Erasmus in Paris
Information and tips for Erasmus students in Paris
| Private rooms Paris | 6218 | 1321/month |
| Residences Paris | 447 | 905/month |
| Studios Paris | 3910 | 2264/month |
| Apartments Paris | 6849 | 2969/month |
Why do Erasmus in Paris? Doing Erasmus in the French capital is something you can’t miss! From the moment you arrive, you'll fall in love with the city's unique atmosphere - who wouldn't want to enjoy a freshly baked croissant while strolling the streets? Paris is a perfect blend of history, art and culture, with museums such as the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, and charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre. The city is simply... magic!
Here's everything you need to know about Paris to make the most of your experience in the city.
Cost of living in Paris, France
If you want to go on Erasmus in Paris, you should be aware that it’s a quite expensive city. The cost of living for a student is on average €1,200-€1,300 per month.
Accommodation costs vary depending on the type and location, but it’ll be one of your biggest expenses. A room usually costs between €800-€900 per month. If you prefer to live in a residence, it’s usually around the same price, between €600-€1,000, plus expenses such as electricity, water... Residences usually include services such as cleaning, dining room and common areas (gym or study rooms).
Paris has a very extensive metro network, ideal for getting around the city, and a system of RER (regional trains) that connects Paris with the surrounding areas.
If you're a student, you can get the Imagine R card, which offers unlimited access to the metro and RER (regional trains) in all areas of Paris for €374.90 per year, which is a bit pricey but monthly passes are often quite expensive. For example, if you won't be in Paris for a full year but need transport to move around frequently, you might consider the Navigo Mois pass, a monthly card whose cost depends on the zones you choose, but is usually between €78-€88 per month.
Due to the high cost of public transport, one of the most popular options for students are bicycles. The cost is €3 for 45 minutes. There are several vouchers: V-Plus, for only €3.10 per month and with a 12-month commitment, includes 30 free minutes on classic bikes; V-Max, for €9.30 per month and with an annual commitment, includes 60 free minutes on classic bikes and 45 minutes on electric bikes. Bicycles are very convenient because they’re often faster than public transport.
Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Paris, France
Picnics on the Champ de Mars by the Eiffel Tower are a cheap way to socialise, while universities and residences often organise events that are ideal for meeting people. Nightlife is diverse, with jazz bars in the Latin Quarter, night clubs in Pigalle and happy hours in areas such as Rue Mouffetard.
Paris also dazzles with its charm: in addition to Notre Dame or Montmartre, Le Marais and bookshops like Shakespeare and Company offer unique experiences. In addition, museums such as the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay are often free or offer discounts for under-26s. With a little planning, Paris is an unforgettable destination for students.
Culture and gastronomy in Paris, France
The French capital is not just a tourist destination; strolling through its streets and discovering its museums is like living inside a work of art. Of course, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum are must-sees, there's no doubt about it! But we also recommend the bohemian Bastille district, the elegance of Saint Germain des Prés or a walk along the Seine.
And let's not forget the gastronomy, you can try the ‘quiche Lorraine’ (eggs, cream, cheese and bacon), or the ‘escargots’ (snails with butter, garlic and parsley). In the ‘boulangeries’ (bakeries) and ‘pâtisseries’ (cake shops) you'll find delicacies such as ‘pain au chocolat’ (simital to a chocolate croissant) or fluffy ‘brioches’. And, of course, the ‘crêpes’, both sweet (chocolate, jam) and savoury (cheese, ham, mushrooms) - a feast for the taste buds!
Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Paris, France
Advantages
- Every corner has history and charm, from the majestic boulevards of Champs-Élysées to the bohemian alleys of Montmartre.
- You'll be able to discover and enjoy the food of its famous ‘boulangeries’ and ‘patisseries’. You'll find irresistible delicacies such as ‘pain au chocolat’, croissants and fruit tartlets.
- Paris is home to renowned museums such as the Louvre and the Orsay Museum, theatres such as the Garnier Opera House, and iconic bookshops such as Shakespeare and Company. Take advantage of your stay to explore everything!
- Studying in the French capital is a great opportunity to learn or improve your French.
- With students and residents from all over the world, there is a great multicultural atmosphere.
- From Paris, travelling to other European cities such as Berlin or Brussels is easy and affordable thanks to its excellent transport network, which includes high-speed trains and affordable flights.
Disadvantages
- Paris is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. From rent to everyday shopping, do the maths and take advantage of all the benefits the city has to offer as a student.
- Finding accommodation can be complicated and expensive, and you often have to consider living in neighbourhoods outside the centre in order to find a more comfortable place to live.
- Although the public transport system in Paris is efficient and connects the entire city, during rush hour, metros and buses are often overcrowded.
- Although it has a special charm in the rain,the weather can be a drawback. Winters are cold and cloudy days are common.
- It's a very touristy city, which means that many of the most iconic areas are often crowded.
- France is known for its bureaucracy, and Paris is no exception. From getting your residence permit to opening a bank account, the processes can be long, confusing and frustrating.
Cheap student accommodation in Paris, France
Looking for accommodation in Paris and don't know where to start? At Erasmus Play we compare for you the best flats, rooms and residences for students in Paris. Don't waste time searching and comparing on countless websites and access all of them at once through our search engine.
FAQ about doing Erasmus in Paris
How much does it cost to live in Paris as a student?
The cost of living in Paris will vary depending on accommodation. The French capital is an expensive city, costing on average between €1,000-€1,200 per month on the basis of affordable rent.
What’s student life like in Paris?
This city is full of students and tourists from all over the world. Therefore, there’s always a lot of life. In addition, the city offers great discounts and offers for students. These discounts include public transport and admission to cultural centres, so make the most of them and get to know the city to the fullest!
How much does student accommodation cost in Paris?
The price depends on the area. Shared rooms can cost around €800-€900. Finding accommodation in Paris is a difficult task, so it’s better to plan ahead.
How much is the Erasmus scholarship to study in Paris?
The different countries that grant this scholarship have different conditions. For this reason, we recommend you to contact the University in your country of origin. They will be able to give you all the information you need.
Which are the best areas to live in Paris as a student?
In Paris there are 20 'arrondissements', which are numbered districts. Depending on what you are looking for, one area is better than another. There’re more touristy areas, with lots of people, and quieter or residential areas. It’s important to bear in mind that the price of rents also depends on the area you are in.
