Moving to Portugal in Your 20s: My Experience in Covilhã and Lisbon
If you’d told me a year ago that by now I’d be living in Portugal (again), I probably would have laughed. Portugal wasn’t on my radar as a place to call home back then, I hardly knew anything about it. But here I am today, and honestly, I’m so glad I took the leap.
Why I Originally Chose Covilhã Over Lisbon or Porto
Back in February, I moved to Covilhã, a small city tucked near Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain in continental Portugal. Most people head straight for Lisbon or Porto, so why didn't I do that? I needed some time away from daily life and I decided to follow love all the way to Covilhã.
Covilhã is a peaceful student city with stunning mountain views, a super affordable cost of living, and a laid-back vibe. The food is delicious, the nearby villages are adorable, and the scenery is next-level. The city sits between 400 and 800 meters above sea level, so you get epic viewpoints everywhere you go. Bonus: Covilhã has free elevators to help you get around the hilly streets—no car needed! I lived there for two months while finishing my final major project for university and it was exactly the quiet escape I needed.
Fast Forward: Life in Lisbon
Nine months later, I’m now living in Lisbon. While Covilhã was perfect for a fresh start, Lisbon has so much more to offer in terms of degree programs, jobs, and things to do in general.
What's the Real Cost of living in Portugal?
Portugal is budget-friendly compared to other Western European countries. Here’s a quick breakdown:
A beer with friends: As little as €1, if you are willing to look.
Movie ticket: Around €7 (look for discounts on the WTF app!).
Lunch deal: Main course, drink, dessert, and coffee from just €6. Look for 'Tascas'.
Nightlife: Clubs are often free before 12:30am with an ESN card—get one if you can.
Mobile data: NOS WTF usually* offers unlimited social media, unlimited calls/texts, and dedicated data for YouTube/Netflix. Keep an eye out for discounts on Uber, movies, and much more. (*plans subject to change).
Getting around: Bolt App is usually the most affordable among others (use the 93S7J code upon activation for a discount). A 5am ride to the airport from my place? Only €4.50! Split it with friends and it becomes even cheaper.
How to Learn Portuguese for free
Worried about the language barrier? Don’t be! The government offers a free program to study Portuguese at your own pace. As far as I know, you can also sign up for on-site classes.
Must-Try Portuguese Foods
Ready to eat like a local? Here are my top picks:
Sweets: Pastéis de Belém, Travesseiros de Sintra, Ovos Moles de Aveiro
Seafood: Bacalhau com Natas, Bacalhau à Brás, Sardinhas Assadas
Meat: Alheira, Bifanas, Cozido à Portuguesa, Francesinha
Is Portugal a Good Erasmus Destination?
Absolutely! If you love colorful streets, sandy beaches, stunning landscapes, and friendly people, Portugal is the place for you. Besides Lisbon and Porto, other popular student cities are Faro, Coimbra, Évora, Aveiro, and Covilhã.
My Favorite Spots in Lisbon
If you decide to visit Lisbon for any occasion, whether it's your Erasmus destination or simply home for a few days, don’t miss these places:
Torre de Belém
Miradouro da Graça
Miradouro de Santa Luzia
Miradouro Parque Eduardo VII
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara
LX Factory (especially on Sundays!)
Feira da Ladra (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
Are you thinking about moving to Portugal? Have you lived here before, or do you have questions? Drop a comment below!
{All photos are my own. If you want to repost, please give credit}
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