- Prague tops the list of student cities in Europe, featuring affordability and historic charm that attracts international students.
- Barcelona offers a vibrant atmosphere with a rich cultural scene and strong academic options, welcoming over 200,000 students each year.
- London excels in facilities and internationality, housing over half a million students, including a significant portion of international students.
Your choice of university won’t just impact your study experience, but also your life outside of your studies. Choosing a city to live in for up to four years is a huge decision, and each destination has its own unique attractions – and downsides. So, what are the top student cities in Europe?
To answer this question, we analysed student life ratings for universities across Europe, grouped by the city of study. Our ranking can’t tell you where to study, but it can offer you a students’ perspective on which destinations are worth it.
So, read on to find out the top 10 student cities in 2024, as decided by EDUopinions student reviews.
This blog is part of the EDUopinions Student Reviews Guide 2025. Read more of the articles in this series.
Top Student Cities in Europe, as Voted for By Students
Summary and methodology
To create this ranking, we analysed reviews posted on EDUopinions between January 1st 2024 and December 31st 2024. Then, we filtered by country of university, selecting only countries in Europe with at least 10 reviews. This gave us a total of 3,918 reviews to analyse.
To create a ranking of the largest student cities, we filtered cities to only include those that had more than 75 student reviews, leaving us with a list comprised of a total of 1,342 reviews. By doing this, we increased the likelihood of including cities with a large student population and/or multiple universities.
Finally, we ranked the remaining cities on the list by their ‘student life’ rating, which is the individual rating most likely to be linked to student lifestyle, city life, and extracurricular experiences.
10. Madrid, Spain (3.60/5 Student Life Rating)
Madrid, Spain’s lively capital, is home to over 45,000 international students spread acoss numerous public and private universities. Some institutions, like Complutense University of Madrid, have a history dating back hundreds of years. Others reflect the city’s strong growth in recent years in more technical and innovative subjects; for example, it’s also home to top-ranked IE University, home to IE Business School, and Universidad Europea. International universities also have a home in the city, like Schiller International University.
The city is a favourite with international students who want to sample typical Spanish culture while studying abroad. The lively nightlife and cultural attractions like the Prado Museum offer more reasons to study in the city – and the sunny weather is also a bonus.
Student Review – ESCP Business School
I’m on the Madrid campus and before talking about the school I would like to point out that the city is incredible.
Madrid is a lively city with a lot to offer. Between parks, museums, and nightlife, there is always something to do.
Regarding school, the classes are on a human scale and we support each other.
Although the courses are in English, it is useful to know Spanish for daily life, which can be an obstacle for some like me who is French.
And the subjects are very interesting when you like business.
Student Review – Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
From my point of view, the experience in the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid has been great.
What I like the most about this university is the campus and the huge amount of extracurricular activities they offer. If you are an Erasmus student you can assist to a wide range of activities offered specially for student coming from abroad.
Moreover, the quality of its degrees and the offer of subjects is great and you can choose in between a lot of optatives that can help you discover what concrete field you want to approach in your career.
As a fourth year student, I would absolutely recommend this uni to anyone interested in having a great time and enjoying the university experience in a big and multicultural city as Madrid.
9. Munich, Germany (3.78/5 Rating)
In 2020, Munich, Germany’s southern gem was home to over 130,000 students, of which over 20% were international students. Prospective students are drawn to this Bavarian culture capital thanks to its many prestigious universities, which include Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) and the Technical University of Munich (TUM), and the presence of international business schools such as New European College and EU Business School.
Known for its high quality of life and diversified jobs market – the city scores joint-highest on this ranking for career prospects, with a score of 4.37/5 – Munich offers a mix of academic excellence and entertaining student life.
Student Review – Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
As an international student, I see that the University of Munich, like New York, is a very welcoming and diverse place. However, the drawbacks are quite evident. The cost of living in this city is high. There are no scholarships available for my master’s program. The university does not offer many housing options. With the high cost of tuition, I wonder if the courses are really worth it.
Student Review – Technical University of Munich
It was a lot of joy for me to attend TUM University as a graduate student. I liked collaborating with prominent faculty members and having thought-provoking conversations with fellow students. I went about Munich City and engaged in school life outside of the classroom, such as joining a student group that was associated with my area of study. I was impressed by the diversity of the student body and am appreciative that I was able to attend such a prominent university.
