When we talk about Portugal, its gentle way of life, the most frequent reference is the Algarve, the southernmost region of the peninsula. It has many assets. But it would be a shame to miss out on opportunities by not taking an interest in the other regions of Portugal. Indeed, the country offers multiple facets that must be taken into account. And then, one must also imagine what life will be like in the chosen city in the middle of winter and not focus on a first impression in the middle of summer, so to speak.

The different regions of Portugal

Portugal can be roughly categorized into several regions that offer common characteristics. There is inevitably one that corresponds to your expectations, to your lifestyle. Let’s take a look.

If the north of Portugal is a region less known than its neighbors in terms of destination, it is a place that definitely deserves to be visited because it has a lot to offer. The capital of the northern region of Portugal is Porto, a city not to be missed. However, other destinations are also worth a visit, such as Braga, Caminha, Amarante or Guimarães. The north of Portugal is an authentic place to live. The weather is beautiful most of the year. The winter brings its coolness and a little rain.

Learn more about the north of Portugal

The center of Portugal is not as well known as the southern region closer to the sea and known for its high summer temperatures. However, the center has more than interesting assets. If we were to consider one criterion that encourages us to favor the central region of Portugal, it is the quality of life that it offers. Thus, the central position of this region means that it has a lot to offer both on the sea side, with a wide Atlantic front, and on the mountain side with its border with Spain. The most important thing to remember about the central region of Portugal is its still authentic aspect. It is a region that is starting to become more dynamic through numerous projects, but also through the beginning of an opening up, especially for tourism. In winter, the temperatures are much less harsh than in the north of Portugal.

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The Algarve is the smallest region in Portugal, but it alone receives nearly 5 million tourists per year. It is the tourist region par excellence. If the Algarve benefits from all the cultural and historical heritage of Portugal, its superb coastline has quickly made it a world-renowned region. The Algarve is a concentrate of Portugal. From peaceful beaches to trendy nightlife, the Algarve will never cease to amaze you.

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In the heart of Portugal lies the famous region of Lisbon. A must for anyone who wants to discover this country, this rich region has maintained its past while opening up to modernism. The result is a multifaceted region that will amaze you throughout your stay. The Lisbon region is very varied. It mixes a cosmopolitan city, rich in history and authenticity, with preserved natural landscapes. The pace of life in the Lisbon area is both peaceful and hectic, depending on whether you are listening to fado during a candlelit dinner in the restaurants of the upper town or going out to enjoy yourself in the trendy and fashionable places.

Learn more about Lisbon and its region

Specificity of Portugal: its river beaches

The river beaches are real oases during the hottest months. Between valleys and mountains, the most refreshing secrets of Central Portugal are hidden. These small paradises, which combine the best of nature and well-being, prove to be the destination. Whether you are looking for a natural landscape with all the comforts of modern times or a more rustic experience in the middle of the wilderness, the river beaches of Central Portugal are your destination of choice.

From a tourist point of view, it is also worth mentioning the beautiful sea beaches of Portugal that adorn many postcards. If you love the ocean and the fresh sea air then you may want to consider settling near or even “on” one of these beaches.

Personally, we have chosen to settle in Vergao, in the central region of Portugal.