Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by Fanny

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

I mainly chose to go to Lisbon for the courses available in the IST. The weather was of course a great argument for me to leave.

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

I left only one semester so my scholarship was 6 months long. I received 2 scholarships that almost covered all the fees I hd (rent, grocery shopping...).

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

Great! There are many opportunities to discover the city and the country, the courses are great, the teachers are really nice to students and always are available to help them when needed.

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

Absolutely! I had one of the best time of my life this semester, leaving in Lisbon, studying abroad and meeting people from all over the world!!

What is the food like?

It depends. Grilled meat and fishes are awesome. Pastries are great but it is very fat and usually full of egg cream. For the rest, it's not bad but just ok. I have to say that coming from France I have maybe other tastes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lisbon?

No, I have found quite easily a nice room in a correct shared flat near the university.

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

I paid 400€ for my rent and less than 150€ a month for food (breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday). For the other costs, it depends on the person lifestyle.

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

I had the opportunity to follow night Portuguese courses given by the university of Lisbon in the IST. It was quite easy for me to learn the basis of this language as I already speak French as a mother tongue and a bit Italian.

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

I am leaving near Nice (France) so I took the plane.

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

Bairro Alto !! In the Erasmus Corner or in other bar/pubs, there are plenty of them in this district.
It's also very nice to watch the sunset from a miradouro (there are a lot of them all over Lisbon) or to go to the LxFactory, there is a nice rooftop bar.

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

The burger Factory in the LxFactory was really nice, typical Portuguese restaurants are also usually nice.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

In Lisbon: the Belem tower, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, many museum, or simply walk down the streets and enjoy the ajuleros on walls.

Porto (few hours of driving in Flixbus)
Berlanga island (same)

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

Be curious and enjoy your time in Lisbon :)