Hey everyone! I’ve noticed many people on the forums discussing which university to choose, with schools in Madrid and Barcelona getting the most attention. Today, I want to talk about a less common but truly hidden gem: the University of Girona. I’ve been studying here for a while and want to share my genuine experience from a student’s perspective to help those who are still deciding.
The first thing that captivated me about the University of Girona was its campus environment. UdG has several campuses, but the most special one is undoubtedly the Barri Vell (Old Quarter) campus—the filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones! Can you imagine what it’s like to walk on medieval cobblestone streets every day and attend classes in buildings converted from ancient monasteries? It’s an incredible blend of history and academia. After class, taking a stroll along the city walls and looking out over Girona is incredibly refreshing.
Academic and Program Experience
As a public university, UdG offers guaranteed teaching quality with relatively affordable tuition fees. Its overall ranking might not be as high as the famous universities in big cities, but UdG is exceptionally strong in specific fields. For instance, its tourism management program is renowned throughout Spain and even Europe, thanks to its proximity to the Costa Brava, which provides numerous practical opportunities. Other flagship programs include water science, food technology, and robotics. Here’s a quick summary of the pros and cons based on my personal experience:
| Pros 👍 | Cons 👎 |
|---|
| Close student-faculty relationships, many small classes | Not as internationally well-known as universities in major cities |
| Very strong in specific academic fields | The international student community is relatively small |
| Lower tuition fees and living costs | Some facilities may not be as modern as those at newer universities |
Now, let’s talk about the city of Girona itself. It’s truly a very livable city! It’s not too big or too small, has excellent safety, and you can get around the entire city on foot or by bike. Four rivers run through it, making it very scenic, and the pace of life is relaxed. Although it’s small, it has all the necessary amenities. Furthermore, this area is a significant hub for Catalan cuisine, a topic often discussed by students at other Girona universities, and there’s a ton of delicious food. Most importantly, it’s only a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Barcelona, and it’s super convenient to get to the beach or go skiing in the Pyrenees. The location is perfect.
If you’re looking for value for money and prefer a quiet, safe learning environment steeped in history and culture—rather than insisting on a big city—then the University of Girona is definitely an option worth serious consideration. Here, you can experience authentic Catalan culture more deeply, without being surrounded by tourists all the time. Beyond your studies, the quality of life is genuinely high. I hope my sharing helps everyone! Are there any other students in Girona or interested in UdG? Feel free to join the discussion below!
