In the last few years, Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, has seen a boom of international students and digital nomads!
This city has lots to offer, from sunny days almost all year round, close by beaches and a big international community, that will offer you many opportunities for learning, growing and networking.
In this blog post, you’ll find all that you need to know about the city of Lisbon (its history, culture, traditions and much more) and you will find out why living in Lisbon can be a life-changing experience for you!
This guide includes:
Discover Lisbon's gems
If you end up living in Lisbon, you will not be short of things to do! There are many attractions that you should get to know, so you get a vibe of the city from the first days!
1. Torre de Belém (Belém Tower): This iconic tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Lisbon. Built in the 16th century, it served as a fortress to protect the city and a starting point for Portuguese explorers. The tower’s unique Manueline architectural style and its strategic location on the banks of the Tagus River make it a must-visit landmark.
2. Mosteiro dos Jerónimos (Jerónimos Monastery): Located in the Belém district, the Jerónimos Monastery is another UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. It was built to commemorate Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage to India. The intricately designed cloisters, chapels, and the tomb of Vasco da Gama are among the highlights.
3. Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge Castle): It is a historic castle located in Lisbon’s Alfama district. With its roots tracing back to Roman times, the castle has played a significant role in the city’s history. It boasts impressive architectural features, including towering walls, fortified towers, and a mix of Moorish, Romanesque, and Gothic influences.
4. Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square): Also known as Terreiro do Paço, this majestic square is one of the largest in Europe. It faces the Tagus River and is surrounded by yellow-painted buildings. It was historically the main gateway to Lisbon and now serves as a lively gathering spot with restaurants, cafes, and a statue of King José I.
5. Convento do Carmo (Carmo Convent): Convento do Carmo is a convent in Lisbon that was severely damaged during the 1755 earthquake. Today, it stands as an impressive and haunting ruin, showcasing Gothic architecture. It houses the Archaeological Museum of Lisbon, where you can explore artifacts and learn about the city’s history.
6. Sé de Lisboa (Lisbon Cathedral): Lisbon Cathedral, is the oldest church in the city. It combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. The cathedral’s interior features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate chapels, and a treasury with religious artifacts.
7. LX Factory: LX Factory is a creative hub located in a former industrial complex in the Alcântara district of Lisbon. It is a vibrant space filled with art galleries, trendy shops, design studios, cafes, restaurants, and cultural events. LX Factory offers a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and urban atmosphere.
8. Ocenario de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium): The Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in Europe. Located in the Parque das Nações district, it showcases diverse marine ecosystems and species from around the world. The aquarium’s main attraction is the massive central tank, which provides a mesmerizing underwater experience.
9. Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa lift): Elevador de Santa Justa is an iconic wrought-iron elevator located in the Baixa neighborhood of Lisbon. Designed by an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel, it connects the lower streets of Baixa to the higher Carmo Square. Riding the elevator offers panoramic views of the city, and the top platform provides a great vantage point.
10. Museu Nacional do Azulejo (National Museum of Azulejos): The National Museum of Azulejos is dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos. Housed in the 16th-century Madre de Deus Convent, the museum showcases a vast collection of decorative tiles, including intricate historical and contemporary pieces. It offers insights into the significance of azulejos in Portuguese culture.
11. Museu do Fado (Fado Museum): The Museum of Fado is a dedicated space that celebrates Portugal’s traditional music genre, Fado. Located in the Alfama district, it explores the history, cultural significance, and evolution of Fado through multimedia exhibits and audiovisual presentations,
12. Cristo Rei: The Cristo Rei statue is a majestic monument located across the Tagus River in Almada, just outside of Lisbon. Inspired by the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it stands atop a hill and offers breathtaking views of Lisbon. The statue symbolizes peace and provides a serene and reflective atmosphere for visitors.
Exploring Lisbon's neighborhoods
If you are looking to living in Lisbon, these are some of the best neighborhoods you can consider for your stay:
1. Alfama: As Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, Alfama is a maze of narrow streets, steep alleys, and historic buildings. Known for its traditional Fado music, it is characterised by a charming and traditional atmosphere. Alfama is also home to the São Jorge Castle and offers stunning views of the city.
2. Baixa: Located in the heart of Lisbon, Baixa is the downtown area and a bustling commercial hub. It features big and spacious squares like Rossio Square and Commerce Square, elegant shops, and iconic landmarks. Baixa is known for its neoclassical architecture, and lively atmosphere.
3. Chiado: Situated between Baixa and Bairro Alto, Chiado is a sophisticated and fashionable neighborhood. It is famous for its elegant boutiques, charming cafés, and historical landmarks like the Santa Justa Lift. Chiado has a vibrant cultural scene and is a popular destination for shopping and entertainment.
