Living in Lisbon: A Guide for Foreigners

Updated: April 2, 2024

With its stunning landscapes, attractive climate, sightseeing opportunities, and charming Atlantic views, Portugal is a true gem in Southern Europe. The capital, Lisbon, has been attracting expats from every corner of the world, including digital nomads, investors, and families looking for a better quality of life or a change of scenery. Here, we’ll delve into the heart of the city, providing you with everything you’ll need to know about the city, from the cost of living to key neighborhoods to consider.

Where is Lisbon?

Lisbon, situated on the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, serves as the capital and largest city of Portugal. Positioned at the mouth of the Tagus River as it meets the Atlantic Ocean, it is mainland Europe’s westernmost capital. Renowned for its stunning coastal backdrop, rich historical architecture, and lively cultural scene, Lisbon exudes charm and allure.

Lisbon is the oldest European capital after Athens, as it predates Rome by four centuries. Located two-thirds of the way down the country from north to south, Lisbon sits on top of seven hills, where you can never tire of the stunning views. On the Lisbon coastline, you’ll find beautiful beaches, which makes the cosmopolitan center a perfect holiday destination, and, for locals, a quick visit to one of the fabulous beaches is a permanent possibility.

Is Lisbon a good place to live?

Is Lisbon a nice place to live? Well, the abundance of expats moving to this charming city- whether they are retirees, investors, or families – speaks for itself. In this section, we delve into some of the key reasons to consider life in the Portuguese capital.

Top reasons to consider living in Lisbon

Whether it is the fact that Lisbon has fast become a top location for startups or the abundance of top international schools, here are some key reasons to consider the Portugeuse capital as a place to call home.

1. Outstanding business location

Lisbon, Portugal, has become a highly sought-after business location in Europe in recent years, attracting investors, startups, and digital nomads. Web Summit relocating to Lisbon in 2016 has, in many ways, put Lisbon firmly on the map for exapts looking to set up a business in Europe.

The strategic location and convenient time zone make it easy to conduct business, as does the fact that the Portugeuse generally have an excellent command of English. The Digital Nomad Visa launched in 2022 is another major draw for remote workers to secure residency in the country easily.

2. Safe and tolerant

The safety aspect is one of the key reasons why there are so many expats living in Lisbon. Portugal is the seventh most peaceful country in the world, according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. When it comes to the capital itself, the crime rate in Lisbon, Portugal, is very low compared to other European cities, and you will see this by yourself when living in Lisbon.

Locals are very friendly and treat foreigners with warmth and kindness. Even if you need help and cannot speak Portuguese, you will always find someone who will try to communicate with you in English and direct you in the right direction.

Despite your gender, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or social status, you should find the city very welcoming. Walking by Lisbon’s streets, you will notice immigrants and locals living in harmony, where there is a vibrant mix of cultures.

3. Excellent climate and beautiful beaches

The sublime climate and stunning beaches are two of the biggest selling points of life in Lisbon. While many other European capital cities are far from the coast, Lisbon is an exception.

One of the great perks of living in Lisbon is going to the beach whenever you want and being able to enjoy watersports, whether it’s kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing. The two most famous beaches close to the city of Lisbon are Praia de Santo Amaro and Praia de Carcavelos. Some of the city’s most strikingly beautiful beaches are the ones found in Cascais, Estoril, and, on the other side of the Tagus River, Costa da Caparica.

Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon

So, where is the best place to live in Lisbon? In the following section, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon. Note that this will largely depend on your needs and what you are looking for. For example, a family may be looking for a neighborhood in Lisbon close to an international school, while young professionals may be looking for a bustling area closer to the city center.

1. Alvadale

Alvalade is one of the most practical neighborhoods in the city and is often overlooked by expats. It’s very easy to enjoy life in Lisbon to the fullest in Alvalade, with a wide range of top restaurants, charming cafes, and green spaces to be found here.

A little outside the center of the city, you have all the services that you could want and peace and quiet that you may not find in more sought-after locations. Alvalade is a neighborhood where everything seems to fall into place in perfect harmony.

Conveniently located close to the airport, Alvalade is perfect for regular international travelers, retirees, and families, with large sidewalks and proud avenues. Here, most people have their own private gardens, and the locals can be seen talking with their neighbors. Indeed, a community feels still permeated, which is lost in some other areas in the capital.

