Erasmus Experience in Vilnius, Lithuania by Elise

Why did you choose to go to Vilnius, Lithuania?

I choose to go to Vilnius because I didn't know anything about this country and this part of Europe, so I wanted to discover Lithuania. It's also very closed to a lot of countries, and you can travel there easily. I also choose this country because the cost of live is quite cheap.

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

I am here for one semester and I received 1000 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Vilnius?

It's so nice. ESN is very dynamic so they propose a lot of activities, parties, event and trips. You can join ESN events, but you can also do what you want and find good events by yourself.

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

Of course I recommend!

What is the food like?

It's not very healthy. A lot of typical meals are with potatoes, cheese and meat. But you can, of coure, find all you want (salads, burgers, thaï, asian food, indian food, french food, italian food, cheese, wines, beers... )

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Vilnius?

I found my accommodation thanks to a french guy who came here 4 years ago. It's in the city center so it's quite expensive, but I pay 250 euros without utilities. Utilities can be expensive because we have to heat a lot in winter. A lot of students are in dorms and it's very cheap and close to the VGTU and VU University.

How much does it cost to live in Vilnius?

I pay 250 for accommodation. The food it's like in France (in my opinion). The public transport is so cheap (5 euros if you are student) and there are a lot of discount for Erasmus people. Activities are cheap. You can also travel easily (Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Latvia, Estonia, Lapland, Poland... ).

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

It's easy to speak with young people in English but not really with older people. But you can always find a solution to be understood.

Language courses are available, so you can learn a lot of languages. Erasmus people teach language volunteering. For example, I teach french every Wednesday.

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

I live in Nantes, so I had to go to Paris Beauvais. I had to take a shuttle to reach the airport, then I travelled by plane until Vilnius with Ryanair. But you can also check the bus (Luxexpress, Ecolines, Eurolines).

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

You have a lot of choices for every taste.

Kablys, La birra, Republic, Switch, Opium, EXIT, Pianoman, Distilerija, Mojito Bar.

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

Submarine, Donut LAB, Cozy, Kavinė "Klaipėdos senamiestis", Šnekutis.

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

Enjoy the city!