Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by Maria

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

I wanted to improve my Portuguese skills and enjoy my life, so I thought Lisbon is the perfect place! It's not too big, it's on the water and a beautiful city with great views.

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

It is the Erasmus scholarship, so it lasts one semester, the amount of the scholarships depends on your university. I receive 180€/per month, so it would not be enough to live from it.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

I really like it, everyone is relaxed and as soon as it's warm everyone hangs out outside on Miradouros (viewing spots), kiosks or bars. It's great to meet with friends and cook together and then maybe go to Bairro Alto (district with lots of bars). Lisbon offers a wide variety of nightlife, so you can keep it more casual, listen and dance to all kind of live music or go to clubs.

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

Yes! I felt very comfortable in Lisbon from the start. I still love to discover this city, the many little spots for coffee and the many many great views on the water, the bridge and the Christ statue. And when everyone is outside it's a great atmosphere. They have delicious food here, good wine, great (and cheap) coffee, lots of possibilities to buy new favourite things and many cultural events of which a lot are also for free. So it's great city for students. Oh and of course: the beach is close!

What is the food like?

The sweet pastries are delicious and in general everything you can buy in a pastelaria. I like the fresh fish and seafood and since I'm here I also like octopus; )

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lisbon?

No, I found it through couchsurfing.

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

For me around 600€ a month (including my rent), it could be a little less if you spend less on food. But if you want to do trips you might need a little more at times.

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

At the beginning it's very difficult to understand, but most times you can speak English here. Besides, there are possibilities to learn or improve it through tandem meetings and finding Portuguese friends; )

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

From Germany you can use one of the many connections by airplane.

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

I would start at a Miradouro or someone's house with some Sangria, then visit some Bars with Live Music in Bairro Alto and later maybe to the pink street in Cais do Sodré for some dancing. In the morning to the next open Snach Bar for some fresh empanadas.

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

I like the sea me, close to Largo de Camoes, they have great fresh fish, but it's a little pricy. Otherwise Primeiro Andar, pizza in Art Casa, LostIn, Noobai and every Snackbar/Restaurant that is crowded with people. They have great offers for lunch menus (between 6 and 10€ for a whole meal). And Padaria Portuguesa for Pao de Deus (sweet and delicious).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Lot's of museums or cultural centers like the Centro Cultural in Belem, the Gulbenkian. But also "Bars" like Bacalhoeiro, Primeiro Andar, Kintal, Art Casa that offer great live music.

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

Take it slow, just walk around the city and make a lot of stops for coffee!