Erasmus Experience in Bratislava, Slovakia by Bénédicte

Why did you choose to go to Bratislava, Slovakia?

Bratislava is located in the center of Europe. Within a few hours, you can go to a lot of cities across Europe.

Slovakia and Bratislava was also very unknown for me. I wanted to experience something that I´ve never done before.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I was in Bratislava for 5 months. I received €235/ month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bratislava?

There are a lot of Eramsus students in Bratislava, but also a lot of Slovak students in the city. The student´s life for me was a mixture of a little bit of eveything. Some trips to other cities, hiking, some parties, some cultural experiences,... Everything is possible in this city, it's just up to you to choose how you want to experience it.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Bratislava to other students?

Yes I would. It's a very nice city to be in. However, the university was not always perfect. You need to be able to be very flexible. They often communicate to you just one day before about classes or other things. But in the same time, they are also very flexible for the students to deliver things, or if you can't be in class etc.

What is the food like?

The food is very good but very heavy. If you like greasy food, it's perfect. They eat a lot of pork, chicken, dumplings, cheese,... But this is just the typical food, you can find anything you want in the city.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Bratislava?

It wasn´t easy to find accommodation, because I wanted to rent a flat with other Erasmus students. Many real estate offices don't speak English. However, on Facebook there are a lot of offers for apartments and rooms. But watch out because there are big differences in prices.

How much does it cost to live in Bratislava?

Very little! The food is very cheap. Also going to restaurants or bars is much cheaper. You can find a beer for €1, or a good meal for less then €5 in a restaurant. The rent depends what you want. The student residences are very cheap, but it's not very comfortable to live. For example some of the student residences don't have a fridge. To rent a room in a flat is about €300-€350/ month but it's possible to find something cheaper too.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

The language is difficult to learn. But the most important words are not that difficult.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Bratislava from your city?

By plane.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Bratislava?

Garda pub or Dunaj bar.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Bratislava?

Divny Janko, Be About, Slovak Pub,...

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Castle of Bratislava, Devin castle, old town,...