Italy vs Portugal: Where Should I Relocate?

Choosing a new country to call home is a significant decision, particularly when weighing the unique offerings of Italy and Portugal. Both countries are rich in culture, history, and lifestyle but cater to different preferences and needs. This article explores the factors to consider when deciding between relocating to Italy or Portugal, including social benefits, housing, transport, and entertainment.

Is It Better to Live in Italy or Portugal?

Relocating to Italy or Portugal largely depends on personal preferences and lifestyle priorities. The country you’re coming from says a lot about your final decision. Often, potential expats tend to choose places that are close to their original culture and customs. So, whether your home country lands nearer Italy or Portugal can help you choose. Italy, known for its rich history and cultural depth, offers a variety of experiences, from bustling cities like Rome and Milan to quieter, scenic areas like Tuscany. Portugal, meanwhile, is often celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle, sunny weather, and lower cost of living. Both countries provide robust social benefits, including public healthcare and social security systems, but with distinct differences in how expats administer and access them.

Is Italy the Best Country to Move to?

Italy offers a rich cultural experience that is hard to match. The country is renowned for its arts, architecture, and culinary delights, making it a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant cultural scene. Living costs can vary greatly depending on the region. In Milan, a financial hub, the cost of living is relatively high, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around €1,100, while smaller cities like Palermo offer more affordable options. Italy also provides a comprehensive public healthcare system, though the quality of services can vary between regions.

Is Portugal the Best Country to Move to?

For many expats, Portugal stands out as a top relocation destination due to its affordable living costs, particularly in comparison to many Western European countries. The cost of housing in Portugal is generally lower than in Italy, making it an appealing choice for those looking for value for money. A one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon can cost between €900 and €1,200 per month, while in Porto, it can be as low as €600 to €900. Additionally, Portugal’s public healthcare system is accessible to all residents, providing security for expats moving to the country. The laid-back Portuguese lifestyle and mild climate further add to its appeal, especially for retirees and those seeking a slower pace of life.

Social Benefits in Italy and Portugal 

Italy and Portugal offer substantial social benefits to their residents, including healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits. Italy’s social security system requires mandatory contributions from employers and employees, including expats. Portugal’s system is also contributory but offers a broader safety net, with public healthcare accessible to all residents, irrespective of their contribution status. This makes Portugal particularly attractive for expats who are concerned about healthcare coverage​.

Housing in Italy and Portugal 

Housing in Italy and Portugal presents different scenarios. Italy’s property market is diverse, from historic city apartments to countryside villas. However, property prices can be quite high, especially in major cities. Portugal, on the other hand, generally offers more affordable housing options. Property prices in Lisbon and Porto are rising but often lower than in major Italian cities. The difference in housing markets means that expats looking for affordable living may find Portugal more appealing.​

Transport in Italy and Portugal 

Transport infrastructure in both Italy and Portugal is well developed, but there are notable differences. Italy has an extensive public transportation network, especially in larger cities and between regions, making it easy to travel around. Portugal also boasts an excellent public transport system, particularly in Lisbon and Porto. However, rural areas in both countries may have limited public transport options, necessitating a private vehicle​ …

Entertainment in Italy and Portugal 

Both Italy and Portugal have a lot to offer in terms of entertainment. Italy’s rich history means countless museums, historical sites, and cultural events throughout the year. The Italian lifestyle emphasises food, wine, and social gatherings and offers a lively environment for expats. Portugal, meanwhile, provides a more relaxed entertainment scene with beautiful beaches, vibrant music festivals, and a growing food and wine culture. Both countries cater to different tastes, so your choice may depend on Italy’s cultural vibrancy or Portugal’s laid-back atmosphere​.

Is it More Beneficial for an Expat to Relocate to Italy or Portugal?

When deciding whether to relocate to Italy or Portugal, expats must consider lifestyle preferences, cost of living, and social benefits. Regarding culture, Italy wins. It’s well known that Italy is an opponent that is extremely hard to beat. Portugal’s architecture and history will be worth a visit, but Italy will make you want to stay.

The cuisine is implacable in both countries, so this is a more personal choice. However, you can be sure that whatever you choose will delight your tastebuds anyway.

It seems that Italy is winning so far with all its attributes. On the other hand, Portugal’s lower cost of living and laid-back lifestyle may appeal to those seeking a more relaxed and affordable European experience. For those already separating their documents to apply for their Italian citizenship, if you worry about housing, start searching for options far from the centre of cities.

So, Italy vs Portugal: Where Should I Relocate to?

Relocating to Italy or Portugal ultimately depends on personal preferences and priorities. Both countries offer unique advantages and pose distinct challenges. If you are considering moving to Italy, VanOne can facilitate your move with our comprehensive services. We specialise in removals to Italy, including house removals, ensuring all your belongings are fully insured during transit. Our team handles all customs clearance procedures, providing a seamless experience from door-to-door collection to delivery. Whether you are moving to Italy or Portugal, VanOne International Movers is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in making your relocation experience as easy as possible.