4. Bairro Alto: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Bairro Alto comes alive after dark. During the day, it offers a bohemian charm with its narrow streets, colorful facades, and trendy shops. Bairro Alto is a hub for live music, traditional taverns, and contemporary bars.
5. Belém: Located west of the city center, Belém is a historic district that holds great significance in Portugal’s maritime history. It is home to iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Discoveries Monument. Belém also offers beautiful riverside gardens and is famous for its delicious pastries, including the well-known Pastéis de Belém.
6. Parque das Nações: Developed for the 1998 World Exposition, Parque das Nações is a modern and futuristic neighborhood. It features contemporary architecture, green spaces, a marina, and attractions like the Oceanário de Lisboa (Lisbon Oceanarium) and the Vasco da Gama Tower.
Climb to the top: Lisbon's viewpoints
Did you know that Lisbon is also famous for its breathtaking viewpoints, also known as “Miradouros” in Portuguese? These viewpoints offer stunning panoramic views of the city, the river and beyond!
1. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: Located in the Graça neighborhood, this viewpoint offers one of the most breathtaking views of Lisbon. From here, you can admire the red rooftops of the city, the Tagus River, and even the São Jorge Castle.
2. Miradouro da Santa Luzia: Located in the Alfama district, this viewpoint offers a picturesque view of the Tagus River, the dome of the National Pantheon, and the Alfama rooftops.
3. Miradouro das Portas do Sol: Another stunning viewpoint in Alfama, this spot offers magnificent views of the river, the Alfama neighborhood, and the dome of the Church of São Vicente de Fora.
4. Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara: Situated in the Bairro Alto neighborhood, this viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the downtown area, the Castle of São Jorge, and the Tagus River.
5. Miradouro da Penha de França: Located in the Penha de França district, this lesser-known viewpoint offers a unique perspective of Lisbon’s cityscape and the river.
Renting in Lisbon
Finding a home in Lisbon is no easy task. Even though the city is relatively small and walkable, it is called the 7 hilled city for a reason: it has a lot of ups and downs! So it is important to keep in mind in which location you would like to live, if you want to be nearby transportation, as well as the type of house that you want to live in.
Generally, the most sought-after neighborhoods like Bairro Alto, Alfama, Graca or Baixa tend to have higher rental prices compared to areas further from the city center. Renting in Lisbon usually goes from €400 to €2000 per month.
Inlife specializes in short and long-term rentals and we offer a wide selection of accommodation in various neighborhoods across the city. We provide a personalized service, ensuring that tenants find suitable accommodation that meets their preferences and budget!
A look at Lisbon’s most famous Universities
Lisbon is home to several prestigious universities, such as:
1. University of Lisbon (Universidade de Lisboa): As the largest and most renowned university in Portugal, the University of Lisbon offers a wide range of academic disciplines and faculties. It encompasses various campuses and faculties across the city.
2. New University of Lisbon (Universidade NOVA de Lisboa): Known as NOVA, this university is a leading institution in Portugal. It has a strong reputation for research and offers programs in various fields, including social sciences, humanities, sciences, economics, and business.
3. University Institute of Lisbon (Instituto Universitário de Lisboa – ISCTE): Specializing in social sciences, business, and technology-related fields, ISCTE is well-regarded for its quality education and research programs.
4. Technical University of Lisbon (Universidade de Lisboa – Instituto Superior Técnico): Considered one of the best engineering and technology institutions in Portugal, the Instituto Superior Técnico offers a wide range of programs in engineering, architecture, and other related fields.
5. Catholic University of Portugal (Universidade Católica Portuguesa – UCP): A private university affiliated with the Catholic Church, UCP has campuses across Portugal, including one in Lisbon. It offers programs in various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, business, and law.
Exploring beyond Lisbon
Are you ready to find out one of the biggest benefits of living in Lisbon? It’s central location!
From Lisbon, you’ll be able to easily travel to and visit stunning destinations both in Portugal and outside of Portugal too!
1. Sintra: Just a short journey from Lisbon, Sintra is a town renowned for its enchanting palaces, stunning gardens, and mystical atmosphere. Explore the colorful Pena Palace, the romantic Quinta da Regaleira, and enjoy the beauty of the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park.
2. Cascais: Located along the stunning coastline, Cascais is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant marina, and picturesque old town. Once you go there, you should walk along the promenade, visit the historic Cascais Citadel, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
3. Évora: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Évora is a historic city with well-preserved Roman ruins, medieval streets, and impressive landmarks such as the Temple of Diana and the Cathedral of Évora. Discover the city’s rich history, sample delicious Alentejo cuisine, and visit the renowned Chapel of Bones.
