Which neighbourhood in Cordoba to live in if you are an international student?
You are a student and have been awarded a scholarship to study abroad – congratulations, this is an excellent opportunity to have one of the best experiences of your life. The most important and difficult part is already taken care of. Now you have to start preparing and applying for documentation and looking for suitable accommodation.
Cordoba is a medium sized city. It has about 300.000 inhabitants so you have to choose very well the place where you will live in order not to be too far away from your faculty. Most students tend to choose areas such as Ciudad Jardín, which is the student neighbourhood par excellence, but many also choose areas such as the city centre, the Parque Cruz Conde, or the Judería.
Ciudad Jardín
It is a fairly large neighbourhood with a wide range of affordable accommodation. Its proximity to the train and bus stations and to the city centre, together with a wide range of shops, bars and businesses, most of them family-run, make it the preferred neighbourhood for students coming to Cordoba.
It is a very popular neighbourhood in Cordoba. El ambiente es muy alegre, pues hay gente de todas partes del mundo, tanto Erasmus como estudiantes españoles. The atmosphere is very lively, as there are people from all over the world, both Erasmus and Spanish students. You can find all kinds of shops, from small neighbourhood shops, grocery shops, greengrocers, butchers, fishmongers, etc. to larger ones, such as multi-store bazaars or shops where international products are sold, generally all at very cheap prices. You can also find some chain supermarkets such as Mercadona or Día.
It is also very close to the leisure area. You will love the Mercado Victoria for the variety of products it offers: tapas bars, cafes, nightlife, etc. You can also find other nightlife venues such as Banagher or La Fontana.
This neighbourhood is perfect for those students who are going to study at the Rabanales Campus or at the Faculty of Philosophy and Arts. Depending on the area of the neighbourhood you choose, it can also be a good option for students of Medicine, Education Sciences or the Loyola Andalucía University. The Faculty of Law is a little further away from this area, but the neighbourhood is well connected by bus and with line 7 you can get there in a few minutes.
Centre
Living in the centre is always a good idea, because you will always have everything you need close at hand. It is perfectly connected by bus to any point in the city and you are surrounded by shops of all kinds. The most renowned national and international brands and department stores are in this area (Zara, El Corte Inglés, etc.). Also the best-known food and restaurant franchises can be found in this part of the city. A stroll through the centre is always pleasant, whether you go shopping or for a walk with your friends you will have a plan.
There is also a wide range of flats on offer and it is one of the most popular areas for students. The price is generally a little higher than in Ciudad Jardín, but it is worth paying a little more in exchange for the services that this area offers. Avenida del Gran Capitán is where you will find the highest concentration of entertainment and restaurants. International students will particularly enjoy Góngora and O’Donoghues.
This area is perfect for students of Philosophy and Arts, Law and Labour Sciences. It is also suitable for those studying at the Rabanales Campus as it is close to the train station and the bus stop that takes you to the Rabanales Campus, located in Plaza de Colón. Access to the other faculties is also possible by bus, as you will have nearby access to any of the bus lines.
Old town
The most remarkable thing about living in this area is that you will be constantly surrounded by beauty. The historic centre of Cordoba is renowned for being one of the most beautiful places in the world. Strolling daily and getting lost in the narrow streets of the Jewish quarter or around the Mosque will be an unforgettable memory.
One of the most beautiful places in the historic centre is the neighbourhood of San Basilio. Surrounded by a wall and accessed by medieval gates, it will make you feel like you’ve just entered another place, known for its narrow cobbled streets, colourful courtyards and traditional Andalusian architecture.
The area is also popular because it is close to nightlife venues such as Soho Ribera.
This area is perfect for students who have to go to the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters, as this faculty is located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter.
In conclusion, Cordoba, Spain, offers a wide variety of charming neighbourhoods to choose from, each with its own unique character and benefits. By exploring the different neighbourhoods of this beautiful city, it is possible to find the perfect place to live to suit your preferences and lifestyle. Cordoba awaits you with open arms and an unrivalled living experience in each of its wonderful neighbourhoods.