2. Avenidas Novas

Avenidas Novas might be considered one of the best neighborhoods in Lisbon to live in, as its leafy spacious streets are lined with large beautiful properties. Avenidas Novas begins at the grand Avenida da Liberdade, the most sought-after address in Lisbon, which has many luxury and designer stores lining the street.
While Avenida da Liberdade is for those who are looking to capture a touch of luxury in the city, Avenidas Novas also has the fantastic Gulbenkian Foundation, and its peaceful gardens are one of the many highlights of the city.

Avenidas Novas is also home to Lisbon’s business center, with many working professionals living in this part of town. At lunch, you’ll see all the cafés and their terraces occupied by those who work in Lisbon. With many rooftop bars, green spaces, and an excellent public transport system to get around the city, Avenidas Novas is becoming more and more popular with expats.

3. Baixa

Baixa was largely rebuilt following the tragic earthquake in the 18th century, in the style of the then-contemporary European city planning trend. With what remained of the city and what was rebuilt, the contemporary architecture in Baixa, in central Lisbon, provides a certain neoclassical ambiance. A unique, central part of the city, perfect if you like strolling around large squares and discovering the exciting culture and heritage of the city. Yes, the Rua Augusta Arch and Praça do Comércio are both impressive architectural achievements and stand-out points in the city.

One of the best things about living in Baixa is that the neighborhood is very strategically placed. Baixa is within close proximity to the nightlife center Bairro Alto, the old town, Alfama and the Castelo de São Jorge (Castle of St Jorge), and Chiado, a key shopping area in the city. You can quickly get to the beaches in Cascais and Carcavelos by taking a short train ride, and all the significant sightseeing locations are a short walk away. Public transport is pretty cheap in Lisbon, so it may be better than hiring a car to get to the surrounding areas.

You can find out more about Baixa in our article in our guide to Baixa Lisbon real estate.

4. Bairro Alto

A short walking distance away from Baixa, you’ll find Bairro Alto. This part of town can get quite noisy at night, so it may prove to be a better investment opportunity than a home, but you should be able to find some quiet areas away from the heady nightlife.

Bairro Alto is a melting pot of different cultures, fashionable restaurants, and celebrated nightlife. Cais do Sodré, with the famous Pink Street (formerly the city’s red-light district), is one of the most lively places in Lisbon, with tiny bars spilling out onto the side streets in the evenings and during the weekend. If looking to eat here, be sure to avoid the tourist traps and souvenir shops, which can be a little overpriced, and venture instead into more affordable Portuguese-owned restaurants or one of the trendy and up-and-coming restaurants.

5. Campo de Ourique

Campo de Ourique is located in a quiet corner of town and is a very nice, family-oriented place in Lisbon. Lovely artisanal shops and an indoor food market are some of the things that make this one of the best neighborhoods in Portugal to live in. The Portuguese food scene in Lisbon has become one of the best in Europe, so make the most of discovering Portuguese cuisine. Campo de Ourique is also a popular Lisbon expat neighborhood, largely because it provides quick access to the main parts of the city, and there are plenty of nice cafés and lunch spots to enjoy.

You can discover more about the charming neighborhood of Campo do Ourique in our guide to Campo do Ourique real estate.

6. Chiado

Just up from Baixa, Rua do Ouro and Rua Augusta are parallel to one another, and halfway down them, you’ll find the Santa Justa Elevator, a must for spectacular views of the city.
Famous for its lovely cafes, many star attractions, and typical architecture, Chiado is a lovely place to invest in or live. While you’ll find pretty busy streets in the summer months, its central location makes it effortlessly easy to get around the city. Shoppers will also delight in the range of shops on offer, both chain stores and independent Portuguese shops selling their wares.

7. Principe Real

Principe Real is a favorite for both tourists and locals. This part of the city is one of the very best, filled with lovely independent and boutique shops, concept stores, a great many restaurants and bars, and stunning properties. It is certainly one of the more upmarket and busier parts of town. The people living in Principe Real are a mix of young internationals, digital nomads, and Portuguese families.

Even Scarlet Johansson recently snapped up an apartment in Principe Real. With a typical square and pleasant garden, you can sit out in an outside café and take in the colorful 19th-century mansions and exotic trees. Finding a house here, you are not far from the River Tejo, close to the bustling nightlife, and yet far enough away to also relax in the garden and enjoy some peace. Note that property prices here are quite high due to the neighborhood’s appeal.

