Erasmus experience in Madrid, Spain

Why did you decide to go to Madrid, Spain?

Let’s say that I decided to come to Spain because I actually chose Valencia as my first choice, but Madrid accepted me. I have no regrets at all that I was in this magnificent city! I chose to come to Madrid to live an unforgettable experience, meeting new friends, experiencing new cultures and opening up my mind to the world, something that is impossible staying in your own city.

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How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive as help?

My grant lasted me for nine months and the European Union offer a total of €230 per month which is not enough, essentially it doesn’t even cover the cost of rent. You should know that the apartments here in Madrid are very expensive if you want to stay in the centre of the city (Puerta del Sol) for example you won’t spend less than €400 a month if you want a decent room with a window. Otherwise, you have to go a little bit out of the city centre where it costs around €300 a month. I would recommend the latter, which is what I did, because you can stay relaxed, move around anyhow very easily because it is a city that has been organised perfectly with public transports.

On top of the Erasmus grant, I also received another grant from my region based on family income. I suggest that you enquire if your country or region gives you this option because it is extra money even if you still need to spend some from your own pocket.

What is the student environment like in Madrid?

The environment is very calm and relaxed whilst the students are very sociable just like the rest of the people that live in Madrid. The campus’ have wonderful gardens where you can lie down and relax between lessons.

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

I personally do not like the study method at my university even if it is a beautiful university (UAM) with an amazing campus and wonderful facilities. There are two reasons why I would advise against it:

1. It is quite far away from Madrid, in the best-case scenario it takes about 20 minutes to get there by train.
2. The study programs are very simple, therefore the problem is that they make you do a mock every week and exams every two months where they give you a mark for everything, whether it be the mocks of the real exams. These marks form an average which is then added to the final mark of the final exams in January or June. It is something that penalizes you a lot and that serves no purpose, precisely because it does not allow you to organize your studies as you want, but you must always respect the deadlines (This is not called university but high school! ).

How is the country’s food?

In my opinion Spanish food is not very good, except for paella, churros and a few other things. Maybe it’s because I’m Italian and we eat well at home but here you really eat badly.

Was it hard finding accommodation in Madrid?

In the first week it was a major challenge finding a room with a window that didn’t cost too much. For instance, they wanted to rent me a small room with a bunk bed five feet wide and three feet long without a window (crazy stuff! ). However, in the end I found a nice house for around €280 plus expenses not too far away from the centre. So in the early days you have to struggle making endless calls but you’ll see that in the end you will find what you are looking for because there really is everything and moreover you’ll learn how to speak Spanish on the phone.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

Around €550 a month, including rent if you do like I said, if not even €600-€650.

How’s it going with the language? Did you attend a language course at the university?

The language is very easy and perceivable, after a month you will already know how to say more important phrases. I would advise you to attend the Spanish course at the university as it will help you a lot.

What is the cheapest way of getting to Madrid from your city?

The cheapest way is definitely by plane. Some people, for example the French, even came by car (but it is definitely not worth it).

Where would you recommend going to at night in Madrid?

Joy, Kapital, Mundo, Space Monkey, Ocho y media and many more.

And to eat in Madrid? Which were your favourite places?

Definitely the San Miguel market which is a market with typical products from Madrid which is located behind Plaza Mayor.

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I wouldn’t know any other places because like I said earlier for me the food here isn’t very good. They make a really good tortilla in a café in front of the San Miguel market.

Where would you recommend visiting?

Museo del Prado, Museo Reina Sofia, Parco del Retiro, Palacio Real, Opera, Plaza de España, the wax museum, the terrace del Círculo de Bellas Artes and many more.

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What would you suggest to future students going to Madrid?

Have fun, buy the membership that allows you to use all means of public transport as its worthwhile, don’t smoke sugarcanes in the street because they will fine you, don’t drink bottles in the street because they’ll fine you €600 (they are called botellón and have been banned in spain since 2010).

If you can buy a bike that is very comfortable, try to always go to lessons and make friends with Spaniards as they can help you in your studies.