Expat communities

Lisbon is a magnet for expats, drawn by its sunny weather, affordable lifestyle, and vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts a diverse community of international residents, including large groups from the UK, France, Brazil, and the U.S. Popular neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Estrela attract expats for their charm and livability. Lisbon offers ample networking opportunities through expat forums, coworking hubs, and social meetups. Join our community of over 150 members who have relocated to Toronto! Connect with fellow expats, share experiences, and build your network in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

Co-working space

We partner with IWG - International Workplace Group, a leading co-working provider to offer exclusive benefits to our users available in Libson (Regus Dom João, Spaces Oriente). Sign up to discover more partners details.

Lisbon has a thriving co-working scene, catering to digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and established businesses. Here are some of the top options:

• Cowork Central: Found in the heart of Lisbon, this space is perfect for freelancers and startups, providing flexible memberships and meeting rooms.
• Regus Dom João: Located in Amoreiras, this space provides private offices, co-working desks, and meeting rooms in a central location.
• Spaces Oriente: Found in Parque das Nações, Spaces Oriente offers 81 private offices, four meeting rooms, and eight co-working spaces with a major business hub around.
• Heden: Stylish co-working spaces in Lisbon with a focus on sustainability. They offer wellness activities, community events, and quiet zones for productivity.

Public workspaces

For those who prefer working in public spaces, Lisbon offers several options combining productivity and ambiance:

• LX Factory: A trendy cultural and creative hub with cafes, restaurants, and free Wi-Fi, perfect for working while soaking in the atmosphere.
• Cafes like Fabrica Coffee Roasters: Known for excellent coffee, cozy seating, and reliable Wi-Fi, making them ideal for remote work.
• Biblioteca Nacional de Portugal: A serene environment with ample space for studying or working.

Company presence

Lisbon has grown into a major European business hub, attracting a diverse range of industries:

• Technology: Hosts offices for companies like Microsoft, Google, and remote-friendly startups like OutSystems and Unbabel.
• Finance: Lisbon houses several Portuguese banks, including Millennium BCP and Novo Banco, as well as international financial services firms.
• Tourism and hospitality: With a booming tourism sector, Lisbon is home to companies like Pestana Hotel Group and Tivoli Hotels & Resorts.
• E-commerce: European operations for companies like Farfetch and other tech-driven fashion businesses are based in Lisbon.
• Energy and sustainability: EDP (Energias de Portugal) is headquartered here, focusing on renewable energy solutions.

Startup culture

Lisbon is known for its thriving startup ecosystem, supported by accelerators, incubators, and government incentives.

• Startup Lisboa: A major incubator offering mentoring, networking, and workspace to startups in various industries.
• Beta-i: A leading accelerator supporting innovation in fintech, health tech, and e-commerce.
• Hub Criativo do Beato: A growing innovation hub housing startups, incubators, and creative projects.

Lisbon startups like Unbabel, Talkdesk, and Codacy are gaining international recognition, strengthening the city's reputation as a startup-friendly destination.

Networking opportunities:

Lisbon has a dynamic networking scene for professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives:

• Web Summit: One of the largest global tech conferences, hosted annually in Lisbon, attracting thousands of innovators and investors.
• Meetup Groups: Active groups for tech, design, and business professionals frequently organize meetups across the city.
• Coworking Events: Spaces like Second Home and Impact Hub host regular workshops, networking nights, and collaboration sessions.

Attractions

Lisbon is a city steeped in history and culture, offering countless attractions that captivate history lovers, art enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Here are some must-visit highlights:

• Belém Tower: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic fortress symbolizes Portugal’s Age of Discoveries and offers breathtaking views of the Tagus River.
• Jerónimos Monastery: Another UNESCO-listed site, this monastery showcases stunning Manueline architecture and houses the tomb of explorer Vasco da Gama.
• Alfama District: The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant Fado music.
• Castelo de São Jorge: A hilltop castle offering panoramic views of Lisbon, its historic walls and exhibits transport visitors back to medieval times.
• LX Factory: A creative hub in a former industrial complex featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces.
• Oceanário de Lisboa: One of the largest aquariums in Europe, showcasing marine biodiversity and immersive exhibits.
• Praça do Comércio: A grand riverside square perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or taking in the historic architecture.

