Do you find yourself constantly envisioning a different version of your life abroad, but can’t seem to decide where to go? Well you can say adiós to your old life and hola to new adventure when you find the best places to study abroad in Spain!
No matter where you study abroad in Spain, you’ll have the time of your life!
Not only is Spain a country abundant in history, culture, and the arts, but a place with hospitable people, delicious food, amazing nightlife, AND it’s more cost effective in comparison to other major study abroad locations. Spain is also in close proximity to other parts of Europe, and even North Africa, making it a prime study abroad destination.
You can’t go wrong with any city you choose to study abroad while in Spain. Each city has its own unique culture, history, and sometimes a different dialect or language altogether. So now that you’re hooked on traveling to Spain, you can kick back and imagine yourself with some sangria as we tell you where the best places to study abroad in Spain are.
Why study abroad in Spain?
Before you get your answer to where should I study abroad in Spain, it’s important to first go over why of course!
First, even though you will be working hard in your classes, the Spanish lifestyle is known to be more laid back. If you’re looking for a mix of hard work, relaxation, and fun, Spain should be without a doubt your top choice. You’ll definitely get used to that siesta culture sooner than later and will never want to turn back.
Plus, you can take your down time from class and roam around all the historical sites, museums, and elaborate architecture that Spain is known for. You’ll also never be short of great food options in Spain, as many dishes are prepared with the best and freshest ingredients. (Trust us—paella is your new favorite food.)
Similar to how we can guarantee you’ll fall in love with the flavors of Spain, we’re also confident you’ll fall in love with the people as well. Known to be friendly and welcoming, Spaniards will be more than happy to help you practice your Spanish language skills too.
Are you envisioning those Bienvenidos a España signs yet?
READ MORE: 11 Reasons Why You NEED to Study Abroad in Spain
9 best places to study abroad in Spain
1. Barcelona
The architecture, the atmosphere, the adventures...Barcelona is good vibes only.
Barcelona is one of the best student cities in Spain and a desirable study abroad destination! The city’s popularity is derived from a multitude of reasons. For one, Barcelona’s climate is very favorable, with warm, dry summers, and cooler winters with temperatures that range in the 50s fahrenheit.
With weather as agreeable as Barcelona’s, it gives tourists and locals both the chance to enjoy the city’s beautiful and unique architecture (like Gaudí’s La Sagrada Familía) and works of art by Picasso and Dalí.
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2. Málaga
Known as the birthplace of Picasso and for its beautiful climate, Málaga is definitely one of the best places to study abroad in Spain. The city sits on Spain’s southern coast, with close proximity to North Africa.
Because it’s close to Africa, you will find a lot of Moorish influences in Málaga, especially with its architecture. You can visit the popular Roman Theater, or maybe even spend your nights out dining on some Tapas and wine!
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3. Alicante
Alicante boasts beautiful coastal views and beaches on the southeastern coast of Spain. It’s known for its historic port, palm tree-lined streets, and colorful neighborhoods. The Mediterranean weather and prime ocean real estate makes Alicante a dream place to study abroad in Spain.
You can escape the seaside and step into history as you stroll down the historic streets of Alicante’s Old Town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz. Who wouldn’t consider Alicante as one of the best cities to study abroad in Spain?
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4. Madrid
Madrid is the perfect base for further exploring Spain.
Definitely a contender as one of the more popular destinations, Madrid deserves to be on our list of one of the best places to study abroad in Spain. Similar to Barcelona, Madrid’s popularity attracts a great range of diverse cultures and people.
It’s also known for its world-renowned universities. You will surely be able to practice your Spanish and get a taste of the Spanish culture, while also receiving top-notch education and meeting people from all over the world. Madrid is also known for its vibrant nightlife and great public transportation systems!
Recommended programs:
- IES Abroad Madrid – Language & Area Studies
- USAC Spain: Madrid – Spanish Language, Art & Spanish Studies
5. Granada
If you’re wondering where you should study abroad in Spain, we recommend adding Granada to your list. You’ll get the best of both worlds while studying abroad in Granada, as it’s located near the Sierra Nevada mountains and it’s also a quick trip to the beach! The diversity in landscape is perfect for outdoor adventure-lovers.
Granada is probably most recognized as having an interesting mix of both North African Muslim and Christian influences on the city’s culture. The Moorish history is evident everywhere you turn in Granada, and you can get a perfect glimpse of it if you visit La Alhambra (an old Moorish palace).
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6. Santiago de Compostela
While many cities in Spain are filled with history from left to right, Santiago de Compostela is well-known for its religious relevance. As the capital of Galicia, a region in northwest Spain, it’s also thought of as the burial site of St. James.
Many people pilgrimage to this site for religious reasons, and to see such an ancient piece of history. While studying in Santiago de Compostela, you can also see the Camino de Santiago, a world renowned backpacking/hiking trail. It might be the perfect opportunity to try solo travel!
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7. Seville
Seville is often overlooked, but don’t sleep on this gem!
If you’re looking for a more traditional Spanish cultural experience with some modern aspects, Seville is the place to be. We think Seville is the best city in Spain to study abroad for those who really want to get deep into the layers of Spanish culture.
Studying in this city, you can see performances of the traditional Flamenco dance, as well as the Alcázar castle. Seville is also a good idea if you want to be more financially conscious, as it’s not as expensive as the bigger cities. You’ll also get your fair share of churros...sounds like we’ll be joining you too!
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8. Valencia
Valencia is also one of the best places to study abroad in Spain if you’re looking for something more affordable. Arguably you will find some of the best paella in Valencia, among other authentic Spanish dishes.
Valencia is also known for its annual tomato fight, or La Tomatina, that takes place in August; something that we’d definitely say is an experience you can’t miss while studying abroad there! Plus, since Valencia is closer to the coast, some universities are near the beach. Who wouldn’t want to pass up the chance to relax by the beach after a long day of classes?
Recommended programs:
- USAC Spain: Valencia – Spanish Language, Culture, & STEM
- Internship and Academic Programs with Euroace
9. Salamanca
Salamanca is a very special city as the whole city is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to the University of Salamanca, the oldest university in Spain (and one of the oldest in Europe).
Studying in Salamanca, your time will not be short of music, art, history, and festivals! Head to the city center, La Plaza Mayor, where you’ll have plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from to keep you busy. You’ll also be able to improve your Spanish skills as Salamanca is known to have the “purest” dialect of Spanish out of other cities and regions.
Recommended programs:
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Time to step into adventure.
Spain is abundant in history, culture, great food, and hospitable people. So when you’re wondering where you should study abroad in Spain, you can’t go wrong with wherever you choose!
Each city has its own unique culture and experiences to offer you. But the best thing about studying abroad in any of these cities is that you’ll always have the chance to travel to the others, where you’ll get the best out of all of Spain.
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