Is Lisbon a Good City for International Students? A First-Year Student’s Guide
Lisbon is a popular destination for international students because it offers a mix of culture, sunshine, international communities, and relatively manageable daily living expenses. I am a first-year student currently studying at Forward College. As part of my international studies I get the privilege of studying in Lisbon for my first year, before later moving on to Paris and then Berlin. Living in Lisbon for the past month there are a few things I’ve noticed about this city, so if you are considering studying abroad, here is what you need to know from a current student about the cost of living, student accommodation, transportation, teaching methods, and everyday life in Lisbon.
1. Is Lisbon Affordable for International Students?
Lisbon can be affordable for international students, especially when it comes to groceries, public transportation, and eating out, but accommodation can be expensive. Rental prices have risen across many European cities, particularly in Lisbon, while everyday expenses can still be manageable with careful budgeting.
Here is an approximate breakdown of common student expenses:
| Expense | Estimated cost |
| Public transportation | Around €30/month (if you are under 23, you can get free transit!) |
| Groceries | €140–€195/month |
| Coffee | €0.70–€1.00 |
| Casual lunch | €3–€7 |
| Casual restaurant dinner | €15–€20 |
| Student accommodation | Varies considerably by residence and room type |
So, what is the total average monthly cost of living for a student in Lisbon?
As a rough planning estimate, if you are a student you may need around €700–€1,200 or more per month, including accommodation, depending on your housing arrangements, lifestyle, and personal spending as you can see above. This is an indicative budget rather than a fixed average, and students should check current accommodation prices before moving.
A few ways to manage your budget include:
- Shop at discount supermarkets and compare grocery prices.
- Cook meals at home instead of eating out every day.
- Use public transportation rather than relying on taxis.
- Look into eligibility for the Navegante public transport pass. Eligible residents under 23 may qualify for free public transportation, subject to the applicable rules.
Planning your accommodation and monthly expenses in advance can help you make the most of your student experience without unnecessary financial stress.
2. Can International Students Live in Lisbon Without Speaking Portuguese?
Yes, many international students can manage everyday life in Lisbon using English, particularly in international student communities and popular areas of the city. However, learning some Portuguese can make daily interactions easier and help students feel more connected to local life.
English is commonly used in many tourist areas, cafés, and international settings, but not everyone speaks it fluently.
A few useful Portuguese phrases to learn before arriving are:
- Olá – Hello
- Bom dia – Good morning
- Obrigado/Obrigada – Thank you
- Por favor – Please
- Desculpa – Sorry or excuse me
I’ve personally felt that learning the local language is also an opportunity to connect with Portuguese culture and develop a skill that can be useful throughout your international degree.
Lisbon offers plenty of opportunities to explore local food, neighbourhoods, cultural events, and historical sites while gradually improving your language skills.
3. Is Lisbon a Good Place to Study Abroad? Pros and Cons
Lisbon offers international students a combination of cultural experiences, an international community, and access to outdoor activities, but students should also consider housing costs and adjusting to life in a new country.
Here are some of the main advantages and challenges to consider.
Pros:
International student community
Mild weather and access to beaches and outdoor activities
Relatively affordable daily expenses compared with many other European cities
Rich history, architecture, food, and cultural experiences
Opportunities to meet people from different backgrounds
Cons:
Rising rental prices
Summer heat and steep hills can make walking tiring
Costs can add up if you frequently eat out or travel
Learning Portuguese is helpful for integrating into local life
Moving abroad and adjusting to a new environment can initially feel overwhelming
So, like I said at the beginning, for Forward College students, Lisbon is the starting point of a three-year international degree journey. Students spend their first year in Lisbon before moving to Paris for Year 2 and Berlin for Year 3.
Studying across three cities provides opportunities to experience different cultures, adapt to new environments, and develop an international perspective throughout the degree.
Why Start Your International Degree in Lisbon with Forward College?
Lisbon provides Forward College students with a place to begin their international degree while experiencing a new culture and developing independence. Forward provides affordable, guaranteed accommodation in Lisbon at a student housing complex in Benfica called Xior. Forward also provides students with language and culture classes to integrate students into the local community. Combined with Forward College’s interactive learning approach and three-city study pathway, the experience offers opportunities to grow both academically and personally. Students can explore Lisbon’s historic streets, visit cultural attractions, discover local cafés, and spend time by the beach outside class. At the same time, living with an international cohort helps students build friendships and connections before moving to Paris and Berlin in the following years. Are you considering studying abroad? Researching accommodation costs, transportation, and the teaching approach in advance can help you decide whether Lisbon is the right fit for you.
Want to see what student life looks like in practice? Follow Forward College’s student updates on Instagram at @forward.college.students or explore the Forward College degree overview to learn more about the programme.
