Nestled in the heart of the Central Algarve, Silves offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern living that has increasingly drawn expatriates and visitors alike. This charming town, once the Moorish capital of the region, boasts a rich tapestry of influences evident in its architecture, cuisine, and local traditions. Dominated by its impressive red sandstone castle, Silves presents a picturesque skyline that tells the story of its past while embracing the present.
Living in Silves means embracing a slower pace of life, where the Mediterranean climate encourages outdoor living and a connection to nature. The nearby Arade River provides a serene backdrop for evening strolls, while the surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the famous orange groves.
Despite its historical roots, Silves is not too stuck in the past. The town has seen a gradual influx of international residents, bringing with them a diverse range of experiences and cultures, creating a unique community where traditional Portuguese life harmoniously coexists with modern amenities and global perspectives.
For those seeking an authentic Portuguese experience without sacrificing comfort, Silves presents an enticing option. It offers a gateway to the sun-soaked beaches of the Algarve while maintaining its distinct identity away from the more touristy coastal resorts. In recent years, Silves has grown in popularity among expats, often recommended in forums and Facebook groups as an ideal place to live in the Algarve.
Renting & Buying Property
The property market in Silves offers a diverse range of options for both renters and buyers. The city’s growing popularity among expats and tourists has led to an increase in available properties, from traditional townhouses in the historic centre to modern apartments and villas in the surrounding areas.
Buying
Property prices in Silves vary widely depending on location, size, and condition. For those looking to invest in a renovation project, older properties in need of work can be found for as little as €100,000. On the other end of the spectrum, luxury villas with pools and expansive grounds can command prices upwards of €500,000. Typical properties in Silves include traditional townhouses, often with charming features like exposed stone walls and terracotta floors, as well as more modern apartments and detached villas on the outskirts of town.
Search properties for sale in Silves
Renting
Rental prices in Silves are generally more affordable compared to coastal Algarve towns. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can be rented for around €400-€500 per month, while larger properties or those in more desirable locations can range from €600 to €1,000 per month. Long-term rentals are available, but it’s worth noting that the summer months can see an increase in prices due to tourist demand. For more information on renting in Portugal, including your rights as a tenant and what to expect from the rental process, check out this comprehensive guide.
Cost Of Living
The cost of living in Silves is generally lower than in more touristy coastal areas of the Algarve. While property costs, whether renting or buying, will likely be your largest expense, day-to-day living costs are quite reasonable. Groceries, especially locally produced fruits and vegetables, are affordable, and dining out at local restaurants can be quite inexpensive. Utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, are moderately priced. However, it’s worth noting that heating costs in winter can be higher due to the lack of central heating in many Portuguese homes. Overall, a couple can live comfortably in Silves on a budget of €1,500-€2,000 per month, depending on lifestyle choices and housing costs.
Can I move to Silves?
Portugal has a number of visas and residency permits aimed at EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, and people from the rest of the world, including students, retirees, and entrepreneurs.
The most common options are:
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: Those from most European countries can move to Portugal fairly easily and without the need for a visa. Spouses/partners of EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can normally move easily as well, as can some qualifying family members.
- The D7: Aimed at those with a regular passive income. The most common income types are pensions and social security, but rental income, dividends, and royalties are accepted also.
- The D8: Aimed at freelancers and remote workers at those that are essentially able to bring their jobs to Portugal.
- The Golden Visa: Aimed at those with significant savings that want to invest in Portugal (or donate), with a typical investment being around €500,000. The big selling point of this visa is that you only need to spend an average of 7 days per year in Portugal, although you can spend more time in Portugal if you wish.
- The D2: Aimed at entrepreneurs or those that want to start a business in Portugal or move an existing business here. This is one of several entrepreneurial visas Portugal offers.
Attractions
Silves Castle
Perched atop the highest point in Silves, this impressive red sandstone castle is the city’s most iconic landmark. Built by the Moors in the 8th century, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Arade River. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and cisterns, gaining insight into the region’s rich Moorish history.
Silves Cathedral
Located near the castle, the Silves Cathedral (Sé de Silves) is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture with elements of Baroque and Rococo styles. Built on the site of a former mosque, the cathedral houses the tombs of the Crusader knights who helped recapture Silves from the Moors. Its serene interior and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction.
