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The Erasmus experience is an unmissable opportunity for all university students who wish to experience life in other cities and perhaps, once they have finished their studies, find work and settle down.
The basic principle of Erasmus is simple but effective: students can completely immerse themselves in a culture other than their own, learn the local language and lifestyle.
The choice of the city where to live this experience can be made according to many criteria: quality and reputation of the destination university, cost of living, ideal environment for young people.
We have compiled a ranking of the 15 most popular destinations chosen by young people from all over Europe for Erasmus.
1 - Barcelona, Spain
Universtat de Barcelona is one of the best universities in Spain, students who attend it have an almost surreal experience as classes are held in halls that look like the inside of a cathedral rather than classrooms! The city welcomes students from all over the world every year and offers many entertainment options, making it an unmissable opportunity for all university students who wish to experience life in other cities and perhaps, once they have finished their studies, find work and settle down. If you're considering studying abroad, don't miss the chance to have an unforgettable Erasmus experience in Barcelona.
ALSO SEE: 10 things to see in Barcelona
2 - Berlin, Germany
Berlin is definitely known for its vibrant cultural scene, accessibility, quality of life and for being inhabited by a young, international population. The different districts, each with their own centre, give the city amulticultural and vibrant atmosphere, an environment where youth culture is actively supported and encouraged by the municipality. Berlin is also famous for its nightlife, so it is really hard to imagine a better environment to never get bored between classes.
3 - Bologna, Italy
TheUniversity of Bologna is probably the oldest university in Europe and contributes greatly to giving the city the charm for which it is famous.
Students choose this destination for the restaurants offering typical cuisine at affordable prices even for university students, but especially for the frequency with which cultural events and live music evenings are organised.
SEEALSO: The 5 least polluted cities in Italy
4 - Lisbon, Portugal
One of the cheapest capitals, not only in this list but in the whole of Europe, what is striking about Lisbon is not only its'convenience'. The list of things that make Lisbon such an attractive Erasmus destination is endless: the climate,hospitality, food and nightlife are just the beginning.
Take a stroll along the colourful alleys and streets with Gothic-style buildings, treat yourself to a fresh seafood lunch in one of the many restaurants along the seafront or lose yourself in theelectrifying atmosphere of the evenings and warm summer nights.
ALSO SEE: 10 must-sees in Lisbon
5 - London, England
The University of London is actually a federation of universities and consists of 31 affiliates: 19 universities and 12 research institutes. It is attended by around 135,000 students each year. London has a magnetic appeal for students from all over the world and is an excellent mix of past, present and future.
6 - Madrid, Spain
If Barcelona is the most popular destination for Erasmus, Madrid is certainly not to be outdone. Although somewhat less international, the city represents the classic metropolis but is also a typical Spanish location.
Its streets are always full until late at night, summers begin in March and end in November and there is an almost endless number of bars, clubs, museums, restaurants and cafés.
ALSO SEE: 10 things to see in Madrid
7 - Paris, France
No name evokes elegance and sophistication like that of Paris. For many, the French capital is the greatest student city of all, where avant-garde nightclubs, museums and elegant cafés are always packed with students.
8 - Valencia, Spain
The climate is spectacular, the beaches are huge and accessible to all, the cultural life is vibrant and the culinary offerings are first-rate. The city is modern and dynamic, here you can find important universities such as theUniversity of Valencia, the Polytechnic University of Valencia, theUniversidad Católica de Valencia.
ALSO SEE: 10 things you absolutely must see in Valencia
9 - Amsterdam, Netherlands
The city is made up of meandering canals bordering 17th-century buildings, is modern and offers a worldly atmosphere that goes hand in hand with its historical beauty that has inspired artists, musicians and authors from all over the world.
When not in class, students spend their days taking long bike rides through the maze of canals, taking breaks to sip Dutch craft beers at floating cafés, or visiting the city's many museums.
10 - Istanbul, Turkey
Asia and Europe meet and come together in Istanbul, a city of over 14 million inhabitants.
The Turkish capital, one of the most historically significant cities in the world, is characterised by its incomparable ambience where history, modernity but also strict conservatism and liberalism create an identity unmatched by any other city. A true melting pot, this contrast between old and new gives Istanbul many different faces, including delicious food, excellent universities, clubs and bars scattered everywhere: the city has everything an Erasmus student could ask for.
11 - Dublin, Ireland
Dublin attracts many young people from all over Europe for its cosmopolitan yet traditional character. An Erasmus in this city can be the right opportunity to get to know it: the Irish are very friendly and helpful, the universities excellent, the nightlife young and lively.
SEEALSO: What to see in Dublin absolutely
12 - Milan, Italy
After Bologna, Milan is the Italian destination of choice for European university students. The city's universities offer a wide choice of courses and specialisations. The city, in recent years and especially thanks to the presence of Expo, has undergone a slow but inexorable transformation and modernisation. Fashion, nightclubs and high society add to the appeal of Milan, which is well equipped to host students.
13 - Northern England: Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle
The United Kingdom is one of the most popular destinations for Erasmus students. In particular, the north of England is home to a number of excellent university cities: Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle are much cheaper than London, a detail that can make a big difference whether you are planning a stay lasting months or a whole year.
14 - Prague, Czech Republic
Prague ranks ninth in a special online ranking of students' favourite Erasmus cities. Finding accommodation is very easy, the cost of living is very affordable, the locals are welcoming and the universities are modern and good. The only downside? Learning the language can be a bit difficult!
ALSO SEE: 10 things to see in Prague
15 - Uppsala, Sweden
If the bitter cold doesn't hold you back, Sweden can be a great destination for a study-abroad experience. The educational institutions in Northern Europe are renowned for their worthiness and organisation, the cities are clean and full of life, and the attractions for young people are varied and varied.