Are you looking for the best university cities in Spain to study and enjoy a complete experience? Catalonia stands out year after year as one of the regions with the highest academic quality, cultural diversity, and professional opportunities.
The U-Ranking 2025 report, prepared by the BBVA Foundation and Ivie, confirms this trend: Catalan universities rank among the highest-rated in Spain for teaching, research, and innovation.
The study analyzes 72 Spanish universities —48 public and 24 private— and more than 3,600 official degrees, offering a customizable ranking through the Choose University tool.
Read the full report here.
Catalan universities among the best in Spain
According to U-Ranking 2025, Catalonia leads national academic performance. Three universities in Barcelona are listed in Group 1, the highest level in the ranking:
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) – Index 100
- Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) – Index 95
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) – Index 92
In addition, the University of Girona (UdG) achieves an excellent score of 85 points, placing it among the best in the country.
These results consolidate Catalonia as one of the most competitive university regions in Spain, standing out for both teaching quality and the strength of its research and connection with the labor market.
Source: BBVA Foundation – Ivie (U-Ranking 2025).
The best university cities in Catalonia
Each Catalan city offers a unique experience for students. From the dynamism of Barcelona, the innovation and natural surroundings of Sant Cugat del Vallès, to the tranquility of Girona or the welcoming atmosphere of Manresa, there is a perfect option for every lifestyle and way of living the university experience.
Barcelona: The University capital par excellence
Barcelona is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Spain and Europe. Its international atmosphere, cultural offerings, and excellent transport network make it one of the best university cities in the country.
At Unihabit, we offer student residences in Ciutat Vella and Barcelona Gràcia —two ideal locations to enjoy both academic and social life.
Discover our university residences in Barcelona
Sant Cugat: Innovation and nature next to Barcelona
Sant Cugat del Vallès is one of the most modern and sustainable university cities in Catalonia, located just 20 minutes from Barcelona. It is home to the School of Architecture of Vallès (UPC – ETSAV) and a growing university environment surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Our Unihabit Sant Cugat student residence is located within the ETSAV campus and offers a sustainable, modern.
Girona: Educational quality and a peaceful environment
The University of Girona (UdG) stands out in the U-Ranking for its performance in teaching and research. Girona is ideal for those seeking a quieter environment without giving up academic excellence.
Our Unihabit Girona – Montilivi Campus residence offers modern and functional accommodation within the campus, surrounded by green areas.
Discover the university residence in Girona.
Additionally, if you’d like to learn more about what life is like in the city, we recommend reading this blog article: Unihabit Girona, the campus residence, where you’ll discover all the details about the facilities, environment, and experiences of students who choose Girona.
Manresa: University spirit
In the heart of Catalonia, Manresa combines a close-knit university atmosphere with an affordable cost of living.
At the Campus UManresa, just a few minutes from the campus, students enjoy the perfect balance between study, community, and well-being.
Student life and university accommodation in Catalonia
Life in Catalonia’s university cities is dynamic, accessible, and full of opportunities. Universities organize cultural, sports, and volunteering activities that promote integration and personal growth.
In this context, accommodation plays a key role. Unihabit university residences offer comfortable, sustainable, and well-located spaces on the main Catalan campuses: Barcelona Ciutat Vella, Barcelona Gràcia, Sant Cugat, Girona, and Manresa.
They are the perfect option to make the most of the university experience in a modern and community-oriented environment.
Catalonia: The smart choice for your university journey
If you’re deciding between different university cities in Spain, Catalonia brings together all the elements that define a complete university experience: top-tier universities, a multicultural environment, employment opportunities, and a high quality of life.
The data from U-Ranking 2025 confirms it: studying in Catalonia means investing in your future.
Discover more about Unihabit university residences and find the perfect place to live your next academic stage.
