Living and Studying in Lisbon: A Student’s Guide

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, has been steadily gaining popularity as a study abroad destination among students. With its vibrant culture, rich history, affordable living, and top-notch education institutions, it’s no surprise that more and more students are choosing Lisbon as their destination of choice. In this guide, we will take a closer look at what it’s like to live and study in Lisbon and why it’s a great choice for students.

Overview of Lisbon

Lisbon is a city that is located on the western coast of Portugal. It’s known for its colorful streets, charming neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks like the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. The city has a population of over 500,000 people, and it’s the largest city in Portugal.

Cost of Living in Lisbon

One of the biggest advantages of living in Lisbon is its affordable cost of living. Compared to other major European cities, Lisbon is relatively cheap. The cost of accommodation, transportation, and food is much lower than in cities like London or Paris. A student can live comfortably in Lisbon with a budget of around €800-€1000 per month.

Education Institutions in Lisbon

Lisbon has some of the best universities in Portugal. The most famous ones are the University of Lisbon, the University of Nova Lisbon, and the Catholic University of Portugal. These universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields like business, engineering, law, medicine, and social sciences

Language

Portuguese is the official language of Portugal. However, most universities in Lisbon offer courses in English. Many locals also speak English, especially those who work in the tourism and hospitality industry. Knowing a few basic Portuguese phrases will definitely help, but it’s not a requirement to live or study in Lisbon.

Transportation

Lisbon has an efficient and affordable public transportation system. The city has a metro, buses, trams, and trains that connect different parts of the city. The metro is the fastest way to get around Lisbon, and it’s also the cheapest. A monthly pass costs around €40, and it gives you unlimited access to the metro, buses, and trams.

Food and Drink

Lisbon is a foodie’s paradise. The city is known for its seafood, pastries, and wine. The most famous dish in Lisbon is the bacalhau, a dish made with salted cod. Other must-try dishes include the pastel de nata (custard tart), arroz de marisco (seafood rice), and cozido (meat stew). Lisbon also has a thriving coffee culture, and you’ll find many cafes serving delicious coffee and pastries.

Nightlife

Lisbon has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. The city has a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Bairro Alto neighborhood is known for its lively bars, while the Cais do Sodré area has some of the best clubs in the city. Students can also find many affordable places to drink and party.

Culture and Entertainment

Lisbon has a rich cultural scene, and there’s always something to do or see. The city has many museums, art galleries, and theaters. The most famous museum in Lisbon is the National Museum of Ancient Art, which houses a vast collection of Portuguese art. Lisbon also hosts many festivals throughout the year, like the Lisbon Book Fair, the Lisbon International Film Festival, and the Rock in Rio music festival.

Safety

Lisbon is a relatively safe city, and violent crime is rare. However, like any other major city, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur, especially in touristy areas. Students should take basic precautions like keeping their valuables close and not walking alone at night. It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in crowded areas.

Accommodation

Lisbon offers a variety of accommodation options for students. The most popular ones are shared apartments, student residences, and homestays. Shared apartments are a great option for students who want to live with other students and share the rent. Student residences are more expensive, but they offer more amenities like cleaning services and common areas. Homestays are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and practice your Portuguese..

In conclusion

Lisbon is a great destination for students who want to study abroad. With its affordable cost of living, top-notch education institutions, and vibrant culture, Lisbon has everything that a student could want. From the delicious food and wine to the lively nightlife and cultural scene, Lisbon has something to offer for everyone. Students who choose to study in Lisbon are sure to have an unforgettable experience.