Portugal offers a wide variety of property styles, from traditional farmhouses to sleek new-build apartments. Whether you’re seeking a character-filled home in the countryside, a modern apartment in Lisbon or a resort villa by the sea, there’s something for every buyer. You just need to research the types of properties in Portugal to know what might suit you.
Knowing the different types of property available in Portugal will help you make informed decisions about your budget, lifestyle and long-term goals – especially if you’re buying from abroad.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common types of homes available in Portugal, what to expect from each, and the questions to ask yourself as you narrow your search.
Contents
- Deciding what you need in a Portuguese property
- Understanding property types in Portugal
- Quinta: Portuguese country homes
- Villas in Portugal
- Townhouses in Portugal
- Apartments in Portugal
- Resort properties in Portugal
- Rural homes and restoration projects
- Frequently asked questions
Portugal’s villas offer you a private pool and garden in which to enjoy year-round sun
Deciding what you need in a Portuguese property
Before you start viewing Portuguese homes online, it helps to sit down and craft a short list of priorities. Doing so will save time, reduce stress and help estate agents show you more suitable options.
Begin by asking yourself the following:
- Do you prefer a modern property or something with history and character?
- How much interior space do you need – and what’s your ideal number of bedrooms or square metres?
- Are outdoor features like a garden, pool or terrace essential?
- Will you be living in the house full-time or just visiting seasonally?
- How much renovation are you comfortable with – a light update or a full rebuild?
- Do you want to be near shops, schools, or medical facilities – or is seclusion attractive?
- Might you rent the property to generate income, even partially?
You don’t have to make final decisions at this point – requirements evolve. But listing your must-haves and nice-to-haves will make property searches more efficient and focused.
For more information on each step of the purchase process, claim your free copy of our Portugal buying guide:
Understanding property types in Portugal
As you scroll through listings in Portugal, you’re likely to encounter terms like T1, T2 or T2+1 – this is how bedrooms are described. A “T1” is a one-bedroom flat, “T2” means two bedrooms and so forth. The “+1” indicates an additional space, often a box room, study or small office.
Another key figure to look for is square metre size (m²), as it helps you compare homes more objectively. For instance, a T2 apartment at 120 m² is significantly larger than a T3+1 at 85 m². Room count alone doesn’t always reflect spaciousness.
With terminology clear, let’s explore the main types of housing available across Portugal.
Quinta: Portuguese country homes
The term “quinta” traditionally refers to a rural estate or countryside home – and they’re often unique, character-filled and centuries old. Many quintas include gardens, farmland or vineyards, particularly in regions such as the Douro Valley or Alentejo.
Quintas come in all conditions. You may find an elegant renovated house with a pool and manicured grounds, or a rustic and untouched property offering a rewarding restoration opportunity. Some larger quintas have been converted into hospitality businesses such as boutique hotels or guest houses.
If your vision of moving to Portugal includes peace, nature and self-sufficiency, a quinta might be ideal. You’ll find them especially suitable if you’re ready to embrace Portuguese life away from urban centres – though do check for access to services like broadband and mains water, which may be limited in more remote areas.
Prices vary by region and size, but you can find excellent value in central Portugal and northern inland areas. Be ready for additional costs related to land maintenance or agricultural zoning rules, and speak with a bilingual surveyor before making an offer.
Villas in Portugal
Detached villas are the dream choice for many international buyers – particularly in coastal regions. These homes often feature generous plots, wraparound gardens, sun terraces and private pools. Many newer villas include modern conveniences like underfloor heating, energy-efficient glazing and automated shutters.
Portugal’s villa architecture ranges from cool whitewashed Algarve homes with Moorish influences, to grand contemporary designs with smart-home tech. You’ll find villas scattered throughout the Algarve, Lisbon coast, Comporta, and island regions such as Madeira.
Areas like Cascais, Vilamoura and Faro offer luxury seaside living with high-end villas. Inland regions such as Évora or the hills near Tavira offer more space and lower prices for those willing to travel a little further from the beach.
One tip: Some properties labelled as villas may actually be part of a villa-style complex with shared pools or maintenance fees. Be sure to clarify whether there are communal facilities or obligations.
Villas offer maximum privacy but tend to involve more maintenance. You’ll also want to factor in ongoing costs like pool servicing, gardening and possibly security.
Townhouses in Portugal
If you’d like a lot of living space without the upkeep of detached gardens, a townhouse is an excellent fit. These multi-storey homes are often found close to towns and cities, offering a blend of convenience and character.
In Portugal, townhouses may be historic properties made of stone with traditional tiles, or they might be sleek, modern homes in resort-style developments. Some have rooftop terraces or balconies, others sit on quiet cobbled lanes near markets and cafés.