8. Milan, Italy (3.88/5 Rating)
Milan is known as Italy’s fashion and financial hub, but it’s also a thriving student city. Students travel from around the world to study at its top-ranked universities like Politecnico di Milano and Bocconi University, where students will find plenty of courses tailored to the local fashion and luxury industries.
The city is increasingly advertising itself as an international student destination. Given that it’s home to a total of 200,000 students, incomers will find it easy to settle in to the student lifestyle, particularly thanks to English-taught programs and its cosmopolitan allure. Milan’s universities score the highest on this list in overall rating, and also gain high scores in the quality of professors and career prospects.
Student Review – The University of Milan
My time at the University of Milan was profoundly enriching. The professors were top-notch, providing exceptional instruction, and the campus’s prime location in the heart of the city added to the overall experience. The diverse range of courses offered in my building facilitated meaningful interactions with a variety of students. I wholeheartedly recommend this university to anyone passionate about economics.
Student Review – University of Milano-Bicocca
The University of Milano-Bicocca stands out for its captivating campus, the vibrant city atmosphere, and the close-knit community. The high caliber of professors and the comprehensive curriculum are particularly commendable. Offering a plethora of activities, the university provides ample opportunities for students to engage with others and expand their social circle. It is undeniably a welcoming and diverse institution that ensures an enriching experience for all who attend.
7. Warsaw, Poland (3.88/5 Rating)
Warsaw is Poland’s bustling capital, home to a thriving academic sector with a student population of 240,000, more than Berlin or Prague! Top universities like the University of Warsaw and Warsaw University of Technology attract international students, and the affordability of Poland’s largest city also helps.
EDUopinions student reviewers also score Warsaw highly for internationality, reflecting the increasingly globalised nature of this Polish city. There was an increase of 90% in international student enrolment between the 2014/15 and 2021/22 academic years, and the city’s universities continue to rise in rankings, making this city an attractive option for an international study experience.
Student Review – University of Warsaw
As an international student at the University of Warsaw, I’ve been impressed by the diversity and cultural richness of the campus. The academic programs are rigorous and provide a strong theoretical foundation, though practical opportunities could be expanded. The professors are knowledgeable, but sometimes the language barrier can be a challenge for non-Polish speakers. The city of Warsaw itself adds to the experience, offering a vibrant student life with affordable living costs. However, administrative processes are a bit slow and could use improvement. it’s a great university for those seeking an international education in Europe.
Student Review – University of Warsaw
Studying at Uniwersytet Warszawski has been an eye-opening experience, especially because of the cultural diversity I’ve encountered. The university attracts students from all over the world, creating a vibrant international community. As a student from Spain, I’ve enjoyed interacting with classmates from countries like Germany, the US, and Japan, each bringing their unique perspectives to class discussions. Warsaw itself is an incredible city for international students, with a rich history and a modern vibe. There are many events and student groups that focus on intercultural exchanges, making it easy to meet people from different backgrounds. Additionally, Polish culture is fascinating, and the university provides many opportunities to learn the language and immerse yourself in local traditions. The exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking has definitely broadened my horizons and made me more globally aware.
6. Lisbon, Portugal (3.92/5 Rating)
The sunny capital of Portugal is something of a rising star among European student cities. This year, QS ranked Lisbon in the top 100 student cities in the world, and it receives a comparatively high rating from EDUopinions reviewers, with additional high ratings for internationality and value for money.
Lisbon is home to top universities like the University of Lisbon and Nova School of Business and Economics, and is also the first of three international stops for students of Forward College. Its affordable cost of living, friendly locals, and stunning coastline make it a favourite for international students.
Student Review – Nova School of Business and Economics
Nova sbe university has an amazing campus, with several features that facilitate our study here. Since Pingo Doce Express here you can buy food in a practical and fast way, to the several places where you can study. You can choose to study in spaces with sunlight or if you don’t like it you can also study in spaces with no sunlight. Multiple study rooms, common places to study, with total silence or ambient music.
It is a place where everyone has space to be who they want, an international school where you can learn from the different cultures.
Most of the teachers really care about you, and are constantly trying to help you improve.
When you want to take a break you can go to the rooftops, to the beach or just to the common spaces where you have sofas, snooker, foosel and other activities.
It has several courses that prepare you better for the job market, like how to do a great cv, a linkedin profile or even workshops to help you improve your soft skills.
