Lisbon Real Estate: Your Expert Guide

Lisbon’s real estate market has moved from strength to strength over the years, becoming the home of expats from all walks of life. With vibrant neighborhoods, prime investment opportunities, and a high quality of life, Portugal’s capital has it all.

In this guide, we’ll arm you with all you need to know about Lisbon real estate. We’ll also provide key information on the best neighborhoods to consider and how to get the highest returns on your investment.

The current state of the real estate market in Lisbon, Portugal

If there is one aspect of Lisbon real estate that defines the current state of the market, it’s that demand is currently outstripping supply – and this has been the case for a while. This presents an exciting opportunity for buyers, where there is potential to secure a nice return on your investment, whether through buying to rent or through capital appreciation.

While increasing demand has boosted property prices, you will still find properties at reasonable prices if you buy outside the city center or in up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Key property trends in Lisbon

Everyone’s talking about Europe’s hottest real estate market, Lisbon. But what happened to make property in Portugal’s capital so interesting to investors? There are many different factors that contributed to the rise in Lisbon real estate, from economic growth to the rise in the tourism sector, as well as an increase in short-term rentals. So, let’s take a look at a few of these factors and the key property trends in Lisbon.

Economic growth

The Portuguese economy has bounced back after a few difficult years following the financial crisis, with stable growth. GDP has gradually and steadily increased over recent years and is likely to continue (after the COVID-19-related blip in 2020), particularly with the rising number of startups and tech companies in the capital. Web Summit, the largest tech “festival” in the world, relocated to Lisbon in 2016, cementing the city as one of the key innovation hubs in Europe. This has led to remote workers and young professionals looking to secure property in Portugal’s capital.

Tourism boom

The tourism sector has always played a big part in the Portuguese economy, though this has largely been focused on the south of the country, particularly the Algarve.

However, recent trends mean that Lisbon and Porto have become increasingly popular tourist destinations, with both cities frequently in travel features and topping rankings for the best getaways in Europe.

The rise in short-term rental platforms, such as Airbnb, has contributed to the ease of home Lisbon, Portugal, real estate rentals, and an increase in returns on property investments.

Lifestyle

The Portuguese capital has become increasingly popular in the past few years, not only as a tourist destination but also as a base for startups and entrepreneurs who are drawn in by the low cost of living and high quality of life. Lisbon is famous for its delicious food and good year-round climate, as well as its proximity to beautiful beaches, which are popular with surfers along the Lisbon coast.

Portugal also has one of the highest English proficiency levels in Europe. It is conveniently located in Western Europe, with frequent flights to the rest of the continent, as well as to the Americas and the rest of the world.

It is, therefore, unsurprising that record levels of international citizens are choosing to make Portugal their home and secure a property in Lisbon.

Government incentives

Portugal’s residency by investment scheme, known as the Portugal Golden Visa, has, in the past, been highly successful in bringing foreign investment to the country and adding value to the housing market.

Note that, as of 7 October 2023, it is no longer possible to invest in real estate and qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa. The Portugal Golden Visa is still open to investors, with several investment options, such as investment funds, still on the table.

Restricted supply of real estate stock

Another factor impacting real estate prices is a restricted supply of housing in the city center. Lisbon is a small and concentrated city situated next to a river. In addition, the Câmara municipal (the city regulator) limits construction in order to maintain the character of the city, and as a result, new constructions in the historic center are virtually impossible. Rehabilitation of older buildings is preferred and is usually the only solution for those looking to make a real estate investment in a central location.

For those looking to invest in new-build real estate in Lisbon, Portugal, there are specific areas to consider where new construction is permitted. One such area is Parque das Nações, which is particularly popular with foreign investors.

In the historic center of Lisbon, the restricted supply of housing explains the rise in real estate prices.

