Student Accommodation Lisbon
€608/month
Livensa Living Lisboa Marques De Pombal
€967/month
Carcavelos
€770/month
Carcavelos Lombos
€839/month
Estoril
€445/month
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Student Accommodation in Lisbon – Top Housing Options, Living Essentials, and Universities
Lisbon is a growing student city with home to Portugal’s top universities. If you are looking for the ideal student housing options in the city, then you’ve come to the right page. University Living will be your trusted partner in finding the ideal student housing in Lisbon and other popular cities in Portugal.
Education in Portugal is free and compulsory for students up to 18 years or high school. This is just one of the many reasons for Lisbon’s growing popularity among international students.
Top Demanded Student Housing in Lisbon
International students in Portugal are offered a variety of housing options. The top demanded housing options in the capital are university halls/ dorms, private student apartments, PBSAs/ student complexes, and homestays. Each of these student properties provides a unique living experience and support students in their own ways.
University Dorms/ Halls
University dorms/ halls in Lisbon are managed by the universities and local bodies. The University of Lisbon operates 20 student residences across the city, providing affordable housing options for both local and international students. These accommodations are designed to support students' academic and social experiences, ensuring a comfortable stay during their studies in Lisbon.
Private Apartments
Another popular housing options in the capital are private apartments. These self—catered apartments are the right choice for students looking for an independent and privately lifestyle and maintain a balance between their academics and social opportunities. Their cost might be a little high, but their features offer a luxury lifestyle and come with furnished properties and private kitchen and bathroom.
PBSAs/ Student Apartments
Purpose-built Student Accommodations are student complexes build next to popular destinations in the city. The student villages are a hub of residential and socializing activities and are popular for their affordable housing options. These rooms in Lisbon come with essential furnishing options and other equipment.
Homestays
Hundreds and thousands of international students opt for homestays in Lisbon. These equip them a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture. Living with a local family provides daily language practice and firsthand experience of traditions and customs, enriching the academic journey beyond the classroom. Programs like CIEE Lisbon facilitate such experiences, offering homestay options that include meals and comfortable accommodations.
Top Student Accommodation in Lisbon
- Estoril
- Carcavelos Lombos
- Livensa Living Lisboa Marques De Pombal Lisbon
- Livensa Living Lisboa Cidade Universitária Lisbon
- Carcavelos
About Lisbon
Lisbon is the capital and largest city in Portugal. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and Europe’s second-oldest capital after Athens. Lisbon boasts a history spanning centuries. Originally settled by pre-Celtic tribes and later developed by the Phoenicians, it became a Roman municipium under Julius Caesar, named Felicitas Julia Olissipo.
Following the Roman Empire's fall, Germanic tribes, including the Visigoths, ruled until the Moors captured it in the 8th century. In 1147, Afonso Henriques reclaimed Lisbon, and by 1255 it became Portugal's capital, replacing Coimbra. Today, Lisbon remains the nation's political, economic, and cultural hub, rich in historical significance.
Lisbon is an alpha-level global city, recognized for its influence in finance, commerce, fashion, media, arts, education, and tourism. It is one of Portugal's two global cities (alongside Porto) and hosts three Global 2000 companies: EDP Group, Galp Energia, and Jerónimo Martins. As a major European economic hub, Lisbon boasts a growing financial sector, with PSI-20 as part of Euronext. The Lisbon region leads Portugal in GDP PPP per capita, totaling $179 billion, or $61,713 per capita.
Facts About Lisbon
- Although Lisbon functions as Portugal's capital, its status has never been officially confirmed by statute.
- Lisbon is one of the world's oldest cities, predating other European capitals like Paris, London, and even Rome.
- The iconic yellow trams of Lisbon were originally imported from the United States, leading locals to nickname them "Americanos."
- The Capela de São João Baptista, commissioned in 1740 by King John V, was among Europe's most expensive chapels upon completion, showcasing the wealth of that era.
- The traditional music genre Fado, deeply rooted in Lisbon's culture, translates to "fate," reflecting themes of melancholy and longing.
- Lisbon's coat of arms features two ravens guiding a ship, symbolizing the birds that accompanied Saint Vincent of Saragossa's remains to the city.
- Opened in 1732, Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon holds the Guinness World Record for the world's oldest bookstore still in operation.
- The devastating earthquake of 1755 destroyed much of Lisbon, including the Royal Ribeira Palace. The ruins of the Carmo Convent remain as a haunting reminder of the catastrophe.
Student Friendly Areas in Lisbon
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto in Lisbon is popular for its vibrant atmosphere and central location. The neighborhood is renowned for its lively nightlife, offering numerous bars, restaurants, and cultural venues that foster a dynamic social scene. Proximity to landmarks like the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara provides stunning city views, while the nearby Baixa-Chiado metro station ensures easy access to other parts of Lisbon. Additionally, the University of Lisbon's various faculties are accessible via public transport, making Bairro Alto a convenient and engaging place for student living.
