Whether you’re searching for cheap land for sale in Portugal or thinking about buying a property in Portugal, we’ve crunched the numbers to create a list of the best destinations to buy cheap property in Portugal 2024.
From the sun-drenched town of Silves to the historic village of Sameice e Santa Eulália, each location presents an affordable opportunity for prospective investors interested in buying property in Portugal. Read on to discover the cheapest places to buy cheap property in Portugal in 2024.
If you’re a self-confessed sun-worshipper, buying a property on the Algarve is sure to tick all of your boxes. Silves basks in 300 days of sun per year, what’s not to love?! Great for year-round hiking, walking and outdoor adventures, Silves is an excellent base to explore the beauty of the Algarve coast. Silves is also well-known for its wine production - it has more wineries than any other municipality in the Algarve. Many of these wineries offer tours and wine tastings, perfect for wine lovers.
Why move to Silves, Algarve?
If you’re seeking postcard-worthy views, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s a rugged coastline and scenic countryside, not to mention the dreamy orange-coloured rooftops and white facades set against the backdrop of Silves Castle (the largest castle in the Algarve region). Aside from its natural beauty and Mediterranean climate, Silves is quieter than the surrounding cities and towns but still just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Albufeira, Faro, and Lagos. Faro International Airport is a 45-minute drive away.
Connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful way of life in the warm and welcoming community of Penela. Surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls, Penela is one of the most affordable places to buy a budget property in Portugal, making it a dream destination if you want to stretch your budget without compromising on space or quality. A paradise for outdoorsy types, you can admire the incredible scenery or chill out on one of the tranquil river beaches. Whether you’re looking for a traditional stone cottage or a spacious modern villa, living in Penela means you’ll wake up to the sound of birdsong and the gentle breeze rustling through the trees.
Why move to Penela, Coimbra?
The village hosts a weekly traditional market, and vibrant Coimbra is a 30-minute drive away. The nearby village of Rabaçal is known for its cheese-making and Roman museum, and Penela is only a 90-minute drive from Porto.
Rio Maior is home to Estádio Municipal de Rio Maior, a modern and versatile sports complex used for football matches and athletic events, and the home ground of UD Rio Maior. Once an important mining centre, farming remains the primary occupation in the region, which has many large vineyards and orchards. Every March, the town springs to life with the Feira das Tasqiuinhas, an event designed to showcase the flavours of regional cuisine. Property-wise, you can buy anything from quaint village-style homes to enormous country retreats.
Why move to Rio Maior, Santarém?
If you’re looking for an authentic, laid-back Portuguese lifestyle, Rio Maior provides the ultimate blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. Living here also offers easy access to the coast - it’s only a 40-minute drive from the pristine coastal town of Peniche. If you want to travel further afield, Lisbon International Airport is a 55-minute drive away.
Nestled between a river and a mountain, Vila Nova de Cerveira is an artsy Portuguese village on the banks of the Minho River (which borders Spain.) Known as the village of the Portuguese stag, the town plays host to a lively Saturday market, and there’s a permanent municipal market selling fresh meat, fish and vegetables. The town’s riverside location makes it a brilliant spot for outdoor activities - why not take advantage of the cycle path running alongside the river to Valença? You can also hire a kayak, join a boat trip on the river, or relax on the river beach. The riverside Castelinho park features an array of permanent art installations, as well as a mini golf course, climbing wall and aquarium. The town has a rich heritage, including a fascinating old town with a castle that dates back to 1321.
Why move to Vila Nova de Cerveira, Viana do Castelo
There’s a biennial arts festival, and you’ll see interesting art sculptures dotted around the town. Living here is also a great choice for foodies, with no shortage of restaurants, pizzerias, cafes and brasseries in and around the town. Vila Nova de Cerveira is 17 km from the fortress town of Valença and 15 minutes (by car) from Caminha, where you can catch a ferry to Spain. Foz do Minho’s sandy beach is around 15 minutes away, and there are many other lovely beaches in Moledo and Vila Praia de Alcora, which are just a short drive from Vila Nova de Cerveira.
This medieval town sits imposingly above an ancient, well-preserved castle (and one of Portugal’s most innovative 15th-century military architectural works.) Close to Portugal’s Silver Coast (a stretch of ancient coastal towns, incredible beaches and rugged coastline) and just 15 km from Fatima, it’s a quiet, pretty village with magnificent views. The pace of life is slow, and you can easily walk around the whole town, including the castle, in about one hour.
Why move to Ourém, Santarém
If you’re looking for a relaxed place to live in Portugal, this could be the ideal choice. It’s also well-connected with excellent road links via the A1 and IC9. Caxarias is around 12 km away and provides good rail access via the Northern Line.
Famous for its creamy Serra-type cheeses (don’t miss the annual cheese festival in February!), this historic agricultural hilltop town has an iconic castle, fortified walls and well-preserved medieval architecture. The charming cobbled streets are lined with white-washed houses, and historic monuments like the convent church of Santo António (with its flamboyant azulejo glazed tile panels) which provides a glimpse into the town’s fascinating past. The vibe here is authentic, with a close-knit community, a relaxed way of life and the opportunity to join in with cultural traditions. Serpa is inside the picturesque Alentejo region - think rolling plains, olive groves and vineyards - so there are countless opportunities for walking, hiking or simply enjoying the scenery in the Mediterranean sunshine.
Why move to Serpa, Beja?
Despite its rural charm, Serpa is close to all the essential amenities and services, including schools, shops and healthcare facilities. It’s also only 30 km from the Spanish border. A 25-minute drive takes you to the city of Beja, and it’s 50 km from Alqueva Lake, Europe’s largest reservoir.
