Updated: June 12, 2025

 

In the midst of a property boom, with increased demand and the value of properties continuing to rise, Lisbon has become one of the best cities to acquire property in Europe. Should you be scouting the best properties for sale in Lisbon, here we show you how to develop the best practices when embarking on your property hunt.

The average asking price for a property in Lisbon in 2024 was €6,934. In the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, the price is considerably lower, standing at €4,935 per square meter. While more expensive than other areas in Portugal, Lisbon remains competitively priced compared with other leading housing markets in Western Europe. 

Property for Sale in Lisbon: What You Need to Know

Lisbon’s allure as a top European destination to move to is backed up by countless studies highlighting the low living costs, warm weather, and safety aspects as key drivers to the city’s increased presence on a global scale.

According to the 2024 Expat City Ranking study by Internations, the majority of expats (74 percent) say they feel at home they are happy with living in Lisbon. The Portuguese capital offers a high quality of life, ranking 17th in the Quality of Life Index.

Can expats buy properties for sale in Lisbon?

Yes, expats will face no restrictions on buying houses for sale in Lisbon, or in any other locations in Portugal, one of the key reasons why so many foreigners are flocking to this charming city. However, it is important to know that increased demand has made it harder to find a property that matches your lifestyle needs and requirements.

To ensure you secure your ideal property for sale in Lisbon, we suggest that you invest in a professional buyer’s agent when looking for a property for sale in Lisbon.

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Property Types in Lisbon

Lisbon offers a wide range of property types, including modern apartments, historic mansions, and luxury villas, catering to diverse budgets and personal preferences. Apartments range in size, from smaller properties in the city center to more spacious apartments with views of the Tagus River.

You will also find many new developments in the city, often featuring modern finishes and amenities. For those seeking a villa, you’ll find several on the Lisbon coast leading from Oeiras to Cascais, many of which come with private pools. Lisbon has become a prized location for investors seeking out prime, luxury real estate, while properties in general in the city have strong capital appreciation potential and the prospect of high rental yields.

Where is the best place to buy property in Lisbon, Portugal?

A vibrant city, Lisbon stands out for its security, quality of life, ease of adaptation for expats, and bright and mild climate. But there are many more reasons for living in Portugal.

Property for sale in lisbon map

Top neighborhoods to invest in Lisbon real estate

Expats considering the move to Lisbon will be thrilled at the variety of neighborhoods, with each having its own distinct flair and character. From the old town of Alfama to the exciting buzz of Bairro Alto, there is something for any buyer. If you are looking for the best properties for sale in Lisbon, check out the neighborhoods below.

 

Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto is an iconic area of the city, known for its winding cobbled streets, lively nightlife, and bustling restaurants. However, there are considerations to be aware of when buying in this area, as there are a number of urban, architectural, and regulatory constraints. New developments in the area are characterized by the least intrusive interventions possible. Lisbon’s municipal council intends to mobilize municipal heritage, rehabilitate buildings that are abandoned, and integrate them in a qualification strategy.

Lapa and Santos

Lapa and Santos are Lisbon’s upmarket districts, home to parliament as well as being the residence of the prime minister and numerous embassies. The areas have a pleasant ambiance with an optimal supply of traditional shops, restaurants, schools, public transport, parks and hospitals. This part of the city has been a hit with expats in recent years, with many foreign nationals, including digital nomads and families, now living in this calm part of Lisbon

Avenidas Novas

When Lisbon expanded in the middle of the 20th century, it did so to the north, resulting in residential and business areas on long avenues. This area became known as Avenidas Novas, “the new avenues”, where beautiful palaces were originally built. Some original buildings have survived.

Avenidas Novas is, in many ways, the beating heart of the city, with this part of the city including Saldanha, which is the business hub in the city, although you’ll find terrific restaurants, boutique coffee shops, and spacious parks. The Avenidas Novas area is well served by transport, services, commerce, and schools, making it a top spot for those seeking to be in the central hub of the city. Depending on which part of the neighborhood you opt for, you’ll find several parts are very calm to live in. This balance of peace and hustle and bustle so close together makes Avenidas Novas a popular choice for many. 

