Study in Lisbon 2025: Ultimate Guide for International Students
- INLIS Consulting
- Jul 22
- 6 min read
Lisbon is a top student destination thanks to its mild climate, low crime, and affordable lifestyle. Students praise its “warm climate, amiable locals, and high-quality education
The city consistently ranks as safe (walking freely even at night) and boasts a lower cost of living than many Western European capitals. English is widely used in higher education – many postgraduate programs are taught in English – so international students can adapt quickly. Beyond academics, Lisbon offers rich culture and friendly locals, making it an enriching place to live.
Best Neighborhoods for Students
Lisbon’s neighborhoods vary by vibe, price, and proximity. Here are six student-friendly areas:
1. Saldanha:
A modern, upscale area known for its business hubs, shopping centers, and wide avenues. It’s centrally located with excellent metro connections (Saldanha station links two main lines) and is close to the University of Lisbon and Instituto Superior Técnico. While rent is slightly higher (shared rooms from ~€500–700), students benefit from the convenience, safety, and abundance of cafes, coworking spaces, and gyms.
2. Arroios:
A trendy, multicultural district. Time Out named it the world’s “coolest” neighborhood in 2019. It’s relatively central, affordable (shared rooms from ~€400 and has lively cafes and parks. Easy metro access (Alameda/Campo Pequeno) puts many campuses within reach.
3. Bairro Alto:
The historic nightlife hub. By day, it’s quiet; by night, it’s bustling with bars and fado clubs. It’s central but pricier – expect shared-room rents around €300–550. Good for social students who love evening entertainment.
4. Alfama:
Lisbon’s oldest quarter. Cobblestone alleys and hilltop views, with live Fado music echoing at night. It’s quiet and picturesque, though very hilly. You’re close to downtown and São Jorge Castle. Rents can be reasonable, but tourist traffic is high in summer.
5. Entrecampos/Alameda:
A modern, residential area near several universities (e.g., NOVA SBE, Instituto Superior Técnico). It centers on a large park and stadium. More green space and a student vibe around the Technical Institute – shared rooms ~€350. Well-served by metro and train (Entrecampos station).
6. Campo de Ourique:
A quiet, “village-like” neighborhood. Safe and community-oriented with local shops and its own market. It feels suburban, so rent is a bit higher, but many students appreciate its calm streets and Portuguese cafes.
Neighborhood Costs (approx.): Shared rooms can run €400–650 (idealista.pt, lodgerin.com) depending on area; one-bedroom flats start around €900 in the center (beportugal.com). Saldanha, Campo de Ourique and Bairro Alto tend to be on the higher end till 1200 Euros, while Arroios and Alameda are more affordable.
Cultural & Practical Do’s and Don’ts
Moving to Lisbon means adapting to Portuguese customs and regulations. Keep these tips in mind:
Visa & Registration:
EU/EEA students just register their stay; non-EU students must obtain a Portuguese student visa (Type D) before arrival and a residence permit once in Lisbon.
Apply early and prepare documents (acceptance letter, finances, insurance).
Language:
Portuguese is the official language, but younger people and university staff speak good English. Learn some basic Portuguese (“por favor”, “obrigado”, etc.) to show respect. Note that most master’s and PhD programs offer courses in English
Public Transport:
Lisbon’s metro, buses, trams, and trains are reliable and affordable
Get a reloadable Viva Viagem card: single rides cost €1.65–2.00, or get a monthly Passe Navegante (€40 for all zones). Always validate tickets when boarding. Avoid unlicensed taxis (use metro, Uber/Cab, or official tuk-tuks).
SIM cards & Utilities:
Portuguese SIM/data plans are cheap – about €10–15/month for ~20GB. Hook up essential utilities and internet (broadband ~€30–40/month quickly after moving. Carry your NIF (tax ID) for contracts.
Tipping & Etiquette:
Tipping is not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving 5–10% is appreciated but not expected. Small round-ups for coffee or a taxi are common. Portuguese are generally polite and value formal greetings (“bom dia”, handshake or two-cheek kiss among friends). Avoid loud, confrontational behavior – patience is valued.
DO’s and DON’Ts:
Do carry your passport/ID (you may need it for age-checked venues). Do try local cuisine (pastéis de nata, bacalhau, bifana). Don’t be alarmed if shops close midday or late at night; dinner often starts around 8–9 pm.
