Erasmus in Poznan, Poland

Why did you decide to go to Poznan, Poland?

Because it was the best solution among many options I had and because the average cost of life is lower than in Italy.

How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive for help?

I spent 5 months in Poznan and I didn't ask for the extension because that would means three more months, from July to September, at my expense with no academic benefits.

I received 230€ per month, which I was paid during the second month of my stay. Later, I was informed that thanks to some extra funds available my scholarship would be doubled!

For 560€ per month I fully covered all kind of expenses and I was able to travel around Poland and neighbouring countries.

How is the student life like in Poznan?

Awesome. The University works really good and helps the students. It can be addictive and turn into a nightmare when you go back to Italy.

Would you recommend Poznan and its University to other students?

Sure, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And unfortunately, unrepeatable.

What is the food like?

The food is not very diverse, but really tasty. I suggest you leave any hesitance and immerse into the Polish gastronomic culture, you won't be disappointed.

Was it difficult to find accommodation?

Thanks to the ESN Poznan, I contacted the from Italy by email.

How much does it cost to live in Poznan?

78€ per month, a very convenient price for a double room. In general, prices in Poland are very low, especially for those coming from the Eurozone (about four times less).

However, it's not the same with every kind of purchase but, even though it's a fairly cheap country.

What about the language? Did you attend any language course at the university?

Polish is not an easy language but the compulsory course helps a lot. I suggest at least 10 hours per week to speed up it up a bit since it's very useful to speak some Polish when you go to a store. It's different when you are with your friends, because most of them speak English very well and it's not difficult to meet someone from Italian studies who can fluently speak Italian.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Poznan from your city?

From Rome, where I live and study, you can take a direct fly to Poznan with Wizzair. It costs around 30/40 euro and it includes a carry-on and checked baggage up to 32Kg.

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

Despite Poznan being a small city, it is full of places you can visit. Around the city centre, Stary Rynek, I suggest Kultowa (pub with rock music), Brogans (Irish pub with live music), Tokio Underground and Cuba Libre (club/dance-hall). Near the University there are Corner Pub (where I watched Champions League games), Al-Mirage (always open) and an infinity of other places everywhere.

I recommend: Czytelnia, Eskulap, SQ, Czekolada, Buddha Bar, Terytorium.

With all Erasmus parties going on, you will soon discover all the best places, nightlife in Poznan is incredible!

And to eat in Poznan? Can you tell us about your favourite places?

I really liked kebab places, they were really nice. I don't recommend Italian restaurants where you can find inconceivable food and not at all Italian. Don't miss the "zapiekanka" on the way out from the bar in the middle of the night!

What about cultural places to see?

A visit to the Castle is not a bad idea, as well as a tour around Stary Rynek with a guide. The Cytadela Park is a museum of the Second World War and the War cemetery, really touching to go there.

What advice would you give to future students in Poznan?

Have fun and take advantage of every moments you spend there!