Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by anne

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

I was attracted by the Portuguese language since long time and I learnt that Lisbon was a really beautiful city, not as expensive as other capitals of Europe. And really important point, I surf, so Lisbon was perfect for that.

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

I spend 10 months in Lisbon, from September until June for school, and one more just to have fun. I don't remember how much money I receive, but I know that it was enough for the year, at the end of the Erasmus year I had money left.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

It's really nice, I was in architecture, and almost all the teacher made the class in English the first semester to help the Erasmus. And about the life, with the Erasmus association, we have a lot of advantages about everything: rent a car, entrance in some parties, special prices for hostel, surf lessons, etc.

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

Of course!

What is the food like?

It's good, but like in all the cities, there is some places for tourists, a little bit expensive, but you can find nice place, in Alfama for example, really cheap (like 5 euros for dinner) and with good food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lisbon?

I find my accommodation in 3 days, with all the Erasmus website it was easy, and there is a lot of people who like to rent a room for Erasmus, because they know that generally we have help to pay from our country.

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

I paid 320 euros for a big room in the centre of Lisbon (between Rato and Bairro Alto).

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

It was easy to read Portuguese at the beginning, speak and understand a little bit more complicated because of the accent, but after the Portuguese lessons in the university, it was good. I can notice that it's really easier for people from Latin countries (Italy, Spain, France, etc. ) than for people like English, Germans, etc.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Lisbon from your city?

By plane, Easyjet.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Lisbon?

Bairro alto of course, and Alfama during the month of June.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Lisbon?

For Portuguese food I don't remamber the names of the restaurants, I'm used to walk in the city and when there is a place which look good, I go. But for Japonese food, there big and cheap restaurant in front of Miradoura Sao Pedro de Alcantara. Just perfect.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is a lot of parks and Miradouros, there is also all the bairro of Belem, etc.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Lisbon in the future?

Just enjoy, go by walk to discover all the details of the city, small and pretty street, go out to discover people.