My Erasmus Experience in Prague, Czech Republic

Why did you choose to go to Prague, Czech Republic?

Because it's right in the centre of Europe. It's a city that has a rich and diverse culture, but is also rather reasonably priced for us Portuguese.

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

My Erasmus exchange lasted 6 months. The grant offered was for 4 months and is something like €200 per month. If you want to have an idea of costs, living in a more or less self-contained residence, with trips, but without going too far, you can live for about €400. That means, the grant is half of what you spend. However, I think that you could get by with €300 if you manage to live in Prague, it depends a bit on what you want to do during this time. But generally, I think that €400 is enough if you want to have fun with travelling and such!

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What is the student environment like in Prague?

Really, really good! Without doubt one of the best! There is such a great number and variety of Erasmus students in the city. It's good to live in a hall of residence, because you will always be bumping in to someone.

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

Of course I would. It seems to me that I made the right choice, today Prague is a city that is close to my heart, it's so special, it's magical. Those who know the city, love it. The only negative is the people. The average Czech is arrogant and unfriendly towards strangers. But do try with them, I've discovered that if you say Dobry den (hello), Dekuju (thank you) or prosim (please), it helps to encourage a few smiles amongst people.

What is the national food like?

It's very different. The soups aren't soups, more like sauces. But it seems to me that it's worth being open minded, they use a lot of spices and the food is very greasy. However, I would be a bit sceptical about tasting all the most typical dishes.

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How did you find accommodation?

In the university residences. My university helped with this.

How are the prices of accommodation? And prices in general?

They're quite good in my point of view. In the capital, you pay €120 per month for a shared room, in the Volha residence (the most recent), it's quite good and in excellent condition.

What's the language like? Did you attend any language courses at the university?

The language is difficult. I didn't manage to go to a course, but from time to time I would ask for tips from a friend.

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

If you're from Lisbon, I think that the best thing is to go by TAP. If you book in advance you can get it for more or less €100. TAP offers 10kg extra for Erasmus students, which is great. From Porto, I think the best way is also to go with TAP. The trip is more expensive, in my case it was €150. There are cheaper options, all of them low-cost, first by Ryanair and then by Wizzair to Prague (Ryanair doesn't exist in Prague). This option seems the best to me when you're just travelling to visit family without suitcases. The best link, between prices/stops, was in Eindhoven. But there is also Madrid and Barcelona as options.

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Where would you recommend for a night out in Prague?

Propaganda is a must. There are many discos, but I'm not a big fan.

You have to discover theatres (the Black Theatre) and also the countless tea rooms for relaxing.

And eating out in Prague? Can you tell us your favourite places>

All the places in the centre are generally good. Indian restaurants can be a good option.

And in terms of culture visits?

The Museum of Communism.

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Do you have any advice that you'd like to give to future students in Prague?

Go and make the most the time of your life!