4. Porto: Known for its port wine, charming riverside district, and impressive architecture, Porto is a vibrant city in northern Portugal. Explore the Ribeira district, visit the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and take a tour of the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
5. Coimbra: Home to one of the oldest universities in the world, Coimbra offers a mix of history and academic charm. Visit the University of Coimbra, explore the medieval streets of the old town, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the Mondego River.
6. Algarve: The Algarve region, located in southern Portugal, is famous for its stunning coastline, golden beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. From Lisbon, you can easily reach popular destinations like Faro, Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches, try delicious seafood, and experience vibrant nightlife.
From Lisbon, there are also direct and cheap flights to the two stunning Portuguese islands: Azores and Madeira!
There are also cheap options to travel to Spain by train or bus and direct flights to different cities of Morocco!
So what are you waiting for? Your next adventure is just around the corner!
Exploring the authenticity of traditional Portuguese cuisine
Did you know that Lisbon is also a destination for food’s lovers? Discover why!
1. Pastéis de Belém: These iconic custard tarts are Lisbon’s most famous sweet treat. They have a puff pastry crust filled with a creamy and slightly caramelized egg custard filling. Pastéis de Belém originated in the Belém neighborhood and are best enjoyed warm with a bit of cinnamon and powdered sugar.
2. Bacalhau à Brás: This is a classic Portuguese dish that is also popular in Lisbon. It features salted codfish, eggs, onions, thinly sliced fried potatoes, and black olives. The ingredients are sautéed together to create a flavorful dish.
3. Carne de Porco à Alentejana: This dish combines tender cubes of pork marinated in garlic and spices, cooked with clams, potatoes, and coriander. It is a delicious meat and seafood stew that represents the Alentejo region’s flavors, but is widely popular in Lisbon.
4. Caldeirada de Peixe: This is a traditional fish stew commonly found in Lisbon’s coastal cuisine. It is made with a variety of fish such as cod, hake, and monkfish, along with potatoes, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and aromatic herbs. The stew is simmered slowly to develop rich flavors.
5. Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled sardines are an essential part of Lisbon’s culinary heritage, especially during the summer months and Festas de Lisboa (Lisbon Festivities). The fresh sardines are seasoned with sea salt, grilled over charcoal, and served with a side of roasted peppers and boiled potatoes.
6. Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato: This dish consists of clams cooked in a flavorful sauce made with garlic, olive oil, white wine, coriander, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It is a beloved seafood dish commonly found in Lisbon’s seafood restaurants.
Discover the history of Lisbon
Lisbon is rich in history. Here is a brief overview of the city’s history:
1. Ancient Origins: Lisbon has a long and ancient history, dating back to its establishment as a Phoenician trading post around 1200 BC. The city was originally named Olisipo and was later colonized by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, who recognized its strategic location and renamed it Felicitas Julia.
2. Moorish Rule: In the 8th century AD, Lisbon came under Moorish control during the Islamic conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. The city flourished under Moorish rule, known as Al-Usbuna, as a center of trade, culture, and science.
3. Reconquista and Golden Age: Lisbon was recaptured from the Moors by Christian forces led by Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, in 1147. This marked the beginning of the Reconquista and the rise of Portugal as an independent kingdom. During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Lisbon played an important role as a major port and the starting point for many exploratory voyages. It became a center of wealth and cultural exchange, experiencing a “Golden Age” of prosperity.
4. Great Earthquake and Rebuilding: In 1755, Lisbon was struck by a catastrophic earthquake, followed by a tsunami and fires, which devastated the city. The event, known as the Great Lisbon Earthquake, resulted in the destruction of much of the city and caused significant loss of life. The disaster prompted a massive rebuilding effort, led by Prime Minister Marquês de Pombal, and marked the beginning of Lisbon’s reconstruction in the neoclassical style.
5. Modern Era and Democratic Revolution: Lisbon, like the rest of Portugal, experienced political shifts in the 20th century. It was the stage for the Carnation Revolution in 1974, a peaceful military coup that overthrew the authoritarian Estado Novo regime, leading to the establishment of democracy in Portugal.
Lisbon's festive spirit
If you are planning on moving to Lisbon soon, get ready to experience the city’s rich cultural traditions!
1. Fado Music: Fado is a unique form of traditional Portuguese music that originated in Lisbon. Fado songs are mainly about “saudade” (solitude), an emotional state of melancholic or nostalgic longing for a beloved yet absent something or someone. Fado houses, known as “Casas de Fado,” are popular venues where people can enjoy live performances by fado singers accompanied by guitars.
2. Azulejos: Azulejos are traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles that are a significant part of Lisbon’s architectural heritage. These hand-painted tiles decorate the facades of buildings, churches, and even subway stations. They depict intricate patterns, scenes from history, and religious motifs, adding a distinctive charm to the city’s aesthetic.
