Erasmus experience in Santiago de Compostela, Spain by Elisa

What do you think about Santiago de Compostela? Do you recommend the city to other students?

Santiago de Compostela is a quiet and calm place. It is full of lush green landscapes and has a very interesting and rich historical heritage.

Since I arrived during winter, the weather was quite cold, grim and wet. Due to the humidity, the streets seem to be always wet.

The local people are very friendly. As I see it, that was the most remarkable part of the city.

However, I found Santiago a bit monotonous... there weren't many activities for young people.

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How is the student lifestyle in Santiago de Compostela?

The student atmosphere is good. People there are really nice and friendly. And, they were very curious about my country and wanted to know things about me.

There are some restaurants within the campus, where you can have lunch for around €5.

The city has very good public libraries.

What was the cost of living in Santiago?

Well, living in Santiago is much cheaper than Madrid or Barcelona.

It was not too dissimilar to my country. However, going out to have lunch in a restaurant is a bit expensive, (up to €60 for two persons) at some places, a coffee could cost €2, a beer (depending on the type and brand) is around €4/6. As you get closer to the Cathedral (Old Town), the prices are increased.

If you go to a bakery/cake shop, you can find a sweet bun or a piece of cake to eat with your coffee. Drinking a coffe in places like this could cost around €1, 20.

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Was it difficult to find an accommodation? Can you give some advice?

Yes, it was difficult. I wanted am affordable place in the city center, near a bus stop. You can find some good apartments if you share it with other 3/4 people (around €200/300). Some of the flats were quite dark.

However, since I have a family, I was looking for a studio or something similar, but it was hard to find.

In my opinion, the best option is to have a look at the campus newspaper and see if you are interested in any of the offers. Usually they are trustworthy people.

What is the food like? What is your favorite dish?

Most days, I cooked at home dishes I normally do in my country. However, I tried some typical food there. I liked the most the Spanish omelette and the tapas.

On the other hand, I didn't enjoy the food which is fried.

Which places do you recommend visiting in Santiago de Compostela?

The Cathedral, of course! And the Old Town

Toral Square

Bar Galo D'Ouro

the different university buildings...

Can you recommend some places to have lunch or dinner?

The restaurants which are in the campus due to the good value for money.

Also, those which offer an everyday menu. I liked El Celme del Caracol and Dezaseis.

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How about the nightlife?

It is difficult to choose, since the best parties were at home with some friends. In any case, the Feast of Saint James the Apostle (July 25) is worthwhile.

Any housing advice for future students in Santiago de Compostela?

I recommend to start searching for a place quite early. Also, it is a better option to cook at home or in the restaurants of the campus. If you are interested, there are student residences in which the meals and the cleaning service are included. It is a good option for young students.