Deciding where to take your study abroad program is not an easy task. There are a bazillion aspects that you need to consider before pinning your destination on the map. So, we want to help you by explaining why choosing to study abroad in Portugal is one of the best decisions you can make in your life.

You’ve probably heard about the amazing weather, people, and cuisine in the westernmost European country. However, there are many more reasons that make Portugal your perfect study abroad destination. 

Get ready to join us on this journey and start looking for your flight!

1. Cost of Living

While participating in a study abroad program, you’ll realize that every cent saved counts for new adventures. Despite being on the rise for the last few years, Portugal still has the lowest cost of living among the western European countries. 

Cost of Living: one of the reasons to study abroad in Portugal

Check out the Expatisan Cost of Living Index to compare cities in Europe.

2. Entrepreneurship Hub

If you’re looking forward to taking an entrepreneurial journey, Portugal is the place to be. Since 2014, the startup scene has been thriving, and foreign investors are more than welcome to join with numerous benefits. 

The European Innovation Academy in Portugal
EIA Portugal: The world’s biggest entrepreneurship program hosted in Cascais

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is often compared to Silicon Valley with startup programs, entrepreneurship hubs, and coworking spaces popping up all over the country.

3. Excellent Universities

It doesn’t matter if you’re planning a short or long-term study abroad program, you need to rely on universities of excellence that will boost your resume. Portugal has several institutions among the top universities in Europe.

4. It’s a Small Country

Portugal’s size is definitely another reason why you should take your study abroad program there. Being a small country makes everything easier, especially for a foreigner. 

From north to south and east to west, you can easily attend networking events in different cities on the same day. You can have a meeting in Porto (north) in the morning and be back in Lisbon (south) before dinner.

Reasons to study abroad in Portugal

Don’t forget, it’s not all about work! On your days off, you can relax on the beach and spend the night in the mountains. You can explore the countryside and discover a remote village that’s hundreds of years old and then enjoy the lively nightlife of Lisbon. Not to mention, you can do that all in one day.

5. Coastline

Are you a sea lover? With over 700 miles of coastline with breathtaking scenery, Portugal has different beaches for any type of traveller.

If you like surfing, you’ll love the northern beaches. Or if you just want to spend the day soaking up the sun, Cascais is the place to go. But if you can’t decide where to go, just ask a local and you’ll learn about hidden treasures not too far from the city.

6. Land of Adventures 

Do you like trying new things? Would you go on an adventure a day if you could? If so, you need to head to Portugal next summer.

Portugal: Your destination to study abroad

With activities like surfing, kite surfing, climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, Portugal has no shortage of things to do. Honestly, we could create an entire article just listing the amazing experiences you can have while studying abroad in Portugal.

7. Portuguese people

Portugal is one of the few places on Earth where you’ll feel welcome every place you go. Portuguese people are very proud of their culture and love to show visitors the best in their country. 

Don’t be surprised by people smiling at you and old ladies waving from their balconies with clothes hanging in the sun. It’s truly heartwarming. 

8. Cuisine

It might sound like a cliché, but we couldn’t finish this article about why you should study abroad in Portugal without mentioning its cuisine. Portugal is famous for its salt codfish, grilled sardines, custard tarts, and port wine, but there’s also a lot more to discover. 

Do you like seafood? You’ll absolutely lose your mind in Portugal. Are you a sweet tooth? Get ready to discover Portuguese pastries. We also can’t forget to mention the Green Wine from Minho Region, the traditional bakery recipes, and the chocolate from Óbidos.

Are you ready to study abroad in Portugal? Discover the European Innovation Academy Program and have the ultimate life-changing experience.