My Study Abroad Experience: Barcelona, Spain

By: Daryn Reese

Studying abroad in Barcelona was nothing short of a dream. From the moment I arrived, I fell in love with the energy of the city, the culture, the food—and most of all, the coffee. If there was one consistent thread in my time there, it was my mission to explore as many coffee shops as possible, and I think I just about did it. Whether I was heading to class or planning my next weekend trip, I always made time for a café stop (or two... or three).

Some of my favorite spots included Bar La Camèlia, Pècora, Morrow, Right Side Coffee Bar, and Kaféunion. Each had its own charm, vibe, and perfect cup. But my all-time favorite had to be La Central del Raval, nestled inside a bookstore with a spacious patio—truly the best setting to sip espresso and soak in the atmosphere. With most coffee drinks costing just 2 to 3 euros, it became my favorite daily ritual and gave me the perfect excuse to drink multiple cups a day.

The CIEE school in Barcelona was located in Eixample, one of the most vibrant and lively neighborhoods in the city. Being based there meant I was surrounded by beautiful architecture, bustling streets, and amazing food—all within walking distance. Even some of our classes let us explore the city hands-on. My favorite class was Culture and Cuisine, where we learned so much about the culture and history of Barcelona through its food and customs. And yes, we got to try so many amazing dishes and treats right in class.

Outside of school, I had a few favorite places that really stood out. The Bunkers del Carmel offered stunning panoramic views of the entire city. The Sagrada Familia was one of the most breathtaking and surreal sights I’ve ever seen. And the Gothic Quarter and El Born neighborhoods were endlessly charming, filled with winding alleys, hidden gems, and unforgettable character. Just a short 30-minute trip from the city was Sitges, the most adorable little beach town with the cutest cafés, unique shops, and the most beautiful beach views. It felt like a secret getaway, peaceful and perfect.

Barcelona truly had everything I could’ve asked for in a home base—the best food, vibrant energy, gorgeous weather, incredible architecture, and that unbeatable mix of city and sea. It was such a lively place to live and study, and I constantly felt lucky to call it home, even for a short while.

On the weekends, I got to explore even more of Europe. One of my favorite trips was to Costa Brava, just a short distance away, where the coastline felt untouched and peaceful. I also visited Interlaken in Switzerland, where I had the best chocolate of my life and paraglided over the mountains. In Italy, I spent time in Florence and Tuscany, riding bikes through rolling hills and vineyards, and took a quick train to Cinque Terre, where each seaside town looked like it was straight out of a painting. Lisbon was another highlight—warm, welcoming, and filled with some of the oldest and coziest establishments I’ve ever seen. It felt less touristy and so full of character.

Some other places I’ll always remember include Prague, Dublin (especially celebrating St. Patrick’s Day and taking a magical day trip through Glendalough and St. Mary’s Gardens), London, and Aix-en-Provence in France. Each city added something unique to my experience and helped shape an unforgettable few month abroad.

Studying abroad was so much more than just taking classes in another country. It was a chance to experience another side of the world, immerse myself in a different way of life, and grow more confident and curious along the way. I came back feeling more connected, more aware, and incredibly grateful for the people I met and the places I saw. CIEE made this all possible, and I’ll never stop being thankful for the opportunity they gave me to live this adventure.

EXPLORE BARCELONA