Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal. This vibrant city is one of the best cities for expats in Europe. Every day more and more people are choosing to come and live in Lisbon. So, moving to Lisbon can be the best decision you ever made.
Today, Lisbon is a very popular European city and every newspaper and magazine has an article urging you to visit Lisbon. If you want to have a successful move there you need to know what to expect from this beautiful city.
If you are moving from the USA to Europe there are many things you should know. Because you are expat you need to know how to find a job in Lisbon and how to hire reliable movers in Europe. But, if you still don’t know where you want to live in Europe, beside Lisbon, Portugal, there are many European cities for Americans. Before you decide to come to Lisbon or another European city or best peaceful European islands, you should learn the language before moving.
Moving to Lisbon: Reasons to do it
Moving to Lisbon is a really good idea. There are direct flights to and from most cities in America. In Lisbon, you can find fresh food, cheap wine, good weather, friendly people and peace. Lisbon economic is growing and this city is getting insane attention. Lisbon is a surprising rivalry with Dublin for tech startups. Lisbon just stole away Web Summit from Dublin.
We choose Lisbon from the list of the best cities for the expats because of its strong infrastructure, the world-class venue and the thriving startup community.
Portugal is still a relatively poor country compared to the mega-economies such as Germany, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands, but this place with sun and sea can offer you a good quality of life, fresh food, low cost of living, friendly people, great weather, and rising economy. Investors from all Europe are coming to Lisbon because of the low rents and affordable IT talent.
Low cost of living
You may think that salary in Lisbon is low but rent, food, transportation and etc. all very cheap.
Average prices of rents, drinks, food and average salary in Lisbon:
Cost of a three-room apartment in the city center: 1,584.20 per month
Average monthly salary after taxes: 863.18 per month
Domestic beer: 1.50 euros
Meal for two people at a nice restaurant: 30 euros
Portuguese are reserved and super friendly
If you don’t know, Portuguese are friendly, relaxed, humble, and tolerant people. But, sometimes expats complain that Portuguese are more reserved than they’re used to in their home country. So, this is something you can expect. But, inside they are very good and friendly people when you know them.
Friendships with your Portuguese neighbors are some of the most valuable you will ever make.
You will be surprised how friendly and helpful people are here. It is not just forced politeness in shops or businesses. People in Lisbon are genuinely warm and helpful. They will help you if you have lost your way or you need help for something else, they will do their best to help you.
Food is great!
Portuguese cuisine is famous all over the world because of its freshness. In Portugal, you can enjoy in a large selection of fish and seafood dishes. But, also if you like meat you won’t be disappointed either.
When you come to Lisbon, take the time to explore the local and regional cuisine. Everybody should taste all Portuguese specialties: seafood dishes, cheeses, regional bread, cured meats, and expertly barbecued chicken. Lisbon has restaurants with Michelin stars but also quality street food.
Also, in Lisbon, you can enjoy in wonderful markets, wine and cocktail bars, family restaurants. And the most delicious coffee is served everywhere in Lisbon!
Good Weather
During winter months in Portugal, you may keep all of your blankets and you should have an electric heater. But, this is just for two months. So, it is a small price to pay for the ten months of good weather you get in Lisbon during the rest of the year.
The climate in Portugal is possibly the best in Europe, with about 9 or 10 months of good weather, without the summer ever getting too hot.
Quality of life in Lisbon
In Lisbon is always something to do. Here you can enjoy in with tons of little festivals and cultural events. Also, with plenty of beaches within 30 to 60 minutes of Lisbon, you can have a pretty crazy sun-and-surf lifestyle.
Lisbon offers you all the big city things but at the same time, you can have a great sense of community.
In Lisbon you can enjoy, not just in a great climate and beautiful beaches, but also in the wealth of history, stunning scenery and contemporary culture.
Children are welcome in Lisbon
Portugal is a very child-friendly country. So, if you are moving to Lisbon you are going to family orientated place. In Lisbon, kids can stay up late at night and participate in events and festivals. So, if you are moving to Europe with kids, Lisbon is one of the best European places to raise a family.
So, if you are moving to Lisbon with family, find out about playgroups, schools and after-school activities here.
Tips for moving to Lisbon
- Learn language
When you are moving to Lisbon, it is not a bad idea to learn the language. The more you understand and speak the experience of life in Lisbon will be better. You don’t need to speak fluent Portuguese, but it’s a good idea to have some of the basics. In Lisbon, many people speak fantastic English, but more you know Portuguese you will more enjoy. Also, you will easier find the job.
So, when you come to Lisbon try to learn more about language. At the start, learn how to say hello and goodbye to people and to learn the basics in communication.
- Take the time to explore all the different areas
Lisbon offers many neighborhoods, from the historical and traditional to the smart and well-heeled or the more hip and happening. So, when you are searching for your home in Lisbon, try to look at all the neighborhoods. So you can find what you love and rent that suits you. The housing market in Lisbon is competitive, long-term rentals can be hard to find, so take time to explore all the different areas.
Moving to Lisbon can be a really good idea. You have everything here: buzzing city life, beautiful coastal places with great food and weather. So, when you come to Lisbon take a time to really enjoy, research and explore.