You can find out more in our article on real estate in Principe Real.

Buying or Renting a House in Lisbon as a Foreigner

Real estate in Lisbon is booming and, and although property prices have increased rapidly over the past years, there are many parts of the city where you can still get a good deal.

In particular, house prices in the downtown area and in Lisbon city center have shot up, but if you buy outside the center, prices tend to fall. If you are considering buying property in Lisbon, it can be a smart move, whereby your property will likely increase in value over time given the continued buzz around the Portugeuse capital.

Buying a house in Lisbon

It’s easy to buy a house in Lisbon, and you will find plenty of options open to you, with many property types on the market, from modern apartments to spacious waterfront houses. In our cost of living section later in the article, we’ll delve into more detail on the property prices you can expect to find in Portugal’s capital.

As there is no one ultimate property listing site, it can be a good idea to work with a buyer’s agent, such as Goldcrest, who usually has access to properties for sale that cannot be found elsewhere. Buyer’s Agents will work solely on behalf of the buyer, ensuring they get the best possible deal on the property.

This is in contrast to real estate agents, who work on behalf of the seller and will, therefore, get a higher commission for a higher sale.

Check out our expert guide to Lisbon real estate

Click here

Renting a house in Lisbon

Renting a property in Lisbon can be quite difficult. This is because of the high demand for living in Lisbon in recent years, which has made it hard to find an available apartment that suits your needs. With patience, research, and good advice, you should be able to find the perfect place to rent in the city.

How to Live in Lisbon as a Foreign Citizen: Residence Permits and Visas

In this section, we’ll delve into how you can relocate to Lisbon, providing you with insights into how to secure residency in Portugal. If you are moving to Portugal, we will need to get a Portuguese NIF number (Tax Identification Number) as soon as possible, as you will need this number for any major financial transactions. We also recommend that you set up a Portugeuse bank account.

Living in Lisbon as an EU citizen

The process is very easy for EU citizens who are considering living in Lisbon. If you are an EU citizen and have already decided to settle in Lisbon and live in the city for over three months, you must apply for a registration certificate. You will be eligible to live, work, and settle in Portugal with this certificate for a period of up to five years, and then it needs to be renewed.

Living in Lisbon as a non-EU citizen

If you‘re a non-EU citizen and are considering living in Lisbon, the good news is there are various visa options for you to apply for to be able to enter and live in Portugal. Portugal has been facilitating the visa processes to attract expats and investors to the country. Once you obtain a visa to travel to Portugal, after arrival, you will need to apply for a residence permit to settle in Lisbon, Portugal, and enjoy your benefits as a resident.

Below are some popular pathways for non-EU nationals to secure residency in Portugal. Note that this list is not exhaustive, and there are several other visa types open to non-EU citizens, such as the D3 Visa, D2 Visa, Work Visa, and Student Visa. If you are considering relocating to Portugal, our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions, would be delighted to assist you in discussing which option is best for your needs.

Portugal Golden Visa

The Portugal Golden Visa is one of the most common visa programs for non-EU citizens who invest in Portugal through fund investments, donations, or company formation. The Portugal Golden Visa scheme speeds up the process for non-EU investors to get a Portuguese residence permit if they make a qualifying investment in the country.

Note that due to the changes in the Portugal Golden Visa program, it is no longer possible to invest in properties in Portugal and qualify for the program.

D7 Visa

Pensioners, entrepreneurs who want to live in Portugal, retired foreign citizens, or other expats living off of a recognized stable income, such as movable property, real estate, intellectual property, or financial investments, may be eligible to apply for the D7 Portuguese Visa, and subsequently, apply for a residence permit. To qualify, you’ll need to earn a minimum wage as determined by the Portuguese Government.

You can find out more about this visa option in our article: D7 Visa Portugal: The Ultimate Guide.

Digital Nomad Visa

In October 2022, Portugal unveiled the Digital Nomad Visa (D8 Visa), aimed at individuals from abroad who reside and conduct their work remotely within Portugal. It caters to remote workers who do not work for a Portuguese company and who have a monthly income equivalent to four times the Portuguese minimum wage. In Lisbon, you will find several co working spaces across the city, perfectly designed for remote workers.

