The Best Portuguese Language Schools In Lisbon

Anyone spending time in Portugal’s capital should consider diving into the local language – though it may be tempting to get by with English (and it’s entirely possible in Lisbon), learning Portuguese is invaluable when travelling around the country. Here’s our pick of the best language schools in Lisbon.

1. Faculdade de Letras

School

This program belongs to the University of Lisbon within the Faculdade de Letras (the Humanities Department). It is a viable option for students already enrolled in a program at the University, and is especially recommended for the local Erasmus students.

2. Portuguese Connection

School

Language learning at Portuguese Connection is divided into three main categories: immersive, custom designed, and extensive. Students are able to develop a program to suit their specific needs – a number of interesting custom courses integrate interests such as surfing and arts (there is even a wine course). Class sizes are also small so students receive more attention and experience.

3. CIAL Centro de Linguas

School

The CIAL Centro de Linguas (Center of Languages) has a school in the Algarve in addition to Lisbon, and has been teaching Portuguese since 1959. In addition to traditional classes, language exchange, and lessons based around favorite activities, the Centro de Linguas also offers business-related courses. There are options to learn Brazilian and African Portuguese languages too, as well as cultural programs that will get students out and seeing more of Lisbon.

5. Português Et Cetera

School

One interesting aspect of Português Et Cetera is that students have the option to live with a local during the duration of their program, fully immersing them in the language. This school is another that takes a practical approach to teaching Portuguese, with students invited to events meant to help them feel integrated into the city and culture. Located just around the corner from the Santa Justa Elevator, it’s another great spot in the heart of the city.

6. SPEAK

School

SPEAK is more than a language school; it’s an immersive language and culture program as well as an international community. Part of the program’s beauty is that students can also sign up as ‘teachers’ in order to offer their own native language in an ‘exchange’, although this isn’t required. In-class sessions are 90-minutes,with one class a week for 12 weeks, so it’s easy to work around a busy schedule. Each 12-week program costs €25.

7. Margarida's School

School

It may not be in Lisbon central, but Margarida’s School in Estoril is a short (and lovely) train ride along the coast on one of the main lines towards Cascais. Founded by Margarida Alberty in 1981, this school has a longstanding reputation for teaching Portuguese, and offers classes for both adults and children. Language learning options include regular and express courses, as well as private lessons.

8. Lisbon Language Café

Market

Its central location, just a couple of blocks from the Mercado da Ribeira in Cais do Sodré, is just one of many conveniences offered by the Lisbon Language Café. Others are the experimental class for €9.99 and the zero enrollment fee. This is a fairly young program, having opened in 2014, but gained popularity quickly by offering students either Portuguese and/or English courses. Take a look at their different programs on their website.

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