Erasmus Experience in Budapest, Hungary by Joonas

Why did you choose to go to Budapest, Hungary?

I had good experiences from here before.

What is the student lifestyle like in Budapest?

Amazing. Easy. Can't complain about anything.

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

Of course.

What is the food like?

Magnificent and there's a lot of it. You can eat out everyday during year and you don't have to go same place twice.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Budapest?

Nope.

How much does it cost to live in Budapest?

Depends a lot from location and obviously a bit from luck, if you just happen to find a good spot. For me the first flat ~450/month and current 330€. Own studio and amazing location and all. Perfect.

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

Yes, at least in BBS. Hard language to learn in general but if you've the motivation, you can do it. Helps you a lot when you hear it daily.

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

Plane for sure, no matter from which parts of Finland you come.

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

Oh, I have my secret places and if I told you, they wouldn't be secret anymore. During summer best spots are among the Danube.

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

I can write a book about them. If you're vegan, stay the hell out of Smokey Monkeys, otherwise run in. And try all the authentic places you find when you get lost and jump out at wrong metro station.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Everything you need. Go to spa. There are a lot of museums and stuff but the best way to ecperience the culture is make some local friends and end up to their place to have a dinner and drink palinka and way too many beers.

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

Come here with smiling face. Expect nothing and have a positive attitude. Things will work out differently from your home place for sure but you'll have experience you never forget.