Cost of living in Lisbon

The cost of living in Portugal is lower than in many other countries, such as the UK, Ireland, Scotland, France, Germany, and neighboring Spain. If you are considering living in Lisbon as an American, you will likely be pleasantly surprised by the affordability of the city, from private healthcare to eating out.

Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, especially for expats and remote workers. It is important to note that the cost of living in Lisbon, from property to restaurants, is more expensive in the capital than in other areas of the country. In the interior, particularly in the parts of the country that do not have high numbers of expats, prices can be very low indeed.

Our partner, Global Citizen Solutions, a boutique residency and citizenship by investment consultancy focused on finding the perfect investment, citizenship, or residency program for individuals across the world, has recently developed a new passport ranking. They take into account not only visa-free access to other countries but also investment opportunities and quality of life. In their Quality of Life Index, Portugal ranks in 13th position. This takes into account the cost of living alongside levels of freedom, happiness, environmental performance, sustainable development, and migrant acceptance. This highlights that, as countries go, Portugal is one of the best countries to live in for those looking for a high quality of life in an affordable country.

In the following section, we will give more estimated figures to help you imagine the cost of living in Lisbon. Note that the cost of living will vary considerably depending on your lifestyle.

How much do I need to live in Lisbon?

Portugal is an amazing country where the low cost of living does not compromise the high quality of life. In Lisbon, the estimated cost for a family of four is €2,572.50 per month, excluding rent, while, for a single person, then you could get by with €625 per month in Lisbon, also not including rent. This is according to the latest figures from Numbeo. Do take into account that rent in Lisbon is quite expensive.

Property prices in Lisbon

The average asking price for property in Lisbon was €6,009 per square meter in 2023, while if you look at the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, this falls to €4,061, indicating that it is much more affordable to buy outside the city. Lisbon real estate prices will also vary considerably depending on the neighborhood you choose.

Accommodation

If you’re going to rent in Lisbon, see below for estimated monthly rents, according to Numbeo. Note that Lisbon rents can vary depending on the neighborhood and proximity to the city center. To find rental apartments, utilizing expat groups and Facebook groups, alongside rental listing websites, can be a good option.

Apartment (one bedroom) in the city center: €1,282
Apartment (one bedroom) outside of center: €905
Apartment (three bedrooms) in the city center: €2,438
Apartment (three bedrooms) outside of center: €1,626

Food

While living in Lisbon, you will find out that everyday essentials are quite affordable. You will also find several local markets across the city to buy your fresh produce. While prices have been increasing recently, they remain affordable compared with prices in other Western European cities. We listed some items for you to see an estimated example of the prices in Lisbon:

Food item	Price
1kg of Beef round	€12.13
1kg of Rice	€1.43
Loaf of bread	€1,46
A dozen eggs	€2.85
1kg of local cheese	€9.67
1L of Milk	€0.94
1kg of apples	€2,21
1kg of Oranges	€1.72
Tomato (1kg)	€2,27

Eating out

Portugal is well-known for its incredible food and wine, with a focus on delicious seafood fresh off the boat. High-quality food comes as a standard, without the premium price tag that usually accompanies it in some other countries. You can enjoy a solid meal in Portugal for around €20 and can easily eat out a couple of times per week.

You can see more information below:

A meal in an inexpensive restaurant: €13
A meal in a mid-level restaurant (Two people, three courses): €49
Water: €1,18
Cappuccino: €2.26

Transportation

In Lisbon, you can buy a monthly transportation pass that will cost you €40. This is a really good deal because you will be able to use all the means of transportation in the city. A one-way bus ticket costs €2.

The Lisbon International Airport also has flights across Europe, Africa, America, and other locations. If you are looking for a weekend getaway, you will find many cheap flights available, particularly if you book well in advance.

Schools in Lisbon

As an expat parent, no need to worry about your child’s education while considering moving to Portugal. There are several different schools in Lisbon that are of very good quality. Here are some of the most popular ones:

British School of Lisbon
Oeiras International School
Astoria International School
Redbridge School
Lycée Français Charles Lepierre

As a legal resident of Lisbon, you can also enroll your children in a public school, which is free, but you should know that Portuguese is the main language used in public schools.