Intendente and Mouraria

Intendente and Mouraria are central hubs in Lisbon, beloved by urban professionals. In Intendente, you are close to the metro, train stations, the Teatro Nacional D. Maria II Theater, and the Castelo de São Jorge. The Intendente is surrounded by various services such as trade, pharmacies, restaurants, and schools. It’s ideal for those who want to live or invest in a central and historical area of Lisbon, which continues to attract new restaurants and developments.

Campo de Ourique and Estrela

Campo de Ourique is one of the main old neighborhoods of Lisbon. The area has heritage evidence of a great tradition. Campo de Ourique is a relatively quiet area, with green spaces and streets that invite you to take long walks. Campo do Ourique and Estrela are popular with families and retirees looking for a taste of traditional Lisbon life, spacious parks, and some of the most welcoming cafes in the city.

Belém, Ajuda, and Restelo

Belém, Ajuda, and Restelo are located in the westernmost part of the city of Lisbon, next to the Tagus River. Considered the monumental area for excellence and uniqueness in the world, this part of Lisbon has two monuments classified by UNESCO as World Heritage. The Pastel de Nata (custard tart), hailing from Belém, is also arguably the best in the country. 

Its geographical position is beneficial, providing quick and easy access to central Lisbon, Cascais, and Sintra. It has all the services, shops, schools, hospitals, and transport you may need, and is considered one of Lisbon‘s most beautiful leisure areas. If you are looking for waterfront homes for sale in Lisbon, this part of the city could be the place for you to concentrate your efforts. 

You may also want to consider some affordable neighborhoods in Lisbon, such as Lisbon South Bay. For more information, read our up-to-date guide on Lisbon South Bay Real Estate.

Parque das Nações

The riverside area of Parque das Nações is unlike any other part of Lisbon. It’s a modern neighborhood, reminiscent of Canary Wharf in London, with the surrounding area offering all the amenities of modern urban life.

Parque das Nações offers all types of services and transport, such as Vasco da Gama Shopping Center, the Oriente train station, Lisbon casino, Marina, several incredible restaurants, pharmacies, hospitals, schools, and banks. This has become an excellent place to live and work. One of the great advantages of the area is its proximity to the airport and access to the highways.

Best Property for Sale in Lisbon Old Town

Alfama

Alfama is one of Lisbon’s most traditional neighborhoods. It is a meeting point for people from different cultures and, at the same time, a place that keeps its old popular traditions alive. There are several fado houses, bars, taverns, and cultural/sports collectives alongside quaint restaurants and cafes.

Graça

Lisbon’s highest hill, Graça, overlooks the city, the Castle, and the River Tagus. The area has many restaurants and parks, where you can experience the real, traditional Lisbon. While Alfama can get busy with tourists in the summer months, Graça provides a quieter alternative.

Properties for Sale on the Lisbon Coast, Portugal

Greater Lisbon Map

The Portuguese Riviera must be one of the most spectacular coastal regions in Europe. If you’re looking for the perfect opportunity to close a deal on the Lisbon Coast, we’re here to help. Some of the best properties for sale in the “Linha de Cascais” can be found in the following locations.

Algés

In Algés, a charming neighborhood located on the border between Lisbon and Oeiras, you can purchase a spacious and bright apartment at a reasonable price. You’re perfectly located ot enjoy the proximity of Lisbon and easy access to some of the best beaches close to the city.

Oeiras

Oeiras is one of Portugal’s premium areas. It is calm and safe, has beautiful beaches, and the neighborhood of Lisbon offers all the services you need, including markets, pharmacies, renowned schools, and the “Linha de Cascais” train. Oerias is set to be one of the best investment opportunities in 2025, with more international investors seeking out this neighborhood due to its strategic location and amenities. Families will find spacious properties here and world-class international schools. 

Cascais

Buying property in Cascais  Some of the most expensive properties in Portugal are located in Cascais. The luxury area Quinta da Marinha maintains fixed prices, but you can find many great properties for sale in the areas close to Lisbon: Cascais center, Estoril, and Carcavelos. Cascais is perfect for lifestyle buyers, where you’ll have close access to some of the best restaurants in Portugal, with a focus on fresh seafood, alongside gorgeous beaches and unrivalled charm.

Just north of Cascais, you will also find stunning homes for sale in Sintra, Portugal. Sintra is a great location to consider, particularly for nature lovers or those moving to Portugal with children. There are very good international schools to be found both in Sintra and Cascais.

