Erasmus Experience in Coimbra, Portugal by Nelli

Why did you choose to go to Coimbra, Portugal?

With Erasmus there are some limited choices, Coimbra seemed to be the best one, as I wanted to go to Southern Europe.

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

My scholarship was meant for 5 months and it was 2000 € all together, so I had 400 € scholarship per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Coimbra?

During the week it is lively and there is something to do everyday - mostly Monday till Thursday. Weekends can be rather quiet, as a lot of people go home, so then it´s possible to meet all Erasmus students if they´re not travelling.

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

Yes, of course!

What is the food like?

Delicious and cheap!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Coimbra?

No, I took the dorm option.

How much does it cost to live in Coimbra?

It depends what kind of life you're having, but it is cheap to live there.

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

There are Erasmus student language courses which are very convenient. Portuguese is hard language though, but people in this city, younger ones, also speak English, but if you know basics in Portuguese then you'll manage.

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

There is no easy way. There has to be always two flights at least, most economical usually is through London to Porto and then the train to Coimbra.

Source

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

When I was there in 2010 then one of the most popular places was "Tapas".

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

All of them?