My Erasmus experience in Madrid

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

I spent 6 months in Madrid and I loved it! The city is absolutely gorgeous, beautiful architecture, beautiful people and beautiful weather. I would go back!

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

It was great. I study at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid and it was fab. The students were very welcoming of the exchange students taking over their university, especially with me because I didn't learn very much Spanish before I went and they were very helpful in speaking English with me or teaching me Spanish.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

It was quite expensive for me but I lived in central Madrid. I stayed in a flat that I rented through a company called Spotahome which was in Palos De La Frontera outside Atocha. It was an amazing location, with the metro line outside my flat and Atocha train station about 10 minutes away walking. However the flat was 450 euros and I shared it with 6 people. So it was expensive and small and not worth the money.

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

Yes! So difficult, but that's probably because I don't speak Spanish so I had to rent through student companies who spoke English. So if you can find someone who speaks Spanish who can help you rent locally life will be much easier.

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

SO GOOD. Tapas is love, tapas is life. Patatas Bravas are literally my favourite thing.

Source

What places would you recommend visiting in Madrid?

Retiro Park, any of the outdoor swimming pools if the weather is warm, the museums are gorgeous, Malasaña had gorgeous vintage shops.

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

YES! Rosi La Loca was wonderful. 100% my favourite tapas place in the entirety of Madrid. I also loved Taco Bell because we don't have one in Glasgow so it was exciting to try one!

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

Octomedio and Kapital are fun!

What advice would you give to future students heading to Madrid?

Enjoy it! Live life to the fullest and make some wonderful Spanish friends!