Also, if you are moving to the capital and are looking for schools, you can consult our article: Lisbon Neighborhoods Close to International Schools.

Getting around

In Lisbon, you can easily explore the city by walking, and the majority of the city’s attractions are located in the city center. Note that Lisbon’s streets can be tricky to navigate, as you’ll come across the narrow-cobbled streets in the city, and you will need comfortable shoes to get around

If you’re considering getting around the city, there are many public transportation options.

Tram: You will find both historic trams and modern trams in Lisbon. Being a favorite mode of transportation for tourists and Portuguese people, trams in Lisbon are often crowded but can be the most easy way to get up and down the many hills in the city.
Train: All the major villages and towns in Lisbon can be reached by train. The trains are on time with comfortable coaches and affordable tickets.
Buses: One of the most flexible modes of transport to get around the city of Lisbon.
Metro: Boarding the metro is one of the fastest ways to move from one corner of the Portuguese capital to another.
Taxi: You will find that taxi rides in Lisbon are particularly cheap. You can also book an Uber or Bolt to move from one part of the city to another, which are even more affordable.

Check out our complete guide to buying property in Lisbon

Click here

Shopping

If you’re a shopping lover, you will fall more in love with shopping in Lisbon where you will find the latest fashion trends. Lisbon offers many glamorous shopping malls and international designer stores. Avenida da Liberdade, studded with high-end shops and designer boutiques, is Lisbon’s most popular shopping strip for luxury, while, in Principe Real, you’ll come across plenty of boutique stores.

Healthcare

Living in Lisbon as a foreigner, you’ll be pleased to know that the healthcare system is generally very good. One of the main perks of living in Lisbon, Portugal, is the fact that, as a resident, you will be eligible to get access to public healthcare through Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS – Serviço Nacional de Sade). In Lisbon, there are also a number of private hospitals and medical facilities to which you can go if you have health insurance. Private medical insurance in Portugal is quite affordable when compared with equivalent insurance in America or other European countries.

Language

Although the official language in Portugal is Portuguese, you will usually find someone who speaks English, especially in tourist places and hospitals. According to the new EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI), which takes into account 100 countries and regions around the world, Portugal has the eighth-highest English proficiency among non-native speakers in the world. You should know that English is extensively spoken in Lisbon compared to other Portuguese cities.

However, learning the Portuguese language will be useful for integrating into your new neighborhood and immersing yourself in the Portuguese way of life. In government offices, you may find English is not so widely spoken, making it a good idea to learn Portuguese.

Weather in Lisbon

If you’re a nature lover and are constantly dreaming of living in a place full of sunlight and warm weather, well, Portugal is the destination for you. For example, Lisbon averages ten hours of sunlight during wintertime, which is an absolute blast compared to the Northern European nations. The hottest month is August, with an average temperature of 24 Degrees C (75 Degrees F), and the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 12 Degrees C (54 Degrees F). November is the wettest month, with a lot of rain.

Festivals and attractions

While living in Lisbon, you will never get bored. In Lisbon, you will experience various live events around the year. The events include art exhibitions, film and food festivals, concerts, and others. Some popular Lisbon live events are as follows:

New Year’s Concert: Like every big city in the world, Lisbon also welcomes the new year with grandeur. A grand concert is held on the evening of January 1 every year.
Lisbon Carnival: The month of February sees excited party-goers crowding the streets of Lisbon.
Festival of São João: This festival lights up the city, with locals and visitors flocking to the streets to celebrate by eating grilled sardines and partying until dawn.
You will also find countless festivals taking place throughout the year, from summer Jazz festivals to the latest stars frequenting festivals such as SuperBock SuperRock and MEO Kalorama Lisboa.

Living in Lisbon Pros and Cons

Like every city in the world, Lisbon has its pros and cons. We’ve narrowed down some of Lisbon’s advantages and drawbacks so you will be able to see the whole picture clearly before deciding on whether Lisbon is the city for you.

Advantages

Affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals
Pleasant climate
Historic neighborhoods boasting incredible architecture
Booming business center
Beautiful beaches and lovely sightseeing
Various schools and education options
Great social life
For a big city, Lisbon retains a community feel in many neighborhoods

Drawbacks

The hills and cobbled streets
Portuguese bureaucracy can be slow
Overtourism in summer
Challenge to find rental apartments
No central heating in winter

Is Lisbon safe?