💡 Tip: Attend the university’s orientation and join the Erasmus Student Network (ESN Lisbon) or student clubs. These are great for making friends, finding study partners and learning about campus life.
Top Things to See & Do
Lisbon is packed with historic sites and fun activities. Highlights include:
Torre de Belém: The 16th-century Belém Tower guards the Tagus River. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it commemorates Vasco da Gama’s voyages. whc.unesco.org. Visit early morning to beat crowds. Nearby is the Jerónimos Monastery and the Monument to the Discoveries.
LX Factory: A cool arts district under the 25 de Abril Bridge. Once a textile factory, it’s now full of shops, galleries, and eateries. Street art murals and indie cafés (like Ler Devagar bookstore) make it a hip hangout. Great for brunch and weekend markets.
Sintra (day trip): A short train ride away, Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces and forests are a must-see. Pena Palace (colorful hilltop castle) and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira gardens are famous. Plan a day (or two) trip – it’s UNESCO-listed for its romantic architecture.
Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market): Lisbon’s premier food market at Cais do Sodré. Under one roof, it houses 26 top restaurants and 8 bars, Times Out.com showcasing Portuguese cuisine. Perfect for sampling petiscos or gourmet pastel de nata in a lively atmosphere.
Alfama & Fado: Wander Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood (Alfama) with its winding streets, vistas, and São Jorge Castle. In the evening, catch live fado music at a tavern – a haunting traditional soundtrack of the city.
Other picks: Ride Tram 28 through historic quarters; admire views from Miradouros (São Pedro de Alcântara, Senhora do Monte); visit MAAT museum and the Oceanário; stroll Chiado for shopping and cafes.
Beyond textbooks, Lisbon student life thrives in its cafés, clubs, and outdoor spaces. You can join ESN Lisboa events or university associations to meet peers.
Many cafés offer free Wi-Fi: popular study spots include Copenhagen Coffee Lab, Wish Slow Coffee House, and Hello, Kristof in Alfama. The riverside promenade (Cais do Sodré) and gardens like Jardim da Estrela are great for group picnics or outdoor study.
Costs are approximate. Rents vary widely by neighborhood and season. Student discounts apply to many services: for example, public transport cards and most museums offer reduced fares for students (just show your ISIC or university ID).
💡 Tip: Carry your ISIC card for extra discounts on travel, software, shops and cultural events. Also consider the Lisboa Card if you plan to visit many attractions: it includes unlimited transport and free/discounted museum entry.
Major Universities & Student Support
Lisbon’s universities are internationally respected:
University of Lisbon (ULisboa): The largest in Portugal, with dozens of schools (Sciences, Engineering, Law, Humanities, Medicine, etc.). It provides extensive student services – from social support (housing, scholarships, meal vouchers) to counseling and careers ulisboa.pt.
Check ULisboa’s “International Student Guide” online for visa and enrolment info.
NOVA University of Lisbon (UNL): A multi-campus university (e.g., NOVA SBE for business, FCSH for humanities, FCT for sciences). It has a strong international focus: UNL runs the SUPERNOVA Foundation and Summer program for incoming students, easing the academic NOVA’s exchanges (Erasmus+), bringing many foreign students each year.
ISCTE – Lisbon University Institute: Known for social sciences, management, and tech programs. ISCTE has a special International Student Statute, and an English-taught BSc in Management iscte-iul.pt. Its international office assists with applications, visas, and campus life.
(Others: Católica Lisbon, Portuguese Catholic University) And various polytechnics also host internationals.
All these universities have active international offices to help with enrollment, housing lists, language courses, and integration. For example, ULisboa’s support services offer health, financial aid, and social activities, and NOVA provides welcome services for Erasmus and degree students alike.
Student Discounts: As a student in Portugal, you’ll enjoy perks like reduced transit passes, cheap museum entry, and special offers at shops/restaurants. Always carry your student ID. Many cinemas, gyms, and cultural venues have student pricing or off-peak deals.
Bottom Line: Lisbon blends historic charm with modern comforts. By choosing the right neighborhood, understanding local customs, and taking advantage of student networks and discounts, you’ll make the most of your international student life in this sunny capital
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