority of ministers are women, 9 out of 17. The cabinet is 20% smaller than usual.
Prime Minister Antonio Costa’s speech stated that the state budget is ready to once again be voted in parliament, one that did not pass and led to the January 2022 General Election. If the Socialist Party had not won a majority, it would be close to impossible to pass their proposed state budget since all other parties were against it. Now, with a majority, the same state budget that was once rejected is likely to pass.
The Prime Minister also thanked the former government for reducing the deficit below 3%, for their work to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, for responding to the climate crisis, increasing the investment in research and investigation, as well as increasing the number of undergraduate students, and much more.
He said: “Today we are a more qualified country, more sustainable, more innovative, and less unequal”. He also reminded those watching that the European Commission found that Portugal is the most qualified to reach carbon neutrality.
In the 20-minute speech, PM Antonio Costa also stated:
“We have a duty to innovate, to modernize, to guarantee decent employment and create wealth, to progress together, with inclusion… Only by committing ourselves to social dialogue, mobilizing civil society, and welcoming the positive contributions of other political parties can continue to advance”.
Tomou hoje posse o XXIII Governo Constitucional. Um dia emotivo e de enorme responsabilidade. Numa altura em que estamos ainda a enfrentar a pandemia, já temos de combater os efeitos da guerra desencadeada pela #Rússia com a invasão da #Ucrânia. #xxiiigovernopic.twitter.com/p6OOFOCCAr
The earthquake was registered at 9:56 PM local time on the island of São Jorge in the Azores. According to CNN Portugal, the earthquake was also felt in Terceira, Pico, and Faial. CIVISA recorded the earthquake with a magnitude of 3,8 on the Richter scale, making it the largest earthquake since the beginning of the crisis on March 19. The epicenter of the earthquake was in the ocean, one kilometer away from Velas.
According to the scale of Richter, a 3,8 earthquake is still considered “minor”. Beforehand, the largest earthquake since the crisis began had been on March 19 with a magnitude of 3,3.
The number of total earthquakes is over double of all earthquakes recorded in the whole of the Azores in 2021.
The island’s volcanic alert has been raised to level 4 of 5, meaning there is a threat of a volcanic eruption. The last volcano eruption was in 1808 in Velas, São Jorge.
Birthplace of the great Portuguese explorer, Vasco da Gama, who “discovered” the peppery treasures of India, Sines is a fishing town in Alentejo, where you can indulge in Portugal’s briny charm and take pleasure in its unique architecture and cultural traditions. What is more, here you can explore not only the region’s unique cultural heritage but also have a nice swim on Sines’s alluring beaches or munch on the delectable Alentejano food.
8 Best Things to Do in Sines
1. Head to the Sines castle
One of the best places to go in Sines is the 15th century Sines Castle perched on a hilltop. From its fortified walls, you can see the gob-smacking panorama of the Atlantic, and sense the allure of far-off lands beyond the horizon. The fortress’ prime function was to defend the scenic Sines harbor, emphasizing the utmost significance of sea and sea trade for Portugal.
Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
2. Go to the Vasco da Gama Statue
Travel to Sines to pay homage to its most famous inhabitant and explorer, Vasco de Gama. Here you can find a somewhat squarish sculpture of his, facing the sea next to the western tower of the castle. Take a selfie with the intrepid traveler who pioneered the expansion to the East, first commercially then territorially, making himself a de-facto father of the cosmopolitan highly globalized present, we are all finding ourselves in.
Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
3. Pay a visit to the Sinese Museum
Housed in the ancient Sines castle, right in the downtown, the Sines Museum is a must-visit to sense the soul of the place. Make your way to the Museum of Sines for you to participate in the multimedia experience narrating the unique trajectory of Vasco de Gama’s life. The art-house’s stunning exhibits feature a necklace and earrings of a woman buried as long back as in the 3rd century BC and the Visigothic masonry unearthed at the site.
4. Visit the Porto of Sines
One of the best places to go to see in Sines is Sines Fishing Port. Known for their abundant catch, the fishermen of Sines are veritable local heroes. It is thanks to them that your mouth-watering dourada at a cozy local restaurant tastes so well.
