Don't Move To Portugal... Move To Italy Instead?
Coming back from Italy, it's been a few days now, and I’ve had time to let my thoughts settle. Honestly, the trip really reinforced some of the feelings I’ve had for a while now. Don’t get me wrong, Portugal is a wonderful place, but after being in Italy again, there’s just something about it that Portugal can’t quite match.
One of the first things that always comes to mind when considering a move is the cost of living. In Italy, some things are just more expensive—sometimes double or triple what I’d pay in Portugal. Of course, it depends on what we're talking about. Transportation is a big difference. In Italy, Uber isn’t really a thing like it is here. You might find an app in Rome that works with taxis, but it’s not the same. In Portugal, I enjoy the convenience of being able to call an Uber and know what it’s going to cost. For someone like me who doesn’t drive and has no interest in getting a license, that’s a big deal.
And then there’s the food. Italy’s food scene is on another level. I mean, we all know Italian food is amazing, but being back there really drove it home. The quality, the simplicity, the way dishes are made—there’s just something about it that feels a notch above. But Portugal has its own appeal too, especially with how simple and straightforward life can be here. Less bureaucracy, more ease in daily life—these are things I really appreciate about living in Portugal.
Lifestyle is another huge factor. People often think Italy and Portugal are similar, but the truth is, they’re really different. Italy has a certain flair, a way people carry themselves, the way food is presented, the shop windows—all of it has that uniquely Italian touch that you just don’t find anywhere else. Portugal, on the other hand, offers a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat, with a lot of sunny days and that fresh breeze I love.
Healthcare is another area where the two countries differ. As an Italian citizen, there are certain tests and treatments you don’t have to pay for in Italy, whereas in Portugal, you might be out of pocket for the same things. But when it comes to data plans and internet, Italy actually comes out cheaper and with better options, which is super important for someone like me who works online.
Shopping in Portugal can be a bit tricky too, especially if you’re not within the typical size range. Finding a suit here has been almost impossible for me, but in Italy, I found one for 99 euros that fit pretty well with just a minor alteration. Little things like this can make a big difference in your day-to-day life.
Then there’s the overall vibe of each place. In Italy, there’s just something different in the air—the way people dress, the music playing in shops, even the way they decorate their windows. It’s hard to put into words, but it’s something uniquely Italian. And while I’m not saying one is better than the other, these are the kinds of things that make a place feel like home or not.
For anyone thinking about moving abroad, especially between Italy and Portugal, it’s important to really consider what you’re looking for. Portugal is fantastic in so many ways, but I’ve also seen a lot of people who’ve moved here and ended up disappointed. Maybe it’s the way Portugal is portrayed in the media—everyone talks about pastel de nata, beautiful weather, and how perfect everything is. But the reality is, no place is perfect. Italy gets its own hype too, with all the pizza, pasta, and amore, but the experience you have can be very different from what you see online.
At the end of the day, moving abroad isn’t for everyone. It’s a big decision, and for many people, a vacation once a year might be more enjoyable than uprooting their life. There’s so much to consider—cost of living, lifestyle, food, how often you’ll see family and friends. It’s not easy, but for me, despite all the things I love about Italy, I’m still here in Portugal, finding joy in the little things this country has to offer.