Festivals and holidays

Festivals:

• Santos Populares (June): A lively festival honoring Saint Anthony with street parties, grilled sardines, and traditional decorations throughout the city.
• Lisbon Book Fair (Spring): An annual event featuring book sales, author meet-and-greets, and literary discussions in Eduardo VII Park.
• Web Summit (November): A global tech conference hosted in Lisbon, attracting innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts.

Holidays:

• Carnival (February/March): Celebrated with parades, costumes, and lively street performances across the city.
• Portugal Day (June 10): A national holiday commemorating Portuguese heritage with events and celebrations.
• Christmas markets (December): Lisbon’s festive markets, like the one in Rossio Square, offers seasonal treats, crafts, and holiday cheer.

Local celebrities

Lisbon has been home to numerous influential figures in arts, sports, and culture:

• Amália Rodrigues: Known as the "Queen of Fado," she popularized Portugal’s traditional music worldwide.
• Cristiano Ronaldo: One of the greatest football players of all time, born in Madeira but with strong ties to Lisbon’s football clubs.
• Fernando Pessoa: A celebrated poet and writer whose work continues to influence Portuguese literature.

Fun fact

Lisbon is known as the "City of Seven Hills," but legend has it there are actually more. The city’s steep terrain offers stunning viewpoints, locally called "miradouros," dotted across the city.

Local cuisine

Lisbon’s food scene is a delicious blend of tradition and modernity, with plenty of must-try dishes:

• Bacalhau à Brás: A classic dish of shredded salted cod, onions, and crispy potatoes, bound together with eggs.
• Pastéis de Nata: Lisbon’s iconic custard tarts, best enjoyed fresh from Pastéis de Belém or Manteigaria.
• Sardinhas Assadas: Grilled sardines, a staple during the Santos Populares festival.
• Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato: Fresh clams in a garlic, olive oil, and cilantro sauce, served as a popular appetizer.
• Bifana: A simple yet flavorful sandwich with marinated pork, often enjoyed with a cold beer.

Do's and Don'ts

✅ Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in historic sites. Dress modestly when visiting religious landmarks like monasteries or churches.

✅ Do try to learn basic Portuguese phrases like “Olá” (hello) and “Obrigado/Obrigada” (thank you). Locals appreciate the effort.

✅ Do use public transport or walk to explore Lisbon’s neighborhoods, as many streets are pedestrian-friendly and scenic.

❌ Don’t assume everyone speaks English fluently, especially in non-tourist areas. Be patient and polite when communicating.

❌ Don’t take photos of people without asking for permission, particularly in traditional settings like Alfama.

❌ Don’t litter or leave trash in parks or public spaces. Lisbon places great importance on cleanliness and sustainability.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Lisbon. Here’s a quick guide:

• Restaurants: Round up the bill or leave 5–10% if service was exceptional.
• Cafes and Bars: Leaving small change is a kind gesture.
• Taxis: Round up the fare to the nearest euro.
• Hotels: €1–€2 for bellhops or housekeeping is appreciated.

Equivalent services & platforms

^{Taxi service Bolt} _{Uber, Free Now}

^Supermarket _{Pingo Doce, Continente, Lidl}

^Messaging _{WhatsApp, Messenger}

^{Food delivery} _{Uber Eats, Glovo, Bolt Food}

^{Internet provider} _{MEO, NOS, Vodafone}

^Bank _{Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Millennium BCP}

^{Hotel booking} _{Booking.com, Airbnb}

^Streaming _{Netflix, Spotify, Amazon Prime}

Apps to download before arrival

^{Navigation & transit} _{Google Maps, Moovit, Carris app}

^Ride-hailing _{Uber, Bolt, Free Now}

^{Food & dining} _{Uber Eats, Glovo}

^{Daily essentials} _{OLX, Continente Online}

^{Currency & language} _{XE Currency, Google Translate}

^{Weather & city info} _{AccuWeather, Visit Lisbon}

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Disclaimer: This city guide is based on personal research, experiences, and various online sources. While we strive for accuracy and inclusivity, the content is generalized and may not reflect all individual circumstances or perspectives. Readers are encouraged to double-check information for accuracy and relevance to their specific needs. Updated as of November 2024, this guide is for informational purposes only. We disclaim all liability for decisions made based on this guide.

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