Moving to Spain? Discover the best student accommodation in Barcelona, how to join the Erasmus community, and tips for enjoying the sunshine and culture. Choosing to study in Barcelona is often described as one of the best decisions a student can make. It’s not just about the academic prestige; it’s about waking up to sunshine, living in a city that breathes art and history, and being part of an international community that is vibrant, welcoming, and endlessly exciting.
Barcelona is a city where the Mediterranean lifestyle blends perfectly with student ambitions. You have the sea for relaxation, the mountains for adventure, and a cultural scene that never sleeps. But beyond the postcard-perfect images of Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia, what does student life in Barcelona really look like?
It is more than just sightseeing. It is about the people you meet, the events you attend, and finding that perfect place to call home. Whether you are navigating the metro to get to class or searching for the best student accommodation in Barcelona, this guide is here to help you settle in and make the most of your Erasmus experience.
If you are wondering what your day-to-day life will look like, imagine a balance between productivity and pure enjoyment. Barcelona allows you to study hard without sacrificing your social life.
During the daytime, the city is your campus. Students often gather in the endless array of cozy cafés in neighborhoods like Gràcia or El Born to work on group projects or study for exams. When the books are closed, the beach at Barceloneta is just a short metro ride away, offering a perfect spot to unwind, play volleyball, or just soak up the sun.
As the sun sets, the city transforms. Evenings in Barcelona are legendary. The culture here revolves around socializing outdoors, enjoying late tapas dinners, and meeting friends in buzzing plazas. Nightlife ranges from relaxed beach bars (chiringuitos) to world-famous clubs.
Weekends are often reserved for exploration. You might find yourself taking a train to the coastal town of Sitges, hiking up Montserrat, or simply getting lost in the Gothic Quarter. But the core of the Erasmus experience is the community. It’s about the unplanned gatherings, the shared meals, and the events that bring everyone together.
Moving to a new country can feel daunting at first. You might worry about making friends or finding your "crowd." The good news is that Barcelona is incredibly social, and there are organizations dedicated specifically to helping you connect.
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This is where finding the right community partners becomes essential. You don't have to navigate the social scene alone.
One of the best ways to integrate is to join organized activities where you know everyone is in the same boat as you - looking to make friends and have fun.
@erasmusexchangebarcelona
These events are designed to be inclusive. It doesn’t matter if you are a great dancer or if you’ve never played beer pong in your life; the goal is to break the ice and help you meet people outside of your university lectures.
To fully enjoy everything Barcelona has to offer, where you live matters. Your location dictates how easy it is to get to university, how close you are to your friends, and whether you can easily stumble home after a late night of tapas.
Barcelona is divided into distinct neighborhoods (barrios), each with its own personality:
Book best accommodation in Barcelona with Pepe Housing:
There is a strong link between your housing situation and your social life. Having a safe, comfortable place to live gives you the energy to go out and enjoy the city.
Imagine coming home after the Sunday Boat Party, tired but happy, to an apartment where everything works, your bed is comfortable, and you feel safe. It provides the balance you need. If your housing situation is stressful or unsafe, it becomes much harder to relax and enjoy the fun parts of Erasmus.
By securing reliable housing early, you free up your mental energy to focus on what really matters: making friends, passing your classes, and exploring Catalan culture.
Once you have your housing sorted, the only thing left to do is fill up your calendar. The best way to ensure you don’t miss out on the biggest parties and trips is to stay plugged into the network.
We’ve been organizing events for international and Erasmus students for years, creating real connections and unforgettable experiences. For dates, photos, and live updates, check our Instagram and join the community.
Make sure to follow @erasmusexchangebarcelona to see what’s happening this week! Best Studen t Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona Best Student Accommodation in Barcelona
