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Exchange in Barcelona: Discover the cost of living

written by
Natasha Machado
22/4/2024
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5 min
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If you're considering learning Spanish, taking a course in Barcelona may be the perfect exchange experience. The city offers a vibrant and captivating atmosphere, ensuring that you fall in love with everything it has to offer. In this article, we will explore the advantages of studying Spanish in Barcelona and analyze the cost of living in the city, with updated data from the Numbeo website.

Budget for housing in Barcelona

One of the main aspects to consider when doing an exchange in Barcelona is the cost of housing. Prices may vary depending on the location and type of accommodation chosen. According to the Numbeo, renting a room in a shared apartment can cost between €400 and €700 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment in the city center has an average rent of €950.

If you prefer to live alone, be prepared for higher prices, ranging from €700 to €1200 per month. To save money, consider options such as student housing or rooms in shared flats. Additionally, choosing a location a little further away from the center may result in more affordable rentals.

Daily cost of living: Food, transportation, and leisure

Food

  • A meal at a budget restaurant costs around €12, while a meal at a mid-level restaurant for two is around €50.
  • To save money, take advantage of local markets, such as the famous La Boqueria, where you can buy fresh produce at lower prices. Shopping at grocery stores and cooking at home is also a great option to reduce food expenses.
  • An espresso at a coffee shop costs around €1.70, while a local beer at a bar costs approximately €3.

Transportation

  • Barcelona has an extensive public transport network, including metro, bus, and shared bicycles.
  • A monthly public transport pass costs approximately €50, which allows unlimited access to all transportation options within the city.
  • If you prefer to ride a bike, the Bicing bike sharing service offers annual passes for around €50.

Lazer

  • Barcelona offers many free or low-cost activities, such as visiting parks, beaches, and some museums on specific days.
  • To enter the famous Sagrada Familia Basilica, the ticket starts at €26, while the entrance to Park Güell starts at €10.
  • Watching a movie at the cinema costs around €9, and a beer at a nightclub can range from €5 to €10.

By considering these daily costs, it is possible to plan a realistic budget for your exchange in Barcelona. Remember that your spending may vary depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences.

Experience Catalan culture

  • Barcelona captivates visitors with its infectious energy and cultural diversity.
  • In addition to learning Spanish, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the rich Catalan culture.
  • The city offers a unique combination of beaches, historic architecture and lively nightlife.
  • Barcelona is cosmopolitan and home to a welcoming international community, making it easy to create new friendships.

Find out more about how study and work in Spain and make the most of your experience.

Learning Spanish: How long does it take?

The time required to learn Spanish varies according to the student's initial level of proficiency and dedication. However, many students report significant progress after a period of three to six months of intensive study.

Taking a Spanish course in Barcelona offers the advantage of practicing the language daily, accelerating progress. Every interaction, whether at cafés, tourist spots, or cultural events, will be an opportunity to improve your language skills and experience the language in an authentic context.

Make the most of your exchange in Barcelona

To make the most of your exchange in Barcelona, consider the following points:

1. Explore historic neighborhoods, such as the Gothic and Born, and discover the city's rich history.

2. Visit Antoni Gaudí's iconic works, such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

3. Enjoy delicious Catalan cuisine, with typical dishes such as paella and escalivada.

4. Take part in traditional festivals, such as La Mercè and the Festa de Gràcia, to experience local culture.

Be Easy

An exchange in Barcelona is a unique opportunity to learn a new language, explore a vibrant city, and create lasting memories. With careful cost-of-living planning and an immersion in local culture, you'll be able to make the most of this transformative experience.

If you're ready to embark on this incredible journey, the team at Be Easy is here to help. Our expert advisors can provide personalized guidance on Spanish courses, accommodation, visas, and more. Contact us today and discover how we can make your dream of studying in Barcelona a reality. We look forward to being part of your adventure!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy