Kraków is one of the most popular Erasmus+ cities in Europe – and for good reason. Rich history, a vibrant city center, low living costs, and an open student community attract thousands of students from all over the world. If you are planning a semester or a year in Kraków, this guide will help you prepare for the adventure.

Before you arrive – essential formalities

Learning Agreement – agree on it early between your home university and the one in Kraków to avoid problems with course recognition after you return.

Health insurance – the EHIC card gives access to public healthcare. It is worth considering additional private insurance with English-language support.

Visa – EU citizens do not need a visa. Students from outside the EU should start the visa process well in advance.

Bank account – Revolut or Wise are enough for everyday payments. A Polish account with mBank or Millennium is free for young customers and makes local transactions easier.

Accommodation – where to live?

Options include university dormitories, private housing, and apartment rentals. Next Door is an ideal choice for Erasmus students – fully equipped, flexible lease terms, a central location, and English-speaking service remove the language barrier and the hassle of long-term contracts.

Your first days in Kraków

SIM card – prepaid Play, Orange, or T-Mobile cards start from 5 PLN. Data packages are definitely cheaper than in Western Europe.

Transport – a Polish university ID gives you a 50% discount on public transport. The Jakdojade app will help you plan any route.

Shopping – Biedronka, Lidl, and Żabka are the main chains. For fresh produce, we recommend Stary Kleparz – a historic market in the city center.

Polish language – do you need to know it?

Most Erasmus classes are taught in English, and in Kraków’s tourist center you can get by without Polish. However, learning basic phrases opens the door to contacts with local students and a deeper experience of Polish culture. Universities offer free Polish courses for Erasmus students – it is definitely worth taking advantage of them.

Social life and integration

ESN (Erasmus Student Network) – join from day one. ESN organizes welcome parties, trips, and themed evenings. The ESN card gives you discounts in shops and venues.

Buddy system – many universities assign international students a local mentor who helps during the first weeks.

Online groups – look for “Erasmus Kraków” or “International Students Kraków” on Facebook. It is the fastest source of information about events and practical advice.

Living costs – what should you expect?

Kraków is one of the most affordable Erasmus cities. Approximate monthly expenses: accommodation 1,500-3,000 PLN, food 800-1,200 PLN, transport 50-100 PLN, entertainment 200-400 PLN. In total, 2,500-4,500 PLN (550-1,000 EUR) – much less than in Paris, Barcelona, or Amsterdam.

Travel from Kraków

Balice Airport offers flights to most European capitals. FlixBus and RegioJet provide cheap bus connections to Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava. A weekend in another European capital for 100-200 PLN is completely normal – take advantage of it!

Summary

Erasmus in Kraków is an experience that changes your perspective. The city combines history with modernity, affordable prices with a high quality of life, and a warm community with an international character. Prepare well, be open to new experiences, and enjoy every day – these months will pass faster than you think.