As the capital of Portugal, Lisbon has a possibility of a slightly higher crime rate than the rest of the country, but it is still a very safe city and a calm location to live in. As we mentioned previously, Portugal is the seventh safest country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index 2023.

The Bottom Line on Living in Lisbon, Portugal

Living in Lisbon is a good idea for retirees, families, or digital nomads who are searching for a fresh start. The city offers an abundance of entertainment and cultural opportunities, as well as vibrant nightlife, great weather, and exquisite dining at affordable costs. As an expat, you will find in Lisbon the perfect amount of everything you may need, and moving to live in Lisbon could be the best decision you can make.

If you are searching for your dream property in Portugal, you can also contact us at Goldcrest, and we will be more than happy to help you decide where to live in Lisbon with your family and what options are available to you. We have a team of experts who will love to guide you through the process of buying your ideal home in Lisbon.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Lisbon

Is Lisbon Portugal a good place to live?

Lisbon is a great place to live, with a pleasant climate and a number of beautiful beaches on your doorstep. Additionally, Lisbon is a very affordable capital compared to many other European capitals. In Lisbon, you will find everything you need as an expat, from job opportunities to high-quality schools for your children. Also, the Lisbon is a very international city, meaning that you’ll quickly be able to get to know fellow expats.

Is it expensive to live in Lisbon?

The cost of living in Portugal is way much lower than in many countries, such as the UK, Ireland, Scotland, France, Germany, and neighboring Spain. Hence, Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, especially for expats and digital nomads.

It is important to note that the cost of living in Lisbon, from property to restaurants, is more expensive in the capital than in other areas of the country. In the interior, particularly in the parts of the country that do not have high numbers of expats, prices can be very low indeed.

Is moving to Lisbon a good idea?

There are many benefits to moving to Lisbon, and many expats have been flocking to the Portuguese capital recently, seeking a good quality of life and an affordable cost of living.

Regard Lisbon as a secure place for residence. The city boasts minimal crime rates. Beyond the fact that Lisbon is a very safe city, the capital maintains a liberal and hospitable environment for international residents.

Is Lisbon a good place to live in?

Absolutely! Lisbon offers a vibrant lifestyle, rich culture, and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal place to call home. With its mild climate, rich history, affordable cost of living, and diverse culinary scene, it appeals to a wide range of people. Whether you’re drawn to its historic architecture, bustling neighborhoods, or thriving arts scene, Lisbon has something for everyone. Plus, its proximity to beautiful beaches, such as Praia de Santo Amaro, and excellent healthcare services further enhance its appeal as a fantastic place to live.

As with any city, there will be drawbacks. In Lisbon, the bureaucratic process can be slow, and it can get cold in the winter months. Ensure that your property has a good central heating system in place.

Can Americans live in Lisbon?

Yes, Americans can live in Lisbon! The welcoming atmosphere of Portugal’s capital and many different visa options make it relatively easy for Americans to relocate here. Whether you’re considering retirement, seeking new job opportunities, or simply looking for a change of scenery, Lisbon is an international city that offers a warm and inviting environment for expats. Plus, while prices are on the rise, Lisbon is an affordable city compared to many other European cities.

Where do most American expats live in Portugal?

While American expats can be found throughout Portugal, certain areas tend to attract more expats than others. Lisbon and its surrounding suburbs, such as Cascais and Estoril, are popular choices for American expats due to their cosmopolitan vibe, beautiful beaches, and convenient amenities. Additionally, the Algarve region in southern Portugal is another hotspot for American expats, known for its stunning coastline, golf courses, and welcoming expat communities. Whether you prefer the vibrant city life or the tranquility of coastal living, Portugal offers diverse options for American expats to find their perfect home away from home.

Is English widely spoken in Lisbon?

Yes, Lisbon is widely spoken in Lisbon, particularly amongst younger people. Welcoming locals will often go out of their way to ensure you are going in the right direction and provide you with local insights, such as the best restaurants to check out in the city.

With this said, it can be a good idea to learn some basic Portuguese to immerse yourself in the city and, in government offices, you may find that English is not so widely spoken. With this said, English is widely spoken in Lisbon compared to other Portuguese cities. As with most major European cities where there is a high number of exapts, you should be able to get around with English.