5. Head to Porto Covo
Sines is located not far away from Porto Covo, a picture-perfect small seaside town known for its tranquil ambiance and cheerful locals. Here you can find a pretty city square, surrounded by gridded streets of whitewashed one-storeyed houses. The locale also boasts some of Alentejo’s best beaches like Praia Grande de Porto Covo.
Photo by Pedro Farto (Unsplash)
6. Go to Praia do Buizinhos
One of the best places to go in Sines is Praia de Buizinhos, a great place to bask in the sun and splash in the water. The beautiful cove, known for its pellucid waters is hemmed by cliffs and is one of the most snap-worthy locales in Portugal. It is a great place to take delight in sunsets with your significant other.
7. Make a trip to Forte do Pessegueiro
Forte de Pessegueiro is a great spot to see what ancient Sines and its environs were like. The ramshackle fortifications date back to the rule of the Philippine dynasty when Portugal was under Spanish control. Surrounded by a moat, you need to get through a tunnel to arrive here. Below, is a sun-lit beach while across the channel can be found the ruins of Forte do Santo Alberto, put up in the same period. Head here for a unique Medievalish vibe and delight in the tangy sea breeze of the Atlantic.
Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
8. Swim on the Praia de São Torpes
Head to Praia de São Torpes, where you can splash around in the Atlantic without feeling the chill of it. Close by the beach’s sun-lit sand, and rolling waves are the lush foliage of the South-West Alentejo Natural Park, one of the best places in Alentejo for hiking.
What Makes Sines Special
Apart from its maritime heritage, Sines is one of the best towns in Portugal to take a stroll. The town is split into two parts. In its upper part, you can walk around the beautiful Sines castle and lose yourself in the maze of scenic narrow lanes lined with white-washed uniquely Alentejano buildings. In the lower part lies the town’s beauteous harbor known as Praia de Vasco de Gama, and the embankment where you can see the mind-blowing panorama. Look around the fishing port of Sines to gaze at the vessels soon heading for a new catch, bobbing serenely on the waves.
Best Time to Visit Sines
The best time to visit Sines is between March-April and August-September. In late spring Sines is one of the best places to go on a hiking trip, for example in South-West Alentejo National Park. You can also walk around the town itself to marvel at its beautiful edifices. If you’re a swimming lover, head to Sines in late summer and early autumn. August to September is the nicest for swimming and profiting from the never-ending sunshine and the town’s unique siestas.
Where to Eat in Sines
One of the best places to eat in Sines is the hillside part of the town where the warren of narrow lanes harbors some of the town’s best eateries. Head here for a non-pareil dinner in Restaurante O Castelo, or go down to the ocean board to eat the delectable Portuguese fare at O Bejinha, one of the best places in Alentejo to delight in its mouth-watering seafood.
3 Best Hotels in Sines: Where to Stay in Sines
The scenic downtown of Sines offers quality and affordable accommodation to all kinds of travelers. Keep in mind that if you opt for the properties located close to the harbor you can always walk to the ocean and take not only its gob-smacking vistas but also the luring smell of briny. Here are the three best hotels in Sines, only a few minutes away from the beach.
A two-minute walk from the beach, Hotel Veleiro overlooks the bay of Sines. Most rooms have a balcony so that guests can enjoy the views, as well as private bathrooms. You can also enjoy the breakfast buffet overlooking the bay. Hotel Veleiro offers a 24-hour front desk, as well as laundry and cleaning services.
A one-minute walk from the beach, Casa do Medico has a restaurant, a bar, a shared lounge, and even private parking. Guests can enjoy a well-rated buffet breakfast from the terrace, as well as a 24-front desk and room service.
A seven-minute walk from the beach in a residential area of Sines, Hotel Dom Vasco features a large swimming pool, a gym, and a green garden. Each room has a video games console, satellite TV, and a private balcony. You can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet with a complimentary drink.
Conclusion
Sines is one of the best places to indulge in the maritime charm of Portugal and fall in love with the Portuguese beaches, architecture, and people. Head to the birthplace of Vasco de Gama and prepare for your own adventure of a lifetime.
