Portugal has been named the safest country in the world to retire in 2026, according to International Living’s latest Safest Places to Retire index. With its combination of family values, inclusive communities, and welcoming locals, Portugal is quickly becoming the go-to destination for retirees seeking peace of mind and a high quality of life.
The country also ranks within the top five destinations in International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index, praised for its “fresh, affordable food, universal healthcare, compact footprint, and kind neighbours.” Add abundant sunshine, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture, and Portugal offers an unbeatable lifestyle for those in their golden years.
Why retirees flock to the Algarve
Many retirees are drawn to Portugal’s sunniest region, the Algarve. Its sociable, outdoor-oriented lifestyle revolves around dining out, beach walks, golf, and cliffside hikes. The region provides an affordable yet active retirement lifestyle, with options to suit a variety of budgets.
Kronos Homes highlights several prime locations in the Algarve for retirees:
- Salema Beach Village: Located at the western tip of the Algarve, these Mediterranean-style villas start from €400,000. Just 500 metres from the beach, the hillside properties are surrounded by lush greenery and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. Residents can enjoy the on-site swimming pool and snack bar, as well as local opportunities for walking, cycling, swimming, and golf.
- Monte Santo, Carvoeiro: Perfect for those who want town conveniences, this five-star resort offers apartments and villas from €279,000. Facilities include pools, a spa, gym, restaurant, and multi-use games area. Carvoeiro itself provides shops, healthcare, restaurants, and a sandy beach, all within easy reach.
- Vale do Lobo: For retirees seeking a full resort lifestyle, Vale do Lobo offers an extensive range of amenities, from restaurants, cafes, and boutiques to golf, tennis, and padel courts. With a ready-made social community, a 2 km stretch of beach, and 450 hectares of verdant surroundings, the resort is ideal for those who enjoy both activity and serenity.
A warm welcome and simple residency
Alda Filipe, Regional Director and Partner at Kronos Homes, comments:
“Safe, welcoming, and home to properties that deliver outstanding value for money, Portugal is ready to delight and surprise those seeking an active, sociable retirement with plenty of time outdoors. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, plus fascinating historic and cultural attractions to discover, the Algarve is one of the country’s most compelling destinations for enjoying later life.”
For non-EU retirees, Portugal offers multiple visa options, including the D7 visa (Passive Income or Retirement Visa), which allows those with a regular passive income, such as a pension, to reside in the country.
With safety, sunshine, community, and exceptional lifestyle on offer, it’s clear why Portugal is topping the list for retirees in 2026. Whether it’s a villa by the sea, a town-centre apartment, or a resort lifestyle with every amenity on your doorstep, Portugal offers retirement living that is both secure and richly fulfilling.
Is Portugal safe in 2026? what the indexes say
If you’re thinking about swapping drizzle for pastel de nata and Atlantic sunsets, the big question is usually: “Is Portugal a safe country in 2026?” In short: yes, very much so. Portugal still combines low crime, political calm and a laid‑back lifestyle in a way that a lot of other countries envy.
Public healthcare in Portugal
Portugal’s public healthcare system is one of the quiet reasons many people decide to stay. It is far from perfect – waiting lists can be frustrating – but for legal residents, it offers solid, affordable care and a safety net that compares well with many other countries.
Top 10 reasons to move to the Algarve: cost of living, safety and lifestyle
The Algarve keeps coming up whenever people talk about the best coastal places to move to in Portugal, and it’s not hard to see why. If you’re weighing up the reasons to live in the Algarve, think long, bright days by the Atlantic, a slower daily rhythm, and the practical side of life covered with decent services and transport. Add a long‑standing expat community and property prices that can still feel reasonable compared with other European sunspots, and this stretch of Portugal’s south
Traditional Portuguese food to try in the Algarve
The Algarve isn’t just about beaches and golf resorts. Traditional Portuguese food here leans heavily on the Atlantic, citrus groves and old-school family recipes. Trying local dishes fits neatly with all the things to do in the Algarve, away from the sunbeds. Think grilled sardines by the river and almond-heavy sweets that basically taste like sunshine.
Skiing in Portugal: Serra da Estrela ski resort
Portugal is best known for its Atlantic beaches and mild climate, so skiing is not usually the first thing that comes to mind when planning a winter holiday. However, yes – you can ski in Portugal, and the country’s only ski resort is located in the impressive Serra da Estrela mountain range.