Tips for an Unforgettable Erasmus Experience
Welcome to Lisbon, your future home! Get ready to fall in love with this sunny, vibrant city. Lisbon is a place where history meets modernity, where the food is fantastic, and where you'll make memories to last a lifetime. Here are some tips to help you live Lisbon and your Erasmus experience to the fullest.
LOCAL CULTURE
Lisbon is full of culture and identity. From Fado music to colorful tiles (azulejos), there’s always something new to discover.
Visit local museums, try local restaurante (tascas) and street food (bifana).
Also discover the great history of this city with our Free Guided Walking Tour!!
LEARN THE LANGUAGE
Before coming , learn a bit of Portuguese, it will make your experience richer and more fun.
Plus, however many Lisboetas speak English, locals will appreciate your effort and you'll feel more integrated into the community.
We can help you with learning Portuguese with our discounts on Classes at LanguageCraft!!
ENJOY THE FOOD
Portuguese cuisine is delicious and diverse. Try traditional dishes at the tasca tipica like bacalhau à brás (codfish with eggs and potatoes) and botique (lean fried steak that with fries or rice, an egg and various salad).
But first, start the experience with the amazing apetizers like: olives, bread, butter, tuna paté and crab paté.
Try the delicious pastries pastéis de nata (custard tarts) or Bolo de Arroz.
Visit the Time Out Market for a modern twist on local food, and don't forget to explore the city’s many cafés and pastelarias.
GET AROUND LIKE A LOCAL
Lisbon’s public transport is affordable and easy to use. Get a NAVEGANTE CARD for unlimited travel on buses, trams, metro and ferries so you can travel every corner of this stunning city (check out our blog on how to get the NAVEGANTE here).
Or if you’re up for it, walking is a great way to explore the hilly streets and hidden gems.
ENJOY PORTUGAL
In your Erasmus Experience you should travel at every corner of Lisbon: from Sintra to Setubal, and from Cascais to Sesimbra.
Don't forget that Portugal is a small country, so you can visit many places with just short trips. See stunning cities like Porto and Coimbra or get lost in the beautiful beaches and seashores of Algarve.
With Erasmus Life Lisboa trips you can Travel around Portugal while meeting new friends!
BE SAFE
Lisbon is generally a safe capital, but like any big city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone late at night in the unfamiliar zones.
Remember that the emergency telephone number is: 112
Also be aware of the many house scammers you can find on Facebook, the will show you a fake room and apartment and ask you for a deposit to reserve the room.
LISBON PRICES
Living in Lisbon can be quite affordable, especially when it comes to groceries. Supermarkets offer a wide range of products at reasonable prices.
In the city center you can find local supermarkets like Continente, Pingo Doce and Minipreço and they all offer good quality local products.
Also you can find other international supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl.
Supermarkets close at 9 P.M. every day of the week including Sunday and holidays.
LOCAL TIP: big supermarkets inside malls they close later between 11 and 12 PM.
SIM CARD
Buying a SIM card is a great idea for Erasmus students. It gives you reliable and cheap mobile data, so you can easily navigate the city, stay in touch with friends and family, and find important information quickly. With a local SIM, using public transportation apps, finding the best places to eat, and keeping up with Erasmus Life Lisboa events and social activities becomes much
easier.
We can help you out with making a SIM CARD at out office at: Tv. da Cara 14, 1200-089 Lisboa
WHERE TO LIVE
Choosing the best place to live in Lisbon as an Erasmus student can be difficult.
Every part of Lisbon is a great place to live, but staying near a metro station can significantly improve your experience, as most of Lisbon is well-connected by the metro. Additionally, if you need help finding a room or accommodation, we can assist you!
(check out our dedicated housing searching department).
Living in Lisbon as an Erasmus student can be an amazing experience. By living the local culture, learning some Portuguese, enjoying the delicious food, and exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods, you'll have the best time of your life. Remember to stay connected with a local SIM card, use public transport, and get involved in Erasmus Life Lisboa activities. And If you need help with anything, we're here for you. Enjoy every moment and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful city!
