With plenty in the way of culture, history, gastronomy, and natural sights, A Coruña is a vibrant coastal city that sits in the very northwest corner of Spain in the autonomous community of Galicia. From climbing up the world’s oldest working lighthouse to riding up the glass lift to Mirador San Pedro, A Coruña is a city with a lot to offer.
The city is known as the “Glass City” due to its unique architectural style of constructing galerías (enclosed glass balconies) onto the side of its buildings. Most date back to the 19th century and feature patterns, as well as colours and embellishments. The best galerías can be seen on the harbour front along Avenida Marina, but there are also many in the centre of the city and along with Avenida Motto, too.
Why Book Student Accommodation in A Coruña?
The uniqueness of the Galician culture in A Coruña is demonstrated in the local gastronomy with so much rice and pasta. Also, potatoes tend to be the accompaniment of choice for fish and meat dishes. The astonishing variety of fish species and crustaceans are prepared and cooked in a myriad of dishes depending on the region within Galicia. With the main cities being so close to the ports, freshness is always assured.
When in A Coruña, you will enjoy access to a long 1.4 kilometre crescent of sand hugging the bay. Known as Praia do Orzán at its east end and Praia de Riazor at its west, it’s a very popular place, especially in summer. The beach also has some good waves for surfing at other times of the year.
A Coruña is also home to the University of A Coruña, a public university established in 1989. Its primary objective is the generation, management, and dissemination of culture and scientific, technological and professional knowledge through the development of research and teaching.
Universities in A Coruña
University of A Coruña
Casita has 2 accommodation options within walking distance to the university.
There are 2 bus stops close to campus; Alfonso Molina_elviña is just a 9-minute walk away.
Cruceiro de Carracedo is just a 4-minute car ride away, while you can reach The Tower of Hercules by car in just 15 minutes.
Student Life
What is it like to live in A Coruña?
Living in A Coruña can be awesome and fun. Although the weather can get a little cloudy during winter, summer is usually moderate in temperature. This can be perfect to enjoy a variety of different activities such as surfing or sailing, especially that A Coruña owns beautiful beaches with the ideal waves to practise it.
Is A Coruña a safe place to live?
A Coruña is part of Galicia, which has a very low crime rate. You will always feel safe wherever you go, especially in rural areas. The locals are kind, hard-working, and loyal. Be kind to them and they'll treat you like one of their own.
Must-Visit Places in A Coruña
One of the most famous places to visit is Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. An important site of pilgrimage, this historic cathedral is considered to be one of Spain’s most extraordinary examples of Romanesque architecture. The Cathedral is a magnificent blend of architectural styles, with elaborate Baroque and Gothic features embellishing its primarily Romanesque design.
Another must-visit place is The Tower of Hercules. It has served as a lighthouse and landmark at the entrance of La Coruña harbour in north-western Spain since the late 1st century A.D. when the Romans built the Farum Brigantium. The oldest working lighthouse in the world, the Tower of Hercules, has become somewhat a symbol of the city. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb to the top to witness spectacular 360-degree coastal and city views and to learn all about it at the visitors’ centre. There are also some lovely nature walks around the area.
Not far from the tower is the Aquarium Finisterrae, meaning “aquarium at the end of the Earth”. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it’s home to a variety of marine life, from seals and sharks to octopus and fish – all types of creatures that actually live along the Galician coast. As well as the wildlife, the aquarium also has displays on the lives of the local fishermen, their culture, and their traditions.
To get one of the best panoramic views of the city, head to the top of the San Pedro Hill via a huge spherical glass lift, allowing you to admire the views on the way up, too. At the top, you’ll find a variety of activities, including the Restaurante Mirador San Pedro which has various spaces such as a laid-back café and a fine dining restaurant. There is also a playground, an outdoor picnic and barbecue area, and an interpretation centre where you can learn all about the history of the area.
Transportation in A Coruña
Public transport in A Coruña is provided by Tranvías Coruña, which operates 23 bus lines during the day. On Friday and Saturday nights, you only have one bus line (BUHO) every hour from the city centre. The single ticket price is €1,30, tickets are bought on the bus with either coins or €5 notes, bigger notes are not accepted.
Taxis also offer a 24-hour service in A Coruña. To order a taxi, you can call their telephone line, use one of their smartphone applications, or get one at any of the taxi stops on the main streets of the city. The approximate taxi price from the city centre to Rialta is about €10.