Property Prices in Lisbon

When it comes to Lisbon real estate prices, the average asking price for property in Lisbon City is €6,009 per m², while if you look at the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, prices stand at €4,061 per m². Note that the transaction price can be significantly lower than this as sellers want to sell their property by a fixed date. 

In the tables below, you can see the property prices in the various Lisbon districts.

Lisbon Councils – Average Asking Price €/sqm 2023

Investment Opportunities: Lisbon Portugal Real Estate

If you are looking into buying real estate as an investment opportunity, it can be a very lucrative venture. While short-term rentals typically provide a better income, there is often less hassle with long-term rentals. For example, you have more consistent tenants in comparison with short-term renters, who are usually only in Lisbon for a few days.

You can check out our article, Buy-to-Let, for information on how to buy a property with the intention of renting it out. Rent prices have been increasing in recent years, and you should be able to secure a strong return on your investment in the long run.

Rental yields in Lisbon

While the Lisbon City average for rental yields is 5.2 percent, some neighborhoods will prove to be a better investment option than others. Also, if you look at the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, rental yields were higher, standing at 6.7 percent. You can see the rental yields for the Metropolitan Area and for Lisbon neighborhoods below. 

Rental Yields Lisbon Metropolitan Area

Rental Yields Lisbon neighborhoods

Why buy a house in Lisbon?

As mentioned, over the past few years, purchasing property in Lisbon has become hugely popular with investors from all over the world, as well as those who move to the city to make it their home. As the capital city of Portugal, the municipal area is a major tourist hub for the country and the rest of Europe. Additionally, the picturesque city has a buzzing pulse and rich cultural history.

Here, we’ll delve into key reasons why the bustling Portuguese capital could be the perfect place for you to purchase property.

An investor’s paradise

Portugal’s economy has experienced many trials and tribulations over the years. However, the Portuguese real estate market seems to be moving from strength to strength and has experienced tremendous growth in the last few years.

Lisbon’s real estate sector has benefitted greatly from new investment policies that have transformed the city into an urban paradise for businesses and residents alike. Foreign investments, urban renewal projects, and the rise of tech, startups, and key businesses in the city have coincided to create an investor’s paradise.

Continuous growth

Lisbon has increased its competitiveness with other cities in Europe, including London, thanks to its transformative policies, for example, by investing heavily in startups and attracting entrepreneurs to its shores.

Other examples include Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz opening tech hubs in the city, Web summit, the biggest tech festival in the world relocating to Lisbon in 2016, and countless international companies setting up shop in the capital and other parts of Portugal. This has bolstered the real estate market in Lisbon.

Where to Buy Real Estate in Lisbon, Portugal: City Guide

If you’re considering buying Lisbon real estate, then you are likely wondering what the best neighborhoods in Lisbon are. Lisbon real estate has become more popular over the last ten years, both investors and expats trading up for a sunnier and better quality of life in Portugal. As far as places to live in Lisbon go, prices do have quite a range depending on the area of Lisbon you are interested in. We will take you through the main areas of Lisbon and what you can expect to pay for real estate in each of them.

Real estate in Lapa and Santos

Lapa and Santos also offer highly attractive investment opportunities, both in the tourist short-term rental market and in long-term rental possibilities, as the neighborhood has high demand from an affluent local renters’ market. If you’re thinking of relocating to Lisbon and are looking for a quieter neighborhood or are looking to move with a family, consider Lapa and Santos. Both have fabulous parks and cafes, and there are many schools that surround the area.

Pros and cons of Lapa and Santos:

Pros:
• A quieter part of the city, perfect for families
• Proximity to fabulous beaches
• Up and coming areas, potential for high capital appreciation

Cons:
• A little outside the hustle and bustle of the center
• No metro, but good bus links

Why invest in Lapa and Santos?

This emerging neighborhood has a lot to offer for families, with many charming parks to visit. Investors will find options for long-term rentals as young professionals often opt for this part of the city.

Average price

The average asking price for property in Lapa and Santos (both in the Estrela neighborhood) is €7,231 per m².

