What Is Portugal's Population and Ethnic Makeup?

The population concentrates along the coast, particularly in the Lisbon and Porto metropolitan areas. Inland regions like the Alentejo have sparse populations and aging demographics as young people move to cities.

Portugal's colonial history brought connections to Brazil, Africa (Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde), and Asia (Goa, Macau). Communities from these countries add cultural richness to Portuguese cities. More recent immigration from Eastern Europe, particularly Ukraine, has grown significantly.

The Portuguese are generally reserved initially but warm once relationships develop. Family ties remain strong, and traditional values coexist with modern European attitudes, particularly among younger generations in cities.