Portugal ranks as Europe’s top retirement destination

Portugal has recently been named the highest-ranked European destination in the Retirement Abroad Index 2026, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most attractive countries for retirement and long-term relocation.

The country was placed fourth overall among 20 popular retirement destinations worldwide, with the index assessing healthcare quality, visa accessibility, health insurance requirements, cost of living and the strength of expat communities.

The ranking reflects many of the factors that continue to draw people from the UK and Ireland to Portugal, including its climate, personal safety, healthcare provision, established international communities and quality of life.

For many people considering retirement abroad, the decision is no longer simply about finding a sunnier place to live. It is about choosing somewhere that offers peace of mind, access to services, a sense of community and the confidence that day-to-day life can be managed well.

Portugal’s high ranking also follows its continued recognition in other international studies. In the 2025 Global Peace Index, for example, Portugal was ranked seventh in the world, while the 2025 InterNations Expat Insider survey placed Portugal in the top ten globally for quality of life.

Christina Hippisley, General Manager of the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK, said: “Portugal continues to appeal to people who are looking for safety, community, healthcare and a better quality of life.

“For many retirees and lifestyle movers, the attraction is not just the climate. It is the sense that Portugal offers a more balanced way of living, with practical advantages that support long-term wellbeing.

“These rankings reflect what we hear regularly from people who have already made the move. Portugal offers a rare combination of emotional appeal and practical reassurance.”

For those now considering whether Portugal could be right for them, the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in the UK will hold its autumn 2026 programme of Moving to Portugal Shows & Seminars in Dublin, London and Edinburgh.

The Shows are designed to help visitors understand the practical steps involved in moving, retiring, investing or spending more time in Portugal. Attendees will be able to meet specialists in residency, tax, pensions, healthcare, property, legal matters and day-to-day life in Portugal.

The Moving to Portugal Shows & Seminars are free to attend with advance registration.

Event dates and registration

Dublin

Tuesday, September 22, 2026

Herbert Park Hotel, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4

Register here

London

Thursday, October 15, 2026

Pestana Chelsea Bridge Hotel & Spa, London SW11

Register here

Edinburgh

Thursday, November 12, 2026

The Scotsman Hotel, Edinburgh EH1

Register here