Study in Spain: Language & Culture

Getting your education at a top university is one of the main reasons to choose to study abroad. The other is the adventure that comes with it. And Spain has a lot of adventure to offer.

With its 17 distinctive regions, Spain is a kaleidoscope of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural events to explore. Once your studies are over, you will have enough time to cross off more than a few items of your to-do list.

Places that spring to mind when thinking about Spain, like Barcelona, Valencia and of course Madrid, have something to offer year-round. However, studying in Spain can be your chance to explore this Mediterranean country beyond the familiar landscapes.

Read on to find out some must-do things in Spain that will make your study time unforgettable.

Going Out

The amazing beaches, sunshine and a relaxed way of life have greatly influenced Spanish culture. One of the quintessential Spanish things you should experience while studying in Spain are the customs surrounding food. Eating and drinking are very important in Spain!

If you’re looking to spend some time on the dancefloor, nightlife in Spain will not leave you wanting. Bigger cities like Madrid and Barcelona are the most popular destinations for students wanting to experience a bustling nightlife.

Alternatively, you can head to one of the many bars available in Spanish cities. In a bar you will always have an option to snack on a nice variety of pinchos or tapas, and get a taste of regional cuisine. Tapas are usually included in the price of the drink or offered at a discount. Spanish bars and restaurants are meeting points to have fun, watch a soccer match, meet with friends for a coffee, eating, party. Really, any reason is a good enough reason to visit a bar.

If you are on a tighter budget, like many students, then you might skip the fancy restaurants. No need to worry. Spanish cuisine, which consists of a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and olive oil is incredibly healthy and with Spain’s lengthy growing season, some products like wine and olive oil are fairly inexpensive. This way, even if you skip fancy dining out, you can treat yourself to good food and wine.

The famous siesta breaks take place between 2 and 4 p.m. While today siesta is rarely used for sleeping, it is important to plan your trip around these times since most of the shops are closed.

Traveling

Spanish cities are vibrant and exciting. You might watch a Flamenco festival, experience the heated atmosphere of a soccer match or participate in the world’s biggest food fight during La Tomatina.

If you are more interested in art and architecture, Spain is known for artists like Pablo Picasso, Juan Gris, Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí. Spanish architecture ranges from prehistoric monuments to Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals and castles to modern monuments.

A camera will be your best friend while travelling through Spain. You will doubtless want to snap a few pictures of the breathtaking Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, lush gardens of Alcazar, or the famous Alhambra palace.

If you are looking for something closer to home, a lot of museums are free of charge or offer a discount for students. Take a rainy day to experience the long artistic heritage Spain has to offer and enjoy yourself to the fullest.

Language

The native language of Spain is Spanish, the most common language of instruction at universities in Spain. However, many well-known universities do offer courses in English with the opportunity to learn the Spanish language on the side. 

Spanish would look great both on your resume and as a key to understanding the way of life in Spain a bit better.

There are many language courses you can enrol in while or before you start your studies. Spanish courses will give you an in-depth understanding not only of the language but of the culture that flourished around it.