The study evaluated 16 countries based on factors such as climate, cost of living, safety, culture, lifestyle, and healthcare services. Ecuador, Costa Rica, Spain, Greece, and France complete the top eight of the list.

With recent data from Brussels, cited by business newspaper Jornal de Negócios, reveals that Portugal has the highest proportion of pensions paid by foreign social security systems among the 32 European countries with common social protection mobility rules.


The country reportedly has over 475,000 foreign pensions, with 14 out of every 100 pensions received in Portugal paid by foreign entities, amounting to 2.3 billion euros.

It's not difficult to see why Portugal is such a popular choice for retirees, offering a year-round pleasant climate, affordable cost of living, public and private healthcare, low crime rate, and rich culture and history. Local authorities also endeavour to provide infrastructure and activities specifically geared towards senior citizens and those with reduced mobility, to encourage all residents to enjoy an active and social lifestyle.


The Algarve has long been one of the top destinations for retirees, not only within Portugal, but within Europe, offering a year-round warm and sunny climate, peacefulness and a culturally-diverse community. Quinta do Lago, located in the Algarve’s prestigious Golden Triangle, is a particular favourite among the country’s wealthiest retirees.

Ana Damásio, Director of Real Estate Sales & Marketing at the Wyndham Grand Algarve, believes Quinta do Lago is one of Europe’s premier spots for discerning retirees.

“Quinta do Lago offers an amazing lifestyle. It benefits from the Algarve’s low crime rate, friendly locals and rich culture and history, set in the unique natural beauty of the Ria Formosa. But it also offers everything residents need for a healthy and sociable lifestyle”, she says.


Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

This includes world-class sports facilities, fine dining, exclusive bars and boutiques, and a year-round events agenda. It also offers the security and peace of mind of gated-community-style resorts.

The Wyndham Grand Algarve residences – stylish and fully-equipped one, two and three-bedroom apartment-style units, from €550,000, in the heart of Quinta do Lago – have proved popular options for retirees from northern Europe and beyond.

“Our ready-to-go, five-star serviced residences offer a stylish retreat in one of Portugal’s most exclusive postcodes. Owners enjoy a huge range of benefits, not least the Wyndham Grand Algarve’s on-site facilities and amazing lifestyle the area offers, but also the flexibility to enjoy guaranteed returns on investment, should they decide to make Portugal a temporary base”.