Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by Inês

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

Living in Lisbon is living in a city full of light, full of people, full of things to do. Lisbon perfectly mixes the old with the new, and you always have things to do, it's really the best place to live in Portugal - if you don't mind a little confusion and lots of people, of course.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

That I couldn't say, since I never came here as a student and I am not one now.

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

It is quite expensive, I should say. At least for Portuguese standards. The housing prices are through the roof right now, double the price than in most cities, you pay as much for a room here, as you do for an entire apartment in other cities. As for the food, restaurants are also a bit pricy - the closer you are to the center, the more expensive they get, of course. But you can find prices for all budgets, you just have to look for them! :)

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

Yes, it is quite difficult because there are many people looking and the offer is not enough for everyone, plus the prices are so high right now. The advice I can give is - always be on the lookout, and alert, look in many sites and be careful with scammers, for there are a lot of them out there. And if you find a house you really like, visit it as soon as possible and be ready to pay for it in advance, otherwise someone else will come and take it!

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

The food is great, as is all food in Portugal. We have many traditional dishes, a lot of variety, you're bound to find something you like! I recommend you try the fish, we're well-known for our codfish dishes, and in the June festivities, you must try the grilled sardines!

What places would you recommend visiting in Lisbon?

All the monuments are worth it, expensive though they may be sometimes. I personally love all the belvederes as well, they give you an amazing view over the city, you can't miss them. My favorite monument is probably St. Jorge's castle, overlooking the city.

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

Yes, it's very good, but there are so many places to go to that the hardest thing is to choose one, really! I love international food so I would recommend the Italian restaurant "Casanova" (near St. Apolónia station) or the sushi "Sakura" which exists in many locations and is good and cheap.

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

Yes, there are many clubs and cafés you can visit at night. Since I work a lot I don't go out much, but my favorite club is LUX Frágil, also near St. Apolónia.

What advice would you give future students heading to Lisbon?

Just come ready to enjoy a city you'll be sure to love. It's impossible not to ;)