Home sweet home, Vita Student Oria sits in the heart of Madrid’s burgeoning Financial District.
Living in the north of the capital, you’ll find space here to escape the touristy centre, while still being just a short hop on the train to some of the best things to do in Madrid whenever it takes your fancy.
But what if you want to nip out for coffee or have a catch up with uni friends somewhere closer to home?
Well, you’re in luck. Because there’s plenty to fall in love with in your new neighbourhood, too.
Read on for your ready-made guide to the best things for students to do near Oria, all within walking distance.
Caleido
First stop has to be Caleido.
This is your central hub for modern shopping, lively eateries, quirky cinema, and so much more.
You can easily spend an afternoon here. Take some dedicated time away from studying for a touch of retail therapy, then explore the colourful restaurants and bars in Caleido – and look out for their upcoming festivals and events.
To top it all off? It’s right next to the IE University campus, so you can round off a day of lectures with drinks or food before heading home.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 19 mins
Parque Norte-Carmen Tagle
You might be round the corner from Madrid’s glimmering skyscrapers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t slow things down in nature, too.
Kick back at Parque Norte-Carmen Tagle on sunny days under shady trees, or stroll along its footpaths to discover surprising sculptures, like ‘Wings of Mexico’.
For the runners amongst you, make the most of cooler evenings and create a trail through the park’s winding tracks. Otherwise, gather a team and get onto the basketball court for a relaxed weekend game.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 22 mins
Ukiyo
Be warned: this might just be the start of a mochi addiction.
Inspired by Japanese confectionery, Ukiyo sells plump, soft mochis by the boxful, blending sugary sweetness with a little earthy richness for something truly moreish.
Pair it with a carefully crafted coffee and you have your new favourite café just a hop, skip and a jump away from Vita Student Oria. With a pint-sized terrace outside, it’s a gorgeous spot to pull up a chair and watch the world go by on bustling Calle de Santiago de Compostella.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 23 mins
Élkar
For fine dining and special occasions, look no further than Élkar.
Although, to be fair, you really do have to look pretty far if you want to glimpse this unique restaurant. Élkar lays claim to offering the highest dining experience in Spain, located on the 33rd floor of Emperador Castellana Tower.
Don’t worry, there’s a lift.
You won’t be eating here every week, but if you’re celebrating a birthday, a family visit, or the end of exams, this is the ideal place to make an evening of it in style.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 23 mins
Autocine
Ever fancied watching a movie under the stars?
Madrid’s very own Hollywood-style open-air cinema is only a walk away from Oria, giving you the chance to live-out your silver-screen dreams.
All summer long, catch popular screenings as the sun sets, and arrive early for live music and food from an American-inspired, cute-as-pie diner, all themed depending on the film being shown that night.
When the summer season ends, keep an eye on the Autocine website for concerts and festivals at their sister venue, The Lenovo Garage.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 25 mins
Polideportivo Vicente del Bosque
Itching to get moving after a long slog in the library? Make your way to the Polideportivo Vicente del Bosque.
Overlooked by the majestic five towers of Madrid’s Financial District, this sports centre has enough activities on offer to keep even the most energetic students happy.
We’re talking two 50-metre outdoor pools (plus a 25-metre indoor one for winter!), martial arts rooms, padel courts, football pitches, a skating rink…
Honestly, the list goes on. Grab your towel, goggles, boots, or whatever it is you need to get active, and speed over to this mega sporting palace.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 24 mins
Casa Pedro
We don’t mean to alarm you, but one of the oldest restaurants in Madrid – and quite possibly the world – is less than a 20-minute walk from Oria.
Tucked away down the winding streets of Fuencarral (the neighbourhood, not the busy street in central Madrid) you’ll find Casa Pedro. It’s been serving up feasts since 1702.
The family who currently owns it has done so for eight generations.
Come here for traditional Castilian fare in an unbelievably atmospheric setting. Afterwards, have a wander around the Fuencarral district, which used to be a town in its own right.
To say it’s just a stone’s throw from the space-age towers of the business quarter, this whole neighbourhood is wonderfully old.
Walking distance from Vita Student Oria: 19 mins
Whether you’re partying at Caleido, living the high life at Élkar, or scoring goals at the sports centre, it’s always that much better knowing you have a comfortable place to call home waiting for you at the end of the day.
Stroll back to Vita Student Oria to a spacious studio, with weekday breakfasts taken care of and a rooftop pool to hang out at, amongst so many more benefits that help you make the most of your studies in Madrid.
