Updated: December 2, 2024

Portugal has long been a firm favorite amongst retirees, with its sublime climate, affordable yet high quality of life, high levels of safety, outstanding amenities, and excellent healthcare key pull factors. While many retirees have locked in on the Algarve to enjoy their golden years, Lisbon, the country’s bustling capital, has also been cementing itself as a top destination for retirees to consider.

In this Complete Guide to Retirement Homes in Lisbon Portugal, we deep dive into Portugal’s captivating capital, providing key insights on retirement homes in and around the glittering capital.

Why choose Lisbon for retirement?

Portugal always ranks highly as one of the best retirement destinations. For example, Portugal ranks in second position in the Retirement Guide for US Citizens by the Intelligence Unit of our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions. Plus, if you are considering buying a property in Lisbon, you’ll find plenty of opportunity in terms of housing options.

Known for its vibrant lifestyle, high quality of life, welcoming population, and the fact that English is very widely spoken – ranking in sixth position in the 2024 Engish Proficiency Index – Portugal continues to be on the cards for retirees looking to capitalize on ensuring their retirement in style. And when it comes to Lisbon, Portugal’s fantastic capital, the city has ample to offer.

A vibrant lifestyle awaits

Lisbon provides retirees with a vibrant lifestyle, where it’s almost impossible to get bored. There will always be a new restaurant opening, a new art exhibition to check out, or a museum to explore. From exploring the city’s intricate architecture to enjoying the highly emotive Fado music, you’ll be able to enjoy the very best of the city. Plus, you’ll find beautiful parks and a delectable cuisine just waiting to be discovered.

High-quality healthcare and accessibility

Lisbon is home to excellent healthcare options, and if you are a resident, you’ll be able to access the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), the publicly-funded National Health Service. What’s even better is that, if you are over the age of 65, access to the SNS is completely free.

Alongside public healthcare, there are also extensive private healthcare facilities across the city. The advantage of private healthcare is shorter waiting times – plus private healthcare in Portugal is very affordable compared to the healthcare costs in other countries, particularly the USA so it can be worthwhile to explore private healthcare options.

GC-ICON-78Expat-friendly community

Establishing your network is fairly easy in Lisbon as you’ll find a large number of retirees and expats in a similar situation to your own, making it easy to make friends. Living in a retirement home, in particular, makes it easy to get to know fellow residents, where you’ll be able to engage in an array of activities, from tennis to yoga, from cooking classes to book clubs.

Types of Retirement Homes in Lisbon

There are many retirement home types in and around Lisbon, and you’ll want to first define your needs and what you want from the residence. Below, in this Retirement Homes in Lisbon Portugal, we provide some insights into three options that you’ll find in and around the Portuguese capital.

Independent living communities

Independent living communities are where seniors are looking to establish social networks while also valuing autonomy and independent living. Most independent senior living communities have shared amenities and communal dining areas, but often where each resident will have their own home, such as a private apartment.

Shared fitness centers, swimming pools, and organized activities make it easy for retirees to connect with each other, while there is always support on hand tailored to residents’ lifestyles.

Assisted living facilities

For retirees who require moderate support, assisted living options provide assistance with residents’ daily activities while ensuring privacy and independence. Here, residents will be well cared for and have personalized care, including assistance with mobility and meal preparation, and where activities are organized on their behalf. Many assisted living facilities have beautiful gardens and activity programs for residents to enjoy life to the fullest. You also have Continuing Care retirement communities (CCRCs) which provide a mix of independent living and assisted living, where residents can transition to a higher or lower level of care as required, without needing to move to a different facility,

Full-service retirement homes

Full-service retirement homes provide comprehensive medical support and a comfortable and secure environment that is usually tailored toward residents who have chronic conditions or who require more continuous attention. Services often include round-the-clock skilled nursing care, qualified medical assistance, and advanced medical amenities, while also promoting wellbeing and providing a community atmosphere.

Key Amenities and Services in Lisbon Retirement Homes

When scouting out the retirement homes in the Lisbon area, consider what amenities are essential. Part of this is determining the extent of autonomy you wish to have, and the level of care required. In this section of our Retirement Homes in Lisbon Portugal article, we provide some helpful tips on key services to consider seeking out.

Healthcare and wellness services

Direct access to quality healthcare is a priority for many retirees when choosing a retirement home in Lisbon. You should look for retirement homes that tick all the boxes when it comes to healthcare. Do they have on-site nursing staff? Are there regular medical checkups? Are there fitness classes so you can stay in the best shape? Ask the retirement home you are interested in for an overview of their healthcare plans and whether they are tailored to residents.

Dining and nutritional plans

Good nutrition and health go hand in hand, so make sure to ask about their dining and nutrition plans. Many homes will provide freshly prepared, local dishes, but be sure to ask how they tailor their food options to residents to cater to any special dietary requirements.

GC-ICON-69Social and recreational activities

It’s always good for the body and mind to try new experiences, so be sure to ask the retirement home that you are interested in about the hobbies on offer. Biking, water sports, and golfing are all excellent options to stay fit and healthy so ask about excursions. To keep your mind and debating skills in prime condition, also consider book clubs and other engaging activities that may be on offer, plus cooking or gardening classes.

Which retirement home is for you? Choosing the right location is the first step to ensuring you are making the right decision.

Central Lisbon

Retirees looking for a vibrant lifestyle opt for Lisbon, where there are many calm parks and tucked away cafés to get their fix of peace and quiet. Lisbon is the perfect mix of old world charm and modern living.

