Language Programs in Portugal

Portugal is a very small country with a very long history and one of the best climates in Europe. It’s a popular holiday destination for those who wish to explore its stunning landscapes, musical life, and varied gastronomy. At the same time, it’s home to some of the oldest educational institutions in the world, like the University of Coímbra, founded in 1290. This long-lived tradition of education makes it a perfect backdrop for serious Portuguese language students.

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and its largest city, built around seven hills. Like Rome, Lisbon was the ancient seat of the empire; to this day people from every continent choose it as their home. Lisbon provides great opportunities for language exchange, especially if you are multilingual or learning multiple languages at the same time. Explore the city’s cafes and bars with your language buddies on your free time and you might even be able to find some live traditional Portuguese music (a great chance to practice!). Lisbon is famous for its varied cultural life and music festivals, like the Rock in Rio, NÓS Alive, or Super Bock Super Rock.

Porto is one of the biggest cities in the country with a great student culture. Students willing to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture should definitely take the opportunity to join the university students when going out at night, concerts, or playing sports. Be sure to visit A Baixa, one of the most popular neighborhoods in Porto. For avid readers, there is one mandatory visit: the Lello e Irmâo bookstore, one of the oldest (and most beautiful) ones in all of Europe.

Faro is located in the south of the country, and home of the University of Algarve. This city is particularly popular thanks to its academic side and its reputation as a summer vacation destination. Perfect for all outdoor lovers, from the less known interior of the Algarve to all the activities on its beaches, Faro is a great destination for students looking to spend a summer learning a new language and getting a sweet tan.