Erasmus Experience in Warsaw, Poland

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Why did you choose to go to Warsaw, Poland?

Living cost relatively low; geographic position of the country, which allowed me to travel around Europe easily; availability of courses in English; curiosity in relation to the culture and customs of the country.

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

I got about €1400 divided into 2 payments. The first payment (about €1200) was paid in at the end of October and the second in July.

What's the student environment like in Warsaw?

Not really being a student city, the central localisation of the University and of the main schools gives a pleasant atmosphere.

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

Absolutely.

What's the country's food like?

Quite diverse in terms of meats and soups. Weak in terms of fish and salads. It's worth experimenting some local specialities, notably pierogi, bigos and the omnipresent zapiekanki. In the Sphinx restaurants it's possible to eat a good meal at an accessible price. There are also many places that sell Doner Kebabs.

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How did you find accommodation?

I stayed in the faculty residence (Sabinki).

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

The residence was rather cheap. The prices in general are lower than those in Portugal.

What's the language like? Did you attend a language course at the University?

Polish is quite complicated. I attended a "Polish for beginners" course which proved rather useful in various situations.

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

One of the low-cost air companies that has flights to Warsaw.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Warsaw?

Opera, Platinium, Lemon, Enklawa... There are hundreds of bars, clubs, discos in the city, many of them of excellent quality. The prices of some can be excessive.

And to eat out in Warsaw? Can you name your favourite places?

I've already named Sphinx. Mostly we opted to cook in the residence.

And in terms of cultural visits?

All of downtown, a climb to the top of the Palace of Culture (the tallest building in Warsaw), Wilanów, Łazienki Palace...

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

Take as much advantage of the experience as you can!