In cities like Lisbon or Porto, townhouses typically exist as narrow homes with two or three floors, often built during the 19th or early 20th century. In newer areas or seaside villages, you’ll find rows of contemporary townhouses on larger footprints.
This type of home is well suited to families, remote workers or buyers who want to live like a local while still being close to amenities. Expect less privacy than with a villa and often no garden – though some newer townhouses offer private courtyards or terraces.
One key advantage: townhouses can be more affordable than villas, especially in sought-after regions.
Apartments in Portugal
Apartments remain the most common housing type in Portuguese urban areas, especially cities such as Lisbon, Porto and Coimbra. From compact studios to spacious penthouses, there’s a wide range to suit every budget and lifestyle.
Modern developments often come with shared amenities like swimming pools, underground parking, gyms and rooftop gardens. You’ll find many of these in areas targeting digital nomads and expats – with excellent public transport links and energy-efficient features.
In contrast, older apartment buildings may date back to the 19th or early 20th centuries. These homes often feature elegant façades, tall ceilings and balconies, but they may lack lifts or insulation unless recently updated.
Keep an eye on service fees for shared spaces, especially in buildings with lifts, concierge services or communal leisure areas. In newer developments, this might be called the “condominium fee” or “quota condominial.”
Apartments are particularly popular with buy-to-let investors and second-home seekers. They’re also ideal if you want to be close to cultural life, shops and services – and can be cheaper to maintain than larger properties.
Resort properties in Portugal
Portugal has an excellent selection of resort-style properties, especially along the Algarve and Silver Coast. These homes sit within managed complexes offering security, landscaped gardens and access to on-site facilities like pools, spas, golf courses or restaurants.
You might find anything from a one-bedroom apartment in a holiday park to a detached villa in a gated, luxury retreat. Top resort destinations include Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Praia D’el Rey. Some target families, others are focused on retirees or sports enthusiasts.
These properties are ideal for buyers who want a lock-up-and-leave solution with support while abroad. They’re also popular with those planning to rent the property to holidaymakers when not in use.
However, check terms carefully. Some resorts place restrictions on rental periods or usage. Others charge considerable maintenance fees, which should be included in your financial planning.
Before buying, make sure you understand how the resort is managed. Is there an active owners’ association? Are amenities well maintained? And who handles guest bookings if you plan to operate as a rental?
Rural homes and restoration projects
Beyond the coastal hotspots, Portugal is filled with smaller towns and villages offering real value – particularly to those interested in restoration or self-sufficient living.
From crumbling stone cottages in the Beiras region to larger plots in Viseu or Castelo Branco, you can often find properties for €50,000 or less. These may require extensive renovation, but the trade-off is space, charm and lower purchase taxes.
Some buyers see this as a chance to create a bespoke country home, develop a B&B or run a smallholding. If this appeals to you, it’s vital to work with a legal adviser from the outset. Not all rural properties are properly registered, and zoning laws may affect what can be built or restored.
Also consider infrastructure. Does the location have year-round access, reliable electricity and drainage? Are tradespeople available for the work needed?
This type of property suits buyers with hands-on experience or a patient attitude towards renovation. But with the right team and vision, it can be an immensely rewarding path to Portuguese homeownership.
Get started with expert guidance
The right property for you will depend on your lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. Whether you’re buying for holidays, retirement or relocation, understanding your options is the first step to narrowing your search and finding your dream home.
At Your Overseas Home, we pride ourselves on helping buyers make informed and confident decisions. Speak to one of our consultants today to start your journey.
Once you’ve narrowed down the type of home that suits your lifestyle, the next step is choosing where to buy property in Portugal – whether that’s a rural quinta, a beachfront villa, or a modern apartment in a city. To help you move forward with confidence, our complete guide on how to buy property in Portugal covers the legal steps, financial planning and professional support you’ll need to make your dream home a reality.
Frequently asked questions
What is a ‘quinta’ in Portugal?
A quinta is a traditional Portuguese country home, often located in rural areas and typically including land for farming or vineyards. Some are restored and modernised, while others offer renovation opportunities. They’re ideal for buyers seeking nature, privacy and a self-sufficient lifestyle.
What’s the difference between a villa and a townhouse in Portugal?
Villas are detached homes with private gardens, often found along the coast or in luxury areas. Townhouses are typically terraced or semi-detached homes with smaller outdoor space, located near amenities and urban centres. Townhouses tend to be more affordable and lower maintenance.
Are resort properties a good investment in Portugal?
Yes – resort properties in Portugal often come with on-site services like pools, security and management, making them ideal for overseas buyers. However, it’s important to check rental restrictions, maintenance fees and how the resort is managed before buying.