3. Feira da Ladra: Feira da Ladra is a traditional flea market held every Tuesday and Saturday in the Alfama district of Lisbon. It is one of the oldest markets in the city, offering a wide range of goods, including antiques, second-hand items, crafts, and vintage clothing. It’s a great place to hunt for unique treasures and experience the local market atmosphere.
4. Lisbon trams: Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams are a symbol of the city’s transportation history. Riding on Tram 28 is a must-do experience, as it takes you on a picturesque journey through narrow streets, steep hills, and historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Graça. It’s a charming and nostalgic way to explore the city.
There are also several festivals around the year than will make you feel like a true local!
1. Santos Populares: This is the most popular festival in Lisbon, held in honor of Saint Anthony, the patron saint of the city. It takes place during the entire month of June, with the main event happening on the night of June 12th and throughout June 13th, with popular marches, where groups from different Lisbon neighborhoods compete against each other, and with the “Santo António weddings”, where several couples get married in the same ceremony. Throughout this months, the streets are decorated with colorful decorations, and there are parades, live music, traditional dances, and delicious food stands serving grilled sardines and other local delicacies.
2. New Year’s Eve: Lisbon celebrates New Year’s Eve with enthusiasm. The city hosts a big party in Terreiro do Paço square, featuring live music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere. Many people gather there to welcome the new year with joy and excitement.
3. Carnaval: In Torres Vedras, less than 2 hours away from Lisbon, the biggest Carnival of the country is held! The main event takes place in the Carnival night (usually in february or march), but you can also attend festivities during the 4 weekends prior called “assaltos”. You’ll find streets full of masqueraded people!
4. Christmas: Lisbon gets beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, with streets and squares illuminated by festive lights. The city has Christmas markets throughout the city, where you can find handicrafts, gifts, and traditional food. There is also a light show on Terreiro do Paço that attracts many people, locals and tourists alike, during the evenings!
Lisbon's electric nights
One thing is sure: you’ll always find more than one place or party to go to, no matter the weekday, if you’re living in Lisbon! There are many bars and clubs for every taste throughout the whole year, and specially in the summer, there are many parties that start in the afternoon and last all night.
1. Neighborhoods with Nightlife: Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodré are two popular neighborhoods known for their lively nightlife. Bairro Alto is famous for its narrow streets with bars and small clubs where people gather to enjoy drinks, socialize, and listen to music. Cais do Sodré, located near the waterfront, offers a mix of trendy bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.
2. Music and Live Performances: Lisbon has a vibrant music scene with venues catering to different tastes. From traditional fado houses where you can listen to Fado music to rock, jazz, electronic, and world music venues. Furthermore, places like Lux Fragil, MusicBox, and Village Underground Lisboa are renowned for hosting live performances and DJ sets.
3. Rooftop Bars and Terrace Views: Lisbon’s hills provide an opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the city while drinking cocktails. Numerous rooftop bars and terrace lounges offer panoramic vistas of the Tagus River, historic neighborhoods, and the city’s beautiful skyline. They are perfect for a relaxed evening or a pre-party gathering. The most famous ones are: Go a Lisboa, Park Rooftop, Java, Ferroviario, TOPO and many more.
4. Nightclubs and Electronic Music: Lisbon has a thriving electronic music scene, with clubs known for hosting international DJs and energetic parties. Venues like Lux Fragil, Ministerium, and Kremlin are popular choices for those looking for late-night dancing and electronic music genres.
5. Cultural Events: Apart from bars and clubs, Lisbon also hosts cultural events with nighttime entertainment. These include theater performances, concerts, film screenings, art exhibitions, and more. Check the schedules of cultural centers and theaters such as Teatro Nacional de São Carlos, Centro Cultural de Belém, and Teatro do Bairro for evening events.
Useful information
Conclusion: why is Lisbon a good city to live in?
Whether you are a student, digital nomad, or young professional, living in Lisbon can be a great experience. Start planning your stay in Lisbon and discover all that this incredible city has to offer!
Need help finding a home in Lisbon?
At Inlife, we want to help you finding the perfect house in Lisbon that meets your needs. We offer a wide range of services and benefits that make the rental process easier and more convenient, such as:
1. Get to know your potential new home in Lisbon in a live video call from anywhere in the world!
2. Get any help you need from our team of local advisors – they will help you find the perfect new home for you and assist you during the whole process.
3. Search through thousands of listings, verified by our team!
4. Take advantage of a safe payment system, where you’ll have 24h after check-in to let us know if the house is exactly what you were looking for! If not, we will help you find a new home.
At Inlife, we are committed to providing tenants with a valuable platform for finding a room, residence or apartment in Lisbon. What are you waiting for?
