Erasmus in Clermont-Ferrand

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Clermont-Ferrand

Are you thinking of doing your Erasmus in Clermont-Ferrand? Think no more! Read on to discover all the most known secrets to get the most out of your Erasmus. Clermont-Ferrand is a small university city known for its excellent academic institutions, high quality of life, wonderful architecture, great student atmosphere and delicious gastronomy. In addition, it is also very famous for its natural richness, since it is surrounded by volcanic mountains and natural parks.

Cost of living in Clermont-Ferrand, France

If we compare Clermont-Ferrand with other large French cities, such as Paris or Lyon, we see that it has an affordable cost of living. In any case, it all depends on the lifestyle you lead. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when managing your expenses:

First of all, the price of accommodation varies depending on factors such as location or size. The cheapest option is to rent a room in a shared flat or a university residence. Normally, the price in these cases is around €300-600 per month.

Second, the best way to save money on food is to alternate between cooking at home with eating in university canteens. The purchase of the supermarket is quite cheap, about €35 a week, and the price of the menus at the university is very low, especially if you get a monthly voucher. Take the opportunity to try different dishes of French gastronomy that are usually prepared in dining rooms!

Finally, the municipality has a network of public transportation formed by trams (called "trams”). you can buy yourself a monthly bonus (called “abonnements mensuel") so that moving is better for you. Another very common way for young people to get around is by using bikes. There are public ones throughout the town and they are free.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Clermont-Ferrand

It’s a university city, so it has a great atmosphere of leisure and parties, especially on college Thursdays! One of its most famous discos is Le them’s since it is one of the largest and liveliest. If what you want is a quieter night, but without having to give up good music, other very popular pubs are Le BAR BAR, The Baraka Club and Mojitos Bar.

During the day, there are also many activities to do. For example, you can visit the archaeology Museum Bargoin, have a drink in the Victory Square (Place de la Victoire), have a picnic in the Jardin Lecoq… And those who are not going to get bored are the athletes! They can go to the outskirts of the city to go up to the park Montjuzet and hallucinate with its incredible views. But for sweeping views, those that are achieved after climbing to the top of the nearby volcano Puy de Dôme. You can’t miss it!

Culture and gastronomy in Clermont-Ferrand, France

An important aspect of the city is that it is a bilingual environment: its population not only speaks French but also speaks Occitan, a language mainly used in the south of France.

Clermont also showcases its culture through its magnificent old town. The jewel of the city is the Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption). It has been classified as a historical monument of the country, and one of the reasons that makes it so impressive is that it is built with black volcanic stone. Likewise, the population hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the renowned International Short Film Festival (Festival du court métrage). Besides, the Clermont Auvergne University organizes many free activities and excursions with which you can immerse yourself in the local culture, such as watching a football game or attending a cheese tasting.

Speaking of cheeses, they and the potato are the basic ingredients of the traditional cuisine of the region, which is very abundant and tasty. Some of the most famous local dishes are:

• “Truffade”: a fried potato, cheese and bacon.

• “Potée auvergnate”: a kind of stew with vegetables, meat and potatoes.

• “Pounti”: a sweet and savoury cake of chard, bacon and plums.

• “Millard”: cherry tart.

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Clermont-Ferrand

• The city houses excellent educational institutions, of which its university and colleges enjoy great national recognition. This way you make sure you have the best academic experience.

• Compared to other large French cities, Clermont-Ferrand offers a more affordable cost of living. In this way, you can enjoy a high standard of living without having to worry about your expenses.

• They are centrally located. It makes it easy for you to travel to any part of the country and explore its important neighbouring cities, such as Vichy, Lyon or Bourges, and soak up French culture to the fullest. Bon voyage!

• Most of the residents are students and it shows. The city offers a great college atmosphere, so it's super easy to meet other young people and make lots of friends.

Cheap student housing in Clermont-Ferrand, France

Do you need accommodation in Clermont-Ferrand? Don't know how to get it? At Erasmus Play we help you compare the best flats, rooms and apartments for students of the city to find your ideal accommodation.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Clermont-Ferrand

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