Details

• Spain
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• SoSe 2026
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months
• Contact: Login to see contact information

1. Preparation

I started preparing for the exchange semester pretty early, starting in the summer. I decided for the date of the flight as soon as the dates for my courses were available. I decided to go by plane from Vienna to Madrid, as it was the easiest form of travel.

2. Accommodation

I started searching for apartments in August (my semester started in January), but you could also wait a bit more as many contracts that are valid for the winter semester run out shortly before January, so more places will be theoretically available as the tenants have the possibility to extend their contract. I used various websites as Housing Anywhere, Idealista, Spotahome, etc. but ultimately decided to get a room through Housing Anywhere. A tip would also be, if you find a contractor, search for their private website, they often offer renting directly though them and you could save the fee from the intermediator. I got a place near Carabanchel, 25 mins away from the center by bus. It was a Coliving space and was generally a good experience but I did have a few flatmates who were a bit tardy regarding cleaning the common spaces. As the economics faculty wasn't in the city I decided for a apartment that was in the middle of the city center & the campus. Looking back, I'd probably choose a room more in the center. I felt safe in my neighborhood but ultimately can't speak for everyone.

3. Academic life at host university

The academic life was different than that at the WU, as I felt i was more personal and I had a feeling similar to when I was in school. The campus is a bit old but not antique. I missed the welcome days so it was hard making friends at first but managed after I went to some classes. At the end of the report you'll find the courses I did, I'd recommend doing them as long as you are a economics major, if not I could believe they would not be that interesting to you

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transport was really cheap, only 10€ per month. you just have to make a appointment to create a personal transportation card. I never felt unsafe in madrid and would actually say that I felt more safe there than in Austria. Regarding social activities, events and sport options, if I started to count every option the list would be too long, so you don't have to worry, Madrid is really a city that doesn't sleep. You'll always find something to do. I can recommend the centro deportivo in La Latina for sports. It has a waiting list of 6 weeks, but as soon as you subscribe to a monthly plan, you'll have a swimming pool, a gym and a running track and its only 28.5€ per month, I also did the marathon there and in May there is the San Isidro festival which I can also only recommend. There is also every Sunday in La Latina the Rastro flea market, so you have enough options

6. Testimonial

What made my exchange semester truly special, were the people I met. Not only was everyone in the city always happy if you talked to them, but also my friends that I met there, were the most incredible people I have ever met. Because nobody knew each other, everyone ultimately showed their true character and I am glad for the people I have met, as they all had incredible souls. So next time if you are not sure if you should talk to someone, take the leap as it will all work out in the end.