Experience in Viseu, Portugal by Rodolfo

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

I would recommend everyone to visit Viseu just like I would recommend to visit other cities from Portugal because we have the luck to have nice weather, awesome gastronomy and a range of very low prices compared to other countries.

Viseu is called the city of gardens due to is vast gardens and green places that go across the whole city and that make it look just like an enormous garden.

What is the student lifestyle like in Viseu?

The student lifestyle in Viseu is very laid back because we have a small university with different areas of studies, so we can find different cultures and ways of seeing things.

There are few international students studying in Viseu, but that's not a problem because it's always great to meet new people and have a great Erasmus experience here just by hanging out with Portuguese students and make new friendships!

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How much does it cost to live in Viseu?

Well, perhaps just like others cities from Portugal, you can find a lot of cheap places, making the best of it. Always try to save money by asking people if they can low the price, don't be rude and trust me. Portuguese humour its always a great thing to learn and respect, so don't be shy and just ask for the best price and you will see that you can save up some money. Costs are about from 300-550 euros per month for all expenses (room, transportation, food, going out)

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

Its a very open city so you just have to ask and search in your university for houses and perhaps roommates that are also looking out for an house or apartment to share. By doing this you can save a lot of money.

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

The food is awesome! Just like other city in Portugal we are lucky (or not if you want to keep your weight) to have great food for a great price! You can find great places just by hanging out near the historical area. Just look for meat or tapas because due to the proximity of the countryside for this dishes its the best way to have a good service and fresh ingredients.

Favourite dishes here in Viseu I have to say Borrego assado no forno com batatas (Roasted Lamb with potatoes) and enchidos e queijos (sausages and cheeses).

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What places would you recommend visiting in Viseu?

You can walk and meet all the city best spots. Just look for the old buildings in the centre, try to catch a bus to visit the countryside, take the tourist train to visit the historical places, you have the museum of Grão Vasco among others historical buildings right in the heart of the city.

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

I recommend to eat at your place or perhaps try to find Portuguese friends that can cook traditional and typical Viseu dishes. But if you still want to explore the restaurants, try to walk in the historical centre because you will have several great restaurants over there that can cook from awesome meat to fresh veggies and tapas.

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

In Viseu the nightlife is kind of slow due to the countryside effect on people. But from Wednesday to Sunday you can find the best fun in the historical centre, its there were people gather in one place to have the best fun. Different streets and alleys that have the places to your taste. You like RocknRoll? You can have it. You like Brazilian music? You can have it. You like some calm indie music? You can have it. Just take the time to explore the streets there and find the best place to your interests. Otherwise you can always go to the nightclubs, you have NB, Palácio do Gelo and Factor X.

What advice would you give future students heading to Viseu?

Just be nice, humble and adventurous. Viseu is more than a simple city if you take the time to embrace the opportunities and make yourself home. Portuguese people will welcome you with a big smile and a big heart. Just be smart to take a step into that living.

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