Armed with a mild Mediterranean climate, a beautiful endless coastline and cities packed with historic interest and cultural experiences, Portugal, the westernmost country in mainland Europe, is surely among the continent’s most attractive destinations. It’s not every day you can be surrounded by 20,000 year-old stone carvings, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and medieval villages as an international student, but if you study in Portugal you’ll be greeted with these sights and more. Aside from the historic appeal and natural beauty, there are also plenty of contemporary cultural offerings, including a number of festivals which all involve dancing and feasting into the early hours.

If you’re a fan of rock music and world music, in the main cities along the coast you’ll find a remarkable number of festivals and events to suit your tastes. But if this isn’t your thing, fear not, because the diverse student community in all of Portugal’s major cities will ensure there’s always something to get involved in. So, whether you’re a food lover, hiker, music fanatic, sight seer or history buff, choosing to study in Portugal is a really great option. Read on for a more in-depth look at top universities in Portugal, as well as key cities and practical information to help you get started.