Experience in Madrid, Spain by Jordan

What is it like to live in Madrid? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

A very fun, vibrant city with friendly people and a great history. Everyone spends lots of time outdoors (especially in summer) and the culture depends largely on socializing. Whether you like arts, sports, architecture, gastronomy or partying there is always something to do in Madrid.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

There are so many students and always activities going on. I attended Universidad Carlos III in Getafe, just outside of Madrid, but loved taking the train from the city every day, as it was extremely efficient.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

Compared to my hometown in Canada, Madrid was much cheaper to live (approximately half the price). It was especially cheap to eat and drink in restaurants, which was great for getting out and experiencing the Spanish culture and socializing.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Madrid? Is there any advice you can give?

For me, it was difficult because I did not speak much Spanish when I arrived in Madrid for the first few weeks. But there is some great places (big and small) in the city for students, mostly shared accommodation.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

My favourite was going out for a few glasses of wine and taking advantage of the free tapas they give you with each drink. You get something different every time, so it was a great way to try new things. My favourite tapas were patatas bravas and chopitos!

What places would you recommend visiting in Madrid?

Check out Picasso's "Guernica" in the Reina Sofia museum in Atocha. Also rent bikes and cruise around Casa de Campo, where you can also rent a row boat to venture around the lake.

Is it good to eat out in Madrid? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

During October there is a festival in Lavapies (just south of the city centre) called Tapapies. Almost every restaurant in the area participates and offers beer and tapas for 1 euro each. You can wander from restaurant to restaurant and try new things or hang out at one place you really like. A great way to try new things, for cheap!

Is the nightlife good in Madrid? Where is good to go?

The nightlife goes late into the night (3-7am), but there are many great clubs. My favourite thing to do was start with dinner (lots of tapas) and drinks at a restaurant or pub, then go to Kapital or Zoologico for some dancing and more drinks of course!

What advice would you give future students heading to Madrid?

Try to learn some Spanish before you go, as it makes finding accommodation much easier when you arrive. If you are a student from outside of Europe you may be more inclined to take trips to other countries in Europe, but don't forget to explore Spain too! Train travel is especially convenient, and can be cheap if you buy a tourist pass from Renfe that gives you multiple trips.