Bruno Fernandes scored the 2 goals against North Macedonia on Tuesday night in Porto’s Estadio do Dragao, ensuring Portugal a 2022 FIFA World Cup spot. The Portuguese player scored at 32′ in the first half and at 65′ in the second half, defeating North Macedonia 2-0.
This will be the eighth time Portugal makes it to a World Cup and the sixth in a row. Portugal played in 1966, 1986, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018.
Portugal’s manager Fernando Santos told the press in Porto:
“I have already won two competitions and I dream a lot of winning a third. I have to congratulate the players for the fantastic attitude they had. In the first 10 minutes, we couldn’t get it right, I said that this North Macedonia team knew how to play. It was not what was thought of them.”
Bruno Fernandes said:
“This game will stay in our memory because we made it to the World Cup. It was a very important match, the fans were impeccable. The atmosphere was spectacular today – people realized what we needed”.
Last week, Portugal eliminated Turkey in the UEFA World Cup playoff seminal final defeating them 3-1 in Porto on Thursday. Otavio, Diogo Jota, and Matheus Nunes score the three goals.
So, who has already qualified for the World Cup 2022, along with Portugal?
Qatar, Germany, Denmark, Brazil, France, Belgium, Croatia, Spain, Serbia, England, Switzerland, Netherlands, Argentina, Iran, South Korea, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Canada, Ghana, Senegal, Poland, Morocco, Tunisia, and Cameroon.
⬇️Please share your thoughts on the game in the comments below ⬇️
The head of the Portuguese Ordem dos Médicos (Order of Physicians) Miguel Guimarães stated on Monday that the government should end the mandatory face mask measure within two weeks. Guimarães told TSF radio that masks are no longer necessary in both outdoor spaces and close areas like shopping malls and public transport. This would mean children and young people would be able to return to school, after Easter break, without having to wear a mask.
Back in February 2022, Guimarães stated that the COVID-19 pandemic should be over by Spring, on March 20.
Representing the Ordem dos Médicos (Order of Physicians) Guimarães also told TSF on Monday that Ukrainian doctors are authorized to work in Portugal without speaking Portuguese. This must still be negotiated with the government, but a diploma has been published by the Order that recognizes the professional abilities of Ukrainian doctors.
Guimarães says that this is an “exceptional” measure in order to integrate Ukrainian professionals and that Ukrainian doctors should learn Portuguese. He urges the government to provide Portuguese courses to these doctors.
Jorge Roque da Cunha, the Secretary-General of the Independent Union of Doctors has supported this initiative.
The Ordem dos Médicos (Order of Physicians) is a public entity that serves as the regulatory body for medical fractionates in Portugal, established in 1898.
Lisbon is the most expensive place to rent a house in Portugal, as well as purchase property. As of February 2022, the price of renting in Lisbon is €13/m2, according to Idealista. A 75m2 apartment could cost around €975 in the Lisbon district. However, in comparison to cities like London and Amsterdam where such an apartment would cost double, Lisbon is a lot more affordable than most European cities. Lisbon is also home to the most expats, in comparison to other Portuguese cities. With 87 different nationalities in Lisbon, the capital is a diverse city that provides a high quality of life for those coming from abroad.
Although prices are rising in Lisbon, the capital still boasts a variety of housing options from penthouses to studios and apartments. You will mostly only find furnished apartments and landlords will not want to take the furniture out for you. To find a place to rent, you can choose to enlist a rental agent from a well-regarded agency. Here are some of the most popular property portals and real estate agencies in Portugal that can help you find a home in Lisbon:
ReMax
Spotahome
Custojusto
Century21
Imovirtual
Idealista
There are many factors to consider when finding a place to live in Lisbon. Will you be looking for a house to rent in the center of Lisbon or Greater Lisbon, such as Cascais and Sintra. If you live in the center of Lisbon, you will have access to affordable public transportation which might be helpful if you work in the city. If you choose to live outside of the city, having a car will be a must. Will you be renting an apartment for yourself or are you looking to live with roommates? You should also consider whether you are okay with living in a noisy area of Lisbon, as it’s not uncommon to hear neighbors arguing and people drinking outside busy streets.
