1. Barcelona

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Barcelona is one of the most popular Erasmus destinations in Europe, and with good reason. The cosmopolitan capital of Spain has it all: beaches, good weather, great food, amazing nightlife, excellent accommodation options - and 11 renowned universities, including the leading business school ESADE, ranked as one of the best of its kind in the world.

Barcelona boasts 20,000 international students and more than 5,000 exchange students, so you're bound to meet friends from every corner of the world. Furthermore, accommodation in Barcelona is excellent for students - with a wide range of options both within the city as well as in the surrounding suburbs. Razzmatazz is the city's biggest and most popular club, with rooms that cater to different music tastes and a rooftop outdoor area - there's something for everyone. Barcelona is also known for its stunning architecture and art that features throughout the city, providing endless opportunity for exploration.

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In terms of connectivity, a weekend trip to Amsterdam by train isn't feasible due to Barcelona's more southern location, however, Ryanair and Spain's Vueling both offer extremely cheap and frequent flights to everywhere in Europe. Competition between the two low-cost carriers means some of the cheapest flights in all of Europe - meaning less money spent visiting more places!

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Barcelona's food culture doesn't disappoint either with hundreds of Tapas bars scattered throughout the city. Tapas is an appetiser or snack in Spanish cuisine and translates to small portion of any kind of Spanish cuisine. Going out to eat tapas is one of the most popular activities in Spain when meeting up with friends. Wandering onto Las Ramblas, you'll find La Boqueria; Barcelona's most famous food market with an abundance of fresh ingredients as well as cooked foods available.

When it comes to cost, Barcelona is not generally considered expensive in comparison to other top European cities like London, Paris and Rome. When compared to the likes of Prague and Budapest, it is more expensive - but it's definitely possible to keep costs low with the use of those student budgeting skills we've all acquired along the way.

2. Prague

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Coming in second is the stunning Czech Republic capital; Prague. Famous for its historic core, beautiful architecture and dangerously cheap beer - Prague is the perfect location for students looking for an amazing Erasmus experience. Prague boasts three universities ranked among the world's best. Its leading institution, Charles University, is joined in the QS World University Rankings 2020 by the Czech Technical University and the University of Economics.

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Prague is a hugely popular choice among Erasmus students due to a number of reasons. Firstly, Prague is ideally located in the middle of Europe, bordering 4 countries: Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria, providing endless opportunities for weekend trips to neighbouring cities such as Vienna, Berlin, Wroclaw and more.

Secondly, Prague is cheap; food, accommodation and other costs of living are amongst some of the lowest in Europe (including the 15th cheapest beer in Europe). 2 bedroom apartments are available for as little as €400 a month, with certain Universities having even cheaper, but limited, options for students. The low costs will leave your wallet full for even more travelling. Although the city is cheap, you will not be compromising on quality; with rich history and incredible nightlife, Prague does not disappoint.

3. Budapest

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Last but not least on our list is the bustling city of Budapest. Hailed as one of the most photogenic European cities, Budapest is peppered with 19th-century architectural wonders alongside the Danube River that make for views you will never get sick of.  Budapest is home to 3 universities ranked by the QS World University Rankings - all of which offer erasmus and exchange programmes. Budapest ranks well on the cost factor too - known as one of Europe's more affordable big cities. Accomodation is plentiful, with many student housing options throughout the city. 

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Budapest is famous for its nightlife and parties. Sitting on a patchwork of thermal springs has allowed for the creation of mineral-rich, thermal water baths throughout the city. These baths have been a part of Budapest culture for centuries, and 'taking the waters' has become a part of everyday life. In recent times, these baths have come alive at night as they're transformed into pool parties. Ruin bars are also unique to the city - these bars are built in Budapest's old Jewish quarter in the ruins of abandoned buildings, stores, or lots. Similarly, the Danube river also comes alive at night as boat parties, or 'booze cruises', make their way down the river and through the city. Budapest's unique nightlife scene make it the perfect spot for erasmus students who love to party.

Whatever it is you're looking for on your Erasmus, these 3 cities are sure to have it. They offer the best combination between price, culture, activities and nightlife out of all cities in Europe, however, we're certain that wherevery you go you'll have an incredible time, and wherever you go - EuroTravelGuides is here to assist you along the way. We're a group of students writing guides on everything Europe & Erasmus, ensuring that you're equipped with the knowledge and information to have the exchange experience of your life! Connect with us on Facebook for constant updates on everything Erasmus.

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