Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by Catarina

What is it like to live in Lisbon? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Lisbon is a nice capital city, with all the facilities of a capital but still with a nice landscape to enjoy and very close to the beach and to natural areas. The quality of life is quite high, with a rhythm not too fast-paced, which makes living there very enjoyable. I would definitely recommend it, especially for an Erasmus period.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

The student life in Lisbon is pleasant, there are many suitable sites to study but also many places for sightseeing, or to unwind and take breaks with friends.

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

The cost of living in Lisbon is rather cheap when compared to many other European capitals. Housing costs between 200-500 euros per month, and monthly public transport is below 50€. Partying is also cheaper than in other european capitals, which means that overall it is pretty affordable to live is Lisbon.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Lisbon? Is there any advice you can give?

It is advisable to look for accommodation in advance before moving there. However, there is a wealth of offers, varying slightly depending on which areas of the city we are looking for. There are some groups and websites specialized in offering short-term accommodation for erasmus students, and the students associations of the universities may also be able to help.

Here is an example: http://www.erasmuslifelisboa.com/housing-in-lisbon/

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food in Lisbon is amazing! There is a wide variety of portuguese traditional dishes, many of them including codfish (bacalhau) but also other fish and meat. There are many places where we can eat very well for a great price.

What places would you recommend visiting in Lisbon?

There are many monuments and historical and cultural sites, especially in the old historic centre around the castle and close to the river Tagus. Interesting museums (free) are the Berardo Museum, the design museum, the tour of the old town in the trams and taking the old lifts to the 'miradouros' (viewpoints), and the gardens spread around the city. And there are always lots of theatre plays on offer for a very low price (although these may be tricky for those who do not understand portuguese).

Is it good to eat out in Lisbon? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

As mentioned above, there are many great spots to eat out in Lisbon. There are places for all kinds of taste. I can't mention any one in particular.

Is the nightlife good in Lisbon? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is said to be very lively and great. Trandy Nightlife areas include Bairro Alto, Santos and Docas. Trendy clubs include Urban, Lux, BBC, Main, etc.

What advice would you give future students heading to Lisbon?

Make the most of your time, take the chance to enjoy the nightlife but don't forget to explore the city by day, with its beautiful light and amazing places and food. Lisbon has everything to offer: night, culture, history, nature, peace and metropolis. Enjoy!