Erasmus in Poland - Discover the best experiences Poland offers Erasmus students. From Warsaw's Old Town to mountain adventures, make your study abroad unforgettable. Poland has become one of Europe's top destinations for international students, welcoming around 100,000 students from all over the world each year for their Erasmus programs. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and affordable living costs, Poland offers an incredible backdrop for your study abroad adventure.
Whether you're staying for one semester or a full academic year, making the most of your Erasmus experience means stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing everything this beautiful country has to offer. From exploring medieval castles to tasting authentic pierogi, Poland provides countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories while building friendships that will last a lifetime.
Warsaw's Old Town stands as a testament to Poland's resilience and rich heritage. Despite being completely destroyed during World War II, this UNESCO World Heritage site was painstakingly reconstructed brick by brick, making it one of Europe's most remarkable restoration projects. Eramus in Poland. Erasmus in Poland.
Start your Erasmus in Poland from exploration at Castle Square, where the Royal Castle serves as the perfect introduction to Polish history. The colorful baroque and gothic facades surrounding the square create a fairy-tale atmosphere that's perfect for photos. Don't miss the famous Mermaid of Warsaw statue - according to legend, she's the city's protector.
Wander through the cobblestone streets and discover charming cafés where you can warm up with a hot chocolate during winter months. The Old Town Market Square buzzes with activity year-round, offering street performances, local crafts, and traditional Polish souvenirs. Many students find this area becomes their go-to spot for weekend meetups and cultural immersion - your Erasmus in Poland adventure just begin!
No Polish adventure is complete without experiencing Kraków, the former royal capital that many consider the country's cultural heart. The Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is Europe's largest medieval square and serves as the perfect base for exploring this enchanting city.
A short walk uphill brings you to Wawel Castle, perched majestically above the Vistula River. The castle complex includes the stunning cathedral where Polish kings were crowned and buried. The castle grounds offer breathtaking views of the city below, making it an ideal spot for reflection and photos.
The iconic Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) in the square's center houses local vendors selling everything from amber jewelry to traditional Polish crafts - perfect for gifts to send home. Every hour, listen for the famous trumpet call from St. Mary's Basilica, a tradition that has continued for centuries.
A short walk uphill brings you to Wawel Castle, perched majestically above the Vistula River. The castle complex includes the stunning cathedral where Polish kings were crowned and buried. The castle grounds offer breathtaking views of the city below, making it an ideal spot for reflection and photos.
Many international students organize weekend trips to Kraków from other Polish cities. The journey is affordable and well-connected by train or bus, making it easily accessible for budget-conscious students. If you would like to visit Krakow with a guide, it couldn't be simpler. Many websites offer city tours with an English guide - check here.
Gdańsk, located on Poland's Baltic coast, offers a completely different perspective on Polish culture and history. This maritime city played a crucial role in ending communist rule in Eastern Europe and birthplace of the Solidarity movement.
The colorful buildings lining the Long Market create one of Poland's most photogenic streets. Neptune's Fountain stands proudly as the city's symbol, while the Gothic St. Mary's Church offers panoramic views from its tower. The European Solidarity Centre provides an interactive journey through Poland's path to democracy - an educational experience that helps international students understand modern Polish history.
Don't leave without trying fresh seafood at the local restaurants near the harbor. The Baltic Sea provides excellent fish dishes that differ significantly from inland Polish cuisine. Summer months offer the added bonus of nearby beaches where you can relax after exploring the historic city center.
The journey from major Polish cities like Warsaw or Kraków takes about 3-4 hours by train, making it perfect for a weekend getaway with fellow Erasmus students.
Polish cuisine extends far beyond what you might find in international restaurants back home. Authentic Polish pierogi represent the heart of the country's culinary tradition, and trying different varieties becomes an adventure in itself.
Traditional pierogi come with various fillings: ruskie (potato and cheese), meat, sauerkraut and mushroom, or sweet versions with fruits or cheese. Each region has its own specialties, so you'll discover new flavors throughout your stay. Many Polish families have secret recipes passed down through generations. You need to taste it on your Erasmus in Poland.
Polish cities offer vibrant nightlife scenes that cater to international students' diverse tastes. From underground clubs in converted basements to rooftop bars with stunning city views, you'll find venues that match your preferred atmosphere. Erasmus in Poland should be fun to!