Real estate in Intendente and Mouraria

Intendente and Mouraria are two up-and-coming neighborhoods in Lisbon and, therefore, present an attractive opportunity to investors looking to cash in return on a sale in a few years’ time. The prices in this area are quite reasonable considering how well located the area is in Lisbon.

Pros and cons of Intendente and Mouraria:

Pros:
• Multicultural scene
• More affordable properties
• Miradouros (viewpoints) with stunning views of Lisbon

Cons:
• Limited green spaces
• Perhaps not best suited for families, not many international schools in the direct vicinity

Why invest in Intendente and Mouraria?

This part of the city presents an opportunity for investors. There is a short-term rental market for tourists as well as a long-term market for locals and young professionals in this hip part of town.

Average price

The average asking price for property in Intendente (in the Arroios neighborhood) is €5,885 per m², while the average price in Mouraria (in the Santa Maria Maior neighborhood) is €6,700 per m².

You can see more about this part of the city in our Intendente real estate guide.

Also, our article on Anjos real estate provides information on a charming, multi-cultural part of the city, where young professionals rub shoulders with locals and where there are countless restaurants and bars to frequent.

Real estate in Alfama and Graça

Graça and Alfama are the oldest parts of town, situated high up with panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River from the famous miradouro look-out points. It’s no wonder that these neighborhoods are the top choice for tourists visiting Lisbon. There have, however, been certain rules in place that have prevented the initiation of new Airbnb contracts in this part of town, so from a purely short-term holiday rental investment standpoint, make sure you double-check this before buying property in this part of the city.

Pros and cons of Alfama and Graça

Pros:
• Historic architecture and charming cobbled streets
• Incredible restaurants and local food
• Fado houses, plus Miradouros (viewpoints) with captivating views of Lisbon

Cons:
• Alfama can get busy with tourists, while Graça presents a quieter alternative.
• Steep hills
• There is no metro, but the iconic trams and the Santa Justa elevator (Elevador Santa Justa) can get you up and down the hills.

Why invest in Alfama and Graça?

Arguably the most authentic part of Lisbon, the winding cobbled streets and yellow trams meandering past present a clear picture of the past here. You also have stunning views of Lisbon stretched before you.

Average price

Average asking prices for Alfama and Graça (in the São Vicente neighborhood) stand at €5,018 per m².

You can read more about this area in our Alfama real estate guide and Graça real estate guide.

Real estate in Parque das Nações

Parque das Nações is a re-developed, quieter part of town that presents interesting opportunities for investors with great growth potential on the investment. There are striking contemporary buildings here, and the area lines the waterfront of the Tagus River. It’s also a spacious place to move to with a family.

Pros and cons of Parque das Naçōes:

Pros:
• Some of the best modern restaurants in Lisbon
• Spectacular views of the Tagus River
• Modern architecture

Cons:
• Not so central, but well connected by public transport
• Limited historical character

Why invest in Parque das Naçōes?

Investing in Parque das Nações, Lisbon, offers a modern waterfront environment with amenities like the Oceanarium and Vasco da Gama shopping center. Sightly reminiscent of Canary Wharf in London, its appeal lies in contemporary architecture, cultural venues, and a vibrant atmosphere, with top restaurants that spill onto the streets by the river and attract residents and tourists. Ongoing development and accessibility contribute to the neighborhood’s investment potential.

Average price

In Parque das Nações, the average asking price of property is €7,728 per m².

You can find out more about this neighborhood in our article on Parque das Nações Real Estate.

Real estate alternatives to the center of Lisbon

There are many interesting alternatives to investing in the center of Lisbon, which can make a far better investment depending on your requirements, such as if you are looking for a beach house, to live in the countryside, or close to the Lisbon coast.

Across the Tejo River from Lisbon, Almada Portugal real estate provides more affordable properties. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of Lisbon.