You’ll find some excellent restaurants, and there is always something going on, whether you enjoy a trip to the theatre, checking out the wide range of museums and art galleries, or simply strolling through the city – the host of cultural activities open to retirees is endless. Proximity to hospitals and excellent public transportation are added bonuses, while the Tagus River provides a postcard picture backdrop.

Cascais and Estoril

The ocean air does wonders for your health, and living in the seaside town of Cascais is sure to provide you with a high quality of life all year round. Just a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, you’ll have access to top amenities, excellent golf courses, and intricate architecture unlike anywhere in the country. Nearby, Estoril provides additional top retirement housing, such as the British Retirement Home, and ample green spaces, which are ideal for those prioritizing enjoying their golden years to the fullest.

Sintra and other locations

Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site to the north of Cascais, is a breathtaking destination that has to be seen to be believed. Magical palaces in the midst of nature and beautiful landscapes are key reasons why many expats head to Sintra. With excellent healthcare facilities and close to golden beaches that are less crowded than others closer to Lisbon, Sintra is a top place to consider retiring. The local area offers a slower pace of life with access to hiking trails through the Cascais Sintra Natural Park, natural beauty galore, and quaint local cafes.

Another popular option close to Lisbon is the Life Plan Resorts, a groundbreaking sanctuary nestled within the Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve, while the Cork Tree Residences is another popular option in Comporta, which has become one of the most highly-sought after spots in Portugal in recent years by foreign investors and lifestyle buyers.

Elsewhere in Portugal, if you are looking for a retirement village to relocate to, you will also find many options. You can find out more about Portugal’s retirement villages in our article.

Want to know how to snap up a property in Lisbon? Checkout our ultimate guide

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Cost and Practical Considerations

In the section below, we delve into the costs and practical considerations that will prove useful should you be seeking out a retirement home in Lisbon.

How much do retirement homes cost in Portugal?

While the cost will completely depend on the retirement home you opt for, with those providing a more hands-on approach costing more, assisted living costs can range from between €3,000 or €4,000 a month, although you may be able to find more affordable homes.

Residency requirements

While EU citizens will easily be able to relocate to Portugal, non-EU citizens planning to move will need to obtain a residency visa. For retirees, the Portugal D7 Visa—commonly referred to as the retirement visa or passive income visa—is a suitable choice. This visa allows individuals to relocate to Portugal if they have adequate passive income to support themselves (€820 per month). Portugal’s Golden Visa program is another top option, whereby you can secure residency by making a qualifying investment into the country. Investment options for Portugal’s Golden Visa begin at €250,000.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help You 

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert, impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered throughout the process.

If you are looking to purchase property in Portugal, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, helping you with the property search and offering insightful expertise and strategic advice.

Why choose Goldcrest?

  • Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
  • Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the perfect property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
  • Streamlined process: Our real estate agents speak English and Portuguese, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
  • Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
  • Network of partners: We have a close network of partners, including lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.

Frequently Asked Questions about Retirement Homes in Lisbon Portugal

Lisbon offers a few different retirement living options, including independent senior living communities for active retirees and assisted living for those needing daily support. Many will have stunning gardens, organize a range of outdoor activities, and have on-site healthcare support to keep residents in tip-top shape.

Lisbon combines a Mediterranean climate, vibrant culture, and affordability compared to other Western European cities. It offers modern healthcare, historic architecture, and proximity to beaches, where the good weather makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors throughout the year. Retirees appreciate its welcoming expat communities, accessible transportation, and delectable cuisine, making it a prime retirement destination in Europe.

Yes, Lisbon features independent living options designed for active retirees and for a maintenance free lifestyle. These include communities where residents will have independent living apartments or gated communities with fitness centers, gardens, and cultural events, allowing residents to enjoy autonomy while staying connected to a supportive community.

Essential services and amenities vary but often include private apartments, landscaped gardens, on-site dining, fitness programs, yoga classes, and social activities. Many homes also provide healthcare support, wellness services, and organize outings, golf trips, and other recreational activities.

Popular retirement neighborhoods include Belém for its historical charm and Estoril and Cascais for luxury living and proximity to the ocean, all a short distance from Lisbon city center but providing you with peace and quiet to enjoy your golden years.

Costs depend on the type of care and amenities. Assisted living costs can range from between €3,000 or €4,000 a month, although you may be able to find more affordable homes. If you are not looking to live in a retirement home, but to rent property or own your own place, you’ll find prices to be very affordable compared with other Western European countries.

While the level of healthcare services will depend on the home you opt for, Lisbon retirement homes usually provide comprehensive healthcare, including general medical care, world class amenities, emergency services, rehabilitation services, and direct access to medical professionals. Many integrate wellness programs and partnerships with local clinics and hospitals to ensure quality care.

If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need to secure a residency visa to relocate to Portugal. A good option for retirees is the Portugal D7 Visa, also known as the Retirement Visa, which also allows you to relocate to Portugal provided you have sufficient passive income. Portugal’s Golden Visa program is another option, where you can get residency by making a qualifying investment into Portugal.

Yes, social and recreational activities are common, such as fitness classes, cultural events, day trips, and arts programs. While the level of activities on offer will vary depending on the home you opt for, it fosters community engagement and supports an active, enjoyable lifestyle for residents.

Carefully consider your needs: Independence, care level, budget, and desired amenities. Visit facilities to assess their environment, staff, and services. Research reviews and ensure the home aligns with your lifestyle and health requirements.

Senior living refers to a variety of housing and lifestyle options designed to meet the needs and preferences of older adults, taking into account their interests and health considerations.