If you’ve been following my daily country spotlights, you’ve probably noticed that Spain and Portugal both scored high for lifestyle, stability, and long-term property value.
I’ve lived in Spain for five years (Marbella life really is as good as it sounds) and have spent plenty of time scouting Portugal’s coastal towns and cities. They’re neighbours — but the feel, the markets, and the opportunities are surprisingly different.
If you’re deciding between the two, here’s my no-fluff, from-the-ground perspective.
Spain is energetic, colourful, and diverse. You’ve got bustling cities like Barcelona and Madrid, beach towns along the Costa del Sol, and quiet inland villages. Life runs on late lunches, evening walks, and year-round events.
Portugal is calmer. Smaller cities, slower pace, softer landscapes. Lisbon has energy, Porto has charm, and the Algarve has sunshine — but overall, Portugal feels more laid-back and intimate.
Spain:
Strong resale market, plenty of new-builds
Portugal:
New builds often pricier per m² than Spain, but lower running costs
Spain:
Portugal:
Digital nomads keep demand high
Spain:
Portugal:
Both countries tick the essentials: good transport, fresh markets, affordable dining, modern supermarkets, and excellent weather.
Spain has a broader rail network and more major cities
Portugal has smaller towns, easier bureaucracy for some visas, and lower living costs.
Spain: Golden Visa scrapped in 2024 — main options are Non-Lucrative Visa or Digital Nomad Visa
Portugal: Golden Visa still available for commercial/low-density property, plus D7 Visa and Digital Nomad Visa
Spain: Estepona (Costa del Sol), Alicante (Costa Blanca), Valencia, Mallorca
Portugal: Silver Coast (Nazaré, Caldas da Rainha), Lagos, Tavira, Cascais
Spain gives you variety, vibrancy, and larger cities. Portugal gives you calm, safety, and an intimate coastal lifestyle.
If you want more action and broader choice, go Spain. If you want peace, a gentler pace, and smaller communities, go Portugal.
Honestly? Many of my clients end up owning in both — living part-time in one and renting out the other.
Whether you’re leaning Spain, Portugal, or still on the fence, I can help you compare real listings, rental numbers, and visa options side-by-side.
📩 Email: elly@internationalpropertyalerts.com
📱 WhatsApp: +447796174253
📸 Instagram: @elly_international_property
About International Property Alerts
International Property Alerts is a premier global platform connecting real estate investors with handpicked opportunities in emerging and lifestyle-driven markets. Through curated listings, expert guidance, and market insights, we help buyers make confident property decisions worldwide.
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Phone: +44 7961 212181
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