Experience of 3 years in Bilbao

What do you think about living in Bilbao?

It's a large city in the north of Spain, very convenient for going from one place to another, and it's very lively, especially in the historic quarter.

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What is the student life like in Bilbao?

In general, there is a good student atmosphere. The Leioa campus, the main one, is quite far out from the centre, and there you can find several cafeterias, dining halls, a supermarket... there are also places to park. The people are usually friendly and help out with any problem you may have.

How much does it cost to live in Bilbao?

It's expensive; not as expensive as other big Spanish cities like Madrid or Barcelona, but it's expensive when it comes to shopping, accommodation and, above all, transport, an absolute necessity if you are studying at the Leioa campus.

Accommodation in Bilbao?

Compared to other cities in the north of the country, Bilbao is one of the most expensive places to live. Flats with three bedrooms and one bathroom usually cost €700 without bills if you want to live in the city centre (highly recommended). Of course, the further you are from the centre the cheaper it is. Finding accommodation is relatively easy online or by looking at the adverts taped to the university buildings.

When it comes to halls of residence, the cost is pretty much the same. I really recommend one where I stayed for two years: Mañarikua Atxuri, located in the heart of the old part of Bilbao, a small and friendly residence where you have complete freedom when it comes to timings and meals. The rooms are very spacious and come with their own bathroom.

What's the food like?

The concept of "pintxo-pote" es pretty well-known (pintxo and beer for €2) and it's a good option if you want to go out and get something. Otherwise, the Basque gastronomy has some very good dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to go and eat in a traditional cider bar.

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Which places would you recommend visiting in Bilbao?

The city centre, the Guggenheim museum, the Alhóndiga building, Santiago cathedral, the fine art museum, walk around the old part or the city centre and visit the Artxanda hill.

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Which places would you recommend for partying in Bilbao?

There are lots of different ways to party in Bilbao, each one just as good as the others, but not everyone likes them. As a recommendation, the club "Fever" is one of the biggest, divided into rooms which each have their own style of music depending on the day of the week.

Any advice?

Try to make the most of living in Bilbao and in the Basque Country in general, even though some of the traditions and customs may stand out at the beginning. Don't hold back when it comes to starting a conversation with us, in the north we have a reputation for being "curt" and "rude", but in reality we are just shy and when you get to know us we are really nice.

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