Family Favourite

Why more families are choosing Portugal as their perfect destination

WORDS Scott Bennett

When I was ten, on a cold, wet English day, my parents and I packed our bags and moved to Portugal. Although I was well-travelled by that age, moving to a new country still felt strange. Little did I know that this experience would be so rewarding— and it was a journey that thousands of others have since replicated.

Fast-forward to today: I am proud to call Portugal home and feel blessed to be raising my family in a country that offers a unique blend of lifestyle, education, and affordability—an ideal choice for anyone looking to enrich their lives.

My early years in Portugal were incredibly formative, both academically and personally. I attended an international school where I learned Portuguese, completed my GCSEs, and then did the International Baccalaureate (IB). My school’s rich multicultural environment fostered a global perspective that has greatly benefited me personally and professionally. At the same time, Portugal’s outdoor lifestyle provided unparalleled opportunities for me to balance academic rigour with physical activity. I spent my childhood playing golf, basketball, and football under sunny skies —invaluable experiences which shaped a well-rounded education that nurtured mind and body while also creating friendships that have lasted almost thirty years.

Today, I see a growing tide of families moving to Portugal for many of these same reasons. The decision is not just about seeking better weather—although Portugal’s 300 days of sunshine per year certainly help—but about embracing an increasingly hard-to-find lifestyle in today’s fast-paced world.

Multicultural experience and quality education

At our Moving to Portugal property shows in the UK and Ireland, I speak to many families, and it seems one of the primary reasons people are now considering moving to Portugal is for its multicultural experience. Most importantly, Portugal is home to diverse international schools, particularly in regions like Lisbon and the Algarve, which provide top-tier education that emphasises global perspectives. These schools cater to various curricula, including the British, American, and International Baccalaureate systems. This variety allows parents to choose a school that best suits their children’s needs, ensuring a seamless educational experience that aligns with their home country’s standards.

Having gone through Portugal’s international school system myself, I can attest to the profound impact it can have on a child’s development. It isn’t just about the academic benefits but also cultural enrichment. Children grow up alongside peers from different nationalities and backgrounds, fostering an environment of understanding, empathy, and open-mindedness. In today’s interconnected world, this kind of upbringing is invaluable.

Outdoor lifestyle: A healthier choice

Reflecting on my childhood in Portugal, I remember the freedom to play outdoors almost daily. As a parent, I see the value of a healthy, outdoor lifestyle even more. I want my children to have the same opportunities to explore, stay active, and engage with nature. Portugal provides all of this and more. The outdoor lifestyle is not just for children; it’s a family affair. Weekends can be spent hiking in the mountains, surfing along the beautiful coastlines, or enjoying a quiet picnic in one of Portugal’s many parks. It’s a country that brings families closer together by offering a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

Affordability and quality of life

Another compelling reason families are moving to Portugal is the overall cost of living. While Portugal offers a high quality of life, it remains more affordable than many Western European countries. Housing, dining, and day-to-day expenses can be significantly lower compared to cities like London or Paris. Families can often afford a larger home or enjoy frequent outings and experiences, contributing to a more comfortable and enriched lifestyle.

A destination for growth and connection

Moving to Portugal is about more than finding a place to live—it’s about finding a place to grow. The country offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, providing the perfect environment for children to grow up in a multicultural and multilingual setting while giving parents peace of mind that they are offering their families a high quality of life.

As the Head of Marketing for the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, I’ve seen first-hand the increasing interest in and influx of families choosing Portugal as their new home. More importantly, as someone who has experienced Portugal as both a child and a parent, I know first-hand the remarkable opportunities this country offers. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive.