Experience in Pecs, Hungary by Zsófia

What is it like to live in Pecs? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I live in Pécs, so maybe nothing will be objective, but I try my best! :)
I love this city!!! It is not big, so for those who would like to have nonstop parties and things like that, it won't be the perfect choise. But those, who also like culture and trips, you guys will love it as well!
You can reach everything easily with public transport, but you can alsp ride the bike. Unfortunately parking is not free is the city center, but you can also take the car.
For me, it is a typical Hungarian countryside city. It is cheaper then the capital, like everywhere else. For those who come from Western Europe, some things are lot more cheaper than in your home countries!

What is the student lifestyle like in Pecs?

We have loads of international students, especially at the Medical Faculty. They always have common programmes, so you can meet international groups very often in the center! :)
During the week, you can join the student parties, and also at the weekensd of course, if you would like, you can always find your way to have fun.
At the exam period, loads of students study at the city library, it seems like they moved in together there.

How much does it cost to live in Pecs?

As it is in the countryside, Pécs is less expensive than Budapest for example. Compared to Western countries, many things are lot more cheaper. Lets say, you can have a quite nice apartment for around 200€ (+utilities), you can have a nice lunch for less than 5(!!!)€, and can have coctails in bars for around 5€ also. ;)

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Pecs? Is there any advice you can give?

As a Hungarian, it isn't difficult, but the main problem is that the bigger part of the citizens don't speak English, or any other languages fluently. I don't know if I can write down any real estate agencies (cut it out if I can't!!!) but I would warmly recommand STUDENTHOUSING PÉCS! I worked here this summer. The service is completely FREE for you, students, and they arrange everything! You can visit the website and look for apartments on your own, then you just have to join one of the colleagues and check the flats, than choose the one you liked most. Every colleagues speak fluently at least English, and some of them also speak German. You will not find a better place to go for help with accomodation! ;)

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

As a Hungarian, I love Hungarian dishes, but for foreigners, sometimes they are very fat and heavy. But of course, in the restaurants you can choose from every kind of food! And it is getting more and more common to have international ingredients in the bigger shops, so you can also make your own favourites from home.

What places would you recommend visiting in Pecs?

The citycenter is wonderful. You should also visit the hillside, take long walks up there, and if you are already there, do not miss the TV tower! If the weather is clean, the view is amazing to the city, and to the landscape. For those who like culture, we have very nice museums as well. You should also go to Orfű, it is about 20 kms away from Pécs. It's a nice village with a lake, where you can swim in summer.

Is it good to eat out in Pecs? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

You can find many good restaurants in the citycenter. I like Flekken. It is not directly in the citycenter, but very close. It's a little bit traditional, but cheap and very good!!! In the center, I like Massimo, it's an Italian restaurant, Lezser, Addo, they are all very good. But you have to find your own favourites! ;)

Is the nightlife good in Pecs? Where is good to go?

International students usually go to Univ Lounge, or Trafik, the bigger parties here are on the weekends. During the week you can also go to Trafik, or to Est Café, the official university parties are here. There are also nice bars, where you can start predrinking.

What advice would you give future students heading to Pecs?

Don't hesitate to come, we wait for you here!!! :) Enjoy every moment of your stay and bring your happiness!