The 5 Best Cities in Portugal to Work Abroad

Thinking about working in Portugal? You’re not alone! This sunny country has become a top destination for expats looking for a great work-life balance, affordable living, and a thriving job market in industries like tourism, tech, and customer service. But where should you settle? Here are the 5 best cities in Portugal for expats looking to work and live the dream!

1. Lisbon: The City of Endless Opportunities

Lisbon is Portugal’s beating heart and the economic powerhouse of the country. If you're looking for a bustling international scene with job opportunities in tech, startups, and multinational companies like Google, Uber, and Amazon, this is your place. The city is packed with coworking spaces, networking events, and expat communities, making it easy to settle in and build connections.

Why you'll love it:

✅ Diverse job opportunities in tech, finance, and customer support. ✅ Rich cultural scene with music, art, and festivals all year round. ✅ Stunning views from the city's famous miradouros (viewpoints).

A few challenges:

❌ Cost of living is higher than in other Portuguese cities. ❌ Traffic can be chaotic, and parking is a nightmare.

2. Porto: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, has a charming, historic vibe but don’t be fooled—this place is booming with innovation. Many startups, tech companies, and shared service centers are setting up here, offering great opportunities in finance, digital marketing, and IT. Plus, the cost of living is lower than in Lisbon, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

Why you'll love it:

✅ Affordable living costs compared to Lisbon. ✅ A growing tech and business scene. ✅ Amazing food—especially the famous francesinha sandwich!

A few challenges:

❌ Rainy winters (bring a good umbrella!). ❌ The job market is smaller than Lisbon’s, so opportunities can be more competitive.

3. Braga: Portugal’s Hidden Gem for Young Professionals

Braga is one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. This youthful city is home to one of the country’s top universities, which fuels a dynamic startup ecosystem and a growing demand for tech and digital professionals. It’s also one of the most affordable cities to live in, making it an excellent choice for remote workers and those starting out.

Why you'll love it:

✅ One of the cheapest cities in Portugal to live in. ✅ A growing tech scene and lots of innovation hubs. ✅ Beautiful historic sites and a relaxed atmosphere.

A few challenges:

❌ Fewer job opportunities compared to Lisbon or Porto. ❌ The nightlife isn’t as lively as in bigger cities.

4. Faro: Work, Beach, Repeat

If you love sun, sea, and a laid-back lifestyle, Faro is calling your name! As the capital of the Algarve, this coastal gem thrives on tourism, so if you're looking for jobs in hospitality, customer service, or even remote work while enjoying a beachside lifestyle, this is the place for you. The expat community here is massive, so you'll never feel alone!

Why you'll love it:

✅ Amazing weather and stunning beaches. ✅ Great opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and customer service. ✅ Laid-back lifestyle with friendly locals.

A few challenges:

❌ Seasonal job market—many opportunities are summer-based. ❌ Not as many options for tech and corporate jobs.

5. Coimbra: Portugal’s Academic and Tech Hub

Coimbra is Portugal’s university city, and that means it's full of young, ambitious people. The city is a fantastic place to work if you're in education, research, or tech, with many startups choosing Coimbra as their base due to lower costs and access to a highly skilled workforce. Plus, living here is much cheaper than in Lisbon or Porto, making it perfect for those on a budget.

Why you'll love it:

✅ Low cost of living and rent. ✅ A young, energetic vibe thanks to the university crowd. ✅ Good opportunities in tech, education, and research.

A few challenges:

❌ The job market is smaller and more specialized. ❌ Nightlife and entertainment options are limited compared to bigger cities.

So, Where Should You Go?

Each of these cities has its own unique charm, and the best choice depends on your job sector and lifestyle preferences. Lisbon is perfect for ambitious professionals, Porto offers a mix of tradition and innovation, Braga is an affordable tech hotspot, Faro is ideal for beach lovers, and Coimbra is great for academics and researchers.

Wherever you choose, one thing is certain—Portugal is an incredible place to live and work. Ready to make the move? Check out the latest job offers in Portugal on CityJobOffers and start your next adventure!