Granada is known as one of the university cities of Spain. The main reason is that students represent a significant percentage of the population. In addition, it is home to one of the most important universities in the country: the University of Granada.
Living in this beautiful city located in eastern Andalusia is quite an experience. Its landscapes, historical richness, famous tapas and traditions will make your time at university unforgettable.
To give you an idea, we will tell you about student life in Granada:
Intercultural environment
Those who study in Granada are surrounded by a very attractive and enriching intercultural atmosphere. First of all, the city was part of a Muslim territory called Al-Andalus until 1492. For this reason, there are still streets and buildings with Arabic architecture mixed with European-style constructions and Spanish characteristics.
Second, the universities found in this city attract many foreign students each year. That is why you will be able to get to know different cultures, customs, and languages through your classmates.
In addition, Grenadians are used to dealing with foreigners, so they are usually open and free from prejudice. Especially regarding other cultures. This makes the city the perfect place for international students.
Tourist areas
Due to its history and architecture, Granada has a great tourist attraction. The main advantage of this is that students always find a new place to visit and many interesting things along the way.
One of the most popular areas is the Albaicín. A medieval Arab neighborhood full of narrow streets and white houses that contrast with the landscape. Here you will find small bars, restaurants, cafes, viewpoints and more. You can even enjoy an evening of flamenco or a night of tapas.
You will also be able to visit the Alhambra, a complex of medieval Arab monuments, among which are palaces, fortresses, and gardens. Like this neighborhood, there are many other places in Granada that you can visit with friends and which will keep you out of boredom.
Tapas nights
One of the things that Granada students enjoy the most are the tapas bars. And is that for about 2€, you can get a small portion of food accompanied by a beer, a glass of wine, or a soft drink.
Depending on the bar, it can be more or less food. Despite this, this is still the cheapest way to taste the typical flavors of Granada cuisine, dine outdoors, and chat with friends. What’s more, you will have time to visit the most popular ones and choose your favourite.
Nightlife and leisure
The fact that there are so many students makes the nightlife in Granada very varied. Just as there are those who go for tapas, there are those who party; so there will always be options and places to celebrate with friends.
During the nights, the streets of the center are filled with young people. But among all of them, Pedro Antonio de Alarcón street is the most popular for its tapas bars, restaurants and clubs.
You will notice this most often on Fridays and Saturdays, when the school week is over and you don’t need to wake up early the next day.
Access to public transport
Granada has metro stations and bus stops in different parts of the city, so it is easy to get anywhere. This is excellent for students who do not live so close to university campuses, as they can be reached comfortably in a few minutes.
On the other hand, the public transport service will also help you get to know the emblematic places of the city more easily.
Cultural events
For students who love culture and history, there will always be an event to attend. Some of the most noteworthy are:
- White night (Noche en blanco), which takes place in March
- International Festival of Music and Dance, which takes place from June to July
- Holy Week (Semana Santa), when processions are held every day
In addition to this, we recommend keeping an eye on the activities that take place in the Parque de las Ciencias. There you can visit the Planetarium, enjoy an Astronomy Night, and participate in other events.
Outdoor activities
To escape the stress of exams, a visit to the mountains with friends is an excellent plan. Granada is at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, where you will enjoy the snow, the minibus rides and the ski activities.
On the other hand, if you are one of those who prefer warm climates, you will be happy to know that Granada is 50 minutes from the Mediterranean coast. And there is nothing like celebrating the end of the term on the beach.
In the city, you will also find squares and parks ideal for studying, resting and relaxing. In fact, the Federico García Lorca Park is a student favourite.
The more you explore this city, you will notice that student life in Granada is full of experiences that you will remember for a lifetime.