Renting an Apartment in Lisbon: International Student Guide
As an international student, renting an apartment in a new city can be difficult, especially when you’re not aware of how these processes work.
Lisbon rental laws make it easy for foreign students to rent apartments close to their campus. However, like with every city, it can be easy to make costly mistakes.
In this post, we will explore how to rent an apartment in Lisbon as a foreign student. The tips we share will help you get the best value for your money.
Key Takeaways
By understanding the different types of rental properties available, identifying student-friendly neighbourhoods and learning your rights as a tenant, you will be able to avoid common rental scams and get the right Lisbon student accommodation.
When you choose the right apartment, you can enjoy easy proximity to your campus, amenities, access to transport links, and many more perks.
Student Luxe helps international students with affluent tastes find the most exclusive student residences Lisbon has to offer. We specialize in providing apartments close to the most popular universities located in the best parts of the city. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.
Understanding Lisbon’s Rental Market
Lisbon’s rental market has seen significant growth in recent years, mainly due to the city’s increasing popularity among both tourists and international students.
Rental prices can vary widely depending on the neighbourhood and the type of accommodation. Generally, the closer you are to the city centre and popular areas like Chiado or Bairro Alto, the higher the rent.
Some of the most common kinds of rental properties are:
Studios: Perfect for single students, these compact apartments offer all the essentials in one open space.
Shared apartments: A cost-effective option where students rent a room in a shared flat, usually sharing common areas like the kitchen and living room with other tenants.
Luxury apartments: These are for students seeking upscale living. They come with high-end amenities and are often located in prime areas near campuses like the University of Lisbon, Nova SBE, etc.
Several online platforms and agencies can help you find rental listings in Lisbon. Some popular options include Idealista, OLX, and Uniplaces.
If you want a more luxurious option, Student Luxe offers the best private Lisbon student accommodation. You get access to the best apartments in the city and still be close to your campus. Ready to see all the available accommodation options?
Popular Student Neighbourhoods in Lisbon
Choosing the right neighbourhood can significantly impact the overall quality of your life in Lisbon.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is famous for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs. It has a bustling nightlife scene, diverse dining options, and a central location. The neighbourhood can be noisy, especially at night, and rental prices are higher. However, it is perfect for those who enjoy socializing and being in the heart of Lisbon's entertainment district.
Areeiro
Areeiro is a more residential area, offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It is a quieter environment with good public transport links and more affordable rent. Areeiro has fewer nightlife options compared to central neighbourhoods. It is ideal for students who prefer a peaceful living environment while still being well-connected to the city centre.
Parque das Nações
This modern and upscale neighbourhood is known for its contemporary architecture and waterfront views. It offers high-quality amenities, modern housing, and beautiful parks and waterfront areas. The neighbourhood offers a luxurious living experience with plenty of recreational facilities and green spaces.
Baixa and Chiado
These are central Lisbon neighbourhoods known for their historic buildings, shopping streets, and cultural landmarks. They have a central location, excellent public transport, and are close to major attractions. Students here get to enjoy living in the heart of Lisbon with easy access to everything the city has to offer.
Rental Tips for International Students
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the process smoothly and find the perfect place to call home:
Start your search early
Lisbon's rental market can be competitive, especially at the start of the academic year. Starting early increases your chances of finding a suitable apartment. Explore various private rental platforms like Student Luxe, which is dedicated to luxury student housing in Lisbon.
Verify listings and avoid scams.
If possible, view apartments in person to verify their condition. Avoid listings with extremely low prices or requests for large upfront payments without proper documentation.
Understand the neighbourhood
Familiarize yourself with the neighbourhood's amenities, public transport links, and safety. Ask current residents for insights into the pros and cons of living in the area.
Communicate clearly with landlords.
Ask about the rental terms, maintenance responsibilities, and any potential extra costs. Don’t hesitate to negotiate rent or request certain conditions in the rental agreement, especially for long-term leases.
Get everything in writing.
Ensure that all verbal agreements with the landlord are included in the written rental agreement. Retain copies of all documents, including the signed rental agreement, inventory list, and receipts for payments.
Know your rights
Familiarize yourself with Portuguese tenant laws and your rights as a renter. Maintain the apartment in good condition and stick to the terms outlined in your rental agreement.
Prepare necessary documentation
Commonly required documents include a valid ID or passport, proof of enrollment at your university, and financial proof such as bank statements or a letter of guarantee.
Consider Short-term rentals initially.
If you’re new to Lisbon, consider renting a short-term apartment or staying in a student residence while you explore longer-term options.
Wrapping Up
Getting an apartment in Lisbon is easy when you follow all the rules. Look for apartments near your campus and only rent from reputable private student accommodation companies like Student Luxe.
About Us
Student Luxe is the preferred choice for guests seeking superior comfort, flexibility, and service for their studies. They provide some of the most luxurious and private student accommodation Lisbon has to offer.
Most of these apartments are in the best parts of the city, with amazing on-site amenities and flexible booking perks.
If we can assist with your apartment search in any way, please let our experts know.
We look forward to hosting you soon.
