Tips for Erasmus Students in Barcelona
So, you’ve decided to become an Erasmus student in Barcelona, huh? Well, you’re in for quite an adventurous time. Barcelona prides itself on being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Spain and benefits from having fantastic people mixed with awesome culture – and let’s not forget to mention the beach and the sun. Here are some tips on how to make your Erasmus semester (or year) simply awesome!
Serious stuff:
Barcelona’s language is Catalan.
Although Spanish and Catalan come from the same language family, you’ll notice there’s a significant difference to Catalan. In fact, Catalan is much more complicated to learn – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t at least try learn the language during your Erasmus time.
Barcelona’s customs
Tipping isn’t obligatory. Some shops tend to close around lunchtime for a few hours and many won’t be open on a Sunday.
Transportation
Barcelona’s the queen of excellent transportation – no matter where you live, you’ll be able to get to your next destination, whether it is by train, tram, bike or Barcelona’s metro.
Fun stuff
Popular neighborhoods in Barcelona
Barceloneta
Barceloneta is an Erasmus favorite for quite a few reasons – it’s the beach, the cocktail bars next to it, the endless parties and beach sports. Combine that with Barcelona’s amazing weather and you’ll see that La Barceloneta is one of the most perfect places for Erasmus students.
Barrio Gotico
Barrio Gotico is for those who want to get charmed by the European history – it’s the narrow cobblestone streets, terraces, plazas, and plenty of food along the way.
El Born
El Born is one of the most energetic and lively places in Barcelona that boasts as one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city. Whether it’s because of history or shopping, you’ll end up hanging out at El Born quite often.
Popular Erasmus bars in Barcelona
Opium Barcelona
Opium Barcelona is a popular hangout spot, and one of the most exclusive in Barcelona. Althogh not strictly aimed at Erasmus students (the prices are a bit on the luxurious side), Opium Barcelona is worthy of a visit. If nothing else, you’ll be partying on the Barceloneta beach!
Shoko
Shoko is a fantastic alternative to Opium and it’s considered one of the best clubs in the city. The music is amazing and you can dance the night away – free entrance on a guest list before 1:30am!
Catwalk
Catwalk is the club for the young and a perfect choice for Erasmus students looking to sing their heart of to popular HipHop and R&B tunes. It has two dancefloors and it’s ready for you to dance your heart out!
Barcelona’s street food
As an Erasmus student, you will be eating tons of street food – consider yourself lucky as Barcelona’s street food is one of the best things to experience in the city. We’re not kidding.
Empanadas, kebabs, pizzas, focaccia, samosas, falafel. and even gelato – Barcelona’s bustling with street food and you should take advantage of it. Eat with an open mind and try absolutely everything – it might surpise you what you like.
Tips for Erasmus students in Barcelona
If you’re looking for a party, check on a Erasmus Barcelona Facebook group – there are plenty lying around and you’ll be able to get on several guest lists for a free entrance and possibly a drink.
Missing home? Barcelona’s extremely international – you’ll be able to find students or expats from the same country / city and sometimes even town to hang out with and help beat homesickness.
Take advantage of the Barcelona sun! Being able to study at the beach sounds absolutely wonderful – just make sure you don’t get distracted by the partying.
Pay attention to your surroundings. Especially during a night out – Barcelona’s famous for pickpocketers and many Erasmus students will tell you they have lost their phone / wallet / passport at least once during a night out.
And that’s it! If you’re still looking for accommodation, Spotahome Barcelona has plenty of Erasmus-friendly apartments waiting for you – if you need any help, just drop us a message!