Study Abroad | ExploreGlobally

Spain is one of the most popular countries for study abroad students to flock to. Known for its beautiful cities, many along the coast, Spain has become one of the hottest destinations in the world for studying abroad. If you are thinking about studying in Spain, knowing what city would suit you best will make your decision-making process much easier. With many different wonderful options to choose from, picking a city can be a daunting task. Spain has more cities to choose from than Barcelona or Madrid. Here is a list of the best cities in Spain to study abroad that will hopefully help you make your decision. Here are the best cities in Spain to study abroad: Barcelona: Barcelona About: Barcelona is one of the most unique cities in all of Europe. Settled between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, the setting of the city is stunning. It is the second-largest city in Spain, only behind Madrid. The city has an abundance of activities with beautiful beaches and mountains providing you with endless possibilities. Since it is the capital of Catalunya, most of the locals speak the Catalan language as well as Spanish. Sagrada Familia Things to see: The oldest parts of Barcelona, El Raval and the Gothic Quarter, are beautiful reminders of its long history. Most of the city was built in a grid system giving the city a sense of equality. There are a large number of historical sites to see. Famous architect Antoni Gaudi built immaculate buildings including the world-famous Sagrada Familia. Barcelona also has one of the most legendary nightlife scenes in the world. If you are into going out at night, this is one of the best cities you could choose. Study Abroad in Barcelona: CEA Barcelona SAE Barcelona IES Barcelona Valencia Valencia About: Valencia is a beautiful beach city in the province of Catalunya. It is the 3rd largest city in Spain with almost 2.5 million people in the metro area. The city is known for its history and beaches. It is also known for being the birthplace of the cuisine paella. City of Arts and Sciences Things to see: Valencia is another city where there is an abundance of activities to do. The City of Arts and Sciences is one of the city's most iconic areas. Jardín del Turia is a massive park, built in the old river bed, that stretches down the center of the city offering an abundance of free space. The beach scene here rivals that of almost any other city in Spain. Some of the largest festivals in Europe are held here, as well. Study Abroad in Valencia: AIFS Valencia ISA Valencia Madrid Madrid About: Madrid is the capital city of Spain. It is also the largest city in Spain with 6.5 million people in the metro area, making it the 3rd largest metro area in the European Union. The city is known for being the largest economic hub in Southern Europe. Churros dipped in hot chocolate is one of the most famous of the local cuisines. Royal Palace Things to see: There is no shortage of landmarks in Madrid. From the Royal Palace to the Prado Museum, there will be plenty to see here. Retiro Park is a giant, 350 acres, park found in the middle of the city that is full of sculptures and monuments. Efficient public transportation is another bragging point for the city. It also has an incredible nightlife scene that is only rivaled Barcelona for the best nightlife in Spain. Study Abroad Madrid: CEA Madrid ISA Madrid AIFS Madrid Seville Alcazar About: Seville is at the heart of the Spanish culture. The city is 4th largest in Spain with 1.5 million in the metro area. Seville is home to 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites. In addition, it is also the warmest city in continental Europe. If you are a fan of warm weather, Seville might be the best choice for you. Seville Things to see: The is an abundance of landmarks to see in Seville. The St. Mary of the Sea Cathedral, the Alcazar, and the Torre del Oro are some of the most well-known landmarks in the south of Spain. Plaza de Espana is one of the most recognizable buildings in all of Spain. Seville has a reputation for incredible live music played at the local bars. Study Abroad Seville: Universidad de Sevilla CEA Seville San Sebastian San Sebastian About: Located in the mountainous Basque country in Northern Spain, San Sebastian is known for its beaches and beautiful setting. It is located only 12 miles from the French border. There are 450,000 people living in the metro area. Being in Northern Spain it is a little cooler than other cities on this list. San Sebastian Things to see: San Sebastian holds many festivals throughout the year, including Europe’s longest-running jazz festival. There is a large number of restaurants in the city, many of which serving traditional Basque Country cuisines. Being a beach town, many people take up surfing. With four major universities, San Sebastian has become an extremely popular destination for college students. Study Abroad San Sebastian: USAC San Sebastian University Deusto Salamanca Salamanca About: Salamanca is a smaller city to the northwest of Madrid. It is one of the most important university cities in Spain. The University of Salamanca was founded in 1218, making it one of the oldest western universities. The entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city gets most of its income through the university and tourism. The city has 330,000 people living in the metro area. Plaza Mayor Things to know: Christopher Columbus lectured at the university and Hernan Cortes also attended the university. The university is arguably the most premier school in the world to learn the Spanish language. Plaza Mayor is regarded as the best plaza in all of Spain. In conclusion, Salamanca is known for the university but has many other things to see and do. Study Abroad Salamanca: ISA Salamanca IES Salamanca Granada Grenada About: Granada is in Southern Spain sitting in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Granada is only an hour from the Mediterranean Sea and less than an hour from a ski resort in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Granada’s metro area is 472,000 people. The University of Granada is a well-known university in Spain with 82,000 students which also makes it Spain’s 4th largest university. Alhambra Things to see: Granada is a very unique city with its Arabic, Jewish, and Spanish histories all colliding. The city is full of architectural landmarks from different cultures. The Alhambra, an Arabic palace, is the most prominent landmark in Granada. For being a smaller city, Granada actually has great public transportation. The city is quite lively and a nice place to live in. Study Abroad Granada: CEA Granada AIFS Granada These are the best cities to study in Spain. Picking any of these cities would be a great choice. You need to decide for yourself what aspects of each city are most important to you.