Erasmus Experience in Coimbra, Portugal by A.
Why did you choose to go to Coimbra, Portugal?
I've heard that it's the most student city in Portugal and because of good weather.
How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?
It lasts 10 months.
What is the student lifestyle like in Coimbra?
Coimbra is indeed the most student city in Portugal - everywhere you go, you meet a lot of young people. The student life is located in the centre, so every time you go out, you meet a lot of people you know. The best party days are Tuesdays and Thursdays; during my first month here I was out with other students every single day.
Would you recommend the city and the University of Coimbra to other students?
Yes, for sure.
What is the food like?
No kebabs! Good place to eat during the day are student canteens- it's €2, 40 for one meal and the portion is really enough for lunch or dinner.
Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Coimbra?
No, I found it via Facebook.
How much does it cost to live in Coimbra?
My room is €175 rent plus (more or less) €30 bills. It's an average price for a single room in the city centre. My scholarship is €380 a month, but it's not enough to live here of course. I don't know how much exactly I spend, because it's always not enough.
Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?
Students speak English, but Portuguese basics are not so hard to learn; there were some intensive courses before the academic year started, but during the year it's possible to take Portuguese classes (5 or 6 ECTS, I don't remember).
What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Coimbra from your city?
Flight to Lisbon/Porto, then take a bus - Rede Express or Blablacar.
Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Coimbra?
Se velha! And clubs: CCB is an Erasmus place, but there are also NB, NL, TWIIT, The Rock Planet, Manga Club. For electronic music - Pop Fresh. Great and a bit 'fancy' places are Feito Conceito and Aqui Base Tango.
What good cultural sites are there to visit?
The botanical garden.
Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Coimbra in the future?
Take warm clothes for the autumn and winter, some warm coat and shoes for a bit colder and rainy days.
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