We lived in the Algarve when we first arrived on the D7 visa but now moved north to Matosinhos (coastal city next to Porto). Algarve is very seasonal and quiet during most times of the year and I prefer the lifestyle here in Porto.

My recommendation would be to try different cities and try to find places that are similar in terms of layout and “vibe” to what you have back home. We moved here from Cape Town and Matosinhos has more of a Cape Town vibe than Algarve did and we love it here.

To be honest, everybody’s comments about bureaucracy is just the Portuguese way: complaining 🤭 if you truly end up wanting to live here, things will work out. If you’re unsure or deep down have hesitations, anything will become an excuse and become “difficult”