My Experience Studying Abroad in Madrid

By: Keaton Jones

Studying abroad in Madrid has been an incredible experience. I’m living in Chamberí, a residential neighborhood that’s been the perfect place to call home. It’s super accessible, safe, and the locals are really friendly. I love how it feels like a true local neighborhood, but it’s also just a quick metro ride from the city center, making it easy to explore everything Madrid has to offer.

One of my favorite things to do here is thrifting in Malasaña. The area is full of cool vintage shops, and it’s a great spot to spend a weekend afternoon. Madrid’s tapas scene is also something I’ve really enjoyed. Whether it’s grabbing a quick bite at a casual bar or trying new places, there’s always something delicious to eat. The variety of tapas here is endless, and each neighborhood has its own hidden gems. Some of my favorite spots include Sobrino de Botín, a historic restaurant known for its incredible roasted meats. It’s been amazing to try classic Spanish dishes in such a legendary place.

Traveling around Europe has been one of the best parts of studying abroad. So far, I’ve been to cities like Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia in Spain, and places like Prague, Copenhagen, London, Paris, and Interlaken in Switzerland. Madrid’s location is perfect for traveling, with tons of affordable flights, though I’ve learned that booking trips early is key—last-minute flights can get pretty expensive!

Madrid itself is also super easy to get around. The metro system is affordable (only 8 euros for an unlimited monthly pass!) and convenient. It only took about a week to get the hang of it, and now it’s second nature. The cost of living here has been much more affordable than I expected, especially compared to other European cities. From groceries to going out for drinks, Madrid is reasonably priced, making it a great option for students on a budget. Even dining out at nice restaurants like Casa Lucio and enjoying tapas won’t break the bank.

My favorite classes so far have been Masters in Museums and Culture and Cuisine. Masters in Museums has allowed us to engage with Madrid’s rich history firsthand, visiting some of the city’s most famous museums and learning from Spanish professors who bring the art and history to life. Culture and Cuisine has been just as immersive—we’ve cooked traditional Spanish meals for projects, taken part in a paella cooking class, and even done an olive oil and bread tasting. One of the best experiences was the chocolate tasting, where we got to learn about Spain’s history with chocolate while trying different varieties. These classes have made my time in Madrid even more special by giving me hands-on experiences that connect me with the culture in a way I never could have in a traditional classroom.

EXPLORE MADRID