Alfama
Alfama is Lisbon's oldest neighborhood and offers international students a unique blend of history and vibrant local culture. Its narrow, winding streets are home to traditional Fado music venues, providing an authentic Portuguese experience. Proximity to landmarks like São Jorge Castle and the Lisbon Cathedral enriches daily life with historical significance. Living in Alfama immerses students in a lively community, enhancing their cultural and academic journey in Lisbon.
Marquês de Pombal
Marquis of Pombal Square, or Praça do Marquês de Pombal, is a bustling hub in Lisbon that seamlessly blends history with modernity. At its center stands a towering monument honoring Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, the 1st Marquis of Pombal, who led Lisbon's reconstruction after the devastating 1755 earthquake. The square connects several major avenues, including Avenida da Liberdade, a tree-lined boulevard renowned for its luxury shops and theaters. With the Marquês de Pombal metro station serving both the Blue and Yellow lines, the area offers excellent connectivity.
Ideal Cost of Living in Lisbon
Lisbon is one of the most affordable European cities. The estimated cost of living in Lisbon is €750/ month, without rent and tuition fees. The tuition fees and rent are calculated separately as they greatly vary based on the university, academic level, and the type of student housing. Here’s a detailed breakdown for the entire cost of living in Lisbon for international students.
- Tuition fees: €697 to €2,000/year
- Accommodation: €450 to €999/month
- Cost of Food or Grocery: €220 - €310/month
- Cost of Gas and Electricity: €100 - €140/month
- Cost of Internet & Mobile phone: €85 - €170/month
- Cost of Dinner at a restaurant: €170 - €255/month
- Cost of Laundry: €50 - €80/month
- Cost of Stationery and Textbooks: €43 - €70/month
- Cost of Clothing: €150 - €220/month
- Cost of Travel (Buses, Trams, Trains): €150 - €210/month
Tourist Attractions in Lisbon
Belém Tower
Belém Tower in Lisbon is a historic fortress built in the early 16th century, once guarding the city's harbor. The tower is known for its Manueline architecture and features intricate carvings, a drawbridge, and defensive walls. It's an iconic symbol of Portugal's Age of Exploration. The best time to visit is during spring or early autumn when the weather is mild. Nearby public transport includes the Belém tram stop (Tram 15) and buses, offering easy access from the city center.
Jerónimos Monastery
The Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) is a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome, located near the Tagus River in Belém, Lisbon. Built in the early 1500s, it showcases the late Portuguese Gothic Manueline architectural style. The monastery became the burial site for the Portuguese royal dynasty of Aviz in the 16th century. Vasco da Gama and poet Luís de Camões are among those buried here. In 1983, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the nearby Belém Tower.
Praça do Comércio
The Praça do Comércio is a large, harbor-facing plaza in Lisbon, one of the largest in Portugal. Originally the site of the Royal Palace of Ribeira, it was destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. The plaza was rebuilt as part of the Pombaline Downtown restoration under Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo, Minister of Portugal. From the 19th century, it housed key state departments, including the Ministries of Finance and War. In 1910, it was classified as a National Monument, just months before the establishment of the Portuguese Republic.
Universities in Lisbon
University of Lisbon (ULisboa)
Universidade de Lisboa (ULisboa) is the most prestigious university of Portugal and is ranked #260 in the QS World University List 2025. It comprises 18 schools, over 100 research units, and offers 400 degree courses. With a student body of around 50,000 and a staff of 6,500, ULisboa is a major hub for education, research, innovation, sports, and culture. Established in 2013 through the merger of Universidade Técnica de Lisboa and Universidade de Lisboa, it plays a vital role in Lisbon's cultural and scientific development. ULisboa attracts over 1,000 international students annually, fostering global academic partnerships and excellence.
Universidade Nova de Lisboa
The Nova University of Lisbon was established in 1973 and is the youngest public university in the city. NOVA has teaching units in Lisbon, Almada, Oeiras, and soon in Cascais. Its nine academic units are a significant cultural, artistic, academic, and technological asset. With a strong tradition of innovation, NOVA has achieved notable results in the economy, services, and extracurricular training, forging key partnerships with national and international institutions. NOVA is also involved in various mobility programs within European Higher Education Institutions and collaborates with Brazil, Portuguese-speaking countries, Latin America, and other global regions.
Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP) is a leading private university in Portugal, with campuses in Lisbon, Porto , Braga, and Viseu. Each year, UCP welcomes a large number of international and domestic students across a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It has a total enrollment of over 10,000 students. Popular courses include Business Administration, Law, Psychology, and Social Sciences. UCP consistently ranks among the top universities in Europe for its research and academic excellence.
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Check out these answers to common questions and go to Help Centre for more details.
Q. How do I apply for a student residence in Lisbon on University Living?
A. It's a simple, easy, and hassle-free procedure to apply for a student residence in Lisbon. All you have to do is go to our website, search, compare, and book as per your desired location, price, and other personal preferences. Say for instance you need student accommodation in Lisbon near the university, you can search on this basis too. If you are unsure how to proceed, we are always here to help, guide, and assist you through finding and booking student homes in Lisbon.