When looking for an apartment to rent in Lisbon, it’s important to consider what area you are going to spend the next months or years living in. The vibrant city center is perfect for young professionals, but the closer to the center, the more expensive it is. The area of Greater Lisbon includes other municipalities to live in rather than the Lisbon metropolitan area, such as Cascais, Sintra, and Oeiras. Let’s go through our favorite places to live in Lisbon.
1. Baixa
The historic old town of Lisbon, Baixa is one of the most visited neighborhoods in the capital. If you rent an apartment in Baixa, you’ll be living in the heart of the city, surrounded by eighteenth-century architecture. Transportation is no issue here with plenty of bus and tram spots, as well as metro stations. From markets to restaurants and shops, everything will be a few minutes away. However, Baixa can get incredibly busy with tourists and locals, particularly at night. If you’re a student or a young person who loves the vibrant environment and nightlife Baixa could be perfect for you, but it might not be suitable for families looking for a quiet life.
Photo by @thewonderlandalice (Unsplash)
2. Príncipe Real
One of the trendiest neighborhoods in Lisbon, Principe Real has the best restaurant, bars, and art galleries in the city. Principe Real has a multicultural population, boasting a diversity of restaurants. However, the neighborhood is still quite peaceful with nineteenth-century buildings and plenty of green spaces. Principe Real is one of the most sought out areas to live in Lisbon, so apartments are not as affordable as in other areas of the capital.
Photo by Dário Gomes (Unsplash)
3. Alfama
Known for its picturesque streets, fado music, and the best views of the city, Alfama is the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. Many live in this neighborhood, including elderly people who have been there for decades, as well as young professionals and families. However, bear in mind that driving a car in Alfama is almost impossible in its narrow streets. Alfama is also a hilltop neighborhood, so you will have to get used to walking up steep streets.
Cascais is a dream place to live in. A 30-minute drive from Lisbon, many live in Cascais and commute to work in the capital. Cascais is a coastal town on the Portuguese Riviera, known for its stunning bays, luxurious hotels, and golden beaches. Cascais was once a fishermen’s village, still boasting incredible seafood markets, as well as local shops and restaurants. Cascais is also one of the wealthiest areas in Portugal, so homes tend to be more expensive.
A 30-minute train journey from Lisbon, Sintra‘s mountainside is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also located on the Portuguese Riviera, Sintra is known for its beautiful palaces and mansions, nineteenth-century gardens, and some of the best beaches in Portugal. Sintra is less saturated by tourism than Cascais and has a lot more affordable apartments for rent. However, it is still an exclusive vacation location, where certain real estate can often go for millions.
Photo by Miguel Bernardo (Unsplash)
House Rental Culture in Portugal
Adverts
It can feel daunting to navigate the rental culture in Portugal, particularly Lisbon. When you’re looking for a rental online, you might be shocked to find that most adverts include little information. Many might just say “T1 available in Lisbon” without the price. You will have to contact the person, usually via telephone rather than email to get more information.
Can you negotiate rent prices in Portugal?
The good thing about rental culture in Portugal is that prices are often negotiable, but this is not always the case in Lisbon. However, it never hurts to try! You might be successful at negotiating the price, particularly during winter in Lisbon, as during the months of February and October, many landlords are set on short-term rentals for tourists.
Lack of Contracts
An unusual factor about renting in Lisbon is that you might not get a contract which is not advisable. Many landlords choose not to declare their rental income in order to not pay the tax for non-tourism properties set at 28%. This is obviously illegal. What’s even worse is that as a tenant you will have no protection against rent increases, security of your deposit, and will waver all your tenant rights essentially. If you need a rental contract for a residency permit, this is also a huge issue. If landlords do choose to declare it and provide you with a contract, they will most likely add this 28% to your rent. The extra money seems to be worth the safety (and ethics).
