Erasmus Experience in Barcelona, Spain by Anne Floor

Why did you choose to go to Barcelona, Spain?

Because of the Landscape architecture school, the city, language, climate, culture and landscape

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

It was supposed to be 4,5-5 months in total. Because of Covid-19, my Barcelona experience lasted only 6 weeks :-(
I received appr. in total 900 euro from the Erasmus fund.

What is the student lifestyle like in Barcelona?

I guess it depends on which study you are following. In my case, the Master study was intense and the students very serious and hard working. There was little time for social activities.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Barcelona to other students?

yes, the study level is quite good

What is the food like?

lots of fresh fruits and vegetables at local markets, which you can find in every street. Plenty of choice for vegetarians and vegans. I loved the habit of 'merienda', and mostly the discovery of the Catalan/Spanish version of hot chocolate :-)

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Barcelona?

Not sure what you mean with this question. It was told to me that finding a room is hard, but the opposite is true. You can find plenty of rooms for every budget within a short time. Sites like Idealista made searching easy from abroad. Lot of rooms require a half-or full month rent pay in front, which will be returned on leaving. Just make sure you have viewed the room first (live or via live video), talked to the actual host/room mates and have a legal contract that is signed by you AND the host.

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

You can make it as expensive or cheap as you want. The average room was between 350-500 euro a month. Supermarkets and local vegetable markets offer goods for average European prices, so it's not expensive. For public transport you need 20-50 euro a month, but its better to buy a second-hand bicycle wth good locks if you are staying longer, especially with Covid-19, to avoid crowds.

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

Catalan is not very hard to red if you know a bit French, but understanding it is something else. I have tried to learn some Spanish via listening to students, but you actually need a course. There were courses available via the uni, but it required to come a month before your study program, which was not possible for me. If I would have stayed longer, I would have searched a course myself. English was practised at the uni, so I could get by.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Barcelona from your city?

since I live in North-Europe, the airplane was the quickest and cheapest option. If you have more time and money, you could travel more sustainable with a train of bus.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Barcelona?

don't now, didn't have the chance. The beach and waterfront is nice.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Barcelona?

Can't, I usually cooked myself. Have been at a tapas bar, but can't remember the name.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Montjuic hill, for sure! Especially parc Laribal and the OLD botanical garden. And Parc Guell, both my favorite. Wanted to go to Collserola, but didn't get the chance, unfortunately. And go to the Picasso museum in the old centre, and the Miro museum on Montjuic. And the music hall. And lots more..

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

Yes, be aware of pickpockets in bars and public transport! Don't take what you don't need and keep your stuff safe and guarded all the time.