Spain is one of the best places to study abroad in Europe and many of the most requested universities in the Erasmus programme are in Spain. It’s the country that receives more foreign students than any other, and studying abroad in Spain isn't getting any less popular. The reasons are obvious – Spain is different – but which city in Spain should I study abroad in? There are many universities in Spain for international students, and here’s our pick of the best cities in Spain for Erasmus in 2022.
Experience Madrid on Erasmus
Is Madrid good for Erasmus? Most definitely! Bang in the centre of the country, Madrid is the vibrant capital of Spain. Six million people live in the city, and with more universities than you can shake a stick at, the Complutense being the most common, the city has a buzzing community of students, as well as both Erasmus and Erasmus+ students. Being the capital, there’s no end of cultural things to do and the only limit is your imagination. As if that weren’t enough, you’ve got beautiful towns like Toledo and Segovia only a stone’s throw away, for a weekend getaway.
Study in Andalusia in Granada
Granada is definitely a student city. The University of Granada receives the most Erasmus students each year, and with over 50,000 students living there during term time, you’ll be in good company. Thanks to this, life is fairly cheap with loads of offers specially for students. Not only that, but the old town with the Alhambra palace is one of the jewels in the crown of Andalusia. It’s perfectly situated between the seaside and the best mountains for skiing in the south of Spain, so you get the best of both worlds. Erasmus accommodation is fairly easy to find in Granada and the city is just waiting for you to come and enjoy your Granada university Erasmus experience.
Study by the sea in Valencia
There are two large universities in Valencia, so it really has a young feel to it. Located on the Mediterranean coast, you have a variety of nearby beaches to choose from and fair weather all year round. The gorgeous green park that runs the entire length of the city where the river once was is the perfect place to do sports and there are loads of water sports on offer on the seafront, from kitesurfing to kayaking. You'll also find a lot of Erasmus events in Valencia so you can easily get to know other students in the city.
Head to Spain's second largest city, Barcelona
Spain’s second largest city, Barcelona has a lot going for it. There’s a wealth of culture, from Picasso and Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia to more modern, counter-culture scenes. A city on the sea, Barcelona attracts a lot of young people and students as well as tourists, and the Erasmus scene continues to grow, with many groups in the city organising trips, WhatsApp groups, events and more.
Other options to look into, each with their own charm, include Seville (in the Heart of Andalusia), Salamanca (one of the best universities in Spain) and Málaga (on the beach).
- Once you've chosen your Erasmus city in Spain, we're here to help with all your accommodation needs with our guide to finding student accommodation in Spain.
Who can get a Spanish student visa?
Planning to study in Spain? Non-EU/EEA students need a long-term Spanish Student Visa for stays over 90 days. Learn who is eligible, how to apply, and the conditions for studying and living in Spain legally.
Student accommodation vs. shared flat in Spain: which is better?
University life is a special chapter that leaves a lasting impression. For many students, relocating to a different city becomes essential when their desired degree programme isn’t available locally. But before making the move, one key question often arises: Is it better to rent a shared flat or live in student accommodation? Below, we explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make the right choice for your university experience.
Study in Spain: a guide for international students
Studying in Spain isn’t just about attending lectures – it’s about living somewhere with real energy and a pace of life that lets you enjoy both work and play. Each year, Spain draws in roughly 80,000 international students. What you get here isn’t just a university degree, but a daily taste of a culture built around sociability and creativity.
Student accommodation in Granada: best areas to live
Granada is one of Spain's ultimate student cities, with over 60,000 students calling it home. The student experience in Granada is legendary for good reason. It's affordable, sociable, and steeped in culture, making it a top choice for both Spanish and international students. Most students choose between university residences, private studios, or—most commonly—renting a room in a shared apartment with fellow students.
Student life in Granada: how international students live it up
Granada is often described as a true college town—students shape the city’s character, rhythm, and social scene. Thanks to the University of Granada, one of Spain’s largest and most internationally connected universities, the local vibe is energetic and open-minded. Students spill into the city’s ancient streets, the atmosphere is inclusive, and there’s no shortage of options for both study and fun. Many foreigners choose to study in Granada, thanks to its wide range of courses availab
Study in Granada: fees, courses and getting a place
Granada isn’t just famous for its ancient palaces and mountain views – it’s a proper student city at heart. With the University of Granada woven through its cobbled streets, the place hums with youthful energy. Many people here are either students or seem to treat you like one, so you’ll blend in within days. Life is affordable, the tapas culture means you’ll rarely eat alone (or pay much for lunch), and it’s the sort of place where you’ll bump into friends just walking across town
Six best students areas in Barcelona
Home to some of the world's top universities, like the University of Barcelona (UB) and Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona attracts over 25,000 international students and researchers each year. In addition to the city's top-notch universities, it also offers students a beachside lifestyle, endless cultural activities and a student-friendly atmosphere.