Top 10 Tips for a High School Summer Abroad in Lisbon

Arriving jet-lagged, curious, and very ready to eat all the pastries they can, we provided our High School Summer Abroad students with an in-depth orientation covering essential tips and tricks for a successful 3 weeks abroad. 

Here are 10 tips and tricks to get oriented to the location, program, and culture as soon as possible:

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lisbon is well known for their cobblestones, for good or for bad. Pair that with the hills, and some may find walking around Lisbon challenging, especially if wearing high heels or shoes without great traction. Ditch the heels and grab a pair of sneakers – your feet will thank you later!

2. Prepare to Take Public Transportation

CIEE Lisbon staff provides every student with a handy Navegante card. This card is the key to navigating like a local with access to streetcars, metros, trains, and buses. You will leave here a pro at taking public transit!

3. Use Basic Portuguese

"Olá!" (Hello), "Obrigado/a" (Thank you – aligning with your gender), “Por Favor/Se Faz Favor” (Please), and "Desculpe" (Excuse me). Locals appreciate any language effort you put in – don’t be afraid to try!

4. Bring Your Water Bottle

It is highly recommended to bring your own reusable water bottle along with you. Staying hydrated in the heat and while on program is essential! 

5. Don’t Always Use Public Transit, Walk Around Too

Lisbon is a very walkable city. Take advantage of this and go exploring! Experience the smells, sights, and sounds that fill the streets. 

6. Sunscreen, Sunglasses & Hats

It is very bright here! These three items go a long way to protect your skin (and eyes) while you explore. 

7. Download Google Maps & Moovit 

These are some of the best navigation apps with the most up-to-date metro/bus/train/tram scheduling. All of the locals use it. Leave your other maps at home and bring your Google Maps & Moovit.

8. Beware of Pickpocketing

It is encouraged to use zipper pocket bags and jackets! Lisbon is a very safe place, but it is a city where pickpocketing is possible. Take precautions and pack secure bags, fanny packs, purses, and clothes with zipper pockets that are accessible on the front of your body. 

9. Dress With Layers

Though the summer heat can be strongly felt in the middle of the day, the nights can be cool with a nice breeze. Bring light sweaters and jackets, and breathable pants! You can never go wrong with wearing removable layers. 

10. Keep An Open Mind

You’ll try foods you love, and some you won’t. You might get lost, but you’ll eventually find shortcuts. Lisbon’s culture may differ from what you're used to, and that’s all part of the experience. Getting out of your comfort zone is where you grow. Lean in.

CIEE Lisbon offers a ton of support to students from a variety of experiences – those who have never been outside of their home town or country, and those who already have multiple passport stamps. No matter your experience, our team is here to support you through every step of this exciting transition. 

These tips are just the beginning, grazing the surface of all of the expertise and knowledge that the staff brings! CIEE Lisbon is here to assist in this big transition, and help participants grow tremendously from every new experience.

Ready to spice up your summer? Discover how CIEE can help you thrive abroad in one of 35+ amazing destinations around the world.