When planning an Erasmus+ mobility, the hardest part isn’t packing your bags , it’s choosing the perfect destination. Among Southern Europe’s gems, Lisbon and Barcelona stand out for their creative energy, cultural richness and professional opportunities. Both cities offer students and trainees the chance to learn, grow and work in international environments but each has its own flavour. Let’s explore what makes them perfect (and different!) for Erasmus+ internships and placements.
1. The Atmosphere, Authentic Lisbon vs. Cosmopolitan Barcelona
Lisbon is a city that moves to its own rhythm. The pace is calm, the people are friendly and the views are stunning from every hill. For Erasmus+ participants, that means a welcoming environment where it’s easy to adapt and feel at home quickly.
Barcelona, in contrast, is fast, colourful and full of life! It’s one of Europe’s top destinations for Erasmus+ trainees because of its large international community and endless cultural activities. The city thrives on energy, creativity, and connection. A place where something’s always happening.
“In Lisbon, I learned patience and independence. In Barcelona, I learned confidence,” says Elena, a vocational student from Italy who took part in two programmes in each capital.
2. InternshipOpportunities, Where Passion Meets Practice
For Erasmus+ trainees, both destinations open doors to hands-on learning in some of Europe’s most exciting industries. In Lisbon, the focus is especially on innovation and entrepreneurship. Many placements take place in startups, digital marketing agencies, and tourism-related businesses. The work environment is relaxed but productive, perfect for developing creativity, communication, and teamwork.
Barcelona, on the other hand, is known for design, hospitality and international business. With countless companies collaborating with Erasmus+ projects, trainees can gain real-world experience in hotels, creative agencies, NGOs and tech firms.
“My placement in Lisbon taught me how to work in an international team,” shares Jakub, a Polish student. “My internship in Barcelona challenged me to think creatively under pressure.”
Both cities embrace Erasmus+ participants not just as interns, but as future professionals.
3. Cost of Living and Daily Life
Lisbon tends to be more budget-friendly overall, especially when it comes to accommodation. Student apartments and shared flats are affordable and often close to work placements. Public transport is reliable but many participants prefer to walk or use electric scooters to enjoy the city’s sunny climate.
Barcelona, being larger and very tourist-friendly, can be slightly more expensive but it also offers more variety. The metro system makes getting around easy and cheap and the abundance of cafés, markets and student discounts helps keep living costs manageable.
“Lisbon was cheaper but Barcelona had more energy. Both felt worth it,” says Marco, a VET trainee from Austria.
4. Learning Beyond the Workplace
An Erasmus+ mobility is about more than just the internship, it’s about growth through culture and community.
In Lisbon, trainees can expect warm hospitality, ocean views and a deep sense of local tradition. Weekends mean discovering Sintra’s palaces or joining sunset picnics at the Miradouros.
Barcelona, in contrast, is all about dynamic experiences such as art, architecture and global networking. Participants often join international meetups, cultural festivals or short weekend trips across Spain.
Both cities give students what Erasmus+ was designed for, personal development, independence and cross-cultural understanding.
5. Communication &Language
For Erasmus+ participants, both Lisbon and Barcelona offer the best of both worlds. English is widely spoken and locals appreciate any effort to learn their language.
In Lisbon, a few phrases in Portuguese go a long way and make daily life smoother. In Barcelona, trainees encounter both Spanish and Catalan, an extra layer of cultural immersion that makes the experience even richer.
Erasmus+ Placement FAQs
Q: Which destination is better for first-time trainees?
A: Lisbon is smaller, easy to navigate and very welcoming to newcomers.
Q: Which offers more internship options?
A: Barcelona — especially in hospitality, design and business sectors.
Q: Are both destinations English-friendly?
A: Yes! English is common in the workplace and among young people in both cities.
To Wrap Up
Erasmus+ is about building confidence, gaining skills and experiencing Europe in a new way. Both Lisbon and Barcelona deliver that in full. Lisbon offers calm inspiration. Barcelona offers bold creativity. Either way, your students return home with more than a certificate, they return transformed.
Ready to find the perfect Erasmus+ placement abroad? [Contact TravelEdventures today] we’ll help you match your students to the ideal destination and experience.