Q. What are the different types of student rooms you offer?
A. There are three types of student rooms in Lisbon listed on University Living. The studio, suite, and en-suite student room are available in Lisbon. All these rooms come fully furnished with a bed, wardrobe, kitchen, bathroom, study desk & chair, etc,. To make you stay more comfortable, they have been equipped with top-class amenities and inclusive utility bills.
Q. Are bills included in the rent?
A. Yes, your student accommodation in Lisbon comes fully furnished with the best facilities and utility bills for electricity, water, gas, and internet. They also have added features like 24/7 security and CCTV cameras.
Q. Are the apartments fully furnished?
A. Yes, the student apartments in Lisbon are fully furnished and have amenities like a Swimming Pool, Gym, Common Area, Cinema, Study Room, Parking, Bathroom, etc.
Q. What if I want to book my accommodation in Lisbon for a short duration?
A. Yes, you can book your student accommodation in Lisbon for a short duration. However, the short-term stay policy will differ from property to property. Some student accommodation offers short terms for a week, some for a month, etc.; therefore, to get detailed information on short-term rentals in Lisbon, it's best to talk to our accommodation experts, who are available round the clock to help you find one.
Q. What is the cost of Living in Lisbon?
A. Lisbon is quite an affordable city compared to many cities in Europe. The cost of living in Lisbon is 700 Euros excluding tuition fees and rent. On average, the monthly price in Lisbon includes rent, food, travel, and other expenses. Please bear in mind the cost of monthly payments in Lisbon will depend on your lifestyle.
Q. What are the best areas to live in Lisbon?
A.Some of the best neighbourhoods for students are Marquês de Pombal, Saldanha, Alameda, Intendente, São Sebastião da Pedreira, etc. The best places to live in Lisbon are Lisboa Cidade Universitária, Lisboa Marquês De Pombal, Nido Carcavelos, Carcavelos Lombos, Benfica.
Q. Is Lisbon a student-friendly city?
A.With its vibrant, multicultural atmosphere and educational opportunities, Lisbon is one of the best student destinations in Europe. Lisbon is student-friendly, as many students worldwide come to study there.
Q. What is the cost of student accommodation in Lisbon?
A. The cost of student accommodation in Lisbon starts from €450/month and goes onward. The price will vary depending on location, capacity, and occupancy type. If you take a shared student room or shared student apartment, it will help you save on rent in Lisbon as you can split it.
Q. What are the transportation options in Lisbon?
A.Lisbon can easily be navigated on foot or bike, which allows you to explore the city more. But, if you need to use public transportation, you can use the bus or metro, the best and cheapest mode of public transportation in Lisbon. There are taxis too for hire, but you have to splurge more on this.
Q. Why should I book my accommodation with University living?
A. University Living is a global student housing-managed marketplace. We assist students seeking higher education in finding housing near universities worldwide. It is easy and hassle-free to book student accommodation in Lisbon or any part of the country.
Q. Are there any famous universities in Lisbon?
A. Some of the famous universities in Lisbon are the University of Lisbon, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, and Universidade Catolica Portuguesa, Lisboa which are listed in QS World University Rankings.
Q. What are some of the best places to visit in Lisbon?
A. Some of the best places to visit in Lisbon are Carmo 2. Convento do Carmo, Igreja de São Vicente de Fora, Ajuda National Palace, São Roque Church, Belém Tower, etc.
Q. Is Lisbon a safe city for students?
A.Lisbon is a safe city for students and is known to be one of the safest cities in Europe. Lisbon is a diverse, liberal, and multicultural city. A huge student population comes to study in Lisbon, making it vibrant and setting a more student community.
Q. Do students face English problems in Lisbon?
A.The two languages spoken in Lisbon are Portuguese and English. There will be a language barrier if you plan to study in Lisbon. An, even more, many of the universities in Lisbon are also taught in English.
Q. Why should I study in Lisbon?
A.The reasons to study in Lisbon are the affordable cost of living, the fact that exchange students can study and work, the fantastic climate, the safe student city, and the excellent institutions and teachings.
Q. Are part-time jobs easily available in Lisbon?
A.EEU/EA students can work without constraints, while other nationalities can only work up to 40 hours. There are many jobs that you can find on a part-time basis in Lisbon. Contact your university career department to help you find part-time jobs.
Q. How difficult is it to learn Portuguese?
A.Portuguese is widely spoken worldwide and is not a challenging language to learn. For native English speakers, you can pick up the language in just a few months.
Q. How do I open a bank account in Lisbon?
A. You can open a bank account online with the NIF (Portuguese tax number). Depending on the bank, most international students can only open a primary and current account. These are some of the banks in Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Millenium BCP, Banco BPO, Novo Banco, and Banco Santander Totta you can look into!