As with buying in any location in Portugal, seek out expert help if you are considering investing in Cascais real estate. If buying here, make sure to work with a real estate professional and a real estate lawyer in Cascais for a streamlined purchase.

How to Buy Lisbon Property for Sale as a Foreigner

Buying a property is as special as it is complex, especially if you are buying abroad. For everything to go smoothly, you should get sufficient information in advance, commit to research, and have a real estate market professional by your side. Ensure you know all the steps needed to buy a property for sale in Portugal before you start. 

Investing in Lisbon real estate offers an array of stunning properties in a thriving market. To buy property in Lisbon, we’ve broken down the process into five simple steps. 

1. Obtain a NIF (Portuguese Tax Identification Number)

To make any major financial transactions in Portugal, you will need to have a Portugal NIF number. This is your unique tax identification number that both residents and non-residents will need to have. You can get your NIF at your nearest Finanças (local tax office). If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need a tax representative to get your NIF. We also recommend opening a Portuguese bank account to avoid transaction fees.

2. Finding your property

The most difficult part of buying property in any foreign country is finding the property that matches your lifestyle and requirements. Make sure that you commit to research, browsing through real estate listings, and neighborhoods, to get an idea for property prices and property types. If you can, visit Lisbon a few times to get a feel for which neighborhood you may want to buy property in.

3. Purchasing the property

When you have a good idea of the real estate market, get in touch with real estate professionals, such as a buyer’s agent, who will be able to provide a list of properties that meet your requirements, arrange viewings on your behalf, and negotiate with the seller when you have decided on the property you wish to move forward with. Nothing beats working with a local real estate professional who will be able to guide you through the hoops, such as paying the deposit (usually 10 percent of the property price). We also recommend working with a real estate lawyer in Lisbon, who will help you review the terms and conditions of the Promissory Contract (CPCV), which is the initial binding contract you’ll need to sign to proceed with the sale.

4. Sign the Promissory Contract

When the Promissory Contract has been reviewed by both parties, you and the seller will need to sign it. The signing is usually done in front of a Notary.

5. Sign the Final Deed

The final step is to sign the Final Deed, known as teh Escritura. This will be signed in front of a Notary, and the remaining amount owed to the seller will be paid, alongside your property tax obligations.

Lisbon Property Taxes and Buying Costs

Capital Gains Tax PortugalMake sure to take into consideration the additional buying costs. When it comes to taxes, at the time of purchase, you will need to pay IMT, which ranges from 0 to 10 percent, and Stamp Duty, which stands at 0.8 percent. On an annual basis, you will need to pay IMI, which ranges from 0.3 to 0.8 percent, alongside AIMI, if your property is valued above €600,000.

For more information on the property taxes that you’ll be required to pay, both at the time of purchase and on an annual basis, check out our complete guide: Property Taxes in Portugal.

Also factor in additional costs, such as legal fees (€2,000 to €5,000), land registry fees (around €200-€250), and Notary fees (€500-€1,000).

Is it worth buying a property in Lisbon in 2025?

Lisbon is a European capital that is still expanding. Portuguese banks are again offering loans for the purchase of real estate, so the time for a purchase could be favorable. Alongside this, from the beginning of 2025, interest rates are low, meaning that the current climate provides an opportunity for prospective buyers.

Properties for Sale in Lisbon and Lisbon Coast Portugal: Seek Expert Help

We can’t stress the importance of being well-organized when buying property in Lisbon. Below, we provide some top tips to ensure a streamlined and stress-free buying process.

Understanding the difference between a buyer’s agent versus a realtor

A realtor works for the seller of the property, so you would be better represented by using a buyer’s agent who would work solely on behalf of you, the buyer, making sure you find the property that meets your exact requirements at the best price possible.

What Goldcrest can do for you

When it comes to seeking out a top Lisbon real estate investment opportunity, working with a buyer’s agent can be a smart option to ensure you secure the property that perfectly matches your needs. 

As an independent local buyers’ agent, Goldcrest helps investors get the best deals in their desired locations in Portugal.

Contact the team today to kickstart your property journey in Portugal. From scouting out your dream property – whether you are seeking to invest in the market or relocate to Portugal – to signing the Final Deed, we’ll be by your side every step of the way.

Frequently asked questions about Lisbon property for sale

The price of property for sale in Lisbon, considering the numbers from the last decade, are stable or ascending. There is continuous growth in public and private investment in the city due to its economic potential.

