As an international student moving to Lisbon for your studies, accommodation is one of your main considerations, especially if you have specific preferences and tastes.

Student accommodation options in Lisbon range from on-campus or private university-managed accommodations to private rentals, homestays, or hostels. Your choice will largely depend on your budget and lifestyle preferences.

For example, luxury rentals cost significantly more per week than on-campus accommodations. However, the former option usually offers more space, privacy, and amenities.

In this post, we will explore all the available student accommodation options in Lisbon so you can choose the best fit for your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Student accommodation in Lisbon usually ranges from on-campus accommodations to private rentals, PBSAs, shared apartments or homestays. Your choice will depend on your preferences. On-campus accommodations are perfect for students on a budget who still want to be on campus. Students with a higher budget often prefer to live in luxury private rentals in prestigious neighbourhoods near campus.

• Whether you want on-campus accommodations or other private options, Lisbon has many options to choose from. However, like with many student cities, it’s important to book and secure student accommodation before you arrive in Lisbon so you can settle in immediately.

• Student Luxe is a connoisseur of the most exclusive luxury student accommodation Lisbon has to offer. These apartments are perfect for affluent international students who want to live in spacious and serviced apartments in the best parts of the city near campus. Explore the different accommodation options and see what’s included with every stay.

Student Accommodation Options Lisbon

Lisbon offers a wide range of options to suit different needs and budgets, from university-managed housing and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) to luxury rentals and shared apartments.

Let’s explore the best student accommodation options in Lisbon to help you make the right choice.

University-Managed Student Accommodations

University-managed accommodations in Lisbon are an excellent option for students who want a more structured and convenient living experience. Many of Lisbon’s top universities offer on-campus or university-affiliated housing.

• On-Campus Accommodation

On-campus accommodation is typically the first choice for students who want to live close to their lectures and take advantage of university services. Universities such as the University of Lisbon and ISCTE - Lisbon University Institute, Nova SBE, etc., provide a range of on-campus housing options. These residences often include furnished rooms, shared kitchens, study spaces, and common areas for socializing, making them a great place to meet other students and build a community.

• University-Managed Private Residences

For students who prefer a bit more independence while still benefiting from the security and oversight of university housing, university-managed private residences are an ideal solution. These residences are often located off-campus but are still affiliated with the university. They offer similar amenities to on-campus housing while giving students more flexibility in terms of location and lifestyle. This option typically offers various room options, from single rooms to shared apartments.

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

PBSAs are residences purposefully designed for students. These buildings typically offer fully furnished rooms or studios, along with a range of shared amenities like study spaces, gyms, social lounges, and sometimes even on-site dining facilities. PBSAs are managed by private companies that focus on creating accommodations specifically for students.

One of the biggest draws of PBSAs is their all-inclusive pricing model, where rent typically covers utilities such as electricity, water, heating, and Wi-Fi. This simplifies budgeting for students, as they don’t need to worry about fluctuating utility bills. The buildings often feature 24/7 security and keycard access, ensuring a safe and secure environment, which is a key concern for international students.

Luxury Student Rentals

For affluent international students who prefer an upscale living experience, luxury student rentals in Lisbon offer the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and sophistication. These high-end accommodations cater to students seeking a premium lifestyle while studying in Lisbon.

These apartments are often located in central areas of Lisbon, such as Chiado, Avenida da Liberdade, and Bairro Alto, providing easy access to the city’s best restaurants, cultural attractions, and entertainment venues.

Expect premium furnishings, modern appliances, and spacious layouts that allow for comfortable living and studying. Many luxury student apartments offer features such as:

• Fully furnished apartments with stylish interiors

• High-speed Wi-Fi and smart home technology

• On-site concierge services

• Private gyms or access to fitness centres

• Rooftop terraces or pools

• 24/7 security for added peace of mind

Many luxury apartment services like Student Luxe offer flexible leasing terms, making them ideal for students who may require short-term rentals or semester-based housing. This flexibility allows students to adapt their accommodation to their academic schedules and travel plans.

Shared Apartments

Sharing an apartment with other students or young professionals can significantly reduce living costs while still providing a comfortable living environment. Lisbon’s neighbourhoods offer plenty of shared housing options, making it easy to find a place that suits your budget and lifestyle.

One of the primary advantages of shared apartments is the cost savings. By splitting the rent and utility bills with roommates, students can enjoy more spacious and well-located accommodations that might otherwise be out of their price range if rented individually. This is especially beneficial in Lisbon’s more central and desirable areas like Alfama, Bairro Alto, or Principe Real, where solo rentals can be expensive.

These apartments typically come in various configurations, ranging from two-bedroom flats to larger multi-bedroom units. The typical setup includes:

• Private bedrooms: Most shared apartments offer private rooms, allowing for personal space.

• Shared common areas: Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms are communal, meaning tenants share the responsibility for cleanliness and upkeep.

• Furnished or unfurnished options: Many shared apartments, especially those targeting students, come fully furnished. This makes moving in easy, especially for international students who might not want to invest in new furniture.

Which Accommodation Option is Best?

The right accommodation for you depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal needs. Here’s a quick guide on which option suits different student types:

• University-Managed Accommodations: Best for first-year and exchange students seeking a structured, close-to-campus living environment with university support. Great for those new to Lisbon but limited in availability.

• Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA): Ideal for international students who want all-inclusive amenities like gyms and social spaces. It's perfect for building community and avoiding the hassle of managing utilities separately.

• Luxury Student Rentals: Best for wealthy international students who value privacy, independence, and premium amenities. These upscale apartments offer comfort and are located in prime areas but at a higher cost.

• Shared Apartments: Great for budget-conscious students who enjoy living with others while splitting costs. Perfect for second-year students or those seeking a more independent, social experience.

Wrapping Up

Each student accommodation option in Lisbon has its own unique benefits, catering to different student preferences and budgets. For those seeking an elevated living experience, Student Luxe provides the best luxury student accommodation in Lisbon, offering premium apartments with high-end amenities in the city’s most desirable neighbourhoods.

About Us

Student Luxe are the preferred choice for guests seeking superior comfort, flexibility & service for their studies - providing 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.