Last Updated on July 16, 2022
Have you heard of the silver coast in Portugal? Here are some of the amazing facts and what you should know about Costa de Prata.
The Silver Coast of Portugal, also known as the Costa de Prata is a region in Portugal that stretches from Lisbon to Figueira da Foz, though on some searches, the area can be defined as far north as Porto.
When people think of Portugal, usually they think of the Algarve, yet the relatively unknown Silver Coast has so much more to offer than just sun and sea. Those who live on the Silver Coast enjoy everything that traditional Portuguese culture has to offer, a high standard of living at a more relaxed pace. And it’s not only the incredible scenery that’s a plus, but there is also access to excellent healthcare and educational facilities.
Fairs and festivals run throughout the year, so you can always guarantee there will be interesting cultural events to look forward to.
It also boasts a number of excellent courses and is becoming a major destination for thousands of tourists who come to enjoy golfing. The region is home to some of the best golf courses in Europe and it is a great option for those who are passionate about the sport.
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Why should you live on the Silver Coast in Portugal?
The Silver Coast in Portugal is a stunning alternative to the Algarve. The coastline is wilder and untouched, with far less development than the crowded south.
It is also a popular destination for surfers, and beaches such as Peniche and Nazare are always busy with tourists from northern Europe.
Portugal’s Golden Visa
Portugal is also an excellent option for those who are considering relocating to Europe, specifically because of Portugal’s Golden Visa Scheme, which allows those who make substantial investments in property to acquire residency in the country. Do note that key Portugal Golden Visa changes came into force on 1 January 2022, which are set to change real estate investment options. From this date, investors were blocked from buying a property in Portugal’s key urban centers like Lisbon, Porto, and strips of the Silver Coast and the Algarve.
Proximity to major cities
Another of the many reasons to love the Silver Coast in Portugal is its proximity to Portugal’s major cities. With Lisbon to the south and Porto to the north, the Silver Coast is well situated in between both of Portugal’s largest urban centers. At the same time, it is inexpensive, authentic, and relatively undiscovered.
Great food
The cuisine from the Silver Coast in Portugal is some of the finest that Europe has to offer, and forms an integral part of the region’s culture. The area has a rich heritage, and tourists love the narrow, picturesque streets of the towns and villages that dot the countryside.
The regional agriculture also adds an authentic touch, with numerous small farms, vineyards, windmills as well as fruit trees. Many local farmers grow soft fruits such as grapes, melons, pumpkins, and maize.
Where is the Silver Coast in Portugal?
The Silver Coast is located about an hour north of Lisbon, situated between Porto and Lisbon. The fascinating region stretches from the majestic mountains of the Serra da Estrela to the stunning beaches of the west coast and includes the historic cities of Tomar and Coimbra. These days the area is becoming more widely considered to be a suitable alternative to the Algarve. Portugal’s Silver Coast boasts a spectacular coastline of around 150km and is frequently referred to as “the real Portugal” by visitors.
What’s the cost of living in the Silver Coast?
Homes on the Silver Coast cost anywhere between €250,000 and €1m. Properties in the central area of the Silver Coast in Portugal start at around €70,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. The cost of living in Portugal is lower than what expats might expect in the UK. People moving to Portugal can expect to spend less on food, utilities, rent, etc.
What’s the weather like in Silver Coast?
Just like the rest of Portugal, the Silver Coast has a moderate climate. July and August are the hottest months of the year and average temperatures can get as high as 30 °C (86 °F).
In the winter average temperatures fall to about 15 °C (59 °F). December tends to be the wettest month, and there is an average of around 135 hours of sunshine per month in the winter and 300 in the summer.
Where are the best places to live on the Silver Coast?
Tourists in the central Silver Coast in Portugal will be impressed with the ease at which they can find rental accommodation. The area has numerous hotels, B&Bs, lodges, and hostels which are as varied as the needs of the visitors. One of the region’s best-known resorts is the Praia D’El Rey Golf and Beach Resort, which attracts over 200,000 visitors per year.