Overall it is an incredible university, and this can be proved by the ranking of Financial Times. In 2023 ,it was in the 21st spot among the top schools in Europe, the highest ranking ever achieved by a Portuguese institution.
Student Review – University of Lisbon
I really appreciate the sense of community at the University of Lisbon. Everyone is proud to be a Lisbon student, and the school does an excellent job of promoting school spirit. The professors and alumni are very supportive when it comes to campus life, career advice, and creating a welcoming, inclusive environment. The one improvement I’d like to see is in the teaching approach. While Uni Lisbon is one of the best schools in Portugal, I think some professors could be more helpful to students, either by offering more office hours or adjusting their teaching styles. Other than that, the university is fantastic!
5. Berlin, Germany (3.96/5 Rating)
The first city to make it into the top five student cities in Europe according to students is Germany’s capital, Berlin. This thriving city is a hub for over 200,000 students, including a vibrant international community at top-ranked universities like Humboldt University, the Free University of Berlin, and international-focused business schools like IU International University of Applied Sciences.
Berlin is known for its affordable living costs (the city’s cost of living is about 14% cheaper than in Paris), creative atmosphere and rich history, and these factors make it a magnet for international students looking for an alternative study experience.
Student Review – Humboldt University
Student Review – Touro University Berlin
My time at Touro University Berlin has been an incredible journey. The diverse student body and international atmosphere have enriched my academic experience, exposing me to different cultures and perspectives. The dedicated faculty members are not only knowledgeable but also incredibly supportive, fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment. The university’s focus on practical skills and career preparation has equipped me with the tools I need to succeed in the real world. Also, being in the city of Berlin has been an added bonus, allowing me to explore a rich cultural heritage and immerse myself in a truly international experience.
4. London, United Kingdom (3.99/5 Rating)
As one of the world’s largest cultural and economic centres, London is naturally home to more students than any other capital; there are over half a million students in the city, including one-third of the UK’s total international student population. The city is consistently ranked one of the best student cities in the world, and EDUopinions reviewers agree – the city beats the rest of this list in ratings for university facilities, internationality and location.
The city is home to the top-10 university Imperial College London, plus other world-renowned institutions like King’s College London and University College London (UCL) – which has an international student population of 54%. London’s vibrant neighbourhoods, cultural landmarks, and expansive networking opportunities ensure that students enjoy an unparalleled urban experience.
Student Review – King’s College London
As a student in the MSc Dietetics program at King’s College London, studying on the Waterloo campus has been a great experience. I’m here five days a week, so it’s really helpful that the campus offers affordable food options – perfect for students on a budget! Whether it’s a quick bite between lectures or something more substantial, I’ve always found good choices that don’t break the bank.
The KCLSU (King’s College London Students’ Union) is conveniently located in the building, providing plenty of spaces for studying or relaxing. Whether I need a quiet corner to focus or a more casual environment to catch up with friends, there are lots of options. The campus is well-equipped for both academic work and downtime, which makes spending long days here much easier.
Overall, between the facilities, the affordable food, and the supportive atmosphere, Waterloo campus has been a fantastic place to study and stay productive!
Student Review – University College London – UCL
UCL is an incredibly diverse and wonderful community, where everyone feels like part of something bigger than themselves. The faculty in my department (Linguistics) is lovely, easy to speak with, and very knowledgeable in their field. Campus is a bit scattered across central London, which can be difficult to navigate as a fresher, but it gets easier over time!
3. Paris, France (4.05/5 Rating)
Just beating London, and making it into the top three student cities in Europe, is Paris. The ‘City of Light’ is home to a quarter of France’s overall international student population, and rises each year. Students are drawn to its chic streets, cultural hotspots like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, and historic charm.
In addition to globally top-ranked universities like the Sorbonne and Université Paris-Saclay, Paris is also home to a number of top business schools, including INSEEC Business School, SKEMA Business School and EDHEC Business School.
Student Review – SKEMA business School
I am an international students and I’m currently in my last year of the PGE at skema Business school.
I am very happy here because I got the chance to move to another country and to a magnificent city which is Paris
I loved it here since the beginning of my trek (English track ) because the private business school environment is completely different from a normal university
And the classes are different in the whole system as well
We have for example attendance rules which force me to go to class every day and by time passing by and growing up I realize the importance of this rule
People I meet are also amazing because they come from different places all around France and Europe
The student life is also very good and we’re able to have fun at the same time
Student Review – ESCP Business School
There are always events, conferences and activities organized by student associations. There is never a dull moment.
