Erasmus Experience in Granada, Spain by Massa

Why did you choose to go to Granada, Spain?

Granada is a very beautiful city. Not too big, not too small. It is the perfect city for Erasmus students and the university goes hand in hand with the city. 1 out of 4 people living in Granada is related to UGR in some kind of way. They are either students, teachers or staff. Also, the different campuses are spread all over the city. You will always feel safe and well-surrounded.

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

My scholarship was for 5 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Granada?

The student lifestyle is really nice in Granada. It can be anything you want it to be. If you are a party person, you will find your place. If you're more chill and laid-back, it can be perfect as well. Granada is a student city that accommodates all.

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

I would definitely recommend both the city and UGR to foreign students. The UGR staff is very friendly, teachers are usually easy-going and the administration are kind to foreign students.

What is the food like?

Granada has all types of food. You can easily find traditional Spanish foods everywhere in the city and tapas bars on every corner. You can also find international food, almost every kind. There's really something for everyone.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Granada?

I found my room on this website and moved in immediately once I arrived in Granada. However, I'd recommend that students arrive to Granada then start looking for a place to stay there. Pictures on the website don't always show you the full picture and there will always be problems and issues with the house that you can only see in real life.

How much does it cost to live in Granada?

It doesn't cost much to live in Granada. Spain is a lot cheaper than other European countries and Granada is one of the least expensive cities in Spain. Since Granada is small, you can walk around everywhere, usually no need for bus or metro. You can find accommodation ranging between 180 and 300 €, monthly groceries from a local shop (a chino) can cost between 70 and 100 per month and with 2 euro drinks, tapas are always free!

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

While Spanish is considered a relatively "easy" language, the Andalucian accent makes it so much harder. It is horrendous, Granadians speak super fast and they won't slow down for anyone. You can rarely find someone who speaks English unless you're at university.

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

Always by plane to MALAGA, then from the airport, you take a bus/blablacar to Granada's bus station. The bus ticket to Granada costs 10~14 euros. A metro stop is right in front of Granada's bus station.

(Plane tickets to Granada are usually 2 to 3 times more expensive than to Malaga).

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

You have many options!

Tapas bars are the usual go-to place for everyone. It is also the cheapest option, as a drink typically costs 2~3 euros and you get a free tapa with each drink (only in Granada!)

There is a street called Pedro Antonio. There, you can find all different kinds of bars and the atmosphere is very lively.

If you are a party person, you can find many clubs as well. The most famous club is Mae West. It is always crowded and one night per week is ladies' night (free entrance for ladies). Regular nights: entrance for 12 euros, 2 drinks included.

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

My favorites are:

Restaurants:

• Mahalo Poke
• Takeme Sushi
• Los Bandios
• Potemkin

Coffeeshops:

• La tienda de los unicornios
• MIMIMI
• Cafe Gracia (La goma)

Tapas bars:

• Bar El Peruano
• Grifos y tapas
• Rosario Varela
• El Delirio

Ice cream:

• Heladeria Los Italianos (!)
• Mama Luisa

Pastry shops:

• La casita del pan: it is a chain all over Granada, they have delicious pastries as well as a very nice offer: 1 coffee with 1 croissant for 1 euro.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You must visit Alhambra. It is the main attraction of Granada. And while a tiny part of it can be visited for free, the entire place is a must-see. It is important to book your ticket at least a month early on the official website. Another good option is to purchase the "Granada Card" which costs 40 euros but grants you access to the city's most important attractions (including the Alhambra) as well as access to the bus system for a period of five days.

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

Really explore the city, it's bigger than you think, don't stay in the city all the time, go visit the villages of the province, they're equally beautiful.

Also, buy your plane tickets to neighboring countries early on, when they are still affordable. You will regret it later if you leave it to the last second, and tickets were way too expensive so you are obligated to stay where you are.

Attend ESN (Erasmus Student Network) activities at the start of your exchange. This will allow you to meet so many people that you wouldn't have met otherwise.

And last but not least, enjoy! :)