Erasmus Experience in Alcalá De Henares, Spain by Alberto

Why did you choose to go to Alcalá De Henares, Spain?

I chose Alcalá because it is a small-sized city a stone's throw away from Madrid. I was attracted to its history and architecture and its very good connections with downtown Madrid.

Source

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

The scholarship was 5-month long (one semester), but since I liked it so much there I decided to extend a stay for the second semester. I received the basic scholarship from the Commission, plus an allowance given me from the Italian Ministry of Education and from my University. In total, it was about 450 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Alcalá De Henares?

Alcalá is a small city but it is filled with students, including a big number of Erasmus students. It is very close to Madrid, so many students go party there - especially on weekends - but it offers some small but good party nights. What I loved about Alcalá is the fact that it is so easy to make friends, as opposed to a bigger city.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Alcalá De Henares to other students?

I would. Alcalá has the best of both worlds: it is a small historical city where you can easily meet with your friends over the week and is only a short train ride away from Madrid when you want to explore the capital's cultural and nightlife (nightbuses run every hour to/from Madrid so the two city are connected at all times).

What is the food like?

Alcalá is renowned for its tapas. I highly recommend trying the local gastronomy.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Alcalá De Henares?

Not at all. It is a small city but has fairly good accommodation options.

How much does it cost to live in Alcalá De Henares?

It is significantly cheaper than Madrid. A single room costed around 250 euros.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

The university language center (Alcalingua) offers Spanish courses for Erasmus students at an accessible price.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Alcalá De Henares from your city?

From Rome I recommend checking out Vueling and Ryanair's flights for the best deals. From Madrid's airport there is a direct bus to Alcalá (824).

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Alcalá De Henares?

The heart of the Erasmus student life in Alcalá is the Green pub. They organize events every night of the week and proper club night on the weekend. Other bars and pubs organize other nights on a less regular basis.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Alcalá De Henares?

A cheap option and a students' favorite is El Quinto Tapón for tapas. Some good tapas places are El patio de mi casa and La Posada. But it always worth to try a new place on Calle Mayor. Try pintxos at Basque chain Lizarrán. A good but upscale restaurant is Ambigú.

I highly recommend winebar Tempranillo for a good glass of wine and some tapas.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The University buildings are beautiful, especially the Rectorate (in whose Paraninfo hall the prestigious Cervantes prize is awarded every year), el Colegio de Málaga and Caracciolo (Letras). Definitely explore them on a guided tour. The Cathedral is worth a visit and do not miss the Cervantes birthplace museum and the Archeological museum.

Source

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Alcalá De Henares in the future?

It is a beautiful place and you will have a great time. Enjoy!