Moving to a new city is such an exciting thing, isn’t it?! Beside the thrilling vibes, you should keep in mind some important things that need to be done. How to find a room in Madrid is one of the first things you should know when you get to start this new a chapter abroad.

Therefore, at helpHousing, we strive everyday to provide you with the best quality accommodations and personalised assistance to make you live a pleasant housing experience in Madrid. If you are looking for a room in Madrid, but don’t know where to start with your flat hunting, no worries, you’re in the right place.

Searching a room for rent in Madrid is not that easy for foreigners that have no idea about the city, the prices, the neighborhoods and many other important things to keep in mind. Check out our guide!

When you should start looking for an apartment 

Even though won’t book the very first rooms that you find, a good and wide research will help you to have an idea of the room rental market in Madrid. Moreover, this city welcomes so many international students, therefore, the room that you like today, might not be available in a couple days. But no worries, there’s plenty of accommodations waiting for you!

Learn more about Madrid

It might look not that important, but one of the main tip about how to find a room in Madrid, is to start learning more information about the city. Before you start looking for your room, check out the best neighborhoods for young people, cost of living in Madrid, the public transport, the closest universities and other facilities.

Choose a room in the centre of Madrid

When it comes to renting a room, the first thing that students think about is to pick one close to their university. Actually this could work for some other cities, but it’s not the right strategy for Madrid. Why? Well, Madrid is such a lively and youthful city, that never sleeps and has so many leisure activities to offer 24/7 and all year round; and we don’t think that you want to miss any of these! Moreover, the public transport service is great and you can easily move around the city in the blink of an eye. That’s why a room in the centre of Madrid is the perfect choice in order to live fully your experience abroad.

Which things to be checked? Features of the room and details 

Don’t rush! Before booking the room, make sure you read all the information about the room (what is included or not, etc.). Read carefully  the payment conditions, discover more about the room rental company or the landlord and try to find some reviews of the previous tenants. 

How to find a room in Madrid and avoid scams 

Pay attention to some issues, because Internet is full of scammers and it’s easy to get fooled, especially when you rent a room online. Make sure that platforms and websites are trustful and look for the history of the company or previous reviews. If you need to pay money in advance like the first month rent or the deposit, make sure you use a safe payment method. Extremely cheap can be a red flag: Madrid, especially the city centre, is a very popular destination for the worldwide tourism and for the exchange programs; therefore, the average price for the room rental is not that low. Keep attention to the ads that look too cheap to believe! 

Last tip is to visit the room. If you don’t think that photos and videos online are enough, arrange a visit (in person or online) with the house rental company or landlord.

Nothing left, you’re ready to discover yourself how to find a room in Madrid!

The most popular neighbourhoods for students in Madrid 

Most of the young internationals here decide to live in the centre of Madrid, the perfect place where to truly enjoy the city and its facilities: great transportation connections, shops, cafes and restaurants, nightlife, public services and the atmosphere is simply amazing.

The best neighbourhoods in Madrid, popular among students and young professionals are:

• Sol: the right centre of Madrid, where entertainment and cultural activities come to life, making this neighborhood the most famous in the city.
• Gran Vía: the most popular avenue in Madrid, that stretches for almost 1,4 kilometres, where uncountable shops and rooftops liven up the atmosphere
• La Latina: this area is one of a kind; La Latina is home to cute, narrow streets, coloured cafes and bustling markets.
• Malasaña: vibrant colors, hipster vibes and a youthful atmosphere. Malasaña is one of the most loved neighborhoods among young internationals.
• Lavapiés: a melting pot in Madrid, Lavapiés is home to many different ethnicities, coliving in this area and sharing flavours, cultures and traditions.
• Chueca: cradle of the LGBT community of Madrid, Chueca hosts the most lively atmosphere in Madrid: events, bars and clubs, many shops and restaurants, art galleries and much more.
• Retiro: Here’s located the most famous park in Madrid, Parque del Retiro, a unique place boasting a magical atmosphere. It’s perfect for students and young professionals.
• Salamanca: one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Madrid, home to many elegant venues, fancy restaurants and beautiful museums.

There are also other great areas to discover in order to get the accommodation that suits you the most. Check them out here.

Well, you’re ready to start your adventure, but if you have any doubt about how to find a room in Madrid, you can always count on us!