Erasmus Experience in Tarragona, Spain by Benedetta

Why did you choose to go to Tarragona, Spain?

I had to choose between Madrid and Tarragona, but I wanted to go to Tarragona because it was a smaller city than Madrid, cheaper and there was the sea, which I loved having.

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

The scholarship was more or less 5 months. Per month I received 600€, so in total it was 3000€, part from my University, part from the EU and part from another scholarship with my University.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tarragona?

During the day I went to classes, luckily I didn't have many, when I didn't have classes I studied, at home but especially in the library CRAI, and then by night I went out with my friends. When I had exams I also went to the library on Saturday, but during the first months the weekend was without books.

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

Yes, of course. I fell in love with the city.

What is the food like?

I come from Italy, so for me the food is not that good anywhere I go, but I have to say that the typical dishes are very good.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Tarragona?

At the beginning I didn't know where to look for accommodation, but then I found a group in Facebook so it was easier to find some flats to share with other people.

How much does it cost to live in Tarragona?

My rent was 300€/month. With other expenses, food, transport and leisure activities (mostly parties) I think it was more or less 450/500€ per month.

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

For me it was easy, because I already studier Spanish. Catalan was harder but I could understand it. Yes, language courses are available at the University.

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

The easiest and most economical way to travel to Tarragona from my city is by plane.

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

Obviously going out at Plaça de la Font for having some drinks. If you want to go to some discos there are Totem, which is free on Friday night and on Saturday is free till 02:00 a.m., and Highland, which is free on Thursday night till 01:00 a.m. and on Saturday night. Also the bar La Cantonada is a very special place, on Thursday night they have a karaoke night for Erasmus students, but also on Sunday or other nights is a very cool bar to spend your night there.

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

Sadly, I didn't go out to eat very often. When we went out to eat we went usually to 100 montaditos in Parc Central or to Burger King with discount coupons.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is the whole archaeological ensemble with the Circus, the Colony forum, the Roman theatre, the Amphitheater, the Cathedral, the hydraulic conduits Puente del Diablo and many others.

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

Don't be scared to talk to other people, they are very friendly. Enjoy the sea, the beaches, explore the city.