The Region of Lisbon is the ideal destination for an experience of intense and complete internationalization. Lisbon is the Atlantic port not only of Europe, but also of Africa and the Americas. The city has always absorbed other cultures, which gives its inhabitants a spirit of great openness to foreigners.
Almost half of Lisboetas speak two foreign languages, the most spoken being English, French and Spanish. Lisbon is a truly creative and cosmopolitan city with a huge variety of events of international note, such as the Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival or Rock in Rio, and it has more than 75 museums and galleries.
The sun shines 239 days in the year! The fact that Lisbon is the sunniest capital in Europe and its proximity to the Tejo River and the sea is an opportunity for the
practice of sports, including water sports. Two of the most spectacular sea fronts in Europe are at Guincho (25 minutes from the city) and Ericeira (35 mins), the latter being the largest surfing spot in Europe. On the coastal strip following the railway line to Cascais (20 mins.) there are several beaches of rare natural beauty.
24 Km from Lisbon lies Sintra, considered a World Heritage Site, whose romantic atmosphere and villas have been the inspiration of many poets and writers. Lisbon is a city with a very diverse offer of bars and restaurants with an excellent cuisine. At night you easily find places where you can listen to FADO (the nostalgic songs of Lisbon), recognized in 2011 by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Cost of living
The standard of living in Lisbon is lower than in other European capitals. Foreign students should consider some basic minimum costs per month from about 650 to 750 €. Some reference values:
| Accommodation | 350 € at 450 € |
|---|---|
| Transport | 36 € |
| Meal in the canteen | 2.40 € |
| Meal at an economic restaurant | 10 € |