Erasmus experience in Lisbon, Portugal

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

I had to choose between Opole in Poland or Lisbon in Portugal according to my university's agreement. I chose Lisbon despite Poland being cheaper and offering classes in English. I think that being in Lisbon had a great influence on me. I love the crowd. The number of Erasmus student was quite high in Lisbon.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

Actually, I did not get a scholarship at that time. I've had a lot of trouble with that. That year, the European Union had some problems with scholarships and I could not get one. I got my money when I returned. Monthly scholarship was 400 Euros. But my monthly I would spend around 600 euros.

How is the student atmosphere in Lisbon?

Night life does not stop, students are very disciplined and the university's engineering department is really tough. Obviously, Erasmus students do not care about going to classes, but I had to pass all of them in order to finish my studies. I had great fun and also went to classes.

Would you recommend the city and the University to other students?

Definitely...

What is the food like?

Their food is a bit strange for me. There is a famous fish called Bacalhau, a fish that is both expensive and slightly salty. Cooking varies according to the pattern. Brazilian cuisine has influenced Portugal. Unfortunately, chicken dishes are very expensive and pork dishes are cheaper. Also, there is a kebab place in Lisbon. I forgot the exact address now. But it was on the green (or blue) metro line.

How did you find accommodation there?

The accommodation was fine. I stayed in the IST's dormitory. Rooms were for 2 people in a mixed dormitory. There was Internet connection, common kitchen, separate WC and showers in every room.

What are the accommodation prices like? What are prices like for other things in general?

As far as I remember, the accommodation prices were around 150 euros per month, my monthly spendings were around 600 euros.

How was the language? Did you attend any course at the university?

It would be a good idea to take the language seriously. The language is Portuguese. Most of the universities have language courses. Even if they do not, they inform you about other language courses. In daily life, you will definitely need to speak in Portuguese.

What is the most economical way to go to Lisbon from your hometown?

Book a connecting flight via Alitalia from Italy to Lisbon and book early!

Where would you recommend in Lisbon to go out in the night?

Of course, do not come back without seeing Bairro Alto. You can also hang out on the beach in Oriente.

Which restaurants would you recommend?

There is a restaurant called Bresialeiro in Baixa Chiado, where you can get good meat for around 10 euros.

What about the cultural sites? What kind of places does it have?

Definitely see Praca de Comercio and Sintra (it takes half an hour by train). Also visit the palace of Belem in Lisbon and the castle in the city center. Obviously, most of the places in the city are worth seeing!

Any advice you'd like to give future Erasmus students in Lisbon?

Enjoy every moment!