City guides
Erasmus Guide to Madrid 2026
Madrid is the Erasmus capital of Spain: legendary nightlife, museums and one of the largest concentrations of universities in Europe. Here are the essentials for finding housing.
Why choose Madrid for your Erasmus
A 24/7 atmosphere, culture everywhere, excellent public transport and students from all over the world. Housing is competitive, so it pays to move early.
Main universities
The most popular are the Universidad Complutense (UCM), the Politécnica (UPM), the Autónoma (UAM) and Carlos III. Complutense and Politécnica have their campuses in the University City.
Verified rooms in Madrid
Book online, with an identified landlord and a protected deposit.
See rooms in MadridHow much a room costs
Typically €400 to €600 per month, often with utilities included. Centro and Chamberí are at the higher end; areas further out are cheaper.
Which areas to look in
The city centre (Malasaña, Lavapiés, Sol) for atmosphere, and the University City if you study at Complutense or Politécnica. Chamberí and Argüelles are well-connected alternatives.
Getting around Madrid
Madrid has one of the best metro systems in Europe and it covers almost everything. The big perk for students: if you are under 26, the youth travel pass costs only about €20 a month and gives unlimited transport across the whole Madrid region (metro, bus and local trains). That gives you real freedom when choosing a room — even if you live a bit out, you will reach your faculty fast and cheaply.
A realistic monthly budget
Budget the room (€400-600), around €200-250 for food, €20 for transport with the youth pass and €100-200 for going out. In total, an Erasmus student in Madrid spends on average €650 to €1,050 a month. Madrid has lots of free plans (parks, museums free for students at certain times), so it is easy to keep costs down.
Student life and what to do
The Retiro park to study outdoors, the Prado and Reina Sofía (free for students at many times), tapas around La Latina and nightlife that never stops. ESN associations and Erasmus groups run trips to Toledo, Segovia or the south, plus parties and language exchanges. It is the most 24/7 destination in Spain.
How to book without scams
Never pay a deposit by transfer to someone you cannot verify. On Lupo Rooms rooms are verified, the landlord is identified and the deposit is protected until you move in.
Ready for your Erasmus in Madrid?
Browse the available rooms and book yours without surprises.
Find a room in MadridFrequently asked questions
How much does a student room in Madrid cost on average?
Between €400 and €600 per month in a shared flat, depending on the area. Centro and Chamberí are pricier; other well-connected areas are cheaper.
Where should I live if I study at Complutense?
The University City, Moncloa and Argüelles let you walk or get in a few minutes to the Complutense and Politécnica campuses.
What documents do I need to rent?
Usually your ID or passport and your acceptance letter or enrolment. No payslip or guarantor required.
How much is public transport for students in Madrid?
If you are under 26, the youth travel pass costs about €20 a month for unlimited transport across the whole Madrid region — one of the cheapest in Europe.
How much money a month do I need for Erasmus in Madrid?
Most students manage on €650 to €1,050 a month including room, food, transport and leisure. Plenty of free plans help keep it down.
