Essential tips for International Students in Madrid: fun and paperwork
Moving to Madrid can be as challenging as it is exciting, especially when you’re coming from a different country. Adapting to a different culture, maybe a new language, tons of paperwork and getting used to a different routine - it’s a lot to take on! But there’s no need to worry, we’ve got your back. We have prepared a list of tips for you to have an easier time adjusting to the city… And if we can help you with anything else, let us know! Ready for this adventure?
Explore the city and familiarize yourself with the local culture
Make the most out of your weekends to truly connect with the local lifestyle and culture. Get lost in Madrid’s streets, indulge in delightful tapas, and experience its authentic local vibe. To really experience the essence of the city, check out the neighborhoods like Lavapies, Chueca, Malasaña and La Latina.
To get a dose of its culture and history, you can join a guided tour. It’s a great way to uncover hidden secrets of Madrid.
Time for tapas? Here are some of the best bars/restaurants: Casa Macareno, Pez Tortilla (it has one of the bests tortilla de patatas in the city) and San Idelfonso Market (local markets are also a great way to have a culinary adventure in Madrid).
Take advantage of Student Perks
One of the benefits of living in Madrid is the endless number of student discounts available to you. You can enjoy free entry to beautiful museums such as El Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza as well as reduced prices in movie theaters such as Cines Callao. If you´d like to know other budget-friendly plans or activities around the city, you can explore the suggested articles below:
Madrid on a student budget | Student Experience
5 things to do in Madrid for free | Student Experience
Connect with other students
Join student clubs, organizations, or social events to meet other international and local students. At Student Experience Madrid Pozuelo, take advantage of our monthly events designed to bring students together for meaningful interactions. If you have a unique event idea in mind, feel free to share it here. You can also join our Facebook group to interact with other students staying here!
Learn basic Spanish
While many people in Madrid speak English, knowing some basic Spanish will greatly enhance your experience. It will help you navigate everyday situations and communicate effectively with locals.
Try Duolingo to learn some basic phrases, por supuesto!
Get your public transport card
Madrid has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including buses and metro. Get a public transportation card (Abono Transporte) for convenient and affordable travel around the city. You can also purchase individual transport tickets, but it’s much more affordable to get the monthly card. You can get it here.
Health insurance coverage
Having health insurance coverage is very useful in Spain if you need to visit the doctor. In fact, if you come from a country that´s not from the European Union, you need to have it to get your residence permit. Some companies that offer insurance are Asisa, Mapfre or Adelsas. If you come from a European country that belongs to the EU, it's worth the while to get The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). You can apply for it in your home country.
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