Living in Zaragoza, Spain - by Marta

What's it like living in Zaragoza? Would you recommend it?

There's such a great university atmosphere, plus all kinds of leisure activities and parties, and loads of opportunities to meet new people. The young people here are so open, and it's really easy to just meet someone 'by chance' and end up going for some beers together, get introduced to their friends and arrange to meet up again to go out partying together. There are so many options that you're sure to find your place in this city, whatever your style and your idea of fun is.

Yes, I would recommend Zaragoza for students!

What's the student life like in Zaragoza?

Fantastic, since there are students from everywhere in the world, plus lots of different music scenes, clubs, university-organised parties and bars. No matter what your interests and hobbies are, you'll find something that suits you here. There are lots of university-organised events (more chilled-out or crazier ones, whatever you like the most) for getting to know people. Even if you're not a student here, you'll fit in just fine with them and be able to do the same things.

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How expensive is everyday life in Zaragoza?

Zaragoza is more or less just as expensive as any Spanish city of its size.

Renting a flat costs around 200 euros per month per person, and eating in the faculty cafeteria usually costs around 5 euros (there's no student discount). The average bus journey costs 1 euro 35 (using a bus pass reduces this to 75 cents) and fruit, vegetables, meat etc. are all cheaper in comparison with other countries. Beers cost between 1 and 3 euro, depending on the bar.

Did you find it hard to find somewhere to live in Zaragoza? Do you have any tips for flat-hunting?

It wasn't that hard, but you do have to search quite a bit so that you have several options to choose from.

My advice is to look on the internet (www.cipaj.org is very good) and be careful not to get scammed. It's best if you get someone who speaks good Spanish to come with you to the viewing, since there are people looking to take advantage of you with dodgy contracts and prices. Make sure your landlady or landlord seems trustworthy.

What's the food like in Zaragoza? What are your favourite dishes?

Very good. Potato tortillas are great, of course, plus there's also the ham, paella, tomato pasta and salads. What you absolutely have to do is try typical Spanish food, but also go to a tapas bar and try modern as well as traditional food. Try everything!

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What places do you recommend visiting in Zaragoza?

The Old Town, the city park, the university area, and the city centre. If you can, visit towns like Huesca and Teruel city by bus or car. They're both very pretty and are well worth the journey.

What about eating out in Zaragoza? What are your favourite places?

El Laurel, La Antilla and the tapas bars in the Delicias neighbourhood.

What are the best places for partying in Zaragoza?

Manolo la nuit, Mile End and La Martinica. Don't forget about the university parties too in San Pepe, La champanada de Veterinaria and El patrón de Veterinaria.

Do you have any advice for future students coming to Zaragoza?

Enjoy it, explore the entire city so that you get to know it really well and talk to lots of people to make new friends. The Spanish are generally very open and fun people, and we love getting to know new people, too.