Chaves thermal springs have been cherished for centuries, thanks to their therapeutic properties. Living in Chaves means you can focus on health and relaxation as you enjoy spa treatments, wellness activities or a rejuvenating bath in the natural hot springs! Rural Chaves has a rich history and cultural heritage, with plenty of ancient Roman architecture to discover inside the attractive historic centre. The medieval castle, Roman Bridge, and Forte de São Francisco are just some of the city’s iconic landmarks. Chaves is also a haven for foodies - it’s known for its hearty dishes, including posta barrosã (grilled beef), savoury sausages, and delectable pastries, including the local speciality, pastel de Chaves.
Why move to Chaves, Vila Real?
Chaves is near the Spanish border, and its proximity to major roads and transport routes makes it a fantastic gateway if you want to explore Portugal and Galicia. It’s also close to Peneda-Gerês National Park which offers easy access to pristine wilderness areas, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation.
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Guarda district, Sameice e Santa Eulália is a historic village with easy access to green forests and picturesque countryside. Ideal for outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options for hiking, cycling or wildlife watching. Despite its rural setting, Sameice e Santa Eulália is conveniently located close to Guarda (the highest city in Portugal), where you’ll find shopping centres, healthcare facilities and cultural attractions. Buying a property here means you’ll be able to enjoy an authentic Portuguese lifestyle, and it’s a great option if you’re thinking about retiring to Portugal.
Why move to Sameice e Santa Eulália, Guarda?
Sameice e Santa Eulália enjoys a rural location in central Portugal. It’s around 173 km from Porto Airport and 300 km from Lisbon. You can take a scenic drive through the countryside to nearby villages or enjoy day trips to Serra da Estrela Natural Park, historic towns like Belmonte and Covilhã or the Douro Valley wine region.
Find your dream property in Sameice e Santa Eulália
This attractive town provides picturesque views of the Zêzere River and an idyllic backdrop for outdoor activities like boating, hiking and picnicking. As well as being close to the Zêzere River, it’s also near the Castelo do Bode reservoir and the crystal-clear waters of the Lago Azul, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding. Historic landmarks include the Nossa Senhora do Pranto Church, Manueline-style pillory and medieval castle ruins. The town has a well-maintained infrastructure with well-rated healthcare facilities, schools and shops. The town is surrounded by valleys, pine forests, streams and sleepy villages.
Why move to Ferreira do Zêzere, Santarém?
It’s conveniently located in central Portugal, with straightforward access to major cities like Porto, Lisbon and Coimbra. It also offers easy access to popular tourist spots such as Tomar, Fátima, and the Aldeias do Xisto (Schist Villages). It’s a 15-minute drive from Dornes, home to a water sports centre where you can hire canoes and pedalos or hop on a boat trip. It is 17 km from the castle in Tomar, a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage site. The floating beach and pool in Praia Fluvial do Lago is 15 minutes away, and there is a sandy beach on the lake in the village of Praia Fluvial da Barraida (9.5 km).
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Minho region (known for its hills, greenery and pristine rivers), Arcos de Valdevez lies close to Peneda-Gerês National Park, where you can explore picturesque hiking trails and enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing, fishing and birdwatching. The town itself is charming, with its narrow cobbled streets, traditional architecture and historic landmarks. Wander through the medieval streets, visit the parish church of São Salvador, and admire the Ponte Romana, a Roman bridge dating back to the 1st century. And if you’re looking for culture, you can join in with local festivals like the Feira do Presunto (Ham Fair) and the Festas de Nossa Senhora da Lapa, a showcase of traditional music, dance and gastronomy. Arcos de Valdeves is famous for its smoked meats, artisanal cheese and Vinho Verde wines.
Why move to Arcos de Valdevez, Viana do Castelo?
Despite its rural charm, Arcos de Valdeves offers good access to healthcare facilities, schools, supermarkets and things to do. It’s strategically located in the heart of the Minho region and provides easy access to major cities such as Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Porto.
Set in central Portugal, Sertã is steeped in history and architectural heritage. Home to an assortment of medieval buildings, the cobbled streets are lined with ancient landmarks and historic sites, including Sertã Castle, the 16th-century Matriz Church, and the charming old town centre. Sertã is well-known for its hearty dishes, including grilled meats, savoury stews and artisanal cheeses. It’s conveniently located close to several natural parks and protected areas, including Serra da Estrela Natural Park and the Tejo Internacional Natural Park.
Why move to Sertã, Castelo Branco?
Although it’s in a rural setting, the infrastructure is well-developed and provides access to good schools, supermarkets, healthcare facilities and recreational activities. Sertã also provides easy access to major cities, including Porto, Coimbra and Lisbon.
Colvilã is a thriving university city with a vibrant cultural scene, including music festivals, art exhibitions and theatre productions. The city boasts a rich history and architectural heritage with medieval buildings, charming cobblestone streets and interesting ancient landmarks, including Torre dos Ferreiros, the Sé Cathedral, and the Santa Maria Church. The city is surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, where you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, skiing and paragliding. Covilhã is home to the University of Beira Interior, one of Portugal's leading universities known for its research programs and academic excellence, so it’s a great choice for students, academics and lifelong learners.
Why move to Covilhã, Castelo Branco?
Covilhã’s central location means it’s easy to get to major cities such as Coimbra, Porto and Lisbon. It’s also a great shout for foodies - Covilhã is known for its hearty mountain cuisine, including dishes such as chanfana (slow-cooked goat or lamb), trutas (trout), and queijadas (sweet cheese pastries).
