Lisbon stands out in the Brand Finance City Index 2023

23 May 2023

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has secured its place as a rising global city, ranking 43rd in the renowned Brand Finance City Index 2023. This index, compiled by Brand Finance, a leading brand evaluation consultant, assesses the top 100 city brands worldwide. The evaluation draws upon a comprehensive global survey conducted in April 2023, gathering insights from approximately 15,000 individuals across 20 countries.



Taking the top spot on the Brand Finance City Index is London, followed closely by New York, Paris, Los Angeles, and Sydney. However, Lisbon stands out due to its unique blend of captivating features. Renowned for its gastronomy, architectural and cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and the enchanting Fado music, Lisbon has garnered international recognition as a preferred destination for travellers.The city's overall score in the ranking stands at an impressive 67.5 out of 100.


But what makes Lisbon truly stand out? Let's delve into the specific categories where Lisbon excels. Firstly, in terms of public sentiment and the values upheld by its residents, Lisbon claims the 11th position globally. Its rich cultural and heritage offerings propel it to the 14th place in that regard. The city's liveability factor positions it at 23rd, while its commitment to sustainability earns it the 37th spot in the sustainability category.


Pilar Alonso Ulloa, the General Manager of the Iberian Peninsula and South America at Brand Finance, emphasised that Lisbon's continuous growth and global recognition stem from a combination of factors. These include the flourishing tourism industry, emphasis on innovation and technology, foreign investment, hosting cultural events, and a commitment to sustainability.


The Brand Finance City Index report encompasses various pillars, such as sustainability, transportation networks, and investment and business opportunities. The study, conducted across 20 countries worldwide, seeks an objective perspective on each city, excluding local perceptions from the final rankings.


Beyond Lisbon's position at 43rd, cities such as Oslo in Norway, Dallas in the United States, Auckland in New Zealand, Macau, Istanbul in Turkey, Buenos Aires in Argentina, and the Brazilian cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro follow suit, showcasing the global diversity of remarkable urban destinations.


Overall, Lisbon's ascent in the Brand Finance City Index underscores its status as a city on the rise, combining a captivating blend of cultural heritage, sustainable practices, and a thriving atmosphere that appeals to residents, tourists, investors, and aspiring dwellers alike.

by LVP Advogados | Tax Team 28 January 2026
Learn how to navigate tax returns, from income reporting to IRS filing, with step-by-step guidance for accurate payments or refunds.
by Javier Mateo 23 January 2026
Learn how international graduates in Portugal can stay and work legally under Article 122, transitioning from student to professional residence without leaving the country.
by Margarida Tempera 19 January 2026
Essential guide for employers on terminating employment in Portugal, detailing legal grounds, procedural requirements, and compliance under Portuguese labour law.
by Francisca Abrantes 16 January 2026
The IFICI tax regime is reshaping how founders, CEOs, and senior executives approach relocation to Portugal. Beyond tax benefits, IFICI raises critical issues of corporate substance, governance, and group-level risk for international businesses.
by António Prata Nunes 13 January 2026
Legal analysis of Portugal’s post-2023 crypto tax framework, covering IRS classification, capital gains, exemptions, tax deferral and cross-border implications.
by Tomás Melo Ribeiro 6 January 2026
Registration of equivalent foreign entities in Portugal: requirements, fiscal representation, rights, and key legal and tax considerations for non-EU investors.
by Cleuzina Silva 2 January 2026
Key points of the EU driving licence reform and what the new rules mean in practice for residents and drivers in Europe.
by Luís Maria Branco 26 December 2025
An overview of the Portuguese Golden Visa, highlighting investment fund and cultural routes, family advantages, mobility within Schengen, and long-term residency planning.
by Francisca Abrantes 19 December 2025
Before buying real estate in Portugal, understanding the tax impact of asset vs. share deals is crucial. Learn why structuring upfront matters for exit.
More posts