Cascais

Cascais is a seaside town a short distance from the center of Lisbon, with excellent public transportation links to the center. It is more family-friendly than the center of the city, with greater open space, and also has a number of good international schools.

Setubal

Setubal is a neighboring city located to the south of Lisbon on the coast. It takes around an hour to drive there from the center, and as a result, it is popular with those looking for more inexpensive real estate options.

Types of Lisbon Real Estate for Sale

Lisbon has several different property types, from hip studios and spacious modern apartments with a private terrace to four-bedroom homes with a swimming pool. The city is well known for its Pombaline buildings, charming balconies, and quaint townhouses, with a wide variety of properties. In this section, we’ll delve into the main real estate opions in Lisbon and the main property types you can find in the city.

Real estate options in Lisbon

Like in any city, there are a few options to consider depending on whether you are looking to buy a family home or make a property investment. This will mean choosing between:
• Used residential property
• New residential property

Investors may also want to consider the following options:
• Building for investment
• Commercial properties
• Land for construction

Do your research, as a quick online search for “houses for sale Lisbon Portugal” or “buying real estate Lisbon” will provide you with a nice overview of what’s on offer. Note that a new development may be the safer option, and for older Lisbon properties, make sure that you conduct thorough due diligence checks.

You can invest in the following property types: Whether you are looking for a new development or an older property, you should be able to find it in the city.

Residential properties

When it comes to residential properties, you’ll find everything from modern apartments to luxurious waterfront properties. Some of the most common are listed below.

Apartments

If you’re looking for a modern apartment with a pool and riverside views or a smaller property in an up-and-coming area, you’ll find several options to consider.

Villas

Particularly on the Lisbon Coast stretching to Cascais, you’ll find many modern villas on the market. You’ll be able to enjoy the best of both worlds: The beautiful beaches that hug the coast and the bright lights of the capital city.

Country homes

If you are looking for a country house for sale in Lisbon, Portugal, you’ll find spacious homes a little outside the city whilst still being within striking distance of Lisbon. Locations such as Santarém, just over an hour’s drive away, could be an excellent option to consider.

Luxury real estate Lisbon

There is an array of luxurious real estate in Lisbon. From beautiful waterfront properties to modern apartments with stunning views of the city, Lisbon definitely delivers for luxury buyers. Many properties come with private pools, gyms, and other excellent features.

Commercial properties

Some of the most popular investment opportunities for Lisbon commercial real estate are listed below.

Offices

Officers provide stable rental income and potential long-term capital appreciation.

Retail spaces

When it comes to commercial properties, investing in retail spaces offers steady income from established businesses and potential growth in prime locations.

Warehouses

Warehouses provide lucrative opportunities, and construction costs are generally much lower. In certain areas in Lisbon, such as Marvila, many warehouses are being renovated into boutique craft beer bars and hip restaurants, for example.

Tourism real estate

Given the booming tourism sector in Lisbon, which just seems to be going from strength to strength, these areas offer options to invest in tourism real estate. From hotel projects to serviced apartments, there are several investment options on the table.

Other projects

Aside from investments in residential and commercial properties, in addition to tourist real estate, there are other options on the table. Lisbon has seen a rise in digital nomads and tech companies relocating to the Portuguese capital city in recent years. This has paved the way for investment opportunities in co-working or even co-living spaces. This trend is likely to continue to grow in the future.

Alongside this, there has been increased interest, from developers to investors, in investing in green real estate investment opportunities. This is another segment of the market that will likely continue to take off in the coming years.

Practical Information on Lisbon

It’s good to have some practical information about living in Lisbon, such as the climate, international schools in the city, and healthcare options. In this section, we provide you with key aspects to be aware of.

Lisbon statistics

Lisbon boasts a high quality of life, low cost of living, excellent healthcare and education opportunities, and is the seventh safest country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index in 2023.

