Dream of studying in Barcelona? Whether you want to come for a month, half a year or a whole year, these essential tips will help you find quality student accommodation in Barcelona with as little fuss as possible.
#1. Always look for accommodation offers with pictures
When renting an apartment (‘piso’ in Spanish) in Barcelona, always look for offers that include pictures. It’s true that the angles of the pictures might make rooms seem bigger, brighter and more beautiful, but at least you will have a rough idea of how it looks inside.
You’d be amazed how many adverts in Barcelona don’t include photos! If there are no photos, it’s possible that the piso is either really ugly or, worse, it doesn’t even exist!
Tip: There are plenty of luxury apartments advertised in Barcelona at low prices (below €900 a month). These are mostly scams, so remember the age old rule: if it looks too good to be true, it’s most probably is, especially in Barcelona!
#2. Make a list of what you want/need from an apartment and be willing to compromise
If you don’t have a list of what you need when looking for accommodation in Barcelona then stop and do it right now. Life is lived outside in Barcelona, so you apartment really is just a place to crash after you’ve been having it large at la fiesta.
Ask yourself whether you want a studio apartment, whether you want to live with other people, or whether you want to live near the centre of the city or in the suburbs.
Tip: Barcelona is the most expensive city to live in in Spain, so you might have to compromise to get a a flat in your budget. Accommodation comes in all different shapes, sizes and conditions in Barcelona and may not be to the same standard as what you’re used to back home, so it’s highly likely you will have to compromise. But remember that it’s only temporary!
#3. Look at as many accommodation websites as possible
If you’re looking for accommodation in Barcelona, it’s important to widen your options. It might be tempting to stick to one website, but you may end up missing out on your dream pad.
Why? Apart from the obvious fact that not all accommodation websites list all flats in Barcelona, the rental prices may vary according to the commission that each website takes from its clients. Don’t to limit your options – keep an open mind.
#4. Ask the owner about the necessary documents
Picture the scene: you’ve found the perfect accommodation in Barcelona and you’re ready to rent it. Now what? In Barcelona it’s important to speak to the owner of the property about what documents are needed in order to rent it.
They are incredibly fussy and you don’t want to miss out on your perfect apartment simply because you don’t have a piece of paper – Spain is notorious of its love of paperwork.
#5. Let Uniplaces do the work for you
For a much easier transition to Barcelona, let Uniplaces help you. This company is dedicated to helping you find quality student accommodation in Barcelona and guiding you throughout the process.
The real beauty is that with Uniplaces you can rent a room, studio or apartment before you even arrive in Barcelona. They deal with landlords on your behalf, carry out property checks and provide detailed photographs (and sometimes video) so you can eliminate the stress of moving and focus on celebrating your arrival.
/// More Advice on Moving to Barcelona///
So You Want to Move to Barcelona ~ A Happy Expat’s Guide
Essential Things to Do and See in Barcelona ~ An Inside Guide
Cheap & Cheerful Student Bars in Barcelona ~ La Fiesta Awaits
FREE Things to Do in Barcelona ~ An Inside Guide
Best Bars with FREE Tapas in Barcelona