Warsaw's Pawilony district features numerous bars and clubs housed in converted shipping containers, creating a unique industrial atmosphere. Kraków's Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, transforms from a cultural district by day into a buzzing nightlife hub after dark, with bars hidden in medieval cellars and courtyards. Use tripadvisor to check out must-see sights and activities in Warsaw.
University cities like Wrocław, Poznań, and Gdańsk have developed strong student-oriented nightlife scenes. Many venues offer student discounts, especially on weekdays, making them perfect for budget-conscious international students.
Polish students are known for their welcoming attitude toward international visitors. Joining local student organizations or Erasmus Student Network (ESN) events provides natural opportunities to experience authentic Polish nightlife while building lasting friendships.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum offers a profound educational experience that provides crucial historical context for understanding modern Poland and Europe. This UNESCO World Heritage site preserves the largest Nazi concentration camp as a memorial to Holocaust victims. Being on Erasmus in Poland - you should see this.
The museum offers guided tours in multiple languages, making it accessible for international students. The experience is emotionally challenging but educationally invaluable, providing firsthand insight into one of history's darkest chapters. Many students find this visit helps them better understand Polish society and European history.
Located about an hour from Kraków, the memorial is easily accessible by organized tours or public transportation. Advance booking is required, especially during peak tourist seasons. The museum provides free entry, though guided tours require a small fee.
Poland's mountain regions offer spectacular natural beauty and outdoor activities that provide a refreshing contrast to city exploration. Zakopane, nestled in the Tatra Mountains near the Slovak border, serves as Poland's unofficial winter capital.
During winter months, Zakopane transforms into a skiing paradise with slopes suitable for all skill levels. The town's unique wooden architecture, known as Zakopane Style, creates a distinctive alpine atmosphere. Don't miss trying oscypek, a traditional smoked cheese unique to this region, often served grilled with cranberry sauce.
Zakopane offer affordable accommodation options, including hostels and guesthouses popular with students. Many Erasmus groups organize weekend trips that include transportation and accommodation, making mountain adventures accessible and budget-friendly so you can join them on your Erasmus in Poland adventure.
Poland's Christmas markets provide magical cultural experiences that showcase the country's holiday traditions. Major cities transform their main squares into winter wonderlands filled with traditional crafts, seasonal foods, and festive atmosphere.
Kraków's Christmas market in the Main Square is particularly spectacular, with the medieval backdrop creating a fairy-tale setting. Warsaw, Wrocław, and Gdańsk also host impressive markets featuring local artisans selling handcrafted gifts perfect for sending home to family and friends.
Traditional Polish Christmas foods available at markets include pierniki (gingerbread cookies), kielbasa (sausages), and grzane wino (mulled wine) that helps ward off the winter cold. Many markets also feature live music and cultural performances that provide insight into Polish holiday traditions.
While many Poles speak English, especially in university cities, learning basic Polish phrases demonstrates respect for local culture and often leads to warmer interactions with locals. Polish can be challenging, but mastering even simple greetings opens doors to deeper cultural connections.
Start with essential phrases like "Dzień dobry" (Good day), "Dziękuję" (Thank you), and "Miło mi Cię poznać" (Nice to meet you). Many Polish people appreciate when international students make the effort to speak their language, even imperfectly.
Download language learning apps or find online resources that focus on practical, everyday Polish expressions. Many international students find that learning Polish numbers, days of the week, and basic directions significantly improves their daily experiences.
Perhaps the most valuable aspect of your Erasmus in Poland experience will be the friendships you build with both international and Polish students. These connections often become lifelong relationships that enrich your personal and professional life long after your exchange ends.
Participate in ESN (Erasmus Student Network) activities, which organize events specifically designed to bring together international students. From cultural nights showcasing different countries' traditions to group trips exploring Poland's attractions, these events provide natural friendship-building opportunities.
Don't limit yourself to international student circles. Polish students are generally very welcoming and eager to share their culture while learning about yours. University clubs, sports teams, and hobby groups provide excellent opportunities to form genuine friendships with local students.
Create traditions with your Erasmus friends-perhaps weekly dinners featuring different national cuisines or monthly exploration trips to new Polish cities. These shared experiences become the foundation for lasting bonds that extend far beyond your exchange period.
Document your experiences through photos, journals, or social media to preserve memories and share your Polish adventure with friends and family back home.
