About Lisbon
Lisbon is an intersection of tradition and innovation. Picture pastel colored buildings, tram-lined streets, while fado drifts through the air, all while tech hubs and trendy cafés buzz alongside. A vibrant, multicultural capital city with a warm Mediterranean vibe, Lisbon nourishes a student lifestyle that balances academic and cultural pursuits.
Lisbon is home to prestigious institutions for higher education like the University of Lisbon, NOVA University Lisbon, and ISCTE - Lisbon University Institute, all of which are popular among students from across Europe and abroad. The cost of living in Lisbon for students is cheaper as compared to other student cities in the country. Check out neighbourhoods such as Alvalade or Arroios if you’re looking for affordable student housing options in the city centre. If you’re looking for weekend getaways, Porto, Coimbra, and even Madrid is a train ride away from Lisbon. Whether you're enjoying a sunset overlooking the city at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or working on group projects in an espresso bar in Bairro Alto, Lisbon offers a student lifestyle that is difficult to beat.
Best Student Accommodation in Lisbon
Alphaway has the best student accommodation in Lisbon, ranging from affordable shared rooms and ensuite student rooms in Lisbon. Every listing is verified, safe, and comes with 24/7 support. Here are some of the best options for student accommodations in Lisbon for international Students:
Why Choose Lisbon for Higher Education
Lisbon provides more than stunning views and great weather. The city offers easy access to internships and job opportunities at established international companies. Students also get to gain a rich cultural experience here, along with affordable housing and cost of living. The city’s rich culture, laid-back vibe, excellent academic institutions, and ample opportunities make it a great city for students to live and study in.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Lisbon
Looking for student accommodation in Lisbon for international students near your campus and city hotspots? Here are some of the most popular areas:
- Alvalade: A relaxed, green and well-connected district located in a manageable proximity to the University of Lisbon, and is an excellent fit for students looking for a calmer place to live whilst wanting cafés, parks, or a metro connection nearby.
- Arroios: Centrally located with a multicultural society and affordable student accommodation in Lisbon, Arroios has excellent transport links to almost all universities in the city.
- Campo Pequeno: Ideal for students attending ISCTE or NOVA, this area is well connected to the wider city by bus and metro. The area also has tons of affordable student housing options.
- Bairro Alto: Known for its picturesque bohemian identity central to nightlife, Bairro Alto is a good option for students who want to be at the centre of everything, even outside of lectures!
- Areeiro: A quiet, residential neighbourhood, Areeiro is a comparatively safe and cheap option for student accommodation near university campuses in Lisbon.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Lisbon
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): Purpose-built student housing in Lisbon is an ideal option for both local and international students. PBSA comes in the form of shared student apartments in Lisbon, en-suite student rooms, and private student studios in Lisbon. All are fully furnished with all-inclusive rent that covers Wi-Fi, utilities, on-site laundry, study lounges, gyms, and 24/7 security.
- University Halls: Typically located close to campus, these are university-managed accommodations with basic shared facilities. Rooms and room types available vary from university to university.
- Shared Apartments: Shared student apartments in Lisbon are common accommodations in Lisbon. This allows students to rent a room in a flat with other students. These normally have leases in separate names, and utilities are not always included.
Cost of Living in Lisbon for International Students
Here’s a breakdown of the average cost of living in Lisbon for international students:
- Rent: €300-€700/month depending on the location and room type. PBSAs usually include Wi-Fi and utilities.
- Groceries: €100-€150/month if you shop smart at stores like Pingo Doce, Lidl, and Continente.
- Travel: €30-€40/month with a Lisbon Navegante pass, which covers buses, trams, and metro.
- Dining Out: €8-€20 per meal. Try budget-friendly spots in Arroios or student-favourite eateries in Bairro Alto.
- Entertainment & Shopping: €50-€80/month-whether it’s local music festivals, cinema nights, or shopping in Colombo Mall.
Transportation in Lisbon
You’ll find getting around Lisbon super easy and affordable with these transport options:
- Metro: The Fastest and most popular way to travel. Runs throughout Lisbon, including student hubs.
- Trams: Great for sightseeing and connecting hilly neighbourhoods.
- Buses: Reliable and extensive, operating day and night routes across the city.
- Trains: Connect Lisbon to nearby cities like Cascais, Sintra, and Coimbra for weekend trips.
- Airport: Lisbon Airport is well connected via metro and Aerobus-ideal for international students.
- Student Travel Pass: The Navegante Card offers unlimited monthly travel for just €30.
Student Life in Lisbon
Lisbon balances laid-back coastal vibes with rich cultural experiences and a student-friendly lifestyle.
- Restaurants & Cafés: Enjoy brunch at a cafe in Alfama, vegan food in Príncipe Real, or a pastel de nata from Manteigaria.
- Student Clubs & Events: From meetups for Erasmus students, to hackathons for tech, or just art nights-there is always something going on.
- Markets & Malls: If antiques are your thing, check out Feira da Ladra, or if you are looking to shop for more conventional items, go to Colombo.
- Weekend Getaways: Beaches like Costa da Caparica or trips to places like Porto or Sintra are only a train ride away.
- Libraries & Study Spots: Check out the Gulbenkian Library or enjoy a study session at one of the book cafés in LX Factory.
- Live Music & Art: Fado bars, rooftop gigs, and local galleries- keep an eye out for these around the city for live music gigs and art installations.
Universities in Lisbon
- University of Lisbon (ULisboa): The largest university in Portugal, with a few campuses and a commitment to research and innovation.
- NOVA University Lisbon: Has programs in economics, law, and science, and a global exchange between campuses.
- ISCTE - University Institute of Lisbon: A modern university that offers programs in management, sociology, and digital technology.
- Catholic University of Portugal - Lisbon Campus: A prestigious university with international connections and offers programs in business and humanities.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: Most universities in Lisbon provide merit and/or needs-based scholarships to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Government Grants & Loans: Portuguese and EU students may apply for grants, financial assistance, and fee-reduction schemes.
- GCC Country-Specific Scholarships: Students from Gulf countries can access assistance through their embassies and national foundations.
- External Scholarships: Research scholarships are available via Erasmus+, Fulbright, and Santander for students applying from outside Portugal.
Tips for International Students
- Set Up a Local Bank Account: Caixa Geral and Millennium BCP have student-friendly accounts.
- Get a Portuguese SIM Card: Vodafone, MEO, and NOS offer inexpensive prepaid options.
- Learn Some Basic Phrases: "Obrigado" (thank you) and "Bom dia" (good morning) are useful in Portugal!
- Use Student Discounts: Always ask! Lots of museums, cinemas, and cafés offer a student discount.
- Alphaway Extras: Alphaway offers airport pick-up service, city orientation, and essentials kits to help make your experience in Lisbon easier.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Enroll in healthcare: Apply for a Número de Utente to access the public healthcare system in Portugal.
- Have emergency numbers at hand: Call 112 for emergencies and keep your university's support line saved in your phone.
- Stay safe at night: Stick to the populated and lit areas and consider using public transport or ride-sharing apps at night.
- Mental health and wellbeing: Most universities have free counselling and wellbeing services available to students.
