Erasmus Experience in Setúbal, Portugal by Maja

Why did you choose to go to Setúbal, Portugal?

I choose Portugal because it seemed to me that it is the best option (I could choose between Slovenia, Bulgaria, Belgium and Portugal). I wanted to come here also because some of my colleges have been here in a past few years and they all told me great things about Setúbal.

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

I got scholarship for my whole period here (4 months). Every month I get 610€.

What is the student lifestyle like in Setúbal?

Well, the lifestyle is really relaxed. I am now finishing my college so I don't have many classes and I have a lot of free time. We organize different meetings, trips, we are always somewhere in the move.

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

I would recommend it. Nice, small city, kind people, great beaches, great climate.. Why not come here?! But, if you like big cities with a lot of people, bars, many events... You probably won't like it here. On the other hand, in Lisbon you have everything you need and it is close so maybe Setúbal is also good option for you.

What is the food like?

You have a lot of restaurants here with seafood. I'm not a big fan of it, but you can buy food in the shop and cook. My roommates and I cook almost every day. But the best thing about the food are the sweets! "Pastelarias" on every corner, with so many food to choose. Great!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Setúbal?

I found this apartment in Facebook group. I live in a big house in the city center with 3 other girls. We pay 170€ each.

How much does it cost to live in Setúbal?

The life here is not expensive. For me, 600€ per month is enough for everything - accommodation, food, going out, trips.. But if you plan some bigger trips, you will need extra money.

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

There was Portuguese language course, but it began in January and it finished in the end of February (when I came). But if you want to learn the language, this is the great opportunity. You will soon learn the basics and if you are interested, you can learn by yourself.

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

I live in Croatia. For me, the best way to come is definitely by plane. I went from Zagreb to Lisbon. The ticket is around 200€, you can find cheaper if you look earlier.

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

There is an area with bars in Luisa Todi where everyone goes out. Setúbal is not a big city so you don't have many choices, but there are a lot of Erasmus people so you can hang out and make a great atmosphere.

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

As I already told, I am not a big fan of seafood, but we found one great meat restaurant! The name is Carne do Convento. The food is really great and the prices are also good.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are castles which you should go see in Sesimbra and Palmela. Also, Evora is a nice, small, cultural city near Setubal. Lisbon is beautiful city and I believe you will go there many times. These cities are really close to Setúbal so it is a good idea to visit them all.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Setúbal?

Just don't worry about anything! Enjoy your time here, it will pass so soon! I still can't believe how fast is the time flying. And, when you feel homesick, it's normal. It's great that we have Skype. So, be relaxed like Portuguese people and make memories.