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Get to Know… LISBOA | OneKey to Portugal

Get to Know… LISBOA | OneKey to Portugal

MOVING TO LISBON: A GUIDE TO WEATHER, POPULATION, FOOD, AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant and historic city that has been attracting expats from all over the world. Known for its sunny weather, rich culture, and high standard of living, Lisbon offers a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. If you’re considering moving to Portugal, Lisbon stands out as a top choice. Let’s explore what life is like in this captivating city, focusing on the weather, population, food, and overall quality of life.


1. Weather in Lisbon

Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters, making it an ideal city for those who love sunshine.

Summers: From June to September, Lisbon is bathed in sunshine. Temperatures average between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F), though it can reach as high as 35°C (95°F) during heatwaves. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean helps moderate the heat, with cool breezes often sweeping through, especially near the waterfront.

Winters: Winters in Lisbon are mild, with temperatures typically ranging between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F) from December to February. Rain is more frequent in the winter months, but Lisbon still enjoys many sunny days even during this time.

The pleasant weather allows for year-round outdoor activities, whether it’s exploring the city’s parks, walking through its historic streets, or enjoying a meal on a terrace.


2. Population and Lifestyle

Lisbon is Portugal’s largest city and a cultural and economic hub. The city has a population of approximately 550,000 people in the city proper, but the greater metropolitan area is home to over 2.8 million people.

Diverse and Welcoming: Over the past decade, Lisbon has become an increasingly international city. Many expats from Europe, Brazil, and the United States have made Lisbon their home, adding to the city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere. While Portuguese is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in areas frequented by tourists and expats, which makes the transition easier for new arrivals.

Dynamic Neighbourhoods: Lisbon is made up of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own character. Bairro Alto and Chiado are known for their lively nightlife and bohemian vibe, while Alfama and Mouraria are historic areas with narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music. Areas like Campo de Ourique, Areeiro, and Alvalade offer more residential, family-friendly environments. There’s truly something for everyone, whether you prefer a vibrant urban experience or a quieter, more suburban lifestyle.

Work and Commute: As a capital city, Lisbon offers ample job opportunities, particularly in tourism, technology, and the service industries. Many people work in or commute to the central business district (CBD), and public transportation is well-developed, with metro, bus, and tram systems making it easy to get around. Lisbon is also a very walkable city, although its famous seven hills mean you’ll get some exercise along the way!


3. Food and Cuisine

Portugal’s capital is a haven for food lovers. Lisbon’s culinary scene combines traditional Portuguese flavors with modern, international influences.

Traditional Portuguese Cuisine: Lisbon is renowned for its fresh seafood, and local specialties include bacalhau(salted cod), sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines), and arroz de marisco (seafood rice). The city’s many tascas (small, family-run restaurants) offer these dishes at affordable prices, giving you a taste of the true local experience.

Pastéis de Nata: A visit to Lisbon is incomplete without indulging in a pastel de nata, the famous Portuguese custard tart. You can find them in bakeries all around the city, with Pastéis de Belém being the most iconic.

International Dining: As Lisbon becomes more cosmopolitan, the variety of food options has grown. In neighborhoods like Principe Real and the Cais do Sodré district, you can find top-notch restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, including Asian fusion, Middle Eastern, African, and European fare. Lisbon’s burgeoning food scene also includes plenty of trendy cafés, organic food markets, and gourmet food halls like the Time Out Market.


4. Quality of Life

Lisbon consistently ranks as one of the best cities to live in Europe, thanks to its combination of affordability, safety, culture, and amenities.

Cost of Living: Compared to other European capitals, Lisbon remains relatively affordable. While housing prices have increased in recent years, especially in the city center, you can still find more affordable neighborhoods on the outskirts or in up-and-coming areas like Marvila and Beato. Groceries, dining out, and public transportation are generally less expensive than in other major European cities like Paris, London, or Berlin.

Culture and Entertainment: Lisbon is a cultural hotspot, offering a rich history alongside a thriving modern arts scene. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as historic sites like the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle. Throughout the year, Lisbon hosts various festivals, including music, film, and arts festivals, as well as traditional street festivals like the Festas de Lisboa in June.

Outdoor Activities: Despite being a city, Lisbon offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. The city’s parks, such as Parque Eduardo VII and Monsanto Forest Park, are great for picnics, walking, and jogging. The Tagus River waterfront is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride, and the beaches of Costa da Caparica are just a short drive away, offering the perfect escape during the hot summer months.

Healthcare and Education: Lisbon offers excellent healthcare services, with both public and private healthcare facilities available. For families with children, there are numerous international schools that cater to expats, offering education in English, French, and other languages.

Safety and Connectivity: Lisbon is considered a safe city with a relatively low crime rate. It is also well-connected to the rest of Portugal and Europe, with a major international airport just minutes from the city center, making it easy to travel or receive visitors from abroad.


Final Thoughts: Why Move to Lisbon?

Lisbon offers a perfect blend of history, modernity, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for those looking to move to Portugal. With its mild climate, welcoming population, delicious food, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder Lisbon continues to captivate people from around the world.

Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant urban life, rich cultural heritage, or simply want to enjoy the sunny Mediterranean weather year-round, Lisbon has something to offer everyone. Its mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences makes it a wonderful place to call home.