Erasmus Experience in Lille, France by Theresa

Why did you choose to go to Lilla, Francia?

I got a bachelor thesis project at my University's partner University, which is located at Villeneuve d'Ascq near Lille. I also speak French.

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

I have been there for 5 months, during which I received an Erasmus scholarship of about 350€ and a German federal student grant (Bafög) of about 500€.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Lille?

There are many cultural events in the city and on the campus, some organized by the students themselves. During the weekend the local students usually go home to their families, so there is not much to do on campus. However, the Erasmus students go on trips to many great destinations such as Paris, Brussels, Rotterdam and many more.

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

If you speak French and you are interested in cultural events at all, I definitely recommend it.

What is the food like?

Overall, it's great. The famous "Ch'ti" style of having fries with everything and the preference for Belgian beer over wine does not seem very French at first glance. But actually the city has much more variety to offer, which is mostly affordable, too.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lille?

I stayed at the students' halls of residence on Lille campus at Villeneuve d'Ascq, which was organized for me, so it was not difficult to find. It was 200€ for a room of 9m² with private cooking facilities but shower and toilet were on each floor (each in private cabinets though).

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How much does it cost to live in Lilla?

Probably between 400 and 600€ per month, if you stay on campus.

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

You should definitely learn some French upfront before coming to Lille, it makes communicating with everyone much easier. Of course, there are also courses to improve your French at University.

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

There are buses covering most of Europe, which also stop in Lille. They are the least expensive, but the trip may be exhausting (long duration, many stops).

An alternative is to go by train, which can be cheap if you book early enough.

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

A good place to meet is Place de la Rèpublique. From there you can go into the city (Place Rihour, Place du Géneral de Gaulle) with many restaurants and some clubs, or you go to Rue Solférino which has many bars.

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

Most restaurants in the city center are okay, there should be not too many tourist traps.

Try moules avec des frites at least once. Also, some breweries produce their own beer, which may be worthwhile.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Palace des Beaux Arts is worth a visit.

The park around the citadel is great to visit, and the entrance to the zoo is free. Actually, many museums can be visited for free each sunday or so.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Lille?

Learn French and practice speaking it a bit if possible. Seriously.

Concerning the city itself: it is worth checking out the markets. If you are around in June, definitely don't miss the Fête de la Musique on 21 June, where many bands perform everywhere in the city.