Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Budapest
Living in a shared flat comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s what you need to know:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Budapest
- Save on rent and utility bills, leaving you more money for activities and travel. Budapest offers cheap flights and trains to other cities and countries.
- Meet roommates from all over the world since Budapest attracts students from diverse countries, which provides a great opportunity to learn about different cultures.
- Spare rooms can often be found in central and student-friendly districts like V, VI, and VII of Pest.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Budapest
- Winters can be very cold with limited daylight. Heating arrangements can vary, it may be determined by the landlord but if that’s not the case, it's important to discuss usage with your roommates to avoid misunderstandings when the electricity bill arrives.
- Some rooms might be shared by up to four students, which means common areas can get crowded. Keep this in mind when choosing your accommodation.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Budapest
To make your Erasmus+ experience in Budapest smoother, we recommend using apps designed for the mobility process. These apps provide access to essential information, instructions for various procedures, and advice from past students about life in Budapest. Remember to pack warm clothes for the winter, but don't forget swimwear and flip flops for Budapest's famous hot springs.
How to meet people in Budapest
Sharing a flat is a great way to make friends, and they’ll probably become some of the closest ones, but there are many other ways to meet people in Budapest:
Student associations in Budapest
Join student associations like ESN Budapest United, ESN Hungary, Erasmus Life Budapest, and AIESEC. These organisations offer events, activities, trips, internships, and volunteering opportunities, making it easier to integrate into student life in Budapest.
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Budapest
Most student associations have Facebook groups where you can find information about upcoming events. You can also find groups based on academic years to connect with other students who will be there at the same time as you.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Budapest
Many associations and Facebook groups also create WhatsApp groups where you can directly interact with other students. These groups are great for making plans and meeting up outside of scheduled events.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Budapest
Keep these in mind when sharing a flat in the Hungarian capital:
- While mastering Hungarian is challenging, learning basic phrases will help you integrate and communicate with locals. Sharing a flat with a local can be a great opportunity to practise!
- Budapest is a touristy city with vibrant nightlife, especially in Pest. However, if you prefer a quieter neighbourhood, consider renting in Buda.
- Budapest hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as Independence Day (March 15) and the Spring Festival (April). These events fill the city with celebrations and are great opportunities to experience local culture.