Tenant Rights
Again, having an official contract is crucial to ensure your tenancy rights are protected under Portuguese law. If this is the case, Portugal is one of the best countries to live in terms of tenant rights. Tenancy laws in Portugal tend to favor tenants as it can be hard for landlords to evict tenants on long-term contracts. In fact, Portugal’s laws protect people living at a place for over 15 years that are over 65 years old or people living with disabilities from getting evicted. Landlords need to renovate contracts in these cases. There are also laws to protect tenants from harassment and discrimination so if a landlord is harassing you at your home or engaging in offensive behavior, this is illegal. Also, if a landlord needs to renovate a home and the tenant needs to leave the space to do so, the landlord must find temporary accommodation for the tenant in the same region. The tenant also has the right to be refunded for any paid renovations that are necessary. While in cities like Amsterdam there are rules about the number of people who can live in a home, tenants in Portugal have the right to live in a rental with their family up to the third degree and their partners. Tenants can also have three extra guests at any time.
To rent an apartment in Portugal you will need your Individual Tax Identification Number, also known as a NIF, as well as your identification documents. Only then can you sign a rental contract, known as a Contrato de Arrendamento. A rental contract in Portugal is the same as anywhere else, a document that establishes the duties and rights of the landlord and tenant. A rental contract will include the following:
The identification of the landlord and tenant, including date of birth, nationality, and civil status
The address of the house
The number and date of the house’s license
The rent amount and when it must be paid. It might also include whether the rent can be altered. If not, the rent will be altered in accordance with inflation rates.
The date of the contract
Keep in mind that while real estate agents can provide translators, rental contracts are usually in Portuguese. We recommend hiring a translator.
You will have to pay a rental deposit to the landlord as a security deposit, usually amounting to two months rent. There is no set scheme for how long your landlord can hold your deposit, like in most countries in Europe. Some tenants agree to hold the deposit in an escrow account which cannot be touched by the landlord or tenant. You could even share the earned interest on the deposit in the escrow account.
However, for many landlords in Lisbon a deposit isn’t enough and they will require a guarantor, also known as a fiador. If you can’t provide a fiador, you might be asked to many a lot more rent upfront, usually 6 to 12 months. A guarantor is someone who will be legally obliged to pay your rent if you are unable to pay the landlord. The guarantor must be Portuguese, which can be tough if you are new to the country. They must also prove that they have the financial means, usually by submitting tax returns or payment slips. However, a bank can also be your guarantor for a fee through a service called Garantia Bancária. If you still cannot find a fiador, you will need to pay those 6 to 12 months upfront. For a €975 apartment, this would amount to almost €12,000.
Want to move out of a rented apartment in Portugal?
This is uncommon in Europe, but many rental contracts in Portugal allow you to leave a third of the way through the contract. However, you still need to go through the legal steps of moving out, going through the inventory and giving notice.
If you have more than a year left on your contract, you must give 120 days notice. If you have less than a year left, usually 60 days is enough. But if your landlord has breached your contract in any way, you can end the tenancy earlier, like by not conducting important renovations. Keep in mind that your landlord can also serve notice if, for example, they want to move in themselves. The landlord would need to notify you six months in advance. If you have an open-ended contract, the landlord would need to notify you two years in advance.
You’ll also need to go through the rental’s inventory. Before you move in, you would have signed an inventory document that lists any items in the property. When you want to move, you will have to go through this with your landlord to make sure nothing is gone or massively damaged. If everything is well, you will have your deposit returned. However, once again, there is no strict date on when this must be done.
Housing Benefits in Portugal
Portugal offers a program called Porta 65, a financial support system to help pay rent for young people, people who are isolated, in one-person households or cohabitating. You can only apply for Porta 65 if you are between the ages of 18 and 35 and the support only lasts for a maximum of 12 months. Other housing benefits are available for people living under extreme poverty, including access to social housing.
If you can afford to buy a house in Lisbon, this is a better investment than renting as homes continue to increase in value. No one can know for sure if this will be the case for the next decade, but post-COVID the market value is supposed to grow even further.
You also do not need to live in Portugal or be a resident to purchase a house in Portugal. All you need is an Individual Tax Identification Number which you can obtain by opening a Portuguese bank account. Buying a house in Portugal can also make you eligible for the Portugal Golden Visa, allowing you to obtain permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 6 years. However, expect to have to purchase a house of €500,000 or at least €350,000 under certain conditions.
