Erasmus Experience in Marseille, France by Friederike

Why did you choose to go to Marseille, France?

It was more by chance as it was offered to us at the university and I wanted to learn the language.

Now, I am very happy to be here because it does not fulfill every French cliché. It showed me that it is multicultural.

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

My scholarship is over 6 months. The money is a good support but life is much more expensive in Marseille. In the end, it mainly depends on where you live in Marseille and whether you need to pay the bills and for extra study materials. A good basis to start with will be about 800 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Marseille?

There is a big variety for the students. Regardless of the university, there are many good options for everyone but it depends on the part of Marseille in which you live as some places are very far.

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

Yes, definitely but you should try to live in the center of Marseille and instead of near the university in order to experience the city better because the university is on the outskirts.

What is the food like?

Oh, the food is good. There is everything you could want. Also, in every price range.

You need to try all of the French specialties and I recommend the affordable fresh fruit and vegetables.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Marseille?

No.

How much does it cost to live in Marseille?

It depends on where you live. You can live where there are the expensive French rates, or on the outskirts of Marseille, where the prices are more affordable.

I would rather recommend the first option. In the French system, you get half of the rent refunded as a student. Therefore, the rents are between 200 to 400 euros and the rest that you get (300-500 euros) you can spend on whatever you want.

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

Once you get used to it, yes but there are free language courses at the university which help a lot.

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

By plane but if you have a lot of luggage, Marseille is also well connected by train.

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

In the summer, there are many festivals in the city which take place on the streets of Marseille.

In the winter, people are more averse to parties and going out but there are still many possibilities.

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

I personally don't think there's anything special but there are many good places. You just have to find out what you prefer.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I recommend Friche la Belle de Mai. In English The Fallow or The Wasteland, it's a former tobacco factory near the Saint-Charles station in Marseille.

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

Just take it easy like the people in Marseille! ;)