My Erasmus experience in Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain

Why did you choose to go to Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain?

The UAX in Villanueva de la Cañada is a partner university of my home university. I chose to study there because of its proximity to Madrid.

How long did you stay there? How much funding did you receive?

I studied there for one semester and received the Erasmus grant.

What is student life like in Villanueva de la Cañada?

Villanueva is very small. There are quite a few bars and small clubs but apart from that, life is pretty quiet. Compared to life in Madrid, Villanueva can feel a bit lonely and isolated.

But you can go to Madrid whenever you want. The bus connections are great, there are even night buses on the weekend. You're not completely cut off from the rest of the world!

Would you recommend the city and university of Villanueva de la Cañada to other students?

I'd definitely recommend the UAX.

But I would advise other students to make a bit more effort and find a room in Madrid. You have to travel about an hour to uni, but you get to live in the city where everything happens. You'll never get bored in Madrid.

What is the food like?

Traditional Spanish food is delicious! But if you don't want to eat traditional food, don't worry; there are all sorts of restaurants with cuisine from all over the world.

How did you find your accommodation?

I found my accommodation on a website. But I would advise other students to look for accommodation once they arrive so that they have the chance to see it before they sign anything.

What is the cost of rent like? And prices in general?

You can compare the cost of renting in Villanueva with Germany. You can expect to pay between 250€ and 400€.

Is the language easy to understand? Does the university offer any language courses?

I had to do a language test before starting uni and then had to take part in the corresponding language course.

Before I arrived in Spain I had already taken a few Spanish courses so I had a basic understanding.

If you plan to learn Spanish there without any prior knowledge, you could run into problems. The locals don't speak a lot - if any - English, so rely on your language skills.

What is the cheapest way of getting to Villanueva de la Cañada from where you live?

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In your opinion, where is the best place to go out in Villanueva de la Cañada?

You can get good (and cheap) food in 100 Montaditos in Calle Cristo.

Are there any interesting cultural visits to do?

Really only in Madrid. Entry to the museums is free at least one day a week.

Any advice for future students in Villanueva de la Cañada?

Take the travel time from Villanueva to Madrid into account.