Information and tips for international and Erasmus students in Bialystok

Are you wondering why you should do Erasmus in Bialystok? Here are the key reasons.

Bialystok is an interesting Polish city for Erasmus students. It’s located in north-eastern Poland and offers a combination of history and nature. The University of Białystok (Uniwersytet w Białymstoku) and the Białystok University of Technology (Politechnika Białostocka) welcome many international students every year. In addition, the city’s surrounded by parks and green areas, ideal for walking or outdoor sports.

The cost of living in Bialystok is much cheaper than in other European cities, allowing you to enjoy the Erasmus experience without spending too much. Another advantage is that its location allows you to travel to other Polish cities, such as Warsaw, in less than two hours. In addition, public transport is efficient and inexpensive. Let's find out more about this Polish city!

Cost of living in Bialystok, Poland

The cost of living in Bialystok is quite affordable compared to other European cities. Accommodation is the main expense you’ll have as a student, with prices for rooms in shared flats ranging from PLN 620-1240 (around €150-300) per month. University residences are also usually a good option, with prices ranging from PLN 580-900 (approx. €130-220) per month.

Adding other expenses such as food, transport and leisure, the total cost is usually around PLN 2000-2500 (approx. €460-570).

Transport in Bialystok is affordable, and the best option for Erasmus students is the monthly pass, which costs around PLN 65 (approx. €16). A single reduced-price ticket costs approximately PLN 3 (approx. €0.72), although many students prefer to get around on foot or by bicycle, as the city’s not too large.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Bialystok

Although Bialystok isn’t a very large city, it has several nightlife areas. There are popular pubs and nightclubs such as Rokoko 2.0 Bialystok Club, SkyClub - Dyskoteka & Drink Bar, and Pub Fiction & BackStage. In addition, universities often organise theme nights and parties for international students.

For those who prefer quieter activities, there are many parks such as Planty Park, ideal for walking or picnicking. In autumn, you can visit Zwierzyniecki Forest or Knyszyn Forest (Puszcza Knyszyńska) on the outskirts of the city.

Culture and gastronomy in Bialystok, Poland

This Polish city has an interesting history and cultural offerings. You can visit the Bialystok History Museum (Muzeum Historii Medycyny i Farmacji) or the Army Museum (Muzeum Wojska w Białymstoku), where you can learn more about the history of the region. You can also visit the Branicki Palace (Pałac Branickich), one of the city's most emblematic sites, or explore the Bialystok Cathedral (Archikatedra białostocka).

As for gastronomy, in Bialystok you can try traditional Polish dishes such as "pierogi" (dumplings filled with meat, cheese or potato) or "bigos" (cabbage and meat stew). Polish pastries are also delicious, so don't hesitate to try "sernik" (a traditional cheesecake) or "pączki" (doughnuts filled with jam).

Places such as Bar Podlasie, Bar Słowiański or Bistro Bojary offer reasonably priced menus.

Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Bialystok

An exchange in this Polish city has pros and cons that you should be aware of before you arrive.

Advantages

• The city’s welcoming and has an international student atmosphere, making it easy to meet people and settle in quickly.
• Learning Polish can be challenging, but it can also be a great advantage for your personal and professional development. What's more, international students speak English among themselves, so it’ll be an ideal opportunity to practise.
• The cost of living is much lower than in other European cities, allowing you to save money and enjoy the experience without spending too much.
• The city’s surrounded by nature, with many parks and green areas ideal for sports or relaxation.
• Bialystok is well connected to Warsaw (less than two hours by train), making it easy to travel to other parts of the country and Europe.

Disadvantages

• The climate can be very cold in winter, with sub-zero temperatures and snow for several months.
• The nightlife is limited compared to larger cities such as Krakow or Warsaw.
• Many businesses only speak Polish, so communication can be difficult.

Cheap student accommodation in Bialystok, Poland

Do you need accommodation in Bialystok and don't know how to find it? On Erasmus Play you can find the best flats, rooms, and student residences in Bialystok.

FAQ about doing Erasmus in Bialystok

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