Information and tips for Erasmus students in Linkoping

Would you like to do your Erasmus in Linköping? You’ll find a modern city with a traditional touch, where quiet streets mix with lively areas. This Swedish city is known for its sustainable spirit, its love of bicycles and its efficient public transport, ideal for getting around without any hassle. Although the cost of living is higher than in other Erasmus destinations, it’s still more affordable than in large cities such as Stockholm.

What's more, if you enjoy nature, you'll be in the ideal place. From parks and lakes to forests perfect for hiking, there are many options for unwinding and breathing fresh air. And if you’re looking for cultural activities, the city offers museums, events, and a lively university life. Ready to discover everything Linköping has to offer?

Cost of living in Linkoping, Sweden

The monthly cost in Linköping depends on each student's lifestyle, but it’s possible to live within a reasonable budget (and more affordably than in Stockholm). In total, including accommodation, transport, food and leisure, a student can live in Linköping on a budget of approximately SEK 9,000-12,000 (approx. €780-1,040) per month.

The biggest expense for students is usually accommodation. A room in a shared flat costs around SEK 4,000–8,000 (approx. €350–745) per month, while a room in a university hall of residence can cost around SEK 4,700 (approx. €435) per month.

Transport is also affordable for students. A monthly pass costs around SEK 270 (approx. €25) with the student discount and allows you to get around the city without any problems. However, most students prefer to use bicycles, as Linköping has excellent cycling infrastructure. Many students choose to buy a second-hand bike as soon as they arrive in the city so they can use it.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Linkoping

This Swedish city is a university town with an active social life. There are bars and clubs popular with students, such as Flamman Pub & Disco or Platens Bar.

If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, you can stroll along the banks of the Stångån river, where there is a path that is ideal for unwinding. Another option is to visit Gamla Linköping, a neighbourhood that recreates the city in the 19th century with wooden houses and cosy cafés. In winter, you can also enjoy ice skating at Trädgårdsföreningen, a beautiful park in the city centre.

If you enjoy festivals, don't miss the Linköpings Stadsfest, held in summer, which offers live music, food and outdoor activities.

Culture and gastronomy in Linkoping, Sweden

Linköping is a city with a wide range of cultural attractions. For example, you can visit Linköping Cathedral (Linkopings domkyrka), one of the oldest and most impressive cathedrals in Sweden. You can also explore the Swedish Air Force Museum (Flygvapenmuseum), which contains historic aircraft and interactive exhibitions on military aviation.

As for gastronomy, in Linköping you can try traditional Swedish dishes such as "köttbullar" (Swedish meatballs served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce) or "gravad lax" (salmon marinated with dill and mustard).

If you’re looking for affordable places to eat for students, we recommend places such as 55an Bar & Restaurant, Mocca deli Linkoping or Grekiskt & Gott. Another affordable option is to eat at IKEA, which, being a Swedish company, offers a wide range of traditional dishes to try.

Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Linkoping

Doing an exchange in Linkoping has some pros and cons that will influence your stay.

Advantages

• It’s a university town with a great student atmosphere.
• Linköping University has an excellent academic reputation and many student associations that organise events throughout the year.
• The transport system and cycling infrastructure greatly facilitate mobility, as you can get around easily without relying on public transport.
• The proximity to Stockholm and Gothenburg allows for weekend getaways and the opportunity to learn more about Sweden.
• Sweden is a country with a high level of safety and quality of life, which makes living in Linköping a peaceful and pleasant experience.
• International students often receive discounts on transport, museums, and restaurants, which helps to reduce monthly expenses.

Disadvantages

• The climate in winter is quite cold, with temperatures below freezing and very short days due to the lack of sunlight.
• The cost of living is higher than in other Erasmus destinations, so it’s important to plan your budget carefully.
• Swedish is the main language, so it can be challenging if you want to fully integrate into the local community. However, most Swedes speak English, which makes communication easier.
• The nightlife is quieter compared to other European cities. Although there are bars and university parties, there aren’t many nightclubs open until the early hours of the morning.

Cheap student accommodation in Linkoping, Sweden

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

FAQ about doing Erasmus in Linkoping

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