Cork Route
Silves is known for its cork production, and the Cork Route (Rota da Cortiça) offers visitors a unique insight into this traditional industry. The route includes visits to cork factories, forests, and museums, showcasing the journey from tree to final product. It’s an excellent way to understand the economic and cultural importance of cork in the Algarve region.
Historical Attractions
Silves is one of the few Algarve towns rich in historical attractions. Besides the impressive castle, visitors can explore the old town, admire the old Roman bridge, and discover smaller attractions like the Cruz de Portugal (Cross of Portugal). This wealth of historical sites sets Silves apart from many other towns in the Algarve, making it a haven for history enthusiasts.
Medieval Festival
The highlight of Silves’ cultural calendar is undoubtedly the annual Medieval Festival, typically held in August. During this event, the town is transformed, transporting visitors back in time with knights, jousting, and Arabic dishes. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the town’s rich history come to life and is a major draw for both locals and tourists.
Expat Life
Expat life in Silves offers a more authentic Portuguese experience compared to some of the more tourist-heavy coastal towns. While there is a growing international community, it’s not as large or concentrated as in places like Albufeira or Lagos. This allows for greater integration with the local Portuguese community and culture.
One of the advantages of Silves for expats is that it doesn’t become a ghost town in winter, unlike many coastal resort towns. Bars, restaurants, and other amenities generally stay open year-round, providing a consistent community feel throughout the year. However, it’s worth noting that Silves can get quite hot in summer due to its inland location, lacking the cooling coastal breezes.
Retiring Here
Silves presents an attractive option for retirees seeking a balance between tranquility and accessibility. The city’s relatively flat terrain in the centre makes it easy to navigate for those with mobility concerns, although some areas can be hilly. Healthcare facilities are available in the city, with larger hospitals located in nearby Portimão and Faro.
For retirees with school-age children or grandchildren, Silves offers good educational options. The Nobel Algarve British International School is located in Lagoa, about 15 minutes’ drive away. There’s also the Dutch-speaking Nederlands Onderwijs Algarve Portugal in Silves itself, and the Deutsche Schule Algarve on the way to Lagoa. The public secondary school, Escola Secundária de Silves, also scores quite well in national rankings.
Food
Here’s a bullet list of regional dishes popular in Silves and the surrounding Algarve region:
- Cataplana de marisco: A seafood stew cooked in a distinctive clam-shaped copper pot. It’s a flavorful mix of shellfish, fish, and sometimes pork, simmered with vegetables and herbs.
- Frango piri-piri: Spicy grilled chicken marinated in a sauce made from piri-piri peppers. This dish originated in the Algarve and has become popular worldwide.
- Conquilhas à algarvia: Small clams cooked in olive oil, garlic, and cilantro. This simple yet delicious dish is a staple of Algarve cuisine.
- Xerém: A porridge-like dish made from corn flour, often served with fried sardines or other fish. It’s a traditional peasant dish that’s gaining popularity in modern cuisine.
- Tarte de amêndoa: A sweet almond tart that showcases the region’s abundant almond crops. It’s a common dessert in Silves and throughout the Algarve.
In addition to these regional specialties, you’ll find national Portuguese dishes like caldo verde (kale soup), grilled fish, grilled meat dishes, and cozido à portuguesa (a Portuguese stew) on most traditional Portuguese menus. These are found throughout Portugal, including Silves. Of course, the pastel de nata (custard tart) is also ubiquitous.
For vegans, vegetarians, and those requiring gluten-free options, Silves has fewer dedicated establishments compared to larger cities like Lisbon and Porto. However, awareness of dietary requirements is growing, and many restaurants are adapting to cater to these needs. Traditional Portuguese cuisine heavily features meat and fish, and bread is a staple, but you’ll find that many places now offer plant-based alternatives and gluten-free options. In more rural locations, it’s advisable to call ahead to ensure dietary needs can be accommodated.
Upsides & Downsides Of Living Here
Pros
- Rich historical and cultural heritage
- Lower cost of living compared to coastal Algarve towns
- Authentic Portuguese lifestyle
- Proximity to beaches and other Algarve attractions
- Warm climate and beautiful natural surroundings
- Growing international community while maintaining local charm
- Year-round activity, unlike some seasonal coastal towns
- Good educational options nearby
Cons
- Fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Hotter summers due to inland location
- Public transport connections not as extensive as in larger towns
- Fewer international amenities and English-speaking services
- Potential for language barrier in day-to-day interactions
- Car likely needed for convenience, especially if living outside the town centre
Climate
Silves enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), occasionally reaching highs of 35°C (95°F) or more. Winters are mild, with daytime temperatures usually between 10°C and 18°C (50°F to 64°F), rarely dropping below 5°C (41°F) at night. The city receives most of its rainfall between October and March, with summers being notably dry.
