Erasmus in Lisbon
Information and tips for Erasmus students in Lisbon
| Private rooms Lisbon | 13146 | 609/month |
| Residences Lisbon | 379 | 713/month |
| Studios Lisbon | 394 | 1381/month |
| Apartments Lisbon | 5076 | 2672/month |
Why do Erasmus in Lisbon? Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the most visited cities in Europe. It’s the destination of a large number of tourists and students every year because it has so much to offer. If you go on Erasmus to Lisbon, you won't regret it!
If you’re thinking about making Lisbon your Erasmus destination, here’s everything you need to know about this wonderful city.
Cost of living in Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is the choice for many students due to its cost of living. One of the main expenses you'll have is rent. If you look early enough, you can find good deals, such as rooms in shared flats for around €450 or residences for around €600 per month. This depends on the location of the accommodation.
Eating out is also affordable. In many restaurants you can eat for around €5-€10 which, compared to other European cities, is very cheap.
Public transport isn’t quite expensive. If you plan to use it frequently, you can buy the Navegante Metropolitano pass, which costs around €40 per month. A single ticket costs €1.50.
Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon offers a variety of nightlife options to have a good time with friends. For example, you can go to a nightclub like Lux Frágil, famous for its international DJs and river views, or visit a quieter bar like Pavilhão Chinês, known for its unique atmosphere and vintage décor.
If you prefer something more dynamic, the Alto neighbourhood (Bairro Alto) is an iconic place where lively bars and small nightclubs mix. It's common to start the night with a cup of ‘ginjinha’ (typical cherry liqueur) in a local bar and then go to different bars.
But Lisbon isn’t just about partying! If you live in this city, you'll discover that it has much more to offer. For example, you can walk around the charming Alfama, climb up to the Santa Catarina viewpoint for a spectacular view, or explore the surrounding area. Feeling like a change of scenery? Escape to impressive beaches such as Caparica Coast or Guincho Beach, where you can relax and enjoy water sports.
Culture and gastronomy in Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is full of history and culture. You can visit different museums, such as the National Museum of Ancient Art (Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga - MNAA) to explore artworks by Portuguese and European artists, or the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (Museu de Arte, Arquitetura e Tecnologia - MAAT) to enjoy modern and contemporary art.
Once you visit this city you'll fall in love with every corner. Some places to visit are: São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge), the Alfama neighbourhood, as well as the viewpoints, like Portas do Sol, very popular and with incredible views of the city.
The gastronomy in Lisbon is very varied. Typical dishes include 'bacalao à brás' (shredded cod, fried potatoes, onion, egg and parsley), 'frango no churrasco' (grilled chicken with spices, rice and salad), the 'bitoque' (steak with rice, fried potatoes, fried egg and salad), or the ‘pastéis de nata’ (puff pastry filled with pastry cream).
Advantages and disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Lisbon, Portugal
Advantages
- Student atmosphere, culture, partying and fun: it offers a lively nightlife in Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré, combined with cultural events and an active Erasmus community.
- Incredible places to visit: from the Palacio da Pena in Sintra to the viewpoints of Lisbon, the city and its surroundings are a constant spectacle.
- Fine dining at low prices: typical dishes, such as 'bacalao à brás' or ‘pastel de nata’, are delicious and cheap.
- Affordable prices for students: public transport, accommodation and attractions are accessible to student budgets.
- Opportunity to meet people from different parts of the world: it’s a multicultural city that connects international students in events and activities.
Disadvantages
- Inclines and lots of hills: Lisbon is full of hills, which can be tiring if you're on foot.
- Limited night-time public transport: although the metro is efficient, it closes early, and night buses have reduced schedules.
- Very hot summers: temperatures can exceed 35°C / 95ºF, which can be uncomfortable without A/C.
- Language barrier: although many speak English, Portuguese can be a challenge if you need to deal with local paperwork.
Cheap student accommodation in Lisbon, Portugal
Do you need an accommodation in Lisbon and don't know how to find it? At Erasmus Play we’ll help you compare and find the best flats, rooms and residences for students in Lisbon.
FAQ about doing Erasmus in Lisbon
How much does it cost to live in Lisbon as a student?
Lisbon isn’t considered one of the most expensive cities in Europe, but the cost of living varies according to your priorities. A student can spend between €750-€800 per month on budget accommodation, food, transport and some leisure.
What’s student life like in Lisbon?
It's a city full of students, so it's a great destination to go on Erasmus. You can find cafes, libraries and nice places to study, and there's also a great atmosphere for partying.
How much does student accommodation cost in Lisbon?
You can find rooms in shared flats for €450 or rooms in residences for around €600. It’s better to start looking for accommodation early, as there’s a high demand from students.
How much is the Erasmus scholarship to study in Lisbon?
The amount of the Erasmus scholarship varies according to your home country and the policies of your University. We recommend you to check with your institution.
Which are the best areas to live in Lisbon as a student?
Downtown areas are the most convenient, with everything you need nearby, and very well connected. Some of the neighbourhoods we recommend are Alameda, Arroios, Areeiro or São Sebastião.
