Welcome to Cartagena

A coastal city rich in history, culture, and student life

country page header
EUR 800–3,000/year
Annual tuition fees
EUR 800–1,100/month
Monthly living costs

Why study in Cartagena

Cartagena offers you a unique blend of ancient history, Mediterranean charm, and academic opportunity. As a student, you’ll experience a relaxed coastal lifestyle, study at reputable institutions, and enjoy a lower cost of living than in many other Spanish cities. With Roman ruins, sea views, and a growing international student population, Cartagena is the ideal place to focus on your studies while living in a city full of character and sunshine.

Study abroad seamlessly

Download our brand-new app

Student life

Student life in Cartagena is relaxed, scenic, and community-driven. You’ll enjoy seaside walks, cosy cafés, historical neighbourhoods, and cultural festivals. Whether you're exploring museums or taking part in student events, there's always something happening. The pace is slower than in major cities, but you’ll find a strong student presence and plenty of opportunities to socialise and grow.

Avg. wage per hour

EUR 8.50/hour

Max. allowed part-time hours

20 hours/week

Cost of living

  • Food: EUR 250–350/month
  • Rent: EUR 350–550/month
  • Household Bills: EUR 90–130/month
  • Transport: EUR 40–70/month
  • Miscellaneous: EUR 80–120/month

Accommodation choices

  • University accommodation
  • Private halls
  • Shared houses
  • Private/Studio apartments
  • Co-living spaces

Most opted part-time jobs

  • Tutor
  • Retail assistant
  • Barista
  • Waiter/waitress
  • Receptionist

Public transport

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Tram
  • Bike sharing
  • Shared taxi

Edvoy Stays

Let’s help you find budget-friendly student housing in Cartagena

CULTURE

Cartagena is a cultural treasure chest, where Roman amphitheatres meet modern art galleries. The city’s diverse heritage influences everything—from local cuisine and architecture to annual festivals like the Carthaginians and Romans. As a student, you’ll enjoy concerts, theatre shows, and exhibitions while soaking up authentic Spanish traditions in a friendly, walkable city.

SAFETY

Cartagena is considered a safe and welcoming city. Students enjoy a peaceful environment with reliable public services and well-lit public areas. Emergency support is accessible by dialling 112, and local police (dial 091) maintain security in busy areas. With a strong sense of community and active student support, you’ll feel secure while studying and living here.

Discover the city

Located on Spain’s southeastern coast, Cartagena is a port city filled with archaeological wonders, vibrant student communities, and Mediterranean beauty. Whether you’re walking past ancient Roman theatres or relaxing by the harbour, the city offers the perfect balance between academics and leisure. It’s an ideal destination if you're looking for high-quality education in a sunny, culturally rich setting.

Language

Spanish

Currency

EUR

Population

220K

Area

558.3 sq. km

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Cartagena is a fantastic choice for international students. It’s affordable, safe, and filled with historical and cultural experiences. Universities here offer strong academic support, and the city provides a peaceful yet social lifestyle ideal for focused study and personal development.
Not at all. Cartagena is more budget-friendly than larger Spanish cities. Accommodation, food, and transport are reasonably priced, and students enjoy discounts and affordable lifestyle options across the city. It’s ideal if you want quality education without the high living costs.
While many programmes are offered in Spanish, several universities provide courses in English, especially at the postgraduate level. Learning basic Spanish is recommended for daily life and part-time jobs, but you’ll find plenty of language support to help you settle in.
Cartagena offers stunning beaches, hiking trails, historic sites, cafés, and festivals. You can explore Roman ruins, attend concerts, or relax by the harbour with friends. Student events and cultural activities keep life fun and inspiring beyond the classroom.