While Silves isn’t directly on the coast, the nearby beaches of Armação de Pêra and Carvoeiro (both about 15-20 minutes drive) offer relief from the summer heat. For those preferring freshwater swimming, there are several praias fluviais (river beaches) along the Arade River, providing a cooler alternative to the sea.
It’s important to note that because Silves is a little further inland, it doesn’t benefit from the coastal breeze that cools down the beach towns. This means that when it gets hot in the summer, it can feel very hot in Silves.
Will I Need To Learn Portuguese?
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas of the Algarve, in Silves, which is more inland and traditional, Portuguese language skills become more important. Many locals in shops, restaurants, and public services may have limited English proficiency. Learning Portuguese will greatly enhance your day-to-day life, allowing for deeper connections with neighbours and a fuller integration into the community.
Portuguese people are generally helpful and enjoy speaking other languages, but they truly appreciate when foreigners make an effort to learn their language. Even basic Portuguese can go a long way in building relationships and navigating daily tasks.
Moreover, if you’re considering long-term residency or citizenship in Portugal, language proficiency becomes crucial. To obtain Portuguese citizenship, you’ll need to pass an A2 level Portuguese language exam.
For resources and tips on learning Portuguese, check out this comprehensive guide. It offers various methods and tools to help you start your language learning journey.
Schools
Silves offers a range of educational options for families with children. The public school system provides free education for children from age 6 to 18, and there are several primary and secondary schools in the city. The public secondary school, Escola Secundária de Silves, scores quite well, ranking at 206 and 260 in Publico and Observador’s 2021 rankings respectively.
For those seeking international education, there are several options nearby:
- Nobel Algarve British International School: Located in Lagoa, about 15 minutes’ drive away, it offers an international curriculum taught in English.
- Nederlands Onderwijs Algarve Portugal: A Dutch-speaking school located in Silves.
- Deutsche Schule Algarve: A German school located on the way to Lagoa.
While there isn’t a university in Silves itself, the University of Algarve in Faro (about 45 minutes drive) offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, some of which are taught in English.
For more detailed information about the Portuguese education system and school options throughout the country, check out this comprehensive guide.
Getting Around
Silves is a relatively compact city, making it quite walkable, especially in the historic centre. Some parts of the town center are sloped, particularly as you get closer to the castle.
A car is recommended for most residents, especially those living outside the town centre. While you can manage daily errands on foot or by bicycle in the city centre, you’ll almost definitely need a car for exploring the surrounding areas and accessing nearby beaches.
- Train: Silves has a train station on the Algarve line, connecting it to other major towns. However, the station is located about 2 km outside the town centre, which means you’ll need to take a taxi or Uber to reach the centre.
- Bus: Local and regional bus services connect Silves to nearby towns and beaches. However, services can be infrequent, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Car: A car is highly recommended for residents in Silves. It provides the flexibility to explore the region and access services not available in the immediate area. The nearest beaches are around 25 minutes drive away, including some of the best beaches on the Algarve like Benagil, Marinha, and Caneiros.
Shopping: Silves offers good shopping options. You’ll find both a Continente Modelo and a Lidl, as well as a handful of smaller supermarkets. There’s also a market, the Mercado Municipal de Silves, which takes place every day except Sunday and is biggest on Saturdays.
Similar locations
When comparing Silves to other locations in Portugal for living, several alternatives come to mind:
- Loulé: Another inland Algarve town, Loulé offers a similar authentic Portuguese experience with a bit more hustle and bustle.
- Tavira: Located in the eastern Algarve, Tavira shares Silves’ historical charm but is closer to the coast.
- Tomar: In central Portugal, Tomar offers rich history and a more affordable cost of living, but with cooler winters.
- Caldas da Rainha: A medium-sized town north of Lisbon, it provides a mix of traditional and modern Portugal, with easy access to beaches.
Each of these locations has its unique character, but they all offer alternatives to the more touristy coastal resorts while providing authentic Portuguese living experiences.
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