11 Jun LGBTQ+ Students’ Guide to Internships Abroad: Safe Spaces in Lisbon
In 2010, Portugal became the sixth country in Europe—and the eighth in the world—to legalize same-sex marriage. Fast forward to 2025, and the country has earned the top spot in the Spartacus Gay Travel Index. This ranking shows how progressive Portugal has become in terms of legal protections and quality of life for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Lisbon, the country’s capital, is known for being its safest and most welcoming city. There aren’t a lot of establishments that specifically brand themselves as LGBTQIA+ friendly, but that’s because inclusivity is built into the city itself. That said, there are still neighborhoods and spaces where you’re more likely to find the community coming together.
Here’s your essential guide for finding safe and affirming LGBTQIA+ spaces during your internship program in Lisbon.
LGBTQIA+ neighborhoods in Lisbon
There are certain districts in Lisbon that the LGBTQIA+ crowd frequent, especially for its colorful events. Here’s where to go when you’re hoping to bump into fellow queer folks, especially after internship hours:
Bairro Alto
LGBTQIA+ in Lisbon is pretty much synonymous with Bairro Alto. With its cobblestone streets, creative energy, and colorful buildings housing local shops and cozy cafés, this district is a nice hangout spot during the day and a fun social place at night. If you’re out for a casual weekend or after-internship meet-ups, this is a good place to start.
Príncipe Real
If you want a more laidback vibe, head north from Bairro Alto to Príncipe Real during the day. In between highly rated restaurants and shops, you’ll find lush gardens, local food stalls, and museums. Every now and then on weekends, a farmer’s market pops up in the local park, where you can browse all sorts of trinkets and bring home a small piece of the city after your Lisbon internship.
Spaces in Lisbon for LGBTQIA+ art and community
While Lisbon’s queer community is visible all over the city, these dedicated spaces serve as gathering spots and support networks for LGBTQIA+ folks.
Centro LGBTI+
Operated by ILGA Portugal, the country’s oldest LGBTQIA+ rights organization, Centro LGBTI+ is a multi-purpose community hub that’s always happy to welcome you. Every now and then, they host gatherings and activities to bring together queer folks and provide a safe space for important conversations.
You can also drop by even when there are no events happening—the volunteers are friendly, and there are board games, books, and a café to help you settle in. If you’re not looking to join the activities or socialize, that’s perfectly fine, too. The café has free wifi, so if you just want a different environment for your remote internship, you’re welcome here as well.
Queer Lisbon Tour
Want to see Lisbon in a different light? Queer Lisbon Tour offers fun and insightful experiences that explore the often-overlooked queer histories and voices of Portugal. They have walking tours that dive into the country’s history, and food tours that explore the different flavors of Portugal. It’s such a meaningful way to engage with the city’s past and present as an LGBTQIA+ visitor!
Casa T
Portugal’s first shelter for Black, trans immigrants is Casa T. Aside from providing a safe space for marginalized individuals though, they host exciting events, fun workshops, and insightful discussions to raise funds and shed light on important issues. Keep an eye on their social media for anything that lines up with your internship in Lisbon.
LGBTQIA+ events & festivals in Lisbon
Lisbon hosts some major LGBTQIA+ events, so if your internship abroad overlaps with any of these, don’t miss the chance to experience them! These are when the city’s LGBTQIA+ community is at its most visible and vibrant.
Arraial Lisboa Pride
Held every June, Arraial Lisboa Pride is the city’s biggest and liveliest LGBTQIA+ festival. It features live performances, food stalls, activities, talks, and all kinds of entertainment. It’s an all-day event open to everyone, and one of the most exciting times to be in the city. If you’re doing a summer internship in Lisbon, you definitely don’t want to miss this!
Marcha do Orgulho LGBTI+ de Lisboa
Lisbon’s annual Pride March is a powerful political demonstration for LGBTQIA+ rights. All members of the community are welcome—and encouraged—to join, raise their voices, and stand in solidarity. The march typically takes place every June, so if Lisbon is your summer internship destination, you’re right on time. Expect bold signs, music, speeches, and a festive atmosphere with a clear message: equal rights for all.
Queer Lisboa
Europe’s longest-running LGBTQIA+ film festival, Queer Lisboa takes place every September and showcases queer cinema from around the world. From documentaries to indie dramas and experimental shorts, it’s a chance to experience queer storytelling on the big screen. If you’re a film buff—or doing an internship in creative industries like Video Production—this is a must-see.
Lisbon may not have a huge number of explicitly labeled LGBTQIA+ spaces, but that’s because the city itself is open and inclusive in its daily life. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Príncipe Real, marching through the city streets in June, or joining a walking tour about queer history, you’ll find Lisbon welcoming and safe for LGBTQIA+ international students.
If you’re considering an internship in Lisbon, Portugal, check out our international internship programs. They include a guaranteed internship in your preferred industry (from Finance to Event Planning), 24/7 onsite support, high-end student housing, cultural activities and day trips, career workshops, and more. Discover what it’s like to live, work, and thrive in one of Europe’s most inclusive cities—submit your application today.
No Comments