Discover Top 5 Polish Cities for Erasmus Students. Compare Warsaw, Kraków, Wrocław, Poznań, and Gdańsk to find your perfect student city. Thinking about doing your Erasmus exchange in Poland? You've made a great choice! Poland is a popular destination for international students, with around 100,000 choosing to study here every year. It offers a unique mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and affordable living, making it an ideal place for a memorable semester abroad.
But with so many amazing cities, how do you pick the right one? Don't worry, we're here to help. This guide will walk you through the top 5 Polish cities for Erasmus students, covering everything from universities and accommodation to nightlife and city vibes. By the end, you'll have a much clearer idea of which city is your perfect match.
As Poland’s capital, Warsaw is a dynamic and modern city that never sleeps. It was rebuilt after WWII and now stands as a symbol of resilience and progress. For students looking for a bustling, international environment with endless opportunities, Warsaw is the place to be. This is our 1st place in the ranking of Top Cities for Erasmus students
Warsaw is home to some of Poland's most prestigious universities. The University of Warsaw and Warsaw University of Technology are top-ranked institutions that attract thousands of international students each year. They offer a wide range of courses in English and have well-established support systems for Erasmus students.
The city offers a fast-paced, cosmopolitan lifestyle. You’ll find modern skyscrapers next to beautifully restored historic buildings, creating a unique urban landscape. The nightlife is legendary, with countless bars, clubs, and student parties happening every night of the week. Warsaw is also a major cultural hub, with museums, theaters, and art galleries to explore.
Finding a place to live in a capital city can seem daunting, but Warsaw has plenty of options. Many students opt for university dormitories, which are an affordable way to live close to campus and meet new people. If you prefer more independence, shared flats are widely available. Websites like Pepe Housing offer verified listings, making it much easier and safer for international students to find accommodation before they even arrive.
At Pepe Housing, all listings come from verified and trusted landlords, so you can book your student accommodation with confidence. Browse our wide range of rooms, flats, and apartments tailored for Erasmus and international students in Poland.
2nd place in the ranking of Cities for Erasmus Students is Krakow. If you dream of studying in a city that looks like it's straight out of a fairytale, Krakow is your destination. As Poland’s cultural capital, its historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city combines a rich academic tradition with a lively, youthful energy, making it a favorite among Erasmus students.
Krakow is home to the Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest and most respected universities in Europe. Its historic campus and high academic standards provide an inspiring learning environment. The city's academic scene is buzzing, creating a vibrant intellectual atmosphere.
The city's atmosphere is magical. You can spend your days wandering through cobblestone streets, exploring ancient castles, and relaxing in charming cafés. The Kazimierz district (the former Jewish quarter) and the Old Town are popular neighborhoods for students, filled with quirky bars, art galleries, and restaurants.
The student nightlife is fantastic, with plenty of underground pubs and clubs offering a great time on a student budget.
Krakow offers a variety of housing options for international students. Dormitories are a popular choice for their affordability and social scene. Alternatively, you can find rooms in shared apartments, especially in student-friendly neighborhoods like Kazimierz. Because the city is so popular, it’s a good idea to start your housing search early.
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Wroclaw boasts several excellent universities, including the University of Wrocław and the Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Both institutions have strong international programs and a supportive community for Erasmus students.
Wroclaw is energetic and youthful. The Market Square is one of the most beautiful in Europe, always bustling with activity. The city is famous for its gnomes-hundreds of small bronze statues scattered around the city, adding a playful touch to your daily walks.
Wroclaw is also home to a very active Erasmus Student Network (ESN) community, which plays a key role in helping international students integrate. With sections at Wroclaw University of Science and Technology and the University of Economics, ESN organizes initiatives such as the Buddy Programme, Welcome Days, International Dinners, and even large events like the International Erasmus Games 2024, hosted in the city. Thanks to ESN’s motto “Students helping students”, newcomers in Wroclaw can quickly build friendships, join cultural and social events, and feel at home in one of Poland’s most student-friendly cities.
Finding affordable accommodation in Wrocław is relatively easy. You can find rooms in shared flats for a reasonable price, especially if you look just outside the city center. The public transport system is efficient, so getting to and from campus is never a problem. Many students find their home away from home here, thanks to the welcoming atmosphere.
Poznan is a vibrant academic center that’s known for being both lively and budget-friendly. It has a large student population, which means there’s always something fun happening. The city is also a major business hub, offering great networking opportunities.
Adam Mickiewicz University is one of Poland's leading universities and a major draw for Erasmus students. The university has a strong reputation for research and teaching, especially in the humanities and social sciences.
Poznan is full of life. The Old Market Square is the heart of the city, lined with colorful buildings, pubs, and restaurants. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, from music concerts to cultural celebrations, so you'll never be bored. The Erasmus Network in Poznan is particularly strong, making it easy to connect with other international students and feel part of a community.
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Poznan is the affordable cost of living. Student housing is budget-friendly, whether you choose a dormitory or a private flat. This leaves you with more money to enjoy the city’s vibrant social scene and travel around Poland. Thats way Poznan is one of the most popular Cities for Erasmus Students.
For those who love the idea of studying by the sea, Gdansk offers a one-of-a-kind Erasmus experience. Located on the Baltic coast, this historic port city provides a unique blend of history, nature, and modern city life. Perfect destinations on your list best Cities for Erasmus Students.
The University of Gdańsk is a major academic institution in the region, with a strong focus on maritime and scientific research. It offers a welcoming environment for international students who want to combine their studies with a unique lifestyle.
Gdańsk has a special maritime charm. You can enjoy walks along the coast, relax on the beach, and explore the beautifully reconstructed Old Town. The city is part of the "Tricity" metropolitan area, along with Sopot (a resort town) and Gdynia (a modern port), so you have three cities to explore in one. This unique setting offers a perfect mix of cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
Housing options for Erasmus students in Gdansk are plentiful, with many choosing to live near the coast to enjoy the seaside lifestyle. You can find both dormitories and private flats at reasonable prices. Living in Gdansk gives you the chance to experience a different side of Poland while still enjoying a vibrant student community.
Choosing the right city is a big part of your Erasmus journey, but finding the right place to live is just as important. The rental process can be tricky, even for locals, and it can get harder when you’re a foreigner.
But don’t worry! With platforms like Pepe Housing, you can browse verified listings and secure your accommodation in Poland before you even pack your bags. This makes the whole process much smoother and gives you peace of mind. No matter which city you choose, from the best Cities for Eramus Students, a fantastic adventure awaits you in Poland!
At Pepe Housing, we are your trusted partner throughout your Erasmus journey in Poland. With us, your money is always safe – we hold the payment securely until you confirm that everything is fine with your accommodation. Thousands of international students have already trusted Pepe Housing to find their home away from home. Join them and make your Erasmus experience stress-free, exciting, and unforgettable. See you in Poland!
