Seville, Spain

info@educationabroadsevilla.com

+34 681 06 01 67

Student Resources

Life in Sevilla

Social habits in Spain

Realize that breakfast and dinner will be smaller meals, but that at midday the meal will be large.

Typical business hours in Spain differ from those in the US. Small neighborhood stores typically open M-F in the morning from 10-2, close for lunch, and reopen from 5-8. Larger stores are open all day, until 9 p.m. Most Sundays all stores are closed. While some offices work during a 9-5 schedule, it is also very common for administrative offices such as banks to only be open to the public from 9-2. You can find more information about siesta here.

Times are often more approximate than exact and being a bit late is not usually considered rude.

When you go to a restaurant, do not expect quick service as the lifestyle is more laid back. Waiters do not work for a tip as in the U.S. You will have to flag down the waiter whenever you want something, especially the check.

Spain and Europe are more pedestrian than in the U.S. You will be doing a lot of walking.  

Public transportation is a good way to get around the city, Sevilla has buses, metro, trams and even bike rentals.  

Spaniards socialize outside of the household; they go to bars and cafés to meet up with family and friends.

Wondering what life will be like while you’re studying in Sevilla?  We encourage you to do as much research as possible about your host city and culture. 

How to get to Sevilla

The best way to get to Sevilla from the USA is to fly to Madrid. Currently, airlines have direct flights to Madrid from Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Ft.Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.  

Once in Madrid, your best options to get to Sevilla are by plane or by train. Flights are very short, and you can check options on Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Iberia.

By train, take a taxi from Madrid airport to Atocha station to catch the high-speed AVE train. Public transport exists but is not recommended with luggage or if you are unfamiliar with the area due to pickpocket risks. AVE tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.renfe.es or at the station, using a credit/debit card or PayPal.

Packing List

When considering what to pack, keep in mind that living spaces in Spain and Europe can be small. Separate packing lists are available for fall, spring, and summer.

Some practical tips include checking airline luggage rules, bringing travel-size toiletries, and using a smaller bag for weekend trips. Always put the program address on your luggage, pack liquids in a clear carry-on bag (max 100 ml), and include a change of clothes, prescription medications, contacts, toothbrush, toothpaste, charger, and outlet converter in your carry-on. Also, carry a debit card and around 200 euros in small bills.

Welcome Orientation

Education Abroad Sevilla offers an in-country orientation to help you adjust to your new temporary home and provides the essential information to confidently navigate your surroundings.

The orientation covers important topics such as health and safety, local transportation, living with host families, and classes and excursions.

During orientation, you will also visit Sevilla’s iconic landmarks, including the Alcazar and the Cathedral of Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. You will stay at least one night in a hotel with your group before being picked up by your host family. Further details are provided after committing to the program.

FAQs

Documentation & Travel

  • What if I don’t have a passport or need a visa?  Students must obtain a passport, and a Spanish Student Visa is required for stays over 90 days. EAS can assist with semester program visas.

  • When can I book flights and train tickets?  Check with your Study Abroad advisor before booking. Train tickets from Madrid to Sevilla can be purchased in advance or at the station, depending on personal preference and schedule.

Program & Housing
  • What does the program fee include?  Housing, meals, excursions, orientation, health insurance, one bus pass, and program fees. Airfare and personal expenses are not included.
  • Can I request specific housing or roommates?  Students fill out a housing questionnaire; EAS tries to accommodate preferences, including living alone, but not all requests are guaranteed.
Health & Safety
  • What health insurance and emergency support is provided?  Group health insurance covers doctor visits and some specialized care. Local staff are trained for emergencies and support students with medical or personal issues.
  • Can I bring medication?  Bring prescription medication in your carry-on; local doctors can prescribe equivalents if needed.
City & Miscellaneous
  • Is Sevilla walkable and what’s the weather like? Sevilla is very walkable with good public transport. It has a Mediterranean climate: hot summers (up to 110ºF) and mild winters (around 50ºF).
  • Will my credit/debit card work and should I get a Spanish SIM card?  Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted; consider a Spanish SIM or eSIM for local communication, especially for emergencies or internships.