Are you thinking about living an exchange experience or an internship but still don’t know the destination? Here we will tell you why you should choose to study abroad in Barcelona!

As we mentioned in a previous article, Spain is the best country in Europe for study abroad programs. 

Barcelona, by being a big, international city could be the perfect place for you to live an unforgettable adventure and, who knows, start a great career!

The Iberian country welcomes thousands of international students and young professionals every year. These young people move to Spain to enroll in international universities, famous business schools or apply for an internship.
Do you know why Spain (and Barcelona of course) is one of the most famous destinations among the young international community?

Keep reading and discover 6 reasons why you should study abroad in Barcelona!

What you need to know before starting your study abroad program in Barcelona

When you move to a new city or country, you’re getting yourself an amazing opportunity for your university career or professional life. However, this is not the easiest life choice: moving abroad means you’re getting out of your comfort zone; but you will collect incredible memories, meet new people, get to know their cultures and languages.

Witnessing this incredible melting process between cultures has been our job for years and here we are to give you a few tips to make it easier.

First tips: you need to open your mind, be humble, not judge diversity and get ready to try new things.

Now, what should you do to start your study abroad experience in Barcelona?

1. Learn some basic words and sentences in Spanish (or Catalan, even better!).
If you want to connect with the locals and get deep in their culture, they will surely appreciate an expat speaking their language! Anyway, no worries, most of the young people in Spain speak English.

2. Get used to siestas and a slow lifestyle. Spanish culture is about appreciating little things, enjoying each moment of the day, especially gathering around a table with other people. Then it comes siesta time for an energy refill and to get ready for a long night out.

3. Local people are so outgoing and sociable! If you are more the kind of person that wants to be on its own, not connecting with strangers or exchanging smiles throughout the day...well, Spain is not the place for you. In this country you will be overwhelmed by sociality. Sharing is a main part of Spanish culture (especially food. e.g. tapas!)

4. Be careful with pickpockets. Every big and crowded city has a downside and so does Barcelona! Be careful with your belongings - your phone, mainly - whenever you go in places packed with lots of people, especially at night.

Reasons why study abroad in Barcelona will change your life

Now it’s time for a brief overview of the reasons why studying abroad in Barcelona is a must-do experience!

1. Barcelona has some of the best universities in Spain

Barcelona counts many highly ranked public and private universities and business schools, such as Universidad Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB), University of Barcelona, Universidad Politécnica de Cataluña (UPC), Universidad Ramón Llull (URL).

2. Barcelona boasts an international atmosphere

In the Catalan capital you will be lucky enough to meet people from all over the world. Spain, in particular, is one of the favourite destinations for international communities: people from northern Europe, USA, Latin America and North Africa. And since Barcelona is a big city, which offers many job opportunities and a lively lifestyle, most of the young internationals decide to move here. 

Get ready to mix and match with different cultures and languages!

3. The public transportation in Barcelona is excellent

The efficient transportation network in Barcelona is made of 12 metro lines (running for 146 km), 180 metro stations and more than 1000 buses, Renfe trains and trams. This public service is a real turn-on for locals and visitors, who can easily explore the city and move around in a few minutes!

The advantage of having such a good transportation system is that you can also enjoy Barcelona at night (until midnight during the week and until 2am in the weekend).

4. Architectural and cultural attractions in Barcelona

Barcelona will amaze you with its incredible architecture; in fact, in this city you will find the most beautiful masterpieces signed by Antoni Gaudí: from Sagrada Familia to Casa Batlló and Casa Milá, from the huge Parc Güell to the details in Plaça Reial.

But there are also many more architectural spots (classic, gothic and modern ones) from other eras and artists.

And the best part is that all this beauty perfectly matches with the modern vibes of the city, the shopping streets, the coloured neighborhoods and the fancy restaurants.

5. Life in Barcelona is a little cheaper than other European metropolis

Barcelona is one of the most known European destinations for its cultural offer, its beautiful coastline and its unique vibes. But one of the assets that makes the Catalan capital attractive for international students is that living in Barcelona is cheaper than in other big European cities, such as London, Paris, Berlin or Copenhagen.
However, it must be admitted that the average prices here are a little higher than in the other Spanish cities (excluding Madrid, which is slightly expensive as well).

Discover more about the cost of living in Barcelona for students (transportation, housing, dining, healthcare, etc.) and get ready to plan your unforgettable stay abroad! 

6. Leisure activities and nightlife in Barcelona

Barcelona will never let you down! This city always offers new plans and activities that both locals and tourists can enjoy...all year round! You will be surprised by how this place can be lively and attractive both in winter and in the summer season (thanks to its incredible beach).

During the day, you could explore the beautiful squares, narrow historical streets, do some shopping in the big avenues, sit in a cute café, visit museums, etc.

And when the sun goes down the uncountable tapas bars or terraces are waiting for you to try their delicious food and drinks, until ending up in one of the many clubs popping up all around the city. 

Are you ready to study abroad in Barcelona? We are looking forward to welcoming you here!