Erasmus Experience in Tallinn, Estonia by Max

Why did you choose to go to Tallinn, Estonia?

It's on the coast, it's an interesting mix between the old soviet influence, the Scandinavian lifestyle, the middle European economy and the own interesting habits of the Estonians. That's a fact from history and I was curious to get to know it. Tallinn is a city which isn't already completely styled by people. It's more pure and not only build by capitalism.

Source

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

5 months and I received 1, 000 € in total.

What is the student lifestyle like in Tallinn?

We hung around a lot in the library with the other Erasmus student till afternoon, got our lectures, talked a lot, learned a bit, the TLÜ is very nice and you meet your people over there. Of course there were always possibilities to go out. In winter we met a lot at private flats, in spring there were even more interesting events to go outside. Clubs, bars, parties at fucked up places. When it got warmer, we spend as much time as possible at the beach, which is awesome, because it's not as crowed as in other capitals or bigger cities with a coast.

Source

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

Yes, I would recommend both the TLU and the city. You have to go to as much lectures as possible in the beginning to have a look at the lecturer and the topics in the class. They are varying a lot. If you check a lot of them, you will find some that will really fascinate you.

What is the food like?

Estonian food is not the most interesting thing. But there are good restaurants.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Tallinn?

I would recommend to find a private flat by searching it, when you are in Tallinn, it might be risky, but I found an amazing flat for a low rent after five days.

How much does it cost to live in Tallinn?

200 €/rent, 150 €/food and stuff, a beer is around 1, 50 everything else is luxury.

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

I didn’t learn Estonian, but we had the possibility to attend classes.

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

Ryanair - there are some German Airports that fly to Tallinn or Riga. Riga is just 4 hours by bus and always worth a visit.

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

Start and end up in Levikas. Go to Hetk Club. This is my advice apart from the regular Erasmus locations.

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

The best ones: Rataskaevu16 and Vegan Restoran V.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• Kadriorg Park
• Pirita beach (1980 Olympic Games)
• Song Festival Grounds
• Kalamaja district

Kadriorg Park

Source

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Tallinn?

Take some warm clothes with you, if you go in winter that starts from November and lasts till May. Be open for people, have positive view on things - that will make it easier!