Spain and Portugal Retirement: Paradors, Posadas, and Alcazars
Category: Best Retirement Towns and States
October 30, 2023 — Spain and or Portugal retirement is very popular, as these Iberian countries are for tourism as well. Americans and Europeans are checking out these two countries, not only as great places for a retirement trip, but for where to retire too. Your editor recently spent 2 happy weeks touring some of the best tourist spots on the Iberian Peninsula, the home of Spain and Portugal. Our hope is that this experience might help you plan a potential trip to the region. And, it might help you learn what it might be like to retire in one of these amazing countries.
Portugal Retirement Trip
This beautiful, dry country has a long western coastline on the Atlantic Ocean that in the south curves eastward past Gibraltar to the Mediterranean. Lisbon, on the coast, is the capital and largest city. Portugal’s cost of living is one of the lowest in Europe (65th highest in the world – the U.S. is 12th), the country is safe, and the food and wine are excellent. The country has a complicated history – Celts, Phoenicians, Roman, Visigoths, and the Moors (Arabs) all had their day, and then its eventual retaking by the Crusaders. Towns and buildings reflect that heritage within their walled cities, Roman ruins, and Christian cathedrals, that were often Muslim mosques for a time.
Comments on "Spain and Portugal Retirement: Paradors, Posadas, and Alcazars"
Flo says:
We did a fall ocean cruise from Amsterdam to Barcelona. Along with towns you mentioned Oporto in Portugal was one of our favorites. Great parks and beaches, and a great old town with tile fronted homes. We also liked Cadiz in Spain. Again, great parks and pedestrian walk ways. A beautiful waterfront. All over our trip, it was great to see residents walking and shopping in the middle of town then taking public transportation to get back home. It seemed like a lot more peaceful way of life.
Moderator Flo
Admin says:
You are right about Spain and Portugal being the "it" countries - both to visit and to retire to. Lots of Americans fed up with our disunion and political chaos are looking into these countries. Thanks for sharing your adventures!
Admin says:
There is a lot of talk about "Golden Visas", where you can essentially buy your way into a residents visa and a potential path to citizenship in a foreign land. That is, if the political craziness in this country gets too bad, here is your on ramp. This article on golden visas in investopedia is a very comprehensive summary of the possibilities.
Patricia Kennedy says:
I was a traveling companion on this fabulous journey. The old world charm, the fabulous glimpses of the many civilizations who peopled these towns and cities centuries ago, the delicious meals ( with lots of olives to share!), the lovely October weather…..all made for a memorable trip. Thanks John for posting these photos!
John's comment: Thank you for being an excellent, intrepid companion. And for passing the olives and the bread! It was an wonderful, recommended trip.
Admin says:
Travel and Leisure has an article about the best places to retire in Spain. While we don't agree with all their choices, there are some worth considering.
Admin says:
Here is a very bullish article on a Portuguese retirement: "The #1 Country People Want to Retire to: Don't Believe These Lies"