Erasmus in Almería

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Almería

If you’d like to study in a city where the sun shines almost all year round, surrounded by desert landscapes and crystal clear beaches, then Almería is the place for you! It’s located in the southwest of Spain, in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia. It’s the perfect destination for combining quality academic learning with enriching cultural immersion. In addition to this, the warm Andalusian hospitality and the vibrant life in the streets make the stay in Almería a welcoming and enjoyable experience for international students who visit it.

Do you want to know more about this city on the Iberian Peninsula? Stay with us a little longer and let us tell you everything you need to take into account if you want to go on Erasmus to Almería and avoid getting your thoughts messed up or, rather, in a batiburrillo. ¡Vamos a ello!

Cost of living in Almería, Spain

Almería offers students a cheaper cost of living than other larger cities in Spain. In total, the monthly expenses range between €500 and €800. This includes accommodation and other expenses such as outings, shopping, entertainment and transportation.

Keep in mind that renting a room in a shared apartment can cost between €200 and €400. Meanwhile, the university residences are somewhat more expensive due to the services and facilities they offer, ranging from €400 and €500 per month onwards.

Regarding food, you normally spend 150€ to 250€, and around 100€ more on school supplies, entertainment and eating out. On the other hand, the public transport in Almería is quite accessible, and can cost 20€ to 30€ if you use the monthly tickets.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Almería

The social and leisure environment in Almería is ideal for young people and students. The Feria de Almería, with bullfights (which are still common in some parts of Spain), parades, musical performances and events for all ages, is one of the most typical festivities of the city. Likewise, the lively nightlife that inhabits the streets offers numerous pubs, nightclubs and of course bars with the famous Spanish tapas. Note: some of the most common areas to go out and have fun are the Rambla and the old town.

On the other hand, if you enjoy outdoor activities, the Parque Natural del Cabo de Gata-Níjar offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, guided kayak or snorkel routes and even boat rides. There’s something for all tastes!

Culture and gastronomy in Almería

Living in Almería gives you access to a wide variety of cultural experiences and historic places that showcase their heritage. The city is home to the Almería Cathedral (Catedral de Almería), significant for its Gothic-Renaissance style. On the other hand, it also houses the Alcazaba de Almería, an 11th century Moorish fortress, offering stunning views and an immersion into the region's past.

The Almería International Film Festival (Festival Internacional de Cine de Almería - FICAL), which celebrates the region's cinematic heritage, and the Night in White (Noche en Blanco), which offers open doors to museums and galleries, live performances and other activities; are important events in the city.

The Museum of Almería (Museo de Almería) includes an impressive archaeological collection spanning from Prehistory to modern times, and the Andalusian Centre of Photography (Centro Andaluz de la Fotografía) hosts exhibitions and workshops that represent contemporary photography. Both are excellent options to immerse yourself in the culture and history of the area.

And, of course, you can immerse yourself in the flamenco tradition, the characteristic and famous dance from Andalusia. ¡Olé!

Regarding gastronomy, Almería stands out for its combination of Mediterranean and Andalusian flavours. The seafood products are essential in local cuisine, which stands out for its grilled fish. Some of the most requested dishes are “pulpo a la brasa” and “gamba roja”.

Other Almerian delicacies are “ajo colorao”, made with shredded cod, potatoes and red peppers, and the “gurullos con conejo”, which consists of a stew made with a type of homemade pasta accompanied by rabbit and vegetables.

The Andalusian city is also famous for its tapas culture, a small aperitif which is served in bars as an accompaniment to drinks. These can be olives, potatoes, meatballs, even the most popular: the “cherigan”, a toasted bread with different ingredients on top, such as ham, tuna and tomato. When you are in Almería, you can’t miss experiencing an afternoon of tapeo!

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Almería, Spain

• If you go on Erasmus to Almería, you’ll enjoy a good quality of life thanks to its affordable prices.
• The warm Mediterranean climate of the city, accompanied by the natural environments that surround it, are ideal if you enjoy outdoor activities.
• You’ll not only have a quality education, but also a cosy and very hospitable atmosphere, which facilitates the integration of new students. People are very nice in the south of Spain!
• The city owns iconic historical monuments like the Alcazaba and the Cathedral, and a rich cultural life, with film festivals, flamenco festivals and events for all tastes.
• You have the opportunity to practise your Spanish among native speakers, and Andalusians! If you master the andalusian accent, you can boast of being almost an expert in Spanish.
• Likewise, you’ll enjoy exquisite gastronomy, and the typical tapas bars of the region in which each drink comes with free sides. It sure is welcoming!

Cheap student accommodation in Almería

Are you trying to find accommodation in Almería but it’s becoming overwhelming? In Erasmus Play we put at your disposal flats, rooms and student residences, safe and verified, to make your search easier and find your ideal place.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Almería

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