Recommendations
We know that coming to study in another country is exciting, but it can also generate doubts. That’s why we’ve put together a series of practical recommendations to make your arrival in Seville as easy and comfortable as possible.
Here you will find useful tips on what to bring, how to get around the city, healthcare, money management and daily life in Spain. It is designed for students from different countries, with clear and simple information.
Content
Travel Insurance – Medical Insurance
Is it mandatory?
If you are a student from outside the EU/EEA and your course lasts more than 90 days, you need mandatory health insurance as part of the visa process.
On the other hand, if you are a citizen of the European Union, Switzerland or the EEA, you can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the British GHIC for medical emergencies.
What should it cover?
- Complete medical assistance (emergencies, consultations, hospitalization).
- Repatriation to the country of origin if necessary.
- Lost or delayed baggage (recommended).
- No co-pays or deductibles: the coverage must be total and without financial limits.
The minimum recommended coverage is €30,000 and must be contracted with an insurer authorized in Spain.
Difference between EU and non-EU
- EU/EEA/Swiss students: you can use the EHIC/GHIC for medical emergencies, but additional insurance is recommended to cover repatriation and extra assistance.
- Students from outside the EU: they must take out full private insurance with medical and repatriation coverage, mandatory to obtain a visa.
Money and payments in Seville
We recommend you bring some cash for the first few days (between €50 and €100). It is useful for transport, small coffee shops and local businesses that do not accept cards.
Use of a card in Seville
Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, supermarkets and shops. It is advisable to use a card with no international fees to avoid additional charges.
ATMs and banks near IELE
- ATMs of banks such as Santander, BBVA, CaixaBank or Unicaja are the most recommended. They usually charge between €0.50 and €1 per withdrawal.
- Avoid independent ATMs such as Euronet, which often charge high fees and unfavorable exchange rates.
Recommended fees and apps
- Revolut: prepaid card ideal for students, with no currency exchange fees and in-app control. Perfect for payments abroad.
- Wise: Another good option for international transfers with very low fees and real exchange rate.
What to bring in your suitcase
Packing well will save you time and worry. Below you will find all the essentials for your stay in Seville, depending on the time of year and your country of origin.
Clothing according to the season
- Summer (June–August): temperatures between 25°C and 38°C. Wear light clothing (short-sleeved t-shirts, shorts, dresses), sunglasses, cap or hat, and sunscreen.
- Autumn (September–November): 20 °C to 28 °C. Ideal to bring a light jacket or sweater and mid-season clothing.
- Winter (December–February): 8 °C to 18 °C. Layered clothing, such as sweaters, light jacket and scarf; on colder nights it can drop to 5 °C.
- Spring (March–May): similar to autumn, with temperatures between 15 °C and 24 °C. Bring a light raincoat, as it can rain.
Comfortable shoes
Seville is ideal for walking: the historic center is full of cobbled streets. Bring sneakers, comfortable shoes, or closed-toe sandals that fit in when walking for several hours a day.
Plug and voltage adapter
In Spain, 220 V current is used, and type C and F plugs (two round pins). If you come from:
- Europe, Latin America, Middle East: You may not need an adapter, but check the type of plug.
- UK, USA, Canada, Australia: yes you need an adapter; It comes with a universal adapter for added safety.
We recommend an adapter with a built-in converter if your devices do not support 220V.
Medication and prescriptions
- Daily use medications and controlled prescriptions: bring them with you in sufficient quantity and with an official prescription translated into Spanish or English.
- Basic medications (analgesics, antihistamines, antidiarrheals): these are easily available in pharmacies without a prescription.
- Vitamins, supplements, anti-allergy – best brought from home if you use specific brands that may not be available here.
SIM card and internet
Stay connected from day one with a local SIM card or an international eSIM. Being able to use your mobile phone as soon as you arrive will make it easier for you to move around the city, look up directions, contact IELE or order food.
Recommended prepaid SIM cards
- Lowi: good coverage and affordable prices, easy recharge from the app.
- Simyo: customizable plans with no commitment.
- Digi Mobil: national and international coverage, ideal for calls outside Spain.
eSIM: Immediate connectivity upon arrival
If your phone is compatible, you can use a eSIM to avoid looking for a physical store when you arrive. We recommend Saily, an international eSIM ideal for students: without contracts, easy to activate and with coverage in Spain and many other countries if you are going to travel.
