Erasmus Experience in Brno, Czech Republic by Valentina

Why did you choose to go to Brno, Czech Republic?

Brno was not my first choice but now I am glad that I went there. I decided for Brno because it has a great and well known university.

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

I had two scholarships, the first one was Erasmus and it was for 5 months, the second one was CEEPUS and it was for 4 months. Erasmus scholarship was 400 euros, CEEPUS was 350 euros (per month). I can say it's possible to live with that money in Brno.

Source

What is the student lifestyle like in Brno?

It is great. There are many Erasmus and exchange students, on Masaryk university there was around 500 of us. Their International office and ESN are very helpful and kind.

There are many discounts for students (public transportation, entrances into clubs, discount on drinks etc), many events for students, parties; everyone can find something to do.

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

Definitely. The Masaryk university has great programs and excellent professors, the whole system of studying is very developed and easy to use. Brno as a city offers a lot, from cultural and sport events to gastronomy and evenings out.

What is the food like?

For me, it was a bit too sweet, since I do not really like salty meals mixed with sweet, but apart from that it was really good. The prices are not too high and the meals are very tasty. Whether you want to eat Czech food, Slovak or just international one, they have everything. There are many Chinese restaurants - these are quite good as well.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Brno?

I was living in the student dormitory Vinařska, I applied for it before I came to Brno so I did not have any problems. The accommodation in the student dormitory was around 3000 CZK, which is around 120 euros. I was living in the room with a roommate, the room had a little bathroom, toilet, little kitchen and a big room with two beds, chairs and work desks with shelves for books.

How much does it cost to live in Brno?

Around 400 euros is enough to live there, which means to lead let's say a normal life, without spending too much when you go out and without any big expenses.

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

For me the language was not difficult, since I am from Croatia and our languages (Slavic ones) are somewhat similar. For other students such as Spanish, American or French ones, it was more difficult. But we all got to know the basic terms very quickly. Language courses are available and free.

Source

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

From my city, the best (the fastest and the most economical) way to travel to Brno is by bus. The bus from Zagreb to Wien in Austria and then from Wien to Brno. The price altogether is around 50 euros one way.

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

Different clubs, it depends on the taste. I liked 2faces, Metro, Caribic, Faval, and we often went to 7nebe.

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

Černohorská pivnice (definitely, great food), Nika Centrum Restaurace & Koliba (very close to Vinařska dormitory and great food).

Source

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, Brno Historic Center, Špilberk Castle, Brno Technical Museum, Capuchin Monastery and Vault, St Jacob's Church, the zoo, Namesti Svobody, Moravian Gallery and lots more.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Brno in the future?

Definitely go there on your exchange, guaranteed you will have the fun of your life.