Erasmus in Warsaw, Poland

Why did you choose to go to Warsaw, Poland?

Above all, Warsaw is a cheap city. Most Erasmus students end up in Poland for that very reason.

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How long was your scholarship for? How much money did you receive to help with living costs?

I received a scholarship from Spain (€1, 500 if I remember rightly) but don't forget about the bank of Mum and Dad, I only received the money a week before leaving Warsaw (I was there for 6 months) so you can't really rely on it.

How is the student life in Warsaw?

Great, a lot of foreign students and loaaaads of Spaniards. You'll meet new people whether you want to or not.

Would you recommend Warsaw as a city and University to other students?

I went to the University of Warsaw and studied law, international relations, politics... the university itself is a little chaotic (enrolling in courses, finding your classes etc. ) but the classes are quite good. I was surprised by the level of English that the teachers had (the Spanish could learn a thing or too).

How is the food?

VERY good. You'll no doubt put on at least couple of kilos whether you want to or not.

Many different types of soup, (zurek being the most traditional), the famous pierogi (fried or steamed) and also a lot of meat, potatoes...It's all really nice, the desserts too!

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In Winter you have to try the mulled wine (add some sugar) from the town square where you'll find the mermaid statue. If you like beer you're in heaven and even if you don't, there's a thousand different flavours to try (cherry, coconut, honey, chocolate... )

I recommend trying the Soplica hazelnut vodka with milk (pronounced soplitsa). It's like having a shot of Nutella.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Warsaw?

I spent a month looking around the central areas but i ended up in Praga and I have NO REGRETS. My nearest stop was Goclawek and I found a VERY nice flat which even had a jacuzzi and had a Alcampo opposite. Amazing.

I went with an agency but the people are a bit distrustful of foreigners, or at least that was my experience :(

What is the cost of living in Warsaw?

Very cheap. If you share a flat rent costs around €200-300 a month maximum. The food is ultra cheap.

You can pay for public transport each semester and with student discount its super cheap. I recommend using Uber at night because it's dirt cheap and with taxis they can easily scam you.

Leisure activities aren't expensive either, it's all so good.

How did you get on with the language? Did you attend a course at the university?

Only the normal stuff that you learn in passing: Hello, how are you, thank you, please... other than that, nothing.

I didn't attend a course because I didn't think it necessary, they don't speak much English but if you're thrown in at the deep end you'll be able to communicate with everyone.

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What's the most cost-effective way to get to Warsaw from your hometown?

I'm from Madrid and I flew Ryanair to Modlin airport, and LOT (a Polish company) and Norwegian to Chopin airport. If you look up flights in advance I 100% recommend flying to Chopin instead of Modlin since from there you can take a bus to the centre (it takes around 20 minutes).

Where would you recommend for a night out in Warsaw?

Opera, Remont, Park (open bar serving beer), Pawilony (an area full of pubs) and the Spanish bars which host latino parties are also popular.

What about eating out in Warsaw? Can you tell us some of your favourite places?

For your first taste of Polish food head to Zapiecek (it's a bit on the dear side in comparison to other places), it's also great for taking people who come to visit you. The waiters speak perfect English and normally wear traditional outfits.

The famous Czech restaurant were they serve breaded steak fillet and jugs of beer bigger than your head.

Manekin in Centrum, a popular place to go get crepes. The food is to die for and cheap too.

And then there's the hundreds of zapiekanka food stands in the old town.

What is there in terms of cultural places to visit?

I recommend doing the free tours even the one around Praga. They say that Warsaw is an ugly city but when it becomes your second home you'll see it's a real gem.

Up until the beginning of October Chopin concerts are held in Lazienki Park in front of the moment dedicated to the musician, don't miss out on it, it's brilliant. I also recommend checking the park out.

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If you plan on going up to the Palace of Culture rooftop, the top floor of the Marriot hotel in Centrum is a good alternative for when it's cold. There's a panorama bar and happy hour from 7 till 8 and the views are incredible. And you won't freeze while enjoying a cocktail.

Any advice for students going to Warsaw in the future?

Get to know the city, go investigate the non-touristy areas. You'll fall in love with Warsaw, those who say Krakow is the most beautiful city are lying. Have a great time! It's a once in a lifetime experience!