Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Sofia

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

It is a magic city and I fell in love with Istanbul when I was there for summer holidays 2 years before my erasmus.

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

my scholarship was for 6 months and we take about 350euros

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

I higlhy recommend Istanbul and Mimar Sinan Güzel Sanatlar Üniversitesi to other students for their erasmus programme.

What is the food like?

in my oppinion the food is very tasty but a little bit different from european food. it is more spicy and I love it :)

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

no, I found a very big appartment about 90 m2 with my friend, fully furnished and the rent cost was about 550 euros for both of us. Additionally the appartment was very close to center by feet.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

per month I think you can live with 350 euros except rent costs

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

the language courses are available for foerigners at the university.. I know turkish language very well so I didn't have any problem.

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

by airplane :)

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

hmm you can go to Istiklal's bars ....it's very nice there and more safe ;) ps: beer is very cheap anywhere!

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

yemek kulubu forever :DD

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

the whole city is full of cultural sites... you can find everything you are interested for :)

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

go to Istanbul and you will never forget this experience!!!