One of the best areas to find property for sale in Lisbon is in Parque das Nações, where urban expansion projects from renowned architects, such as Renzo Piano, are under development. Another good area to find the best property for sale in Lisbon is the central business area of Avenidas Novas.

The Portuguese Riviera has the best properties for sale on the Lisbon coast. Cascais, Oeiras, and Carcavelos are top locations to consider.

To purchase property in Portugal:

  1. Obtain a NIF number
  2. Find a property
  3. Negotiate with the seller
  4. Sign the Reservation Agreement and then the Promissory Contract (CPCV)
  5. Sign the Escritura (Final Deed)

To guarantee the best return on investment and an efficient acquisition process, we suggest that you be accompanied by experts in the market. The value of a professional buyer’s agent and real estate lawyer by your side makes all the difference, whether it’s to help you find the best deals in Lisbon property for sale, to access industry contacts as a local, meet all legal requirements, or to close deals without fear.

Yes, it can be an intelligent move to invest in Lisbon’s Old Town, such as in Alfama and Graça. The investment made in renovations, especially in properties for sale, is always minimal compared to the guaranteed returns that these projects normally have. Lisbon’s old town is a historic area that will never lose its flair.

Yes. There are no limitations for foreigners purchasing a house in Lisbon. You’ll need to comply with legal requirements, including obtaining a tax identification number (NIF).

The average asking price for a property in Lisbon in 2024 was €6,934. In the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, the price is considerably lower, standing at €4,935 per square meter. This is according to data from the real estate database, Confidencial Imobilário. 

Príncipe Real, Avenidas Novas, Graça, and Campo de Ourique are highly regarded for their Portuguese charm, amenities, and high quality of life.

Yes, buying property in Lisbon can be a good investment, particularly given the city’s popularity, increased demand, and stable market. Lisbon’s cultural attractions, potential for strong investment returns, and dynamic market make it an attractive European city for investment.

Lisbon is highly attractive for its vibrant market and strong appreciation potential. The Algarve region is also popular, especially for those seeking coastal living and a large expatriate community. Elsewhere, Porto, the Silver Coast, Braga, and Comporta are also excellent locations to consider, depending on your lifestyle.

The average asking price for a property in Lisbon in 2024 was €6,934. Lisbon is one of the most expensive parts of Portugal to purchase property in, but there are many perks to buying property in Portugal’s vibrant capital. 

Yes, it can be expensive to rent property in Lisbon. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center will set you back €1,397 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment in the city center will cost €2,643. Prices fall when you leave the city center. However, compared with other cities, prices are relatively affordable, with rent in Lisbon being around 64 percent cheaper than in New York. 

Lisbon offers a high quality of life, mild climate, rich culture, and strong economic growth. It boasts stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a strategic location with good transport links, perfect for families, retirees, young professionals, and investors.

Yes, Lisbon has seven international schools, increasing to 30 if you also take into account schools in the Greater Lisbon Area. International schools in Lisbon include The British School of Lisbon, Carlucci American International School of Lisbon, and United Lisbon International School, offering diverse curricula, languages, and teaching styles. 

This depends on your financial situation and long-term plans. Buying in Lisbon offers capital appreciation, but requires significant upfront capital. Renting provides flexibility, ideal for those not committed long-term. In the long term, buying is the better option.

Lisbon’s real estate market is robust, experiencing consistent growth, with demand continuing to grow, particularly from foreign investors and digital nomads. Lisbon’s luxury real estate market is predicted to grow by 4.5 percent in 2025, according to the 2025 European Prime Price Forecast. Lower interest rates for mortgages are also encouraging individuals to buy property in Lisbon.

While properties in Lisbon are more expensive than in other parts of Portugal,  affordable options might be found in areas further from the city center, or by considering properties needing renovation. Penha da França and Santa Clara are two of the most affordable neighborhoods in Lisbon, with property prices averaging at €4,644 and €3,977, respectively. Other more affordable options in Portugal include the Alentejo, Silver Coast, and Northern Portugal. 

Hidden costs when buying property in Portugal include Property Transfer Tax (IMT), Stamp Duty (0.8 percent), legal fees (around €2,000-€5,000), Notary fees (around €500-€1,000), and annual Municipal Property Tax (IMI) (0.3-0.8 percent).