Most students heading to IE University ask the same question…
Where do IE students live in Madrid?
The decision should, in theory, be a straightforward process: do some research, choose a good area, and book the best available room.
But once you’re in Madrid, you may realise something quickly… you didn’t make the right choice. And you’re reminded of it every day in your commute, your community, and how unconnected you feel to your surroundings. Not to mention, you may be struggling to meet IE’s strict attendance policy.
So, how do you make sure you’re choosing the right place to live?
Don’t worry, we’ve done the thinking for you. Here are the three top areas to live in Madrid as an IE student, and the key considerations to make when choosing student accommodation.
Salamanca – the typical spot
Salamanca is probably the most popular area for IE students. Here, you’re close to IE campus, surrounded by other students, and everything you need is within walking distance.
Not a morning person? Living in Salamanca means more easy commuting, and less worrying about IE’s strict attendance system.
But there are a few cons.
Student accommodation in Salamanca is known for being limited and low-quality. That means fewer options, less flexibility, and compromised comfort. Student residences in Salamanca are typically colegios mayores, which have a bad reputation for being outdated and overly strict.
If comfort and independence is something you prioritise, Salamanca may have some setbacks to be wary of.
Chamberí – the balanced option
Want to live somewhere with a more local, suburban feel?
Chamberí is a traditional 19th-century neighbourhood that offers a quieter living environment while keeping you connected to IE and the wider city.
With lots of local bakeries, eateries and bars to choose from, Chamberí offers a real slice of barrio life.
However, Chamberí’s slower-paced lifestyle usually attracts young families and professionals, not students. If you’re someone who craves to be near the action, you may feel a little disconnected here. Spontaneous plans will be harder to make, campus culture isn’t close by, and your free time will be taken up with commuting.
Chamberí works, but there’s a better option.
Fuencarral – a smarter shift
More students in Madrid are prioritising their work-life balance. They want to live somewhere that’s near university, so they can spend less time commuting and more time living.
Does this sound like you? Then Fuencarral could be exactly what you’re looking for.
This up-and-coming neighbourhood offers space that’s often hard to find in a city, especially in a capital like Madrid. Here, you’ll find streets lined with new buildings, modern facilities and well-built metro stations to keep you connected to all that Madrid has to offer.
And at the heart of it, there’s Vita Student Oria.
Oria removes all the friction that typically comes with student life. As Madrid’s only student residence with everything included, your home is set up from the moment you arrive. Because student living isn’t always about being in the centre of the city. It’s about living somewhere that actually works with your routine. And that’s exactly what Vita Student Oria delivers on.
Step into your very own private studio, equipped with a full kitchen, ensuite and plenty of living space. Fuel your studies with weekday breakfast, all included. Make friends at exciting exclusive events. Unwind after a long day in your rooftop pool.
Plus, Oria is only a 20-minute walk from IE campus, so you can reach university in no time. And when you’re ready for some fun, there’s a train station opposite, so you can reach Madrid’s iconic spots in no time.
Fuencarral is a real hidden gem, and Oria offers the opportunity to make it home. Here, you have everything you need to live comfortably, independently and completely on your own terms.
The difference you’ll notice by October
Within your first few weeks at IE, you’re sure to spot a few patterns.
Are there a few students who often arrive late? Do they seem a little overwhelmed and unsettled? Chances are, their living situation isn’t what they wanted it to be. Don’t be one of them.
Set yourself up for success from day one by choosing Oria, Madrid’s only student accommodation with everything covered.
