Why ESADE Attracts International Students From Around the World

ESADE is one of Europe's most internationally recognized business schools and attracts students from many different countries every year.

Many students move to Barcelona for intensive master's programs, MBA programs or professional development opportunities. Because of this, student housing in Barcelona for ESADE students is often approached differently compared with traditional undergraduate student life.

Many ESADE students are looking for stability, focus and a smoother lifestyle that allows them to balance academics, networking and personal well-being.

Where ESADE Students Usually Live in Barcelona

ESADE students live across different parts of Barcelona depending on their lifestyle preferences, budget and priorities.

Poblenou & 22@ — Home of Blau Student Housing

Increasingly, many international students are choosing areas like Poblenou and Barcelona's 22@ district because they offer a calmer and more modern atmosphere than the busiest parts of the city center. Students who value productivity, better sleep, coworking cafés and a more balanced lifestyle are often drawn to this area.

Blau Student Housing is located here. While Poblenou is not the closest neighborhood to ESADE's campuses, many ESADE students choose it specifically for the lifestyle it offers. Both the Pedralbes and Sant Cugat campuses are approximately 24–25 minutes by car — and for students who drive, Blau has an underground parking facility on-site, making the daily commute straightforward without the stress of finding parking in the city. Discover why many international students choose areas like Poblenou.

Eixample

Eixample is another popular area among ESADE students because of its central location, restaurants and business-oriented atmosphere. However, some students later decide they prefer quieter residential neighborhoods after experiencing the intensity of central Barcelona.

Sarrià-Sant Gervasi

Some students also choose Sarrià-Sant Gervasi because of its calmer environment and proximity to ESADE campuses.

What ESADE Students Usually Prioritize in Housing

Compared with younger undergraduate students, many ESADE students focus more on quality of life and daily functionality when choosing student housing near ESADE Barcelona.

Privacy & Personal Space

Many master's students prefer private studios or more independent living setups that allow them to focus, rest properly and maintain a stable routine. Having a private bathroom and kitchen often becomes more important during intensive academic programs.

Read why more students are choosing private studios in Barcelona.

Productive Environment

ESADE students often spend long hours studying, networking and preparing projects. Because of this, many students prioritize environments that feel calmer, more organized and study-friendly. Common areas, coworking-style spaces and wellness facilities are becoming increasingly important for international students. Read how international students make friends in Barcelona.

Balanced Lifestyle

Many students move to Barcelona not only for academics, but also for lifestyle and international experience. Areas near cafés, gyms, outdoor spaces and the beach often become attractive because they support a healthier routine during demanding programs.

Commute to ESADE Campuses

Poblenou is not the closest neighborhood to ESADE's campuses — and being transparent about this matters. However, for students who drive, the commute is straightforward and predictable. Blau's on-site underground parking removes one of the most common daily frustrations of living in Barcelona.

ESADE Pedralbes Campus

ESADE Sant Cugat Campus

For a full overview of commute times from Blau to all Barcelona universities, read the Barcelona universities commute guide.

Shared Apartment or Student Residence for ESADE Students in Barcelona?

Both shared apartments and student residences are common among ESADE students, but the choice usually depends on lifestyle expectations.

Why Some Students Choose Shared Apartments

Shared apartments may initially appear more affordable and flexible, especially for students already familiar with Barcelona.

Why More ESADE Students Are Choosing Managed Student Residences

Many international students now prefer a managed student residence in Barcelona because it simplifies everyday life and reduces many common stresses related to moving abroad. Reception support, maintenance, security, study-friendly facilities and international community environments can make daily life feel significantly easier during demanding academic programs.

Compare student residences and shared apartments in Barcelona.

What Many ESADE Students Regret About Their Housing Choice

One common mistake is choosing housing based only on monthly rent without considering daily quality of life. Some students later realize that:

• their apartment feels too noisy for studying
• flatmate situations become emotionally exhausting
• the commute affects productivity and energy
• they underestimated the importance of sleep quality
• managing housing problems creates unnecessary stress

Many students discover that environment and routine strongly affect their overall academic performance and experience in Barcelona. Read why international students often feel lonely after moving abroad.