If you are thinking of accepting an Erasmus mobility grant in Lisbon, this is the place for you to discover what to do to have a safe and, above all, unforgettable experience.
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the country's most cutting-edge and vibrant destinations, thanks to its blend of history and modernity that meets the Atlantic Ocean. It's a very attractive destination for students, which has led to its development into a multicultural hub.
Here you will find the best tips to make the most of your next Erasmus exchange in this great city.
Live your Erasmus experience in Lisbon
The first step to making your Erasmus experience in Lisbon unforgettable is finding people in the same situation as you. It seems complicated, but nowadays we have many tools that can help us create a group of friends even before landing in Lisbon.
One of the best options is to use forums like Erasmusu.com, where you can meet other students going to the same destination. Once you're there, simply create an account and ask questions in the forum to connect with other students, especially Spanish ones, who will be going to the same place at the same time. After connecting with them, you can create a WhatsApp or Instagram group to chat and get to know each other more easily.
Social media platforms like X can also be helpful, where you should search for Erasmus students using hashtags such as #ErasmusLisbon or #ErasmusLife. Other apps like Telegram or Facebook can also be a great resource, as universities often create groups for these situations and foster a pre-existing Erasmus community.
Find the perfect Erasmus accommodation in Lisbon
Erasmus accommodation options in Lisbon are much more affordable than in other capital cities. However, when making your decision, we recommend choosing a student residence for several reasons.
You'll find it easier to meet not only other Portuguese students, but also international students in the same program. A good atmosphere will make it easier to find people who will be there to support you throughout your time there.
On the other hand, it will greatly help you manage your studies and homework with the daily routine of cleaning and tidying. Having outside help allows you to make better use of your time with your responsibilities, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city and need time to get to know it. Another advantage is that the accommodation is usually in a good location, close to supermarkets, pharmacies, bars, and other essential places for daily life.
Enjoy Erasmus activities and events in Lisbon
Attend all the activities organized especially for Erasmus students, as it is a different way to meet people who are also in the city on a mobility grant.
There are many possibilities, such as the activities organized by your host university, which will be listed on their website.
You can also visit the city's leisure areas such as MuiscBox, a pub that's a landmark in Lisbon's Erasmus nightlife, located in Bairro Alto, specifically in the Cais do Sodré district.
Of course, organized excursions are also a great option to consider. Contact Erasmus agencies or associations in the country or city you're in, and they can help you attend events organized for students like you. The main ones in Lisbon are Erasmus Student Network and Erasmus Life Lisboa.
Universities for your Erasmus in Lisbon
This city boasts a large number of universities, both public and private, which may become your next reason to live here.
The most prominent is the University of Lisbon (ULisboa), one of the most prestigious in the country, with over 50.000 students, making it an international benchmark. The Technical University of Lisbon (UTL) is part of this center.
We also highlight Nova University of Lisbon (UNL), which stands out for its modern and international approach to its programs. Furthermore, we cannot overlook the Autonomous University of Lisbon (UAL), which excels in the fields of social sciences, business, and law.
What are the advantages of doing your Erasmus exchange in Lisbon?
Lisbon is a great Erasmus destination for many reasons; it may go unnoticed due to its proximity to Spain, but we assure you that it has nothing to envy from the other European destinations that are also included in mobility offers.
First, it enjoys a very pleasant Mediterranean climate, similar to that of our country, with around 300 days of sunshine a year. Its summers are warm and its winters milder than those of other cities.
If you also enjoy the coast and the beach, you're in luck. Lisbon boasts a wide variety of places to enjoy the sand and sea near the city center, just 15 or 20 minutes away by public transport. Among them are Carcavelos Beach , one of the most popular on the coast, and Costa da Caparica Beach , located in a town very close to Portugal's capital.
Lisbon is also an affordable city for students compared to other European capitals, especially regarding accommodation, leisure activities, and restaurants. Another highlight is undoubtedly its magnificent cuisine, particularly cod and the various ways it's prepared, as well as the famous pastéis de Belém, created in the Belém neighborhood within the city.
Ways to learn Portuguese before your trip
Today, there are many apps and websites that can help you learn any language from scratch. Bubble, Duolingo, and Memrise are good options for learning Portuguese easily and at your own pace.
The tool alone is not enough; you must also be consistent and set your own goals. We recommend that as soon as you know your destination, you get to work learning at least the most basic things you will need on a daily basis.
Finally, it is very important that you pay attention to the language that the destination university establishes as a requirement to continue your studies there, especially to know how necessary it is for you to learn the new language or the way in which you do so.
How to make the most of public transport in Lisbon
One of the best ways to use Lisbon's public transport is by purchasing the "Viva Viagem" card, formerly known as "7 Colinas," which allows you to access all the city's transport options (train, metro, bus, and tram) at a reduced cost. You can choose to top it up regularly until the balance runs out. This card costs just €0.50 and journeys can be added at all stations.
If you ultimately decide on the monthly student pass, you'll pay between €30 and €40 per month, allowing you to use it as many times as you like during that period. It's the best option if you're going to be in Lisbon for an extended stay.
Of all the transport options, the metro is the fastest and most efficient. Its schedules are fixed, allowing you to avoid traffic jams during peak hours when going to class or meeting up with friends.
The tram is also a prominent feature of the capital, an emblem of Lisbon. Although its routes are slower and geared towards tourists, it can be a useful way to travel between different parts of the city, allowing you to enjoy the views and explore its streets more closely. Line 28 is the most well-known and frequently used, as it passes through many interesting and traditional neighborhoods, including Alfama, Graça, and Bairro Alto.
