Are you going on holiday to Lisbon soon? Or are you pursuing your dream of living and working in Lisbon? Then it’s nice to know a few things about this beautiful city in advance. For example, which sights in Lisbon should you definitely see? What are the best restaurants and cafés in Lisbon? And what are the nicest neighbourhoods in Lisbon? In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know when you are going to live and work in Lisbon!
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Living and working in Lisbon
When is the best time to visit Lisbon?
The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to May or September to October. During these times of the year, you will find that hotel rates are lower and the streets are less crowded.
During the high season from June to August, Lisbon is very touristy and costs are automatically higher.
Compared to other European cities, Lisbon is certainly not (yet) too busy. So if you don’t mind the higher temperatures and prices, you can also enjoy Lisbon during the high season. If you would like to live and work in Lisbon, the tips below will also come in handy!
Where to stay in Lisbon?
Baixa (downtown) in Lisbon is an attractive, elongated series of beautiful buildings flanked by the squares of Rossio, Figueira and the large riverfront Praça do Comércio. It is an impressive example of urban planning at the end of the 18th century. And many traditional shops still exist!
The oldest district of Lisbon is Alfama. A fascinating maze of steep, winding streets lined with atmospheric houses. There are also Fado restaurants and tourist souvenir shops here. Nevertheless, Alfama is still an attractive and historic village where you can stroll through the cosy, narrow streets all day long. If you are going to live and work in Lisbon, we recommend visiting this beautiful neighbourhood!
The wide, palm-lined Avenida da Liberdade is a kilometre-long strip with the most expensive real estate in Portugal. Here, embassies and consulates are located above glitzy designer shops. The Avenida is also within walking distance of most of Lisbon’s sights.
If you are only in Lisbon for a few days and want to stay close to most of Lisbon’s hotspots, take a look at the Alfama (in our opinion the most charming neighbourhood in Lisbon), Cais do Sodré, Chiado and Bairro Alto neighbourhoods. Would you like to live and work in Lisbon? Then these are also great neighbourhoods to consider.
Sights you really must see!
Spending a day in Belém should definitely be on your bucket list when you move to Lisbon. Here you will find the MAAT Museum, the Belém Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery. This can be a fairly busy and touristy area, as the monastery and tower attract quite a few visitors. Do you have a sweet tooth? Then head to Pastéis de Belém to sample a delicious pastel de nata. There are many great places to visit within a short drive of Lisbon. We definitely recommend booking a day trip to one of these destinations, especially if you are going to live and work in Lisbon and will be there for a longer period of time. This will give you a taste of life outside Lisbon.
Cities to see just outside Lisbon!
Sintra
is known for its beautiful castles and access to Cabo da Roca. This is the westernmost point of mainland Europe and offers stunning views of the coast.
Cascais
is a picturesque and colourful beach town that is perfect for sun lovers who want to enjoy a day of Portuguese sunshine.
Ericeira
is a must for surfing enthusiasts, as this town is the place to be for anyone looking for good waves.
Setúbal
About 45 minutes from Lisbon lies the city of Setúbal. This city is known for its delicious seafood and the beautiful protected nature reserve Parque Natural da Arrábida.
Douro Valley Wine Region
is definitely something for your bucket list. If you’re in the mood for wine tasting, head to the world-famous Douro Valley. The region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest wine regions in the world, famous for its port wines. Yes, if you go to live and work in Lisbon, the Portuguese will welcome you with a glass (or several) of port! 😉
Azenhas do Mar
is actually a very small village where there is not much to do. However, you will find a beautiful beach where you can relax and enjoy a drink at the bar.
Living and working in Lisbon: where can you find good food?
In Portugal, you will be served food before you even order anything. Think olives, cheese and a bread basket. Keep in mind that this is not free! And if it’s a fancy place, the costs can be high.
Tapisco
is a modern Portuguese restaurant in a cosy, lively setting.
Mini Bar Theatre by José Avillez
is known for its surprise menu costing around 50 euros.
Cevicheria
is a cosy Peruvian tapas bar with delicious dishes that you simply have to try!
Pistola y Corazon
serves the best Mexican food in Lisbon. If you like Mexican food, that is.
Time-out Market
This is a kind of food hall where you can sample different cuisines!
Landeau Chocolade
is best known in Lisbon for its delicious chocolate cake.
Gelataria Nannarella
is an Italian ice cream parlour with unique flavours such as white wine and basil.
Bica do Sapato
literally means “the tip of your shoe”. This is the most famous Mediterranean restaurant in Lisbon. You can also enjoy a great view of the river here.
The best cafés in Lisbon
If you’re out and about and fancy stopping for a nice cup of coffee or a pastry, we recommend the following places:
The Mill
serves healthy breakfast dishes in a cosy setting.
Hello, Kristof
is a hipster café dedicated to the love of coffee and magazines.
Copenhagen Coffee Lab
is, alongside Hello, Kristof, the place to be to get some work done while getting your daily dose of caffeine (multiple locations in the city).
Heim Cafe
is a cosy café where you can enjoy a delicious weekend brunch
Where is the best place to shop?
LX Factory
is a shopping area full of cool shops, restaurants, bookshops and more.
Loja das Conservas
is not your standard shop that you would quickly come across in the United Kingdom or Ireland. You will notice that there are many shops in Lisbon that sell tinned sardines.
Embaixada
is a concept store located in the courtyard of the iconic Ribeiro da Cunha palace.
Chiado neighbourhood
is a district with brand-name shops where you can buy clothing and accessories at reasonable prices (think Pull & Bear, Muji, etc.).
Under the Cover
is a unique bookshop concept with an abundance of international magazines and other paper goods.
Feira da Ladra flea market
is a flea market held every Tuesday and Saturday. You will find unique items and goods there.
Centro Colombo
is a large indoor shopping centre located near the Benfica football stadium. Come live and work in Lisbon and shop till you drop!
As you have read, there is so much to see and discover in Lisbon. No matter what you love, Lisbon has it all! From hours of strolling through the cosiest shopping streets to enjoying the most beautiful nature reserves. In short, living and working in Lisbon is a party for everyone!
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Living and working in Lisbon: current vacancies
Are you eager to live and work in Lisbon? Can’t wait to discover this beautiful city with your new friends? Experience Lisbon’s vibrant nightlife? Enjoy the delicious food? And would you like to gain valuable work experience abroad? Don’t wait any longer and start living and working in Lisbon!
Check out our vacancies abroad on our website and find various fun and interesting vacancies in Portugal. Pursue your Portuguese dream, apply for that dream job and start living and working in Lisbon!
