Erasmus experience in Prague, Czech Republic

Why did you decide to go to Prague?

Because Prague is a low-cost, beautiful, cheap, historic, youthful city and I could study in English.

How long does the bursary money last? How much money do you receive to help you out?

I only went there for one semester (5 months), from the end of January to the middle of June. The bursary money is the usual amount that is given for Erasmus study by the EU: 230€. This was just about enough to pay for my rent. However, the prices are quite low in Prague, so, you don't spend a lot. Think of it like this, at a bar, 1/2 litre of beer usually costs around 1€ and sometimes you can even get it for 50 cents.

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What's the student atmosphere like in Prague?

It's fantastic! The local students want to meet the Erasmus students and they meet different people every day. Also at the university where I was studying (Metropolitan University Prague), there is an international atmosphere as they only teach in English.

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

Absolutely! Go to Prague, it's a fairy-tale city! And the atmosphere is marvellous! Here you can truly and fully understand what it means to feel international!

What is the food like there?

Well... the food... we can say that being Italian I had some problems but all in all, you start to get used to it. They eat a lot of meat and potatoes in every way possible. A positive thing is the price: very cheap (you can eat in a good restaurant for 7€).

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How did you find your accommodation?

On the internet: http://www.expats.cz.

I didn't look very much because I didn't have much time to do so. I was paying 230€ for a tiny room. If you spend more time looking, you can find something even better and at a cheaper price.

What is the cost of rent? What is the overall cost?

The general cost of living there is very low. You can party every day and not spend too much. At the supermarket the prices are very low, the entrance fee for clubs is generally low (you can pay from 2€ to 8€), but for beer and cocktails, the prices are almost European.

How did you get on with the language? Did you attend any university courses?

Initially, the language was complicated. Czech is a very difficult language but don't give up! I did an intensive 2 week course for Erasmus students and this provided me with the basics in case of emergency. However, they were teaching in English and you almost only speak English with the other Erasmus.

What was the cheapest way to get to Prague from your city?

By airplane. Prague international airport is about 40 minutes from the city by bus.

What places would you recommend for going out at night in Prague?

Haha... what to recommend?! Every place is great, anywhere you go, you will meet friendly people and above all Erasmus and foreigners. In any case, my favourite places are the following: Chapeau Rouge, Bunker, Vagon, Cross Club, The Big Lebowski, Bukovski, Climbing Bar, ecc.

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

Well... generally, I ate at home. Even if the prices at restaurants were decent, I preferred to not spend and save money for going out at night.

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And what cultural places are there to see?

Prague is full of cultural places! You can see everything by doing a guided tour. From the Charles Bridge, to the castle, the Danzian Palaces, and the museums scattered around the city.

What advice would you give to future students in Prague?

Go, don't be afraid to go to this marvellous country. Go Go Go! Even if at first it seems difficult to go! It was the best time of my life, not just because I was Erasmus, but also because it was in an extraordinary city!