Choosing where to go on Erasmus is probably one of the most crucial decisions for every student must make. For this reason, our team has designed a list of the top 7 destinations for the perfect Erasmus, in order to make things easier for you.
What is Erasmus+?
Before we move to our list, we must be on the same page. If you’re a European student you’re probably familiar with the program, therefore let’s mull over the meaning of “Erasmus” so we guarantee everything’s clear, sounds good?
Erasmus+ is an all-inclusive EU exchange program for education, training, youth, and sport managed by the European Commission.
While Erasmus+ is specifically for European citizens, its equivalent Erasmus Mundus is for non-European citizens.
Who can participate in this program?
According to Erasmus+ annual report 2019, the total number of students and trainees who participated in the program is more than 351.000, and more than 111.000 organizations in about 25.000 projects during a year as a part of Erasmus+.
European Students can choose to study in one of 54 countries involved in the program. For those who want to study abroad through Erasmus, the initial preconditions are studying an official diploma or higher education degree and successfully completing the first year.
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus+
1. Granada, Spain
Although there’s not really a specific order for these Top Destinations for the perfect Erasmus+, we could not leave Granada out of the highest spots. Granada is THE place for Erasmus Students. The University of Granada hosts every year the highest number of Erasmus Students. For this reason, in 2007 and 2012 it won the Erasmus Gold Star and hosted the 25th Erasmus Program Anniversary.
Granada is the best place to lose and find yourself. However, it’s mainly an international student city situated between the mountain and the sea, so there’s good weather, and every day in Granada there are parties and activities for young people.
Granada, Spain
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Granada
Alhambra Palace – UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for being one of the Seven Wonders of the Muslim World.
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Granada?”
Oh, no worries about that! Actually, as for the costs, you’d be glad to know that living in Granada is very cheap; as a student, you may need approximately 280€ for renting and food.
2. Paris, France
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus
According to the 2019 data, 31 063 students went to Paris to enjoy this romantic and historically rich city. Paris is at the same time luxurious and approachable. Rich in opportunities, it guarantees you an outstanding studying experience. Also, in this multicultural city, everyone can experience a variety of cultures and find it easier to fit in.
Also, Paris is even well-known for its High education level in universities as well as for its culture, architecture, and art.
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Paris
Saint-Germain-de-Prés – It was the meeting point for existentialists, painters, and writers, known for the literary and artistic celebs who lived and worked there in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Paris, France
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Paris?”
We’re not gonna lie to you, Paris is not cheap and renting a house there can be very expensive (400-700€ per month). In these cases, we highly recommend finding places where you get free accommodations in exchange for volunteer work, for example at hostels. Look here!
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus
Prague had to be in our top destinations for the perfect Erasmus! Besides the high-quality educational system, Czechia offers a low cost of living, rich heritage, and unforgettable nightlife – this is one of the most strategically located countries in Europe for Erasmus students since it also allows students to quickly travel to some of the neighboring nations like Germany, Poland, Austria, and Slovakia.
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Prague?
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) – It’s famous for being the oldest and most significant square in the historical center of Prague!
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Prague?”
Usually, Prague is one of the most in-demand destinations for Erasmus students due to its affordable housing (a dor, for example, is usually around 100€), students tend to share a very helpful apartment. Depending on your location, you should plan to spend between 290-620€ (7600-16200 Czech crowns) covering meals, accommodation, public transport, and extra activities.
4. Berlin, Germany
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus
This is one of the favorite destinations for Erasmus students. In 2019, it received 24 750 students in some of the most prominent German universities such as the Technical University of munched or Humboldt University of Berlin.
The great energy, cultural heritage, and laid-back atmosphere are probably some of the things that attract the youth. Also, let’s not forget this is one of the European historic centers… this is a great place to learn about important historic moments in Europe!
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Berlin?
Berlin Wall – what remains of the barrier constructed by the East German government over 150km long around the capitalist island of West Berlin.