For more information on how to buy a house in Portugal, take a look at our International Guide to Real Estate in Portugal. From an overview of the property market, to where to buy a house, property taxes, and obtaining Portuguese residency, our guide goes into every single detail.
If you’re considering moving to Lisbon, the cost of living is something to consider. Lisbon has the highest cost of living in the country. However, it is still cheaper than most European capitals. Lisbon is 35% cheaper than Amsterdam and 40% cheaper than London. According to Numbeo, the monthly costs for a family of four in Lisbon are around €2,000 without rent. A single person’s monthly costs are less than €600 without rent.
Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich has allegedly been a victim of suspected poisoning at peace talks, as well as Ukrainian peace negotiators at the Ukraine-Belarus border on March 3. The Chelsea FC Owner and two Ukrainian peace negotiators have now allegedly recovered, but reportedly suffered sore eyes and peeling skin.
However, an unnamed US official has also told Reuters that the symptoms were due to “environmental factors”, rather than poisoning. A Ukrainian official also told the BBC that the Ukrainian peace negotiators were well and that the story was “false”.
The BBC was told by a source that Abramovich will continue with negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. He has met Ukrainian president Zelensky and traveled between Moscow and Kyiv various times.
Bellingcat can confirm that three members of the delegation attending the peace talks between Ukraine and Russia on the night of 3 to 4 March 2022 experienced symptoms consistent with poisoning with chemical weapons. One of victims was Russian entrepreneur Roman Abramovich. https://t.co/DJaZ4CoL8J
Roman Abramovich was given Portuguese citizenship in April of 2021 through a Portuguese law that offered naturalization to descendants of Sephardic Jews who were expelled from Portugal around 500 years ago during the inquisition. Over 57,000 descendants of Sephardic Jews have been granted Portuguese citizenship since the implementation of this law in 2015.
Abramovich has been one of the Russian oligarchs sanctioned by the EU and UK after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Portugal has not banned him from entering the country as he is a Portuguese citizen. However, the Portuguese government announced that even those with citizenship will face EU sanctions.
From limpets to meat skewers, Madeira‘s diverse gastronomy is a staple of Portugal’s cultural heritage. While the archipelago is mostly known for its summer climate, stunning landscapes, and tropical beaches, a trip to Madeira is not complete without quality dining experiences. Our list of the 13 best restaurants in Madeira will allow you to do just that while avoiding the low-quality “tourist traps”. Over 1 million tourists travel to Madeira island every year, but not all of them are lucky enough to know the best spots to eat at.
Located in the center of Funchal, O Celeiro opened in 1986, making it one of the oldest restaurants in the region. The restaurant features traditional wood, regional tapestries, and the iconic Portuguese ajulezo. This place serves authentic food from Madeira sourced from fresh local products. We recommend trying out their octopus and pepper steak. A meal here costs around €30.
Photo provided by restaurantPhoto provided by restaurant
2. Restaurante Il Gallo D’Oro
Located on the 5-star hotel The Cliff Bay in Funchal, Il Gallo d’Oro was the first restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star in 2004. Now, the restaurant has two Michelin stars and is known for its gastronomic sustainability. Under French Chef Benoit Sinthon, the menu is inspired by Iberian cuisine and uses local ingredients from Madeira, many even sourced from the PortoBay vegetable garden. The restaurant offers tasting menus, from 7 to 11 dishes. A meal for two people costs around €120.
3. Quinta do Furão
Quinta do Furao opened in 1993 and offers a mixture of traditional Madeira gastronomy and international cuisine, sourcing local products to create delicious dishes. This place has an indoor and outdoor area that provides a stunning view of the ocean and mountains. The menu offers a balanced blend of typical Madeira gastronomy and international cuisine, tending to use organic and local products. We recommend trying the limpets and their baked octopus. A meal for two people costs around €60.
Photograph provided by restaurant.Photograph provided by restaurant.
4. The Snug
The Snug is a trendy restaurant with a modern interior featuring cork accents and plants. The perfect spot for a large meal or a few small bites with a drink in hand, The Snug offers a varied menu attentive to all taste buds. This place is known for its Insta worthy milkshakes, juicy burgers, and mac and cheese. A meal here for two people costs around €30.
