Erasmus Experience in Vienna, Austria by Margot

Why did you choose to go to Vienna, Austria?

The University of Vienna seemed like a good deal, and the cultural atmosphere was also appealing. In addition, it is in Central Europe, which is good for travel.

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

400 euros each month for 5 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Vienna?

I didn't live the typical student life, I was more into museums, galleries, cafes and theaters than pubs and clubs, but all in all, there is something for everyone, a lot going on all the time. The only downside is that it's quite expensive for Eastern European students.

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

Yes!

What is the food like?

Good. It's possible to find all kinds of food, from cheap street market food to high end restaurants to stores to cafes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Vienna?

No.

How much does it cost to live in Vienna?

For me it was about 800 euros per month, but I could have been stingier. My dorm in the 8th district, in walking distance from the city center, cost 315 euros for a place in a double room.

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

Free courses are available before the start of the term. During the semester, courses are free for those on B2 or higher level, and quite expensive for beginners.

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

If you live in the center like I did, I preferred walking, but a whole semester transport card is a good deal, works for metro, buses etc.

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

I loved lounge bars like Phil and Cinema in the 5th district and Kolar and Alte Wien in the 1st.

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

There is a great Pakistani all-you-can-eat place near the UniWien campus, the Wiener Deewan.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

MuMok, Belvadere museum, the treasury, Albertina, Leopold Museum, the opera.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Vienna in the future?

Don't just hang out with the Erasmus crowd and party every night, try to get the real Viennese vibe!