Berlin Wall, Germany
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Berlin?”
It’s actually not as expensive as many believe! House renting can go from 200-400€ in the worst scenario. For eating, 10-15€ in a cheap restaurant or 25-30€ in an expensive one. On average, a German student has expenses of 867€ per month including rent, food, clothing, books, telephone, etc).
Friendly tip: Traveling can be mentally or emotionally challenging… especially if you’re studying abroad. We’d highly recommend you give a look at these Tips to Create the Perfect Anxiety Kit before starting this journey.
5. Warsaw, Poland
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus
Famous for being a top country on the list of Erasmus parties, as well as a beautiful atmosphere with other students and a low cost of living. If you’re more into the wild and adventure kind of vibes (you’re gonna study anyways, won’t you?), Warsaw is for YOU!
Poland is a great destination for youth! In 2019, 18 124 students recognized Poland as their perfect country. Because of its position and low cost of living, it’s quite easy and inexpensive to travel around Eastern Europe visiting many interesting sights and countries.
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Warsaw?
Warsaw Uprising museum – where you can see how back in 1944, Polish people rose against the Nazis.
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Warsaw?”
The cost of living in Warsaw it’s quite cheap! The rent for a shared apartment can cost approximately 200-350€ per month and also public transports are cheap.
6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus
This is a unique city where you can easily find hundreds of nationalities, cultures, and innovative companies as well as start-ups from all over the world, for this reason, Amsterdam is a perfect city for an Erasmus year.
Amsterdam is a dynamic city, full of initiatives and opportunities, and boasts the beauty of 50 museums, live music, festivals, and theaters.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Amsterdam?
Rijksmuseum Amsterdam – the most famous museum in the city, home to paintings of many dutch masters from the Golden Age.
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Amsterdam?”
Let’s talk about costs…! It’s not actually the most expensive one in Europe, but the average for a student is usually very expensive in Amsterdam. Following, a student can spend around 600-700€ per month, on rent, parties, and food and also, drinks included.
Friendly tip: As soon as you get to the city, rent a bicycle! That’ll definitely easily help you save money!
7. Porto, Portugal
Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus
From the iconic landmarks to the laid-back atmosphere in Portugal, this city attracts numerous visitors, therefore students as well.
We are sure that once you arrive in Porto and discover it, you won’t want to leave! This is why we also couldn’t leave Porto out of our Top 7 Destinations for the perfect Erasmus. As well as that, Porto is one of the favorite cities of students who have chosen Portugal for their Erasmus.
Hot Gem! Where to visit as a student in Porto?
Serralves Foundation – This is one of the most protean cultural places in Europe with its museum, exhibitions of young artists, gardens, architecture, farmhouse, workshop, bookshops… basically, Serralves is a work of art.
Serralves Foundation, Porto
“What about the cost of living for a Student in Porto?”
A student can spend between 400-500€ per month, on accommodation, food, and transportation. Actually, if you compare it with other European cities, is quite affordable. Plus, what you end up spending can vary depending on your accommodation. On Erasmus Play you can do that for free.
Friendly tip: Speaking of doing things for free, did you know there are ways for students to travel for free? No jokes! Check them out.
Bonus tip: Save up to 20% by traveling with FlixBus
We have a great deal for you! When planning your next trip, we highly recommend going by FlixBus which is one of the most in-demand companies when traveling. FlixBus is the best possible option combining comfort with wallet-friendly as well as environmentally friendly traveling.
Choosing to go by FlixBus you have the opportunity to participate in the Eco-Wanderer campaign and save up to 20% by choosing to travel sustainably and avoiding planes. Try our calculation tool to claim your discount!
And that’s not all… You can get a 10% discount on FlixBus tickets after signing up and 15% off your next rides after completing 3 trips with Eco-Wanderer!
Traveling with a Eurail ticket? Our calculator also has discounts on that. Your train travel kilometers will be converted into a discount of up to 20% at any Famous Hostel location!
