Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by Katharina

Why did you choose to go to Cracovia, Polonia?

From every city I have been to, in Europe, Krakow was the city that surprised me the most. It is kind of a personal tip. Its a mix out of Berlin and Florence. Krakow is the place to be. I went there to study art and design at the Jan Matejko Academy of Fine Arts.

Source

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

I stayed in Krakow for 5 months for my studies. And i received around 380 EUR for the whole time.

What is the student lifestyle like in Cracovia?

Its just amazing! Krakow is a young, dynamic city with lots of students. There are lots of exhibitions organized by young students, hidden parties in the undergrounds of the Old City. You will meet lots of interesting people from around the world. And of course the polish students are very friendly and open-minded.

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

Of course it´s the best place to be!

What is the food like?

I am a fan of Pierogi and the polish cuisine. But you also can eat lots of nice veggie food. There are so many vegetarian restaurants. The food is healthy, good and cheap. As a student I could effort to eat out every day because the food there is much cheaper than in Germany. You really get something good for your money.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Cracovia?

No. My university helped me to find myself a place to stay.

How much does it cost to live in Cracovia?

Its way cheaper than in Germany i can tell. For one Month including: Food, rent + additional costs like water bill..., shopping, clubbing, material for university, tram around 400 EUR.

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

For me it was real hard to learn polish but I am not really a language talent. But nearly everyone in this city speaks english, because Krakow is student- and also touristic city. And there are free polish classes available at many universities.

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

The easiest way is to take the plane. But I know there were also lots of students who came by car or bus. The bus is the cheapest version. Sometimes you can find good deals in the internet for taking the plane. But you need to be early.

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

Kazimierz, the jewish quarter is the place to be! Lots of good pubs and bars and nice clubs. Alchemia is a nice pub, there are lots of cool concerts as well and you can also have dinner around the corner in the Alchemia restaurant.

Also: Bomba-pl. Szczepanski 2, Alchemia-ul.Estery 1

Source

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

Enjoy!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

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

Be open minded, do not drink alcohol on the streets ( its forbidden by law, you can get a fine ), try everything and just enjoy the time.