Erasmus Experience in Leipzig, Germany by Antonella

Why did you choose to go to Leipzig, Germany?

I've chosen to move here because I am interested in the history and culture of east Germany. Leipzig is the perfect place to discover them and it is a city full of life, young people, and nice landscapes. It's the perfect place to live in.

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

I will stay one year (2 semesters) and I'll get 2. 000 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Leipzig?

It's impossible to get bored here. You must take your studies seriously, but you will be always rewarded by good parties at night.

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

Absolutely yes! Leipzig is one of the favourite cities for the German students as well!

What is the food like?

The food is good, especially if you like potatoes! There are a lot of canteens for students in the city and they are not bad at all! There you can have good typical German food for student price! A very well known street-food is the 'Bratwurst' that is a sausage served with bread that you can find in kiosks scattered around the city.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Leipzig?

I live in the student dorm, it's quite cheap. I had my room before the arrival, so I didn't pay any hostel to find it.

How much does it cost to live in Leipzig?

I think life cost here is middle/high compared to the other European countries. Not so cheap, but you can manage it.

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

German language is not easy at all, but it has its own logic. Everyone can learn it with a little bit of effort and enthusiasm. Erasmus students have free language courses.

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

I came here by plane. It is the cheapest and fastest way. Trains are a little bit expensive in Germany and if you find buses too much uncomfortable for you a good solution could be Blablacar. A lot of people adopt this way of travel and thus it's quite easy to find a lift when you need it.

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

Leipzig is full of cool underground and alternative places. A lot of cool pubs and clubs are located in the neighborhoods of Connewitz and Plagwitz. I can suggest Connne Island, Distillery, Institut fuer Zukunft, especially if you are a night owl. If you just want to chill and taste German beers in a pub, maybe playing billiards or Ping-Pong, you have to try Beyerhaus or Jet!

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

Yes, I can! A very traditional one is 'Kartoffelhaus' or 'Zill's Tunnel' in the city center where you can taste the real German food at a reasonable price.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Leipzig is very famous for the 'Battle of the Nations' in which Napoleon was defeated. So here you can find the monument that reminds that event, das Völkerschlachtdenkmal, that is a very must see, and from the top of it, you can have a beautiful view of the city. You also don't have to miss to visit the Thomaskirche, the church where Johann Sebastian Bach is buried. The Zeitgeschichtliches Forum is the place where you can find out a lot about the history of the city. Art lovers should walk in direction Grassi Museum where you can enjoy three different sections: applied arts, ethnology and music instruments. But there is so much more to discover around here!

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

Just try to live the city as much as possible. Leipzig has thousands aspects. In this way you can find out the one you like the most, and enjoy your staying here at 100%! As Germans say: ' Viel Spaß'! Have fun!