Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by Martina

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

I choose Lisbon because I wanted to learn Portuguese

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

I decided to stay in Lisbon 4 months (first semester), but each student is free to stay how long he wish. For Lisbon they generally give you 230€ per month, but in this front as well depends on your University, as I knew other students from my country getting much more money than I did. It depends on how many students participate in the program: generally if just a few participate and someone gives up, the funds got redistributed.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

There are many nice things to do, and many organization sorting cool things to do (as LLS, ENS), not just parties, but also trips or discounts. Concerning the study, do not make my same mistake of thinking that it's easy and that professor will take into account the fact that you're Erasmus. On the contrary, they will treat you exactly as Portuguese students, and study will take some of your time. The method is very high school method (with homework and EXAM DURING THE SEMESTER).

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

I am happy to say that whoever is going to Lisbon for his Erasmus will have a beautiful experience, so yes, I recommend the city. Also my university (Nova, human sciences) is valid and I recommend it as well.

What is the food like?

If you like fish you will be fine. The most of the dish are rice, potato, salad and carrot. Also vegan or vegetarian have a wide possibility of choices.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lisbon?

I struggled a little bit, but I found my house at the end of August and arrived here the first week of September. My house is very nice, but quite far. Someone prefer to come, stay in a hostel and start searching the hour once they are here, but I preferred to have a house before to leave. Through this website it coasted me 30 € (I think).

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

It doesn't coast that much. It is quite cheap

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

My Uni organized a course for free, and at the end of it you must do and exam. You will be furnished of a certificate after that course. The course is 4 hours per week and take times, but I loved it and I think is also helpfull.

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

I think the best is flying from Rome.

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

Bairro Alto. There are many locals for tourist, but for locals as well.

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

There are many and all over Lisbon. In Alfama mostly. Chinese is good also.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Museums, churches, castles. Belem is a little far, but it is easy to get the tram. Close to Belem there is the "Padrao do Descobrimiento", the Monastero dos Jeronimos, Ajuda. Sintra is also very nice to see.

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

Do not think is cold, but get ready for the rain. Portuguese people are very nice and always happy to help, so don't worry you will be fine!