In Lisbon, the CIAL language school offers a wide range of language stays for students and adults. Located near the city center, the school has implemented a specific pedagogy to ensure total immersion in Portuguese culture. This includes exploring gastronomy, music, and the Iberian way of life.
All classes take place in the school's 20 classrooms, spread across 2 buildings. You also have access to a library, a language laboratory, and a multimedia room where you can connect to the internet. Additionally, the school has a terrace where you can have meals using the available drink and snack vending machines.
The teaching team, which has been working with the school for many years, makes every effort to make your stay as enjoyable and beneficial as possible. The teachers are always available to assist you and strive to create a friendly working atmosphere where you can develop your language skills.
All programs offered by CIAL span a period of 4 weeks. Regardless of the duration of your language stay (up to 4 weeks), please check the program start dates.
The standard program consists of 15 hours of Portuguese classes per week, all held in the morning. The study groups have a maximum of 8 people to ensure personalized attention and address any issues you may encounter. This program is available for all levels.
The intensive program includes 25 hours of classes per week. In the morning, classes are held with students from the standard program, while the afternoon is dedicated to two additional courses focused on various language skills such as oral conversation or vocabulary. Role-playing games and activities chosen by students are also part of the program.
The Portuguese + Surf program allows you to combine 3 hours of Portuguese classes in the morning with 2.5 hours of surfing in the afternoon. You will receive lessons from professionals accredited by the Portuguese Surf Federation. The school takes care of transportation to the beaches near Lisbon and provides the necessary equipment. In case of unfavorable weather conditions for surfing, you can join the activities offered to students in other programs.
Portuguese courses during school vacations are also available for beginners and students at a pre-intermediate level. These programs include 15 hours of classes per week, with 3 hours per day dedicated to oral communication.
You will be accommodated with a Portuguese host family, facilitating your immersion and providing ample opportunities to practice Portuguese with your hosts. Each family lives within a few minutes' walk from the school. They provide a single room and breakfast, although access to the kitchen and laundry facilities is not available.
For those who prefer not to stay with a host family, the school can assist you in finding an apartment or hotel.
The school can arrange round-trip transfers from the airport, train station, or one of Lisbon's bus stations to your place of residence. However, this service incurs an additional fee.
In Lisbon, you will always find something to entertain or educate yourself. The Gulbenkian Foundation is a must-visit with its unique art collection donated by the Armenian billionaire Calouste Gulbenkian. Likewise, the Jeronimos Monastery is the most famous historical monument in Portugal and a characteristic symbol of the maritime expeditions period.
The Bica do Sapato bar became famous thanks to its co-owner, John Malkovich, but it also offers typical and international dishes that should be tasted urgently! Eleven is also one of Lisbon's most renowned restaurants. Run by the great chef Joachim Koerper, it has been distinguished by the Red Guide. For nightlife enthusiasts, Kremlin will be your destination! It is the city's most eccentric club, attracting young Lisboans year-round with its electro music atmosphere.