For students
Moving to Granada as a student
Granada is one of Spain's great student cities - affordable, lively, and full of other young people from across the world. Getting the right accommodation from the start makes a genuine difference to how well your year goes.
We help international students find a safe place to live, avoid the most common rental traps, and land in Granada without the chaos that catches many first-timers out.
The challenges you are probably facing
- Spotting fake or misleading listings before sending a deposit
- Understanding what to expect from shared flats, residences, and private rentals
- Communicating with landlords in Spanish when your language skills are still developing
- Arriving in an area that turns out to be far from campus or socially isolated
- Not knowing what is a fair price or what landlords can legally ask for
What we recommend for you
How the process typically looks
2-3 months before
Start the accommodation search. Demand spikes before September and January intakes - early movers get better options.
4-6 weeks before
Shortlist verified options, coordinate video viewings, and secure your place. Review the contract before signing.
Arrival week
Move-in support, area orientation, SIM, and bank guidance. Understanding the basics before the term starts.
First term
Local support on standby for anything that comes up with the flat, neighbours, or university admin.
Documents you will typically need
This is a general guide. Your exact requirements will depend on your nationality, visa route, and circumstances. A qualified professional will confirm what applies to you.
- Passport
- University acceptance letter
- NIE (required to open a bank account and sign most contracts)
- Proof of financial means or parental guarantee
- Student card or enrolment confirmation
- References if requested by a landlord
What can go wrong - and how we help avoid it
- Sending a deposit to a scam listing before ever seeing the property in person
- Signing a 12-month contract when you only need 9 months, and losing the excess
- Moving into a flat with undisclosed problems that the landlord refuses to fix
- Choosing an area that feels convenient on a map but has no social life or transport after dark
Neighbourhoods worth considering
These areas tend to suit people in your situation. Every move is different - we advise based on your specific priorities.
Realejo
Young professionals, couples, and remote workers who want atmosphere and walkability.
The historic old Jewish quarter, full of character, tapas bars, and street art, sitting just below the Alhambra.
Centro
People who want maximum convenience and to be in the middle of everything.
The heart of the city - shops, services, cathedral, and everything within walking distance.
ZaidÃn
Budget-conscious students, families, and anyone wanting local life and better value.
A large, affordable, authentically local neighbourhood south of the centre, popular with students and families.
Ronda
Families and professionals who want central living with a more residential feel.
A central, well-connected residential district popular with families and professionals.
In their words
"I was about to transfer money for a flat I found online. Someone from HolaGranada spotted it was a scam before I lost anything. They then found me a real place in a great area in less than two weeks."
What we do not do
- We do not provide legal advice on rental disputes - these are referred to qualified professionals.
- We do not place students in accommodation ourselves - we support the search and verification process.
- We do not guarantee that any specific listing remains available.
Who we refer you to
- University housing offices and international student services
- Immigration specialists for NIE and TIE registration
- Consumer rights advisers for rental dispute guidance
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a NIE to rent a flat as a student?
What is the difference between a shared flat (piso compartido) and a student residence?
What if the accommodation does not work out after I arrive?
Get student accommodation support
Tell us about your move and we will tell you exactly how we can help. No pressure, no commitment.