Kraków is a city full of student energy — dozens of universities operate here and thousands of international students study in the city, so it’s easy to find friends, events and support. The city centre is compact; historic sites, cafés and campuses are close to each other, which makes daily life and sightseeing much easier.
The city combines a rich cultural offer (museums, festivals, concerts) with prices that are usually lower than many Western European cities, which is why many Erasmus students choose Kraków for a semester or a full academic year.
If you’re planning to come, it’s useful to learn a few practical rules and places — below you’ll find tried-and-true tips that will save you time and nerves.
Take care of your documents: check requirements for your residence legalization, health insurance and any registration at the university. You’ll find a lot of practical information on university pages and city guides for international students.
A bank account and a local SIM card will make everyday life much easier. Many banks offer student accounts, and prepaid SIMs and operator offers often include favorable rates for calls and mobile data.
If you’re coming via the Erasmus+ programme, remember about the OLS language course and keep in touch with your departmental coordinator — these are important sources of support and practical information.
Look for listings on well-known classifieds sites and in local student groups. Shared flats (flatshares), private dorms and short-term rentals are popular. Pay attention to reviews and photos in listings.
Always sign a rental agreement and verify the landlord’s details. Don’t send large deposits before you have a signed contract and have verified the owner. Ask for an inventory/handover protocol at move-in and when you move out.
Consider private dorms or apartments offering shorter lease terms — these are often convenient for Erasmus students, though they can be more expensive. Compare costs, furnishings and location in relation to your university.
A rough monthly budget for a student in Kraków is about 2000–3500 PLN, depending on accommodation standard and lifestyle. For example: rent for a room in a shared flat 1200–2500 PLN, food 600–1000 PLN, utilities and internet 150–400 PLN.
A semester ticket for public transport can be very cost-effective — students often buy a discounted semester pass. It’s also worth using discount cards (like ISIC) and student offers for cultural attractions.
Remember one-off arrival costs: a security deposit for accommodation, administrative fees and possible expenses to furnish your room. Planning savings for the first month makes the start much easier.
Kraków is very walkable, especially in the centre. It’s useful to have an app for planning journeys by public transport and city apps for buying tickets.
Trams and buses connect most universities with the centre. For longer stays, a semester ticket is worth it; for short stays buy short-term tickets or use city bikes and electric scooters.
Keep seasonal weather in mind — in winter trams and buses are essential, while in summer walks and the boulevards along the Vistula become popular meeting spots.
Kraków has many student-friendly cafés and eateries. Among highly recommended places are Massolit Books & Café (great for book lovers and breakfasts), Cafe Camelot (a cosy café in the Old Town) and Charlotte (fresh bakery goods and a French-style atmosphere).
For quick and tasty meals look for places serving local pierogi, soups and sandwiches — many restaurants offer student menus or evening discounts. Before choosing, check current reviews and opening hours.
If you want to try local flavours, look for restaurants with good reputations that combine high quality with moderate prices. Follow locals’ recommendations and reviews to find the best spots.
Student organisations, academic clubs and ESN (Erasmus Student Network) organise social events, trips and workshops — they’re the best way to meet other international and local students.
Universities often run mentoring programmes and welcome events — follow faculty and university announcements because that’s where invites to first meetings usually appear.
Outside official events, social media groups and forums are very helpful — students exchange housing offers, invitations to events and practical tips there.
Paying for accommodation too quickly without signing a contract — always ask for a written agreement and an inventory at move-in. This will help you avoid deposit disputes and misunderstandings.
Underestimating the cost of living — counter this by creating a first-month budget that includes deposit, furnishings, transport and food.
Ignoring university offers and student organisations — these are often free or cheap events, language courses and administrative support that make settling in much easier.
Many museums and cultural institutions have free-entry days or student discounts — check event calendars and book tickets in advance when possible.
The boulevards along the Vistula are a popular meeting and picnic spot — in summer there are many outdoor events, and in winter the area offers peaceful walks and lovely views of Wawel Castle.
Having a student ID and an ISIC card often gives you discounts in cinemas, museums, shops and restaurants — get these soon after arrival.
How quickly can I find flatmates? - Look in university groups, on classifieds sites and student pages; arrange meetings and make sure expectations match before signing a contract.
How much do I need to start with? - Prepare about 2–3 months’ worth of living expenses plus a deposit (usually equal to one month’s rent). This will let you start your stay without stress.
Is it worth learning Polish? - Yes — even basic Polish makes everyday situations and shopping much easier. Universities often offer language courses for foreigners.
Where can I get help in emergencies? - Contact your university’s international student office, and for medical situations use local healthcare services or emergency numbers.
Kraków offers great conditions for studying, integrating and exploring Europe. Good preparation before arrival — checking accommodation, budget and local organisations — significantly improves your comfort during the stay.
If you found this guide useful, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help other Erasmus students and newcomers plan their stay.
If you’d like to tour the city with an experienced local guide, consider booking a private tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — she’s an experienced Kraków guide who offers personalised walks and themed tours. Contact details and her full offer are available on her site. Good luck in Kraków and have fun!
