Buying property by the sea in Portugal: 6 of the most affordable towns

With its 1,794 km of coastline, Portugal is a true paradise for those dreaming of a home by the sea. While property prices have surged in some areas such as the Algarve and Lisbon, there are still many coastal towns offering excellent value.

Here is our top 6 of coastal towns where real estate remains accessible and attractive. Towns where life is good, where you can enjoy the sea all year long. Welcoming places, ideal for buying a house in Portugal, whether it's a primary residence, a holiday home, or a rental investment.

1. Why buy a property by the sea in Portugal?
2. Property prices in Portugal’s coastal regions
3. Top 6 coastal towns in Portugal with some of the lowest property prices

1. Why buy a property by the sea in Portugal?

Portugal is known for its lifestyle, mild climate, heritage and culture, diverse landscapes, and beautiful beaches. The country includes around 50 coastal municipalities, all of which had at least one Blue Flag beach in 2025, awarded by the ABAAE (Blue Flag Association for the Environment and Education). To enjoy the landscapes, high quality of life, favorable tax conditions, and live with your feet in the sand all year round, Portugal remains a great choice.

From north to south, the most popular seaside towns among international tourists are: Viana do Castelo, Porto, Aveiro, Nazaré, Peniche, Lisbon, Cascais, Sesimbra, Setubal, Comporta, Porto Covo, Albufeira, Faro and Tavira, as well as Funchal (Madeira) and Ponta Delgada (Azores). In some of these towns, real estate prices are quite high, though often balanced by strong rental yields. But others are still very affordable and feature in our ranking. These destinations are excellent choices for buying a second home that can be rented out the rest of the year.

2. Property prices in Portugal’s coastal regions

The Portuguese property market varies significantly depending on the region, and especially whether the property is located on the coast or inland.

Even along the coast, there are major differences. For instance, the average price in Alentejo ranges from €1,200 to €2,200/m²; €1,600 to €2,200/m² on the central coast; €1,500 to €2,000/m² on the northern coast; around €3,500/m² on the seafront in the Algarve; and between €5,000 and €6,000/m² along the Lisbon coastline.

Unlike the Algarve and Lisbon areas, property is more affordable in less touristy zones such as parts of Alentejo, the Centre or the North. For a seaside property, expect to pay around €1,500/m² on the lower end in those regions.

If you're looking for ultra-low prices, the inland areas are ideal, where you can sometimes find houses or apartments for less than €400/m².
 

3. Top 6 coastal towns in Portugal with some of the lowest property prices  

Our ranking, from north to south, highlights 6 towns that, in addition to reasonable property prices, have undeniable advantages.

They all offer easy access to the ocean, vibrant local life, diverse and scenic landscapes (including mountains and nature reserves), and proximity to major urban centres like Lisbon, Porto or Faro. Lastly, they offer rental yields of 5–6% for long-term lets, and 7–12% for holiday rentals.
 

• Viana do Castelo

Located in northern Portugal, this historic town with rich architectural heritage offers an elegant lifestyle between fine sandy beaches such as Praia do Cabedelo and Praia Norte, and unspoilt nature, just steps from Peneda-Gerês National Park. Dynamic and cultural, it hosts festivals and boasts a generous local gastronomy. With average property prices between €1,500 and €2,000/m², it’s an ideal place to live or invest.

Property in Viana do Castelo
 

• Aveiro

Nicknamed the"Venice of Portugal", Aveiro charms with its picturesque canals, colourful moliceiro boats, and its welcoming atmosphere. Close to the iconic Costa Nova beach, with its striped wooden houses, the city combines relaxed living with energy thanks to its world-renowned university and vibrant student population. Well connected by train and motorway, and only an hour from Porto, Aveiro has prices starting from €1,700/m², with an average around €2,800/m². It's an attractive real estate opportunity between ocean, culture, and quality of life.

Property in Aveiro
 

• Figueira da Foz

A flagship seaside resort in central Portugal, Figueira da Foz is known for having one of Europe’s largest urban beaches, a lively seafront, and excellent quality of life. Located between Porto and Lisbon, it's a strategically placed and accessible destination. Famous for its historic casino, its vibrant cultural scene, and nautical activities like surfing, the city appeals to both families and investors. With average property prices ranging between €1,600 and €2,000/m², Figueira da Foz is perfect for year-round living or a second home.

Property in Figueira da Foz

• Peniche

Peniche is a coastal town in central-west Portugal, less than 1h30 from Lisbon, famous for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe. Surrounded by the Atlantic, it draws surfers and nature lovers, especially to Supertubos beach and the nearby Berlengas Archipelago, a designated nature reserve. With an active fishing port, a historic fortress, and affordable real estate averaging €1,600–2,200/m², Peniche appeals to buyers seeking either a primary or holiday residence.

Property in Peniche

• Sines

Located on the Alentejo coast, Sines blends historic charm, preserved natural surroundings, and an authentic port-town atmosphere. The birthplace of Vasco da Gama, it features a quaint old town, a major maritime port, and beautiful unspoiled beaches like those of the Southwest Alentejo Natural Park. Less touristy than other coastal towns, Sines offers peace and quiet, strong development potential, and attractive real estate prices (averaging €1,800/m²).

Property in Sines

• Portimão

Portimão is one of the most sought-after destinations in the Algarve. Known for its iconic Praia da Rocha beach, its bustling marina, and seafront promenade, the city enjoys sunshine year-round. Its historic centre, vibrant cultural life, and proximity to golf courses, marinas, and the Algarve’s cliffs make it ideal for living or investing. With strong tourist demand and a wide range of property options, Portimão is a solid choice for buying seaside real estate in Portugal, with an average price around €2,700/m².

Property in Portimão

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