Erasmus Experience in Córdoba, Spain by Lenka

Why did you choose to go to Córdoba, Spain?

I have always wanted to experience life in Andalucía and I got lucky to come here and live here for a couple of months.

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

My scholarship lasted from September to December (app. 4 months). I received about 440 euros/month. It is enough to cover your rent costs and “gastos” and you still have some money to spare. I had to cover all the other costs such as food, travels and entertainment from my own pocket.

What is the student lifestyle like in Córdoba?

The student lifestyle in Córdoba is great. There is an amazing Erasmus International Community so you do not need to worry about your life once you come here. It is all up to you, where you want to spend your free days and how. There are plenty of options, so I am sure you won't be disappointed.

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

I would definitely recommend the city to other students. I have also had a nice experience at the University, but make sure you check your study program reviews before your arrival. Some study programs are perfect whereas some still need many improvements. Make sure you check everything beforehand.

What is the food like?

The food is amazing, although I have missed terribly the cuisine of my country. Prepare yourself for a lot of fried food, because you will find it anywhere you go! There are many tapas bars and the typical dishes such as salmorejo which can be found anywhere. Make sure you try everything you possibly can. I have got used to cooking with olive oil and using it in most of my meals. I'm sure you will fall in love with it too. There are also plenty of fish to choose from such as tuna, salmon and cod plus many other fresh ones.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Córdoba?

There are two ways of finding accomodation. You can contact directly an estate agency called Interasmundo that offers you a great variety of rooms throught the city and in many price ranges or you can browse through the Internet and look for the accommodation by yourself. I chose the first option although I won't do it for a second time. Interasmundo is very reliable, but they charge you for a lot of unnecessary things. If you have time and courage, look for your accommodation by yourself.

How much does it cost to live in Córdoba?

It varies a lot. If you wish to travel in your free-time and make most of your stay in here, you will need quite a lot of money. Depending on the scholarship you get, your monthly costs can go up to 500 euros and sometimes even more.

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

Spanish is an amazing language. If you come here to study for whatever reasons you should really try to get a grip on it. There are many people who are willing to practice it with you and you will make a lot of Spanish friends as well. The University offers language courses but for a fee at UCO idiomas.

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

You obviously have to take a plane and then you decide whether you want to travel by train or bus. Trains are extremely expensive but also extremely fast. Buses are a bit cheaper. People also make a big use of Blablacar as a form of transport.

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

There are many nightclubs and restaurants you can go to. The Erasmus Network always offers us to go to La Fontana for paella on Mondays or Tuesday and then, we have a free entry on Thursday to a club called Góngora. Be prepared for a lot of reggaeton music. Other good clubs or pubs are Bambú or O'Donoghue's.

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

There are many good restaurants close to Mezquita de Córdoba, but I don't really have a favourite one. For tapas, you can go to Mercado Victoria.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Mezquita de Córdoba, Puente Romano, Alcázar de Los Reyes Cristianos, Patios de Córdoba, Plaza de las Tendillas, Templo Romano, Baños Árabes.

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

You won't regret a day you've spent here. Although things may seem a bit difficult at first, you are about to experience one of the best times of your life.