Bragança and Covilhã, the perfect retreats for retirement in Europe
According to the International Living report, Bragança was considered the best city in Europe to live in after retirement. The report also states that Covilhã is the second best city.
Bragança is located in the northeast of Portugal, in the Trás-os-Montes region, while Covilhã is in the center of the country, in the Beira Interior region, close to Serra da Estrela. These two Portuguese cities are highlighted in the International Living report that presents the 16 cheapest cities to live in the world where a couple can live comfortably with a budget of €1,400 per month.
Bragança
The historic center of Bragança invites you to stroll through its cobblestone streets, where you can admire the 12th-century castle and explore the local market, filled with fresh produce, meats, seafood, and handmade goods. The city has the perfect size for a welcoming community environment, where neighbors know each other and every corner of the medieval streets tells a story.
Throughout the year, Bragança comes alive with festivals and events, such as the Feira Mediaval and various cultural and religious celebrations.
Affordable Cost of Living in Bragança
Bragança stands out as one of the most affordable cities to live in Portugal, offering an excellent quality of life without the high costs of larger cities.
| Description | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center | €400 to €500/month |
| Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center | €600 to €700/month |
| Meal at an affordable restaurant | €8 to €12 |
| Three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | €30 to €40 |
| Monthly grocery costs (basic essentials for one person) | €150 to €250/month |
| Monthly average for a 2-bedroom apartment | €100 to €150/month |
| Healthcare at Bragança Hospital Center (public and private) | Reduced costs |
| Private health insurance | €20 to €50/month (depending on coverage) |
Bragança’s climate is continental, with hot, dry summers, where temperatures can exceed 35°C, and cold, wet winters, with the possibility of subzero temperatures. However, frequent rain keeps the landscape lush and green, creating a setting of great natural beauty.
“Bragança has the right size, where neighbors know each other and every corner of the medieval streets tells a story,” states the report.
As previously mentioned, Bragança is not the only Portuguese city in the ranking, Covilhã comes right after, as the second best European city for retirement.
Covilhã
Situated in the heart of Portugal, Covilhã is located at an altitude of 719 meters and stands out for its proximity to the Serra da Estrela, home to the country’s only ski resort. Despite the mountainous landscape, the city enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with pleasant summers averaging 22°C and mild winters, with average temperatures of 7°C.
One of Covilhã’s main attractions is Unhais da Serra, one of Portugal’s most charming river beaches. This natural space offers crystal-clear mountain waters, landscaped areas, a playground, as well as a restaurant and a bar. The city is also known as the “City of Wool and Snow” due to its historical connection to the textile industry and its landscapes often covered in snow.
With around 34,000 inhabitants, Covilhã has a diverse community, including locals, expatriates, and students from the University of Beira Interior. The city’s central point is Serra Shopping, which features a wide range of stores, as well as a food court with both Portuguese and international options.
For more advanced medical care, the city has the Centro Hospitalar Universitário Cova da Beira, a modern hospital offering medical specialties, pharmacies, and specialized treatments.
Affordable Cost of Living
“In terms of costs, Covilhã is also very affordable.” According to the study:
| Description | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Affordable restaurant meal | €10 |
| Full dinner for two people | €35 |
| Average cost of basic groceries | €15 |
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment in the city center) | €500/month |
| Rent (3-bedroom apartment in the outskirts) | €735/month |
| Utility bills (electricity, phone, and internet) | €175/month |
With a budget of €1,500 per month, a couple can live comfortably in Covilhã, still managing to save and travel.
With excellent quality of life, a strong connection to nature, and an affordable cost of living, Covilhã is an ideal destination for those who wish to enjoy retirement or simply live in a peaceful and welcoming environment.