The problem, in my opinion, is that the pace is very intense, with a lot of work to do and frequent exams.
The other problem is that Paris is an expensive city, which can be difficult to manage as a student.
2. Barcelona, Spain (4.21/5 Rating)
Barcelona is a student’s dream, with its sun-soaked beauty, Catalonian charm and cultural sights. The city welcomes over 200,000 students annually, including thousands of internationals at universities like the Universitat de Barcelona and the Universitat Pompeu Fabra. In recent years, the city has been recognised as a business and economic hotspot, and students can dive into the startup culture at business schools like ESADE Business School, EADA Business School, EU Business School, and C3S Business School in Barcelona.
The city is renowned for its connection with art, and international students are frequently drawn to its Gaudí-designed buildings as well as the quality of its educational institutions. For students seeking unique extracurricular experiences and top academic studies, Barcelona is the place.
Student Review – Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya
I absolutely love the university because of its amazing technical and engineering programs. The professors are not only super knowledgeable, but they’re also incredibly supportive and helpful, even outside of regular school hours. It’s such a great feeling to know that you have mentors who genuinely care about your success. And let’s not forget about the city itself! Barcelona is a vibrant and exciting place to live, with so much to explore and experience. You’ll definitely have a wonderful time at UPC! Please don’t hesitate to choose UPC!
Student Review – Universitat de Barcelona Business School
Overall, the city and the university have been fantastic, inspiring students to succeed. While self-motivation and initiative are important, the school’s supportive environment fosters academic excellence. It’s an excellent place to pursue your academic goals.
1. Prague, Czech Republic (4.22/5 Rating)
Did you expect the capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, to be the top-ranked student city in Europe? Known as a historic gem in Central Europe, Prague is home to a significant number of students, perhaps as many as 120,000, with around 25,000 being international students.
The city boasts historic institutions like Charles University and the Czech Technical University, as well as smaller institutions catered to international students, like the University of New York in Prague. Tourists know it for its affordability and picturesque streets, factors that also attract plenty of international students. Plus, its location makes it easy to explore nearby European cities like Dresden, Munich, and Vienna.
Student Review – University of Chemistry and Technology of Prague
Studying at UCT Prague was a great experience. The university has excellent labs and equipment, which made learning very practical. The professors are friendly and always ready to help if you have questions. Some courses were difficult, but I learned a lot and grew as a student.
The international community at UCT is amazing. I met students from many countries, and we worked together on projects. The campus is not too big, so it feels comfortable and easy to find your way.Life off campus made everything even better. It’s a beautiful city with lots of history, great food, and affordable living costs. I also enjoyed the student events organized by the university. If you are interested in chemistry or technology, I recommend UCT Prague for sure!
Student Review – Charles University
Studying at Charles University was an enriching experience both academically and personally. The university’s reputation for excellence in education is well-deserved, with highly knowledgeable professors and a curriculum that fosters critical thinking and research skills. The historical campus in Prague is stunning, providing a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
What I particularly loved was the diversity among students, which created a vibrant international community. However, some administrative processes could be slow, especially for international students unfamiliar with the system. Despite this, the support services were helpful and ensured I could navigate any challenges.
Living in Prague added to the charm of my studies, as the city offers a mix of cultural heritage and a lively student life. Whether it’s exploring the Old Town or enjoying the local cuisine, there’s always something to do. I wholeheartedly recommend Charles University to anyone looking for a world-class education in a beautiful European city.
Conclusion
Analysis of student reviews data between 2021 and 2024 shows that student life ratings for European and UK universities have decreased over time, from an average of 4.193 in 2021 to 3.955 in 2024. Just four of the cities on our ranking score above average this year, showcasing the vast difference in student experiences across Europe.
This year, our data shows a correlation between student life and value for money ratings. Prague, the top-ranked student city, also has the highest value for money score among the 11 large cities considered for this ranking.
But the diversity in cities rated for student life also speaks to the wide variety of experiences available across Europe. Just Germany and Spain have more than one city in the top 10, while other countries – like the Czech Republic and Poland – are typically absent from larger rankings of student cities.
So, has this article inspired you to study abroad?
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