My Honest Experience Trying Co-Living in Lisbon at Same Same (2026)

Last Updated on January 11, 2026 by TLWT

What Co-Living in Lisbon Is Actually Like

If you’ve never heard the term “co-living” before, imagine a hybrid between an apartment, a guesthouse, and a social network. You have your own space, but you also share certain parts of the building with other travelers, remote workers, and creatives. It’s designed to make connecting easy and natural, not forced.

Same Same Coliving requires a minimum one-week stay, which I actually loved. It gives you enough time to settle in, get comfortable, and really participate in the community rather than feeling like you’re constantly checking in and out. I stayed for three weeks and it was the perfect amount of time.

The Space and Living Options

At Same Same, you can choose from several different room setups depending on your budget and level of desired privacy. Some guests stayed in shared apartments with a common kitchen and bathroom, while others, like me, had private studios or one-bedroom apartments. My space had its own kitchen and bathroom, which became my little sanctuary after long days of exploring.

Having a private place mattered more than I expected. Even though I enjoyed chatting with others in the communal areas, I needed somewhere quiet to unwind and process the day. My apartment was cozy but functional, and I could easily make breakfast, brew my own coffee, or read without interruption. That balance of solitude and socializing made all the difference.

The Coworking Space Advantage

One big perk of staying at Same Same is their coworking space, which every guest has access to. Think high-speed Wi-Fi, plenty of desks, a private meeting room, and even a soundproof booth for calls. There’s also free coffee and tea, which I loved!

Before staying there, I used to work from coffee shops when visiting Lisbon. It added up quickly in both cost and caffeine, and sometimes finding a quiet corner was a challenge. Having a built-in coworking area meant I could be productive without having to leave the building or fight for a power outlet.

Community Without Pressure

The real magic of co-living happens in the shared spaces and events. Same Same has a busy social calendar, especially around the holidays. During my week there, we visited the Christmas markets, spent an afternoon at LX Factory, joined a sangria-making class, and even went out dancing on a Friday night. These weren’t forced activities, just organic ways to meet people who were up for the same vibe.

Some weeks can be activity-packed, and I’ll admit there were moments when I felt a bit overwhelmed. But one thing I appreciated most was that it was completely acceptable to step back. That balance of optional community was key. I could lean in when I wanted togetherness and lean out when I needed solitude.

Deeper Connections and Shared Moments

By far, the standout experience was the community dinners and Sunday brunch. We’d gather in the dining area surrounded by candles and shared dishes from around the world. People shared childhood memories, family traditions, and stories from their home countries.

It also meant a lot to share the holiday season with others who were far from family. There was something comforting in that. Those simple dinners created real connection that felt much deeper than the fleeting small talk I’ve often experienced while traveling in the past.

This wasn’t the kind of socializing you find in hostels. The crowd here was a mix of digital nomads, creatives, and remote workers from all over the world. Conversations were less about where you’ve been and more about what inspires you, what you’re working on, and how you live your life on the road.

Being surrounded by such thoughtful, curious people was refreshing. It’s a very different energy. It felt more intentional, more curated. I realized that I wasn’t just staying in a building, I was part of a small community of people who valued growth, balance, and freedom.

Why Same Same Was Perfect for Solo Travelers

As a solo traveler, co-living offered a gentle landing in the city. I didn’t have to work hard to meet people, but I also didn’t have to give up comfort or independence. The vibe was respectful, fun, and welcoming. Some of the guests were staying for weeks or even months, which helped the community feel grounded rather than constantly shifting.

Looking back, if I hadn’t stayed in co-living, I probably wouldn’t have done as much during this trip. Since it was my fourth time in Lisbon, I’d already seen the top attractions. What I wanted was connection and a more local rhythm. Same Same gave me that; a chance to tap into Lisbon’s community rather than just its sightseeing spots.

The location was perfect too. It’s within easy walking distance to trams, buses, and trains, so getting around the city was effortless.

Lessons From My First Co-Living Experience

I learned that co-living isn’t about giving up privacy. It’s about gaining more possibilities. You can still be independent, yet surrounded by people who make everyday life richer. I also realized that co-living works especially well for those who feel a bit lonely traveling alone. It creates structure and connection in an easy, organic way.

If anything, I wish I’d tried it during the summer months. Same Same organizes day trips to places like Nazaré and Sintra, which sound incredible for weekends away. But even in winter, the cozy atmosphere and holiday warmth made it special.

After this experience, I can definitely see myself trying coliving again and testing out a similar setup in another city. It fits perfectly with how I love to travel now; slowly, meaningfully, and surrounded by kind, interesting people.

If you’re curious about more ways to experience Portugal’s soul beyond the tourist trail, you might also enjoy planning a trip with this one week in Portugal itinerary.

Final Thoughts

Co-living at Same Same Lisbon felt like hitting reset on how I travel. It was social but calm, welcoming yet private. It gave me community without expectations and connection without chaos.

If you’ve been thinking about trying co-living as a solo traveler, Lisbon is the perfect place to start. It’s warm, creative, and full of kind people who, like you, are simply looking to belong somewhere for a little while.