International Schools in Lisbon
There are 34 international schools in Lisbon and its surroundings, with 20 British schools, 9 are IB schools and 9 are American schools. Most are English speaking and some are bi and multi-lingual.
Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, has a population of around 2.8 million people in its urban area with more than 500,000 of those living within the city limits, an area of around 100 km2. Lisbon is the second oldest capital city in Europe, after Athens, and is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful. This coastal city is built on seven steep hills overlooking the natural harbour and Atlantic Ocean which means that there are scenic vistas from every angle and the most incredible sunsets. Many of the older buildings are brightly coloured or covered in decorative, Moorish tiles. Vintage trams still climb steep hills and pass through the narrow cobbled streets that their more modern counterparts cannot navigate. The funiculars and lift, like the trams, were introduced into the city in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and help to make Lisbon's hills a little more manageable. There is also an efficient and very reasonably priced bus and metro system. Lisbon is a safe city with one of Europe's lowest crime rates.
The Portuguese love children and have a very family orientated culture, therefore children are welcome everywhere.
Saldanha
In the northern part of the city, Saldanha is considered to be the Central Business District. In spite of this it is a very friendly area with plenty of green spaces, street art and excellent public transport. This area is convenient for PaRK International School Praça de Espanha.
Campo de Ourique
In the western part of the city Campo de Ourique is a little quieter and greener. The famous tram 28 passes through here and the the Amoreiras shopping centre is nearby. This area is convenient for a number of international schools including Prime School Lisbon, The British School of Lisbon (BSL), Redbridge School and the Lycée Francais Charles Lepierre Lisbonne.
Belém and Restelo
Close to the river to the west of the city, the area of Belém and Restelo is a very desirable place to live. There are plenty of parks and green spaces, museums, street food and friendly people here.This area is home to PaRK International School Restelo.
Parque de Nações
Situated on the riverfront to the north of the city, Parque de Nações is considered to be one of the safest and most diverse neighbourhoods in Lisbon. It is a modern neighbourhood, with easy access to the airport and excellent public transport links. This area has plenty of green spaces and lots of waterfront restaurants to choose from. It is convenient for Astoria International School and the United Lisbon International School.
Around 20 km out to the West of Lisbon along the coast is Oeiras with its huge marine parade extending along the coast to Algés and a good selection of beaches, parks and green spaces. As it is further out of the city this area is a cheaper place to live but owning a car is a necessity. This area is home to the Oeiras International School.
Cascais
Around 30 km out along the coast from Lisbon is the beautiful old fishing town of Cascais with it's cobbled streets, historic centre, abundance of restaurants and cafés, picturesque coastline and sandy beaches. In the 19th Century it became a fashionable royal Summer retreat. It is now an increasingly popular holiday destination, but also a popular place to live. Only 30-40 minutes from Lisbon by train, Cascais is an acceptable commuting distance for many Lisbon workers. There are a number of International schools in this area including PaRK International School Cascais, International Preparatory School (IPS), Prime School Estoril, St. George’s School, Greene's Tutorial College Estoril and St. James’ Primary School.
Sintra
Around 20 km north from Cascais is the UNESCO World Heritage town of Sintra. Sintra is a beautiful, mountainside town with plenty of independent shops and cafés and some incredible architecture including extravagant palaces, opulent mansions and the ruins of an ancient castle. It takes around an hour to commute into Lisbon by train. Sintra is home to Prime School Sintra and convenient for Carlucci American International School of Lisbon.
Setubal
Around 50 km to the south of Lisbon is the stunning, historic, coastal city of Setubal. Setubal is less touristy and surrounded by National Parks and beaches and only a short ferry ride from the pristine beaches and chic resorts of the Troia Peninsula. Lisbon is an hour and a half away by train or 45 minutes by car. Setubal is convenient for St. Peter’s School.