Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by Benedek

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

I choose to go to Krakow, Poland because I read a lot of positive things about this city. I read that Krakow has really beautiful architecture and many museums, which fueled my interests. Another reason was that my favorite movie Schindler List was filmed in Krakow and I always wanted to visit Schindler's factory. Also, I was never in Poland before and always wanted to go there.

Source

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

My scholarship was three months long. I think I received 200 euros per month for my scholarship.

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

It was amazing. I really enjoyed it. For students, Krakow is probably one of the best city in the world. There are so many clubs and bars were you can go to. From a educational perspective its also amazing because Krakow has a lot of museums and other historical sites to offer. The best thing about Krakow is that the prices are cheap for those kind of things and therefore students have the opportunity to go out and visit those places as much as possible. Besides, a lot of students live in Krakow which makes this city extremely young.

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

For sure. I had one of the best time of my life there. The city is full of museums, restaurants, shops, bars, clubs and parks. I never had a day were I was bored. For me, living in Krakow was always full of excitement. I didn't go to the University of Krakow, I went to the Tischner European University. The University was alright, some of the classes were a bit boring, but other classes were alright.

What is the food like?

The food is very delicious. In my opinion, Poland has one of the best foods in the world. My favorite Polish dish is Pierogi. It's very delicious and I would recommend it to try it out. Zapiekanka is a Polish halved baguette, which is also very delicious.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Krakow?

It took some time to find an accomodation in Krakow. I eventually found one not so far away from the main market square, which was nice.

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

My rent fee cost like around 300-350 euros per month. For groceries and other things like going out, I spend like 150-200 euros per month. Compared to Germany from were I am from, the prices were cheap.

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

Because I only stayed there for a short time, I didn't have the time to learn the language. At the beginning Polish seemed to be very difficult, but I think that its not that difficult to speak if you try it hard enough. I think the most basics knowledge of the Polish language is pretty easy to learn. I don't think language courses were available at our university. You need to sign up for those courses at some other institute.

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

I drove by car, it does take some time, but you get there without any difficulties. By Plane, is also a reasonable and easy way to get there.

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

There are a lot of nightclubs and bars near the Market Square. Those places are always good because you meet a lot of students there and the music is great.

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

Krakow has a lot of nice restaurants. Unfortunately, I don't know the names of my favorite. There are many good restaurants at the Market Square, but the prices are a big higher compared to the others in Krakow. There are some great ones in the Old Town and in Kazimierz.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I would recommend the Market Square, Kazimierz, Wawel Castle, the National Museum, Czartoryski Museum, Historical Museum of Krakow, Galicia Jewish museum, Schindler's Factory and the Barbican. I would also recommend to visit Auschwitz concentration camp, which is near to Krakow.

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

Have fun and enjoy it. Krakow is truly an amazing place.