While Lisbon and Porto tend to dominate the conversation about moving to Portugal, several smaller cities offer an exceptional quality of life at a more relaxed pace. Not all of us are big city people, and we wanted to cover a few cities for people that appreciate being closer to nature and escaping the crowds. Some of our selected cities are still quite popular, but they are less hectic than Portugal’s two biggest cities. Here’s an in-depth look at five cities that deserve your consideration for both a visit and maybe even a future place to live.

1. Cascais

Cascais has transformed from a quiet fishing village into Portugal’s most exclusive coastal community. Located just 30 kilometers west of Lisbon, this elegant town offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. The city center features well-maintained cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries, while maintaining its authentic Portuguese character.

The city’s quality of life is enhanced by its excellent infrastructure, including international schools, modern healthcare facilities, and efficient public transportation. The microclimate is particularly appealing, with mild winters and pleasant summers moderated by Atlantic breezes. Cascais’s three main beaches – Praia da Conceição, Praia da Rainha, and Praia da Duquesa – provide year-round opportunities for recreation.

Cultural life thrives here, with the Paula Rego Museum, the Cascais Cultural Center, and numerous festivals throughout the year. The city’s proximity to Sintra‘s UNESCO World Heritage sites and Lisbon’s international airport makes it an ideal base for both cultural exploration and global connectivity. The Cascais Marina, one of the most prestigious in Portugal, adds to the city’s appeal with its sailing schools and water sports facilities.

2. Lagos

Lagos stands out in the Algarve region for its perfect combination of natural beauty and accessibility to infrastructure and a variety of cuisines. The city has managed to preserve its authentic character while developing into a modern, livable community. Its stunning coastline features the famous Ponta da Piedade cliffs and some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches, including Praia Dona Ana and Meia Praia.

The historic center, enclosed by 16th-century walls, offers a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime history. The city has invested significantly in infrastructure, including modern healthcare facilities and educational institutions. The local market, fresh seafood restaurants, and year-round cultural events create a lively community atmosphere.

Lagos’s economy benefits from sustainable tourism and a growing digital nomad and expat community. The city’s commitment to environmental protection has resulted in excellent water quality and well-maintained public spaces. The recent development of co-working spaces and tech hubs has also attracted a younger, internationally-minded population.

3. Torres Vedras

Often overlooked by international visitors, Torres Vedras is a short 45-minute drive north from the center of Lisbon. The city has won multiple European awards for its green initiatives and smart city solutions, complete with green spaces and a riverside walk.

The city’s commitment to sustainability extends to its public transportation system, which includes electric buses and an extensive network of cycling paths. The local economy is diversified, with strong agricultural, technology, and service sectors. The nearby beaches, including beautiful Santa Cruz, are only a 15-minute drive away and provide the perfect place to relax and enjoy a coffee or take a walk with your dog. 

Torres Vedras is particularly notable for its quality of life indicators, including excellent air quality, low crime rates, and affordable housing compared to larger coastal cities. The city’s famous carnival, one of Portugal’s oldest and most authentic, demonstrates its strong community spirit and cultural vitality. The recent establishment of several research centers focused on sustainable agriculture and renewable energy has created new employment opportunities and attracted environmental scientists and researchers.

4. Matosinhos

Just north of Porto, Matosinhos has developed into a distinct city with its own strong identity. Known as Portugal’s seafood capital, the city offers an unparalleled gastronomic scene, with around 600 seafood restaurants, the highest concentration per square meter in Europe.

Like Cascais, Matosinhos is close to a big city but has more laid-back vibes. It has invested heavily in public infrastructure including the expansion of the Metro do Porto network and the development of extensive seaside promenades. The city’s beaches are popular with surfers, and the port area has been revitalized with cultural spaces and cozy cafés.

The cost of living remains reasonable compared to Porto, while offering many of the same advantages. The city’s strong educational institutions, including several technical schools and proximity to Porto’s universities, make it attractive for families and young professionals. The recent plan to build “Fuse Valley,” a 24-building complex combining offices, housing, and a variety of services has brought even more interest to the area.

5. Fundão

Fundão, located in the Beira Baixa region, represents the future of Portugal’s interior cities. The city has successfully attracted tech companies and remote workers through innovative programs and high-quality digital infrastructure. The surrounding Serra da Estrela mountains provide spectacular natural scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.

The city is famous for its cherry production and has leveraged this agricultural heritage to develop food tourism and agricultural technology initiatives. Its cheese was also recently voted as the best in the world. Housing costs are significantly lower than in coastal areas, while the quality of life remains high. The local government has implemented successful programs to attract young families and entrepreneurs, including subsidized housing and business incubation support.

Recent investments in renewable energy and smart agriculture have positioned Fundão as a leader in sustainable development among interior cities. The city’s Living Lab program, which tests innovative urban solutions, has attracted international attention and funding for further development projects.

Bonus City: Montemor-o-Novo

We wanted to leave you with a bonus today – the growing city of Montemor-o-Novo in the Alentejo region, just over an hour drive from Lisbon. The city has gained attention for its cultural initiatives, including the innovative O Espaço do Tempo performing arts center housed in a converted monastery. Its strategic location between Lisbon and Évora, combined with affordable living costs and a strong sense of community, makes it increasingly attractive to artists, remote workers, and those looking for a more sustainable and affordable lifestyle.

The city has recently expanded its cultural programs with new artist residency options and a contemporary art center. The surrounding cork forests and vineyards provide both economic opportunities and beautiful natural settings for outdoor activities in the region.

Final Thoughts

As Portugal continues to attract international attention, these smaller cities provide attractive alternatives to the country’s major metropolitan areas. They often offer better value, stronger community connections, and a more authentic Portuguese lifestyle. The ongoing development of digital infrastructure and sustainable practices in these cities suggests their appeal will only grow in the coming years.