Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Magdalini

Why did you choose to go to Estambul, Turquía?

It was pure luck actually, but one of the best experiences I have had in my life

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

I was at the Erasmus Programme for 6 months, winter semester. I used to receive 550€ per month which was okay at that time as the currency was 1€= 3tl.. Right now is 1€= 7,7TL so with this money you are basically rich here :p.. depending on your lifetsyle of course. The price for one room is usually 1000-1200TL depending on the area of course and the markets are quite cheap (unless you want to buy the finest cheese/ meat/wine)

What is the student lifestyle like in Estambul?

Great! There are many universities that accept Erasmus students so thre is always an erasmus party to attend no matter which day of the week is it. Some of the unis have campuses with amazing views and great libraries.. I think ıt was the first time in my life that I enjoyed studying so much

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

yes, it is a huge city but it doesnt matter! Really different than any of the other european cities

What is the food like?

The best!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Estambul?

No there arw many erasmus groups and you can find accomodation quite easily. Just be careful not to get scammed. especially girls will get 1000 messages on FB from weird turkish guys. just ignore them

How much does it cost to live in Estambul?

Really depends on the lifestyle but food is cheap, Bars and clubs tend to be more expensive.

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

mostly there are and if you learn just the basics you will be fine

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

Frpm my city in Greece by bus

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

Taksim / Beşiktas/ Kadikoy

Ortaköy or Arnavutköy for fancier nights

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

You van try Victor Levi in Kadikoy (Nice ambiance)

Tantuni 12 at Kadikoy again (street food)

Lacivert

Bodrum Manti (quite a few around)

Şehrazat kebab at Şisli..

In general avoid the really touristic ones on Istiklal Street and opt for smaller ones in the small narrow streets (sokak)

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

A thousand!

Hagia Sophia Museum

Sultanhamet Mosque

Grand Pazaar (Kapalı Carsi)

Dolmabahce Palace

Topkapı Palace

Balat (area)

Galata Tower...

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

Have fun and try as many different foods as possible! (Watch out not to gain 10kilos like I did!)