Experience in Krakow, Poland by Daniel

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

I went to Krakow for working purposes, however I didn't quite got the regular 9 to 6 job and I can say I had a really beyond to erasmus experience in the city.

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

n.a.

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

Krakow is simply amazing! From all my erasmus friends I can say that you have your classes, but with some organization you can go out almost every day.

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

Definitly.

What is the food like?

Food. First you can buy anything and cook it at home.
Nevertheless, you have some good Polish restaurants around and... really affordable! From dumplings to Tatar Steak you have some other regular dishes too. This issues won't be problem!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Krakow?

Although the city is quite affordable, it might get complicated to find that really nice located place for a reasonable price. Try as much as possible to stay away from real estate agencies as they will charge you one rent more! I do believe for a max of 250€ you can get a really good deal. You may always consider the students dorms, way more affordable...

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

It is cheap but It depends on your lifestyle ofc.

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

Polish is really hard. As I use to say.. life is to short to learn Polish :D
But a plus of Poland and of Krakow in particular, everyone speaks english!

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

Ryanair!

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

I would recommend 2 areas, being both of them particularly different.
Old town/Main square area and Kazimierz/Jewish quarter area.

On the Main square you'll meet all the party animals and most all the foreigns. You might start from some cheap pub as Pijalnia, Huki Muki, Passage or Banialuka (My favourite!All the foreigns join here.) THen you have a lot of clubs within walking distance which is a big plus of this city nightlife. Depending on the days, ask in the pub what's rolling on that night.

On kazimierz, you have the nice lounge bars, worth spending some nights here.

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

I recommend KoKo restaurant on Gołębia street, 8. Nice dishes and the most affordable in the city.

Aside from this one, you have a looot of good restaurants for all occasions and needs.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You have a lot of sites to visit around.
So you have main square, Wawel Castel, Kazimierz/Jewish quarter, Schindler's factory, Salt mines and Auschwitz.

Another great thing about krakow is that you are 4 to 5 hours away from 5 European Capitals: Prague, Viena, Bratislava, Budapest and Warsaw.

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

What are you waiting? You'll never forget it.