Useful apps in Spain
- Google Maps – navigation, public transport, restaurants.
- Moovit – real-time bus and tram information in Seville.
- Glovo / Just Eat / Deliveroo – food and delivery.
- Sevici – official app of the public bicycle system of Seville.
Transport in Seville
Getting around Seville is easy and inexpensive if you know your options. Here’s everything you need to get around hassle-free.
Public transport: bus, tram and bike
- Bus and tram (TUSSAM): extensive network covering the entire city. It is reliable, comfortable and with regular step-through frequency.
- Sevici (public bicycles): bicycle rental system ideal for short journeys and central areas.
- Private bikes: many people opt for a personal or electric bike for greater autonomy.
Card top-up (Multi-trip Card)
The rechargeable transport card (Multiviaje) is valid for bus and tram. You can recharge it at the machines at the stops or at kiosks and tobacconists. We recommend starting with a balance of €10–15 for your first few days.
Transportation from the airport
- EA bus: 24-hour express line to the centre for €4 (single ticket).
- Official taxi: fixed fare to the centre of around €25–30.
- VTC services (Uber, Bolt): variable prices, usually between €20–35.
Opening hours and local customs
Life in Seville has its own rhythm. Knowing the usual schedules and some cultural customs will help you adapt easily from day one.
Business hours, meals and social life
- Shops and shops: they are usually open from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:30. Many close at noon, especially in residential neighborhoods.
- Supermarkets: open from 9:00 to 21:00 or 22:00, and some on Sunday mornings.
- Meals: lunch is between 14:00 and 15:30; dinner, between 9:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
- Social life: lasts late, especially in spring and summer. It’s normal to go out during the week.
The siesta and the rhythm of the day
Although not everyone takes a nap, it is common for many businesses to close between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., especially in summer. It’s part of the city’s relaxed, climate-like pace. Evenings usually start later, and evenings are active even on weekdays.
Basic cultural codes
- Treatment: the treatment is usually informal and close, but with respect. The “you” is used a lot.
- Punctuality: in social matters there is some flexibility, but in classes and formal appointments punctuality is expected.
- Body language: gestures, eye contact, and closeness are common in everyday communication.
- Greeting: a handshake or two kisses (between people you trust) is the norm.
Where to Buy the Basics
During your stay in Seville, you will not miss anything. The city has supermarkets, small shops and pharmacies that are accessible on foot from almost anywhere in the centre.
Regular supermarkets
Some of the most well-known and competitively priced supermarkets are:
- Mercadona: the most popular in Spain, with a wide variety of food and personal care products.
- DIA: smaller supermarkets, with affordable prices and a presence in residential areas.
- Carrefour Express: more compact stores, perfect for quick purchases and open until late.
- MAS/SuperSol: local options with fresh produce and good service.
Neighborhood Stores
On every street you will find greengrocers, bakeries, groceries and small traditional shops. They usually have good products and close treatment. Prices may be slightly higher, but the quality and local vibe make up for it.
Pharmacies and opening hours
Pharmacies in Seville are normally open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m . and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m . from Monday to Friday. On Saturdays they open in the morning. There are always pharmacies on duty open 24 hours a day, rotating by area (you can check the nearest one online or at the pharmacy itself).
Health and safety
Seville is a safe and quiet city to live and study, but as in any urban environment, it is advisable to take some basic precautions to avoid inconveniences.
Security in the city
- Avoid carrying valuables in plain sight in very touristy or crowded areas.
- Pay attention on public transport and on outdoor terraces: wallets and mobile phones should always be controlled.
- The city is safe to walk around downtown at night, but use common sense as you would in any other city.
Emergencies and medical assistance
The single emergency number in Spain is 112. You can call for free from any phone, even without credit or without a SIM card, to contact the police, fire brigade or health care.
Medical centers near IELE
If you need medical attention during your stay, there are several centers near the school. Here are some options:
- El Arenal Health Center – C/ Adriano, 28 (5 min walk)
- Hospital Quirónsalud Sagrado Corazón – private centre with fast attention and multilingual service
- Pharmacies on call – available 24 hours a day