Here are some key statistics about Lisbon:

• Lisbon population: 2.9 million
• 343,995 international residents (as of 2021)
• International schools in and around Lisbon: 28 (British, French, American, German, and more)
• 20 hospitals
• 16+ beaches in close proximity to Lisbon

Education in Lisbon

Lisbon offers diverse educational opportunities with reputable universities like the University of Lisbon and NOVA University Lisbon. The city boasts a rich cultural and academic environment, attracting international students to the city. When it comes to international schools in Lisbon, there are eight schools in Lisbon City and a further 20 in Greater Lisbon, with a range of curricula and teaching methods, including schools that follow the British curriculum and the American curriculum.

Healthcare in Lisbon

Lisbon provides quality healthcare services through a well-developed system. Public hospitals, private clinics, and healthcare professionals ensure comprehensive medical care. Legal residents can access the National Health Service, called the SNS. Private health insurance options offer additional coverage and are generally much more affordable than in other Western European cities.

Public transportation

Lisbon offers an efficient public transportation system that comprises buses, trams, trains, and the iconic yellow trams. The metro network connects the city, while trains allow you to get to other parts of the country quickly and cheaply. The Lisbon airport allows frequent international travelers to get around easily.

Climate

Lisbon has a lovely climate, which is one of the key reasons why expats head to the city. Winters rarely see temperatures below 10 Degrees C (50 Degrees F), while summers average around 29 Degrees C (84 Degrees F) in August, the warmest month. The city’s proximity to the ocean regulates the temperature and ensures that summers are never unbearably hot.

Why Invest in Lisbon Portugal Real Estate

Over the past few years, Lisbon’s property market has moved from strength to strength. Purchasing property in Lisbon is an outstanding decision due to several compelling factors, including the fantastic quality of life, the potential for a favorable return on investment, and promising prospects for future growth. Looking back over the first six months of the year, we’ve seen the real estate market growing. With demand still outweighing supply – and Lisbon still regarded as an excellent financial investment – we can safely say that now is a prime time to buy.

Please keep in mind that the asking price can differ from the purchase price. In reality, property sales prices can often be significantly lower. Those selling real estate frequently aim to sell their properties by a specific deadline and may be influenced by various factors that can help buyers get a better price for the property. Additionally, it’s important to note that there is a possibility that the purchase price could be higher than the asking price, although, as you can see below, this is not so common.

The future of Lisbon’s real estate market

Lisbon’s real estate market has transformed in recent years, with foreign buyers snapping up properties in the city and increased demand from expats from all walks of life. In 2024, it is highly likely that supply will continue to be outstripped by demand.

However, with this in mind, if you are looking to invest in Lisbon’s real estate market or relocate to the dynamic capital of Portugal, now is an excellent time to do so. It is still possible to secure great deals on properties, provided you understand the market. Working with a buyer’s agent will ensure you have access to the best properties that fulfil your requirements and meet your budget.

Making your Lisbon real estate investment a reality

Navigating the real estate process can be a challenge, even in our home countries. To be assured that you are paying a fair price for property in Lisbon, we would always recommend enlisting the help of a trusted real estate professional to help you through the process. There are localized issues like how a property’s price per square meter compares to what’s nearby, the historic prices that houses on the street have been sold for, and whether the area is located close to schools, shops, and parks. A buyer’s agent, local real estate agent in Lisbon, or real estate lawyer in Lisbon will be able to lend a hand in this regard, with most real estate agencies in Portugal speaking English.

Goldcrest: How We Can Help

Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. 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 entire process and can help you achieve your property dreams.

If you are looking to find your dream home in Lisbon, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Lisbon offers a wide array of wonderful properties, with several different property types available. We can help you get the best property at the best possible price. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, 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 real estate market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at our disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best investment choices and negotiated prices.
• Network of partners: Our network of contacts includes 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.
• Member of the AIPP (Association of International Property Professionals), delivering company best practices and upholding professional values.