Universidad de León

Student life

The University of León pulsates with a vibrant atmosphere, brimming with opportunities for academic growth, cultural enrichment, and social engagement.

Accommodation

Students at the University of León typically choose between Halls of Residence and shared apartments, with the latter being the more popular and economical option. For those opting for shared living, a private room in a fully furnished apartment usually costs 150€ to 250€ per month.

Food

León has a very rich gastronomy. The restaurants and bars in the city offer many types of food ranging from inexpensive to expensive and with dishes that can be elaborate. Also, the "tapa" culture is very present in León. From your first days here, you will go out for tapas (" salir de tapas ") in all the different neighborhoods of the city and enjoy the small plate ("tapa") that comes free when you order a drink at any bar.

Local Transport

León is an ideal gateway for explorers, boasting a robust network of train and bus connections that seamlessly link you to nearly all the major urban centres across Spain. Within the city, a comprehensive bus network operates daily, ensuring easy access to most areas within León. For those who prefer to soak in the city leisurely, its compact scale means you can comfortably walk to almost any destination of interest.

Culture

The University of León is a hub of ceaseless social vibrancy throughout the week. Ateneo Cultural El Albéitar (Instagram), organises many activities such as exhibitions, concerts, theatre, cinema, performances… And not only do you have activities organised by the University, but León has a multitude of cultural spaces and centres with a wide programme of events. If you like contemporary art, you have the MUSAC; if you like theatre and music, you have the Auditorium o Teatro San Francisco; if you like jam sessions, you have the Gran Café on Tuesdays, Ret Marut on Wednesdays and Black Bourbon on Thursdays. Gran Café and Babylon organise concerts of very different styles from Tuesday to Sunday. There are also more classical concerts organised by Fundación Eutherpe. There are also great music festivals such as Famoleón, Purple Weekend, Festival Celta, poetry festivals such as Festival Urogallo or Festival Palabra, and theatre festivals such as Festival Vecindario... In León, you can't get bored! And you can explore and discover many more places of culture, not only in the city, but also in places in the province such as Astorga, Ponferrada, or the banks of the river Torío.

Leisure

León is a city with a great nightlife. Barrio Húmedo or Barrio Romántico are the most famous tapas places, but not the only ones; you must walk around León and discover every hidden corner! The tradition is to accompany beer or wine with a "tapa", free in all bars. You can choose from various 'pinchos', potatoes, croquettes, meat, fish... Prices are higher in the centre but with the possibility of going into neighborhoods such as La Palomera or San Mamés (the closest to the University) to enjoy more typical tapas at lower prices. You have a wide selection of bars with different styles, atmospheres, and music for dancing or drinks.

Sports

In the province of León, sports culture thrives, with clubs catering to virtually every athletic pursuit. The region takes pride in its storied traditions, especially in sports like basketball and handball. Thanks to its diverse geography and favorable climate, outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and winter sports are not just hobbies but a way of life here.

High-quality sports facilities are scattered throughout León, ensuring that enthusiasts and athletes have access to top-tier venues for training and recreation. Furthermore, the University of León elevates the athletic experience with its "Servicio de Deportes"( www.unileon.es/servicios/deportes/), offering a wide range of sports amenities. This allows students and community members to engage in their preferred sports within the university's extensive and varied sports complexes.

Make friends

Connecting with a local student can be your golden ticket to immersing yourself in the local culture and society. Take advantage of the Mentor student program, 'Programa Apadrina', by signing up during registration or upon arrival at the university. This initiative is designed to help you navigate university life with the guidance of someone already familiar with the ins and outs of campus, ensuring a smoother and more enriching experience.

Professors

Most Spanish professors and lecturers are very approachable and develop high confidence levels with their students. This, of course, depends on the character, the accessibility, and the social skills of both. Most of the time, the relationships are very relaxed, and it is not considered impolite for students to informally address their tutors or professors.