Photo provided by restaurant.Photo provided by restaurant.
5. Armazem do Sal
Located in Funchal, Armazem do Sal serves authentic dishes from Madeira with a fine dining twist in the restaurant’s three different spaces. The meals here are prepared to ensure a sophisticated dining experience with luxurious plating. You can enjoy a meal here while listening to live music and having a taste of an extensive wine list. Armazem do Sal offers various an affordable tasting menu for less than €55 which includes a starter, fish and meat dish, dessert, and more.
Photo provided by restaurant.
6. Real Canoa
Real Canoa is located near the Hotel Pestana Grand and offers traditional cuisine from Madeira with a contemporary interpretation. This place is known for its friendly staff and daily live music for a unique experience. We recommend the sirloin steak with mushroom sauce and the tuna fish on the stone. Real Canoa is extremely affordable for its quality as you can get a meal for two here for €30.
Photo provided by restaurantPhoto provided by restaurant.
7. Casal da Penha
We can get behind Casal da Penha’s motto: “We don’t cook fast food. We cook homemade honest food as fast as we can”. This family-run restaurant has a high-end interior room and two outdoor spaces to enjoy a meal under the stars. Casal da Penha offers a simple menu with traditional products, allowing them to speak for themselves. We recommend the clams fried with garlic and lemon, the limpets, and their selection of paellas. A meal for two people here will cost you €25.
8. Casa da Sogra
For a home cooked meal in Madeira, Casa da Sogra is the place to go. The restaurant’s name literally translates to “the mother-in-law’s house”. The family restaurant has one of the best views of the city of Funchal. We recommend trying their fresh prawns, monkfish, and steak topped with a fried egg. A meal here for two people won’t cost you more than €40.
Photo provided by restaurant.Photo provided by restaurant.Photo provided by restaurant.
9. Adega Tipica do Funchal
If a restaurant has a prato do dia (dish of the day), you know it’s authentic. Adega Tipica is located in Funchal and is the epitome of a Portuguese tasca (tavern). From baked octopus to migas, every dish at this place is cooked to perfections and reflects the flavors of the island of Madeira. You can get a meal here for less than €30 for two people.
Photo provided by restaurant.Photo provided by restaurant.
10. Beef & Wines
A fusion of New Zealand’s best meats and Portuguese wines, Beef & Wines offers a creative interpretation of Portuguese cuisine. But don’t let this place’s name fool you, Beef & Wine has a diverse menu from seafood dishes and risottos, along with their signature meat dishes. Beef & Wines even serves delicious vegan and vegetarian alternatives for plant-based guests. We recommend trying out the fishermen’s stew and the slow-cooked oxtail. A meal for two people will cost you around €40.
Photo provided by restaurantPhoto provided by restaurant
11. Casa Velha Funchal
Built in the middle of a green garden, Casa Velha Funchal is located in a quaint house for a homey, yet elevated feel. This place has been open for over 25 years, making it one of the best established restaurants in Madeira. Known for its high-quality traditional dishes and welcoming environment, it’s surprising how affordable their prices are. A meal here for two people will cost around €40.
12. Hemingway
Close to the stunning Capela Nossa Senhora da Penha de Franca, Hemingway has a classic interior with bright green walls and flowery wallpaper. With a friendly and young staff, Hemingway is both a local and tourist favorite. We recommend the Wellington steak and the baked cod. A meal here for two people costs around €40.
Photo provided by restaurantPhoto provided by restaurant
13. Casa das Espetadas
You cannot visit Madeira without trying the traditional espetadas (skewers). Casa das Espetadas is the perfect spot to taste this authentic dish, with an interior that reflects Madeira’s traditions and cultural heritage. You can try out a variety of different skewers, from chicken, tuna, as well as pork and cow meat. We also recommend trying out the Bolo do Caco, a special flat bread from Madeira that is baked in a fire in front of you. A meal here will cost you €40.
⬇️Please share your favorite restaurants in Madeira in the comments below ⬇️
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