Erasmus in Bilbao
Information and tips for Erasmus students in Bilbao
| Private rooms Bilbao | 1133 | 606/month |
| Residences Bilbao | 6 | 726/month |
| Studios Bilbao | 10 | 1178/month |
| Apartments Bilbao | 64 | 2305/month |
Bilbao, in northern Spain, is the capital of Biscay, in the Basque Country. It's a city that has everything: art, nature, architecture and a gastronomy that will leave you speechless! Don't miss the Guggenheim and the ‘pintxos’ in the centre!
Surrounded by mountains and with a great student atmosphere, an Erasmus in Bilbao is always a good idea and you'll make friends for life! Discovering this city will be an unforgettable experience.
Cost of living in Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao is actually one of the most expensive cities in Spain, behind Madrid, San Sebastian and Barcelona, when it comes to accommodation. But don't worry! If we compare Bilbao to those three cities, the rent is not that expensive.
We recommend renting a room in a shared flat, which costs between €350 and €500 per month. If you prefer to live in a residence, the price is usually between €650 and €750 per month.
The city has one of the largest gastronomic offers and with all kinds of prices. Eating in a restaurant ranges from €13.5 for a full menu to €30. In some establishments (becoming more common) you can find a half menu for €8.70.
Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Bilbao
Students take the city from Thursday in different areas, from the centre and the old town to the areas furthest away.
As for nightlife, the centre and the old town are the main destinations to fully enjoy Bilbao's student atmosphere. Many options include Sala Moma Bilbao or Kafe Antzokia.
If you prefer the bars and pubs, or just stroll and taste the local beer, you can walk around the old town. This plan is very common on Thursday nights, with students eating ‘pintxos’ through the old streets of Bilbao.
As for things to do during the day, you can visit the city and enjoy the banks of Nervión River. In addition, the nearby landscapes and towns, such as Getxo or Bermeo, offer spectacular views. Don't miss the extraordinary suspension bridge at Portugalete. And what about the beaches! Sopelana and Barrika will take your breath away with their great beauty.
The best thing about Bilbao is its excellent transport - you can go from urban to rural in a matter of minutes! Walk up Arnotegi Mount for beautiful panoramic views of the city. Do you like sports? Take a canoe trip on the river and discover Bilbao from the water!
Culture and gastronomy in Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao has a large cultural offer, with plans for all tastes and budgets! If you prefer to save money, you can enjoy the incredible architecture of the city and explore its surroundings.
If art is your thing, don't miss the museums. The Guggenheim is a world icon combining contemporary art and modern architecture. On the other hand, the Museum of Fine Arts allows you to enjoy classic and modern works of great prestige. Both museums offer discounts for students, which makes them very affordable.
As for the local gastronomy, you're sure to know it's amazing! Don't miss the ‘pintxos’, from classics like cod omelette to modern combinations. Some typical dishes are the cod pil-pil style, with garlic, oil and chilli, or the ‘marmitako’, a tuna stew with potatoes. And if you're a meat lover, the grilled T-bone steak is a must!
For dessert, indulge yourself with a ‘pantxineta’ or the crunchy ‘canutillos’ from Bilbao. You'll love them!
Advantages and disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Bilbao
Advantages
- Welcoming students from all over the world, Bilbao is an ideal Erasmus destination, with a great international community.
- From the famous Guggenheim Museum to the most delicious ‘pintxos’, Bilbao offers a unique experience in art and food.
- It has excellent transport connections, making it easy to get to other cities such as San Sebastian, Vitoria or Santander.
- If you like nature, Bilbao has mountains, beaches and breathtaking landscapes, like the area around Getxo or the coast of Bizkaia, perfect for exploring.
- Whether it's watching an Athletic Club match or enjoying live concerts, the city has activities for all tastes, both sport and musical.
Disadvantages
- The weather in Bilbao can be unpredictable and rainy for much of the year, which can affect your outdoor plans.
- Although it has bars and a few pubs, its nightlife is not as lively as in larger cities.
- Rental prices, while not as high as in other big cities, can be high for students, especially if you prefer residences or private flats.
- Some areas don't have as extensive transport network as in other larger European cities.
Cheap student accommodation in Bilbao, Spain
Are you looking for student accommodation in Bilbao? On Erasmus Play you can compare and choose from the best student flats, rooms and residences in Bilbao.
FAQ about doing Erasmus in Bilbao
How much does it cost to live in Bilbao as a student?
An average of €700-€1,000 per month, including affordable rent and expenses for leisure, transport and food.
What is student life like in Bilbao?
It's full of leisure, good food, ‘pintxos’, partying and beer. You'll be able to visit iconic places, and the scenery matches the amazing food and people who live there.
How much does student accommodation cost in Bilbao?
A room in a shared flat costs around €350-€500 (without expenses). If you prefer to live in a residence, it costs around €650-€750.
How much is the Erasmus scholarship to study in Bilbao?
The amount of the Erasmus scholarship varies according to your home country and the policies of your University. We recommend you to check with your institution.
What typical dishes can you try in Bilbao during your Erasmus?
Bilbao is a paradise for food lovers. The city is famous for its pintxos, small luxury snacks that you can find in any bar. You can also enjoy traditional dishes such as cod pil-pil style, ‘marmitako’ or T-bone steak. And don't forget to try the famous local white wine, ‘txakoli’!
