Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by Dion

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

Kraków is situated in my favourite European region: Central/Eastern Europe. Besides that, Kraków is a very beautiful city with everything you need as a student.

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

Lots of bars, clubs and pubs! Also more than enough other cultural activities.

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

Yes, definately! As long as you are prepared for some bureaucracy and people who don't speak English, you will enjoy Kraków in every aspect.

What is the food like?

Fat, hearty food (Polish), but supermarkets offer almost everything you may need. Restaurants are generally good, and offer also different kinds of food.

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

Less than in other European cities, especially compared to cities in Germany, Italy, Scandinavia, the Benelux and France.

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

No. Polish is really difficult to understand. Many people, but for sure not all, speak at least some english or german. Language courses are available, but the ones to learn Polish are unfortunately not free.

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

By plane is the most convenient way, but by train or car is perfectly possible.

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

Just go to Rynek, find some people who live in the city (Erasmus or not) and you will find hidden clubs and bars in cellars. Or start at PIjalnia with a beer or two, and end up in Bania Luka with some pierogi or tatar.

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

Bordo, cheap and good!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

A lot of. Wawel Castle, Rynek, a lot of churches, the former Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, Krakus Mound, the former Plaszów concentration camp. Further afield: Wieliczka Salt Mines, Zakopane and Tatra mountains, Auschwitz, Tarnów. For weekend trips: Warsaw, Gdansk, Lviv, Wroclaw.

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

You should definately travel around Central/Eastern Europe from here. Not only in Poland itself, but also countries like Hungary, Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia and Ukraine are really close to Krakow (one nightbus/night train ride)