Price Comparison Between the Two Cities
Housing
| Type of Accommodation | Bragança | Covilhã | Cheaper in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | €400 – €600/month | €500/month | Bragança |
| 3-bedroom apartment (outskirts) | €415/month | €735/month | Bragança |
| Utilities (electricity, water, etc.) | €100 – €150/month | €175/month | Bragança |
| Internet | €26.30 | €34.99 | Bragança |
Food
| Item | Bragança | Covilhã | Cheaper in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget meal | €10 – €15 | €10 | Same (minimum) |
| Dinner for two | €31.30 | €35 | Bragança |
| Basic groceries | (Slightly higher per item) | €35 | Covilhã (slightly) |
Transport
| Type of Transport | Covilhã | Bragança | Cheaper in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single bus ticket | €1.74 | €€1.80 | Bragança |
| Monthly pass | €10.40 | €39 | Bragança |
| Gasoline | €1.75 | €1.83 | Bragança |
Leisure
| Activity | Bragança | Covilhã | Cheaper in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gym membership | €31.20 | €37.63 | Bragança |
| Cinema ticket | €5.29 | €7.00 | Bragança |
Summary
| Category | Cheaper in |
|---|---|
| Housing | Bragança |
| Food | Balanced (slight advantage for Covilhã) |
| Transport | Bragança |
| Leisure | Bragança |
| Utilities | Bragança |
Summary: Overall, Bragança offers a lower cost of living, especially in housing, transportation, and leisure. However, Covilhã stands out for its access to Serra da Estrela, modern infrastructure (university hospital, shopping mall), and a vibrant student community, which may justify slight price differences for those who value these factors.
The 6 best cities in Europe
The newspaper El CEO also selected the 6 best cities in Europe to live in after retirement, in addition to Bragança and Covilhã which are in first and second place, these are the 6 best European cities:
1- Bragança (Portugal)
2- Covilhã (Portugal)
3- Oviedo (Spain)
4- Alicante (Spain)
5- Granada (Spain)
6- Bergerac (France)
Conclusion
Bragança and Covilhã offer retirees the perfect blend of affordability, tranquility, and a high quality of life, making them standout destinations in Europe for those looking to enjoy their golden years in comfort. Bragança captivates with its historical charm, medieval architecture, and strong sense of community, providing a peaceful yet culturally rich environment. Covilhã, on the other hand, enchants with its breathtaking mountain landscapes, proximity to Serra da Estrela, and vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere.
Both cities offer excellent healthcare services, an affordable cost of living, and a slower pace of life, ideal for retirees who wish to escape the stress of larger cities without sacrificing modern conveniences. Whether one is drawn to the cobblestone streets of Bragança or the mountain views of Covilhã, both locations provide a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment.
With Portugal’s reputation for safety, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty, choosing Bragança or Covilhã means embracing a fulfilling and serene retirement lifestyle in one of Europe’s most attractive countries.
FAQ
Both cities offer a combination of affordability, quality of life, and natural beauty. They are well-suited for retirees looking for a quieter, more relaxed environment with access to essential amenities, good healthcare, and a strong sense of community.
Bragança is one of the most affordable cities in Portugal. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €400 to €500 per month, and a 3-bedroom apartment outside the center costs between €600 and €700 per month. Meals at affordable restaurants are around €8 to €12, and monthly grocery costs for one person range from €150 to €250.
Healthcare at the Bragança Hospital Center is available at reduced costs, with both public and private options. Private health insurance starts from €20 to €50 per month, depending on coverage.
Covilhã enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with pleasant summers averaging 22°C and mild winters with temperatures around 7°C. It is also located near the Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s only ski resort, making it a great location for nature lovers.
Yes, a couple can live comfortably on €1,500 per month in Covilhã. This budget allows for rent, food, utilities, and even some travel and savings, making it an affordable place for retirement.
In Covilhã, the rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €500 per month, and for a 3-bedroom apartment in the outskirts, it’s about €735. Monthly utility bills (electricity, phone, and internet) cost around €175, and a meal at an affordable restaurant costs around €10.
Bragança’s historical charm, affordability, and the welcoming community make it an ideal place for retirement. The city offers a unique atmosphere where you can experience both the warmth of Portuguese culture and the beauty of its medieval architecture, all at a fraction of the cost of larger European cities.
According to the report, other top cities for retirement in Europe include Oviedo, Alicante, Granada, and Bergerac. These cities are known for their affordable living, rich culture, and pleasant climates.
Both cities have good road connections and affordable public transportation. While Bragança has fewer public transport options, it is easy to get around on foot or by car. Covilhã has urban buses and is relatively well connected to other cities by train and road networks.
Yes, both cities are among the safest in Portugal, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment, making them ideal for retirees.
The real estate market in these cities is much more affordable than in Lisbon or Porto. There are options for renting and buying properties at competitive prices, making both cities attractive for those who want to live in Portugal without spending too much.
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