Erasmus in Pontevedra

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Pontevedra

Why do your Erasmus in Pontevedra? It is a very comfortable city to live in since its size is relatively small and all its centre is pedestrian, so you can walk anywhere. In addition, it has an amazing old town and a long maritime tradition, which gives it a unique atmosphere. If you are interested in knowing all the secrets that this city hides, keep reading this article!

Cost of living in Pontevedra, Spain

Living in Pontevedra is not expensive for a student. Being a city with an entire pedestrian centre, you can get to all places on foot, or if they are longer distances, you can get a bicycle. In this way, you will be able to save on transportation costs.

As for accommodation, there are two quite affordable options: a room in a shared apartment or a student residence. Depending on the characteristics and the type you prefer, they may or may not be cheaper. Renting a room in a shared apartment is usually cheaper, since, if you look for it in advance, you can find rooms from €200 per month. On the other hand, residences are usually much more expensive and their prices vary depending on the services they have.

Keep in mind that the monthly spending of each student depends on many different factors : lifestyle, type of accommodation, frequency of trips, lunches and dinners away from home... But, to give you an idea, the average budget for a student could be around €550-650 per month.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Pontevedra

Its pedestrian centre, the Alameda area, the 7-kilometre promenade, the Parque de las Palmeras and the Parque de la Isla de las Esculturas are some of the places where you can spend good time, whether walking, doing picnics or just hanging out. In its surroundings there are beautiful viewpoints, highlighting the Caeira viewpoint, from where you can see the entire city. In addition, in its nearby areas, you will find beaches, such as Lapamán in Marín, and several worth-visiting coastal towns, such as Sanxenxo, Combarro and Cambados. And you can also take advantage of travelling all over Galicia, such as Santiago de Compostela, Vigo or Ourense.

Thursdays are the university night's par excellence in Pontevedra! But don't worry, you will find a student atmosphere from Wednesday to Sunday. Most people go out in the old town, where there is a great atmosphere concentrated. Music is very varied: trap, rap and reggae at the Fifty, rock and the 70s, 80s and 90s at La Pomada, indie at Sala Karma… In addition to all these places, you will be able to go to pubs like Fetiche, La Luna, Bangkok and Ítaca Copas.

Culture and gastronomy in Pontevedra

This city has a long maritime and commercial tradition, in addition to keeping one of the most important and elegant historical centres from the province of Galicia. This old area preserves its network of streets and squares with spectacular civil and religious constructions. In the centre of the old town is Plaza de España and the Town Hall. In front of it, there is the Alameda, a wide promenade where there are magnificent buildings, such as the Provincial Council. Another interesting place is the Santuario de la Peregrina and, in front of this temple, the popular Plaza de la Ferrería, surrounded by outstanding buildings such as the Convent of San Francisco.

One of the main hallmarks of the province of Pontevedra is its gastronomy. Fish, shellfish and wine are internationally recognised, as well as meat, farm products, cheese or honey stand out for their quality. Many of these products also carry the Rías Baixas brand. Go ahead and try some of their most famous recipes! Among them are:

• “Galician style octopus”: octopus accompanied by boiled potatoes, paprika and salt.

• “Lamprea”: a type of fish.

• “Caldo de castañas”: stew-type boiled chestnut.

• “Pimientos del padrón”: Spicy green peppers.

• “Filloa”: a dessert very similar to crêpes.

• Wines with denomination of origin as the Albariño and Ribeiro.

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Pontevedra

This Galician city will allow you to delve into Spanish culture to the fullest, as well as get to know their way of life, their traditions and their gastronomy. Also, it's a good place to learn or improve your Spanish language while communicating with the locals, who are very open and sociable. From Pontevedra, you will be able to visit beautiful beaches, like Lapamán, seaside towns, like Sanxenxo, and even explore the rest of Galicia, like Santiago de Compostela.

Cheap student accommodation in Pontevedra

If you're looking for accommodation in Pontevedra and you don't know how to get it, in Erasmus Play we help you. From our platform, you can find the best flats, rooms and apartments for students in the city for free.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Pontevedra

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