Asturias is one of the regions of Spain with the best quality of life index. With approximately one million inhabitants, the Principality of Asturias has a natural, historical, and cultural heritage that makes the region a point of reference for visitors from all over the world. A peaceful and accessible place characterised by the hospitality of its people and a privileged natural environment.

Asturias offers the visitor a peaceful and accessible place with a high quality of life and a privileged natural environment.

The Principality of Asturias is a small region, which makes it easy to enjoy its natural wealth very close to the cities. The large residential centres are in the centre of the region and are well communicated in distances that do not exceed half an hour by car, bus, or train. Oviedo, Gijón, Mieres, and Avilés are medium-sized cities, which offer their inhabitants a wide range of public services and an intense cultural leisure offer. These four cities are among the safest in Spain.

The spectacular natural resources of the Asturian landscape are very much present in the daily life of its inhabitants. The environment is privileged for enjoying outdoor activities, with an endless number of spots for mountain and beach lovers. The Asturian climate makes it possible, for example, to enjoy sports as different as surfing and skiing.

The service sector carries the main weight of Asturian economic activity, although heavy steel industry plays an important role in Asturias' GDP. Asturias is one of the safest regions in the country and is connected to the rest of Spain and Europe through an international airport, local and long-distance rail networks, and road transport.

The public health and education systems in Asturias are among the highest rated in Spain.

The cost of living in Asturias

Monthly expenses for a foreign student can range from 600 to 800 euros per month, depending on the type of accommodation chosen. There is no limit to the amount of currency a foreign student can bring to Spain. It is advisable to use a credit card and open a bank account.

To open an account in a Spanish bank, the foreign student must apply for an identification number (N.I.E.), which will be given to him/her when applying for a residence card at the Oficina de Extranjeros (Foreigners' Office).

Spain is not an expensive country, although the average cost of living varies greatly. Large cities such as Barcelona, Madrid, and Bilbao are much more expensive than smaller cities such as Oviedo or Gijón.