Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by aurelie

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

I really like eastern Europe, but I didn't know Poland. Plus, it's kind of cheap compare to France, so I knew it was easier for me to live there.

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

I have the Crous scholarship in France, so I get 470e every month, and I received 800 from Erasmus for the first semester semester (I'll have it again for the second one cause I'm staying the academic year), and some more money from my region in France (something like 80e per month)

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

Some classes, lot of parties !
It depends what you are studying though, cause for example my rommates have many homework and presentations to do, and I, I just have a final exam.

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

YES !

What is the food like?

Fat. But soooo good !! Lot of stuff with potatoes and mashrooms !!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Krakow?

I found it on FB 2 months before to arrive in Krakow. I'm sahring a 6rooms appartment with 5others erasmus, 15walking from the main square, it costs something like 250e/months with the bills.

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

Depends where you live. In the center, it would be more expensive. For me its something like 450e-500 per month. Rent + restaurants + parties + travel + food !!!

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

In UJ, the polish classes cost 500zl, so I didn't take it. But all the young persons speak english, and with old people (like at the market), i just communicate with my hands and the few words I learned ! Polish is soooo hard !

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

I have friends in Paris, so for me it was cheapest to visit them a week end, and then travel with easyjet Paris-Krakow
But I think there is also Barcelona-Krakow with Ryanair.

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

Carpe Diem I or II, Bana Luka, Vodka and Piwo bar, in the homemade vodka bar in Kazimierz... Or for clubs : B4, Cien, Baccarat, Shine

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

Milk bars : really cheap, Koko, Bordo, and I don't know the expensive one..
Zapiekanka in Kazimierz !!!! hummmm

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Wawel Castle, churches, close to Auschwitz, Salt mine, Schindler factory, museums...

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

Enjoy the best city in Poland !!