Information and tips for international and Erasmus students in Umeå

Would you like to do your Erasmus in Umeå? This city in northern Sweden is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic university environment surrounded by nature. Known as the "City of Birches", Umeå combines modernity with a wide range of cultural activities and outdoor spaces. In addition, Umeå University attracts many international students thanks to its high-quality education and variety of programmes taught in English.

The cost of living in Umeå is moderate within Sweden. Although it’s not as expensive as Stockholm, it’s still more expensive than other student cities in Europe.

Thanks to its compact size and efficient public transport network, getting around the city is easy. What's more, the winter climate and Northern Lights make this a truly unique experience. Discover everything Umeå has to offer!

Cost of living in Umeå, Sweden

The cost of living in Umeå can be high, but it varies depending on each student's lifestyle. Accommodation is usually the biggest expense, with rooms in shared flats costing around 5,000 SEK (approx. £450) per month. University halls of residence are a more affordable option, with prices ranging from 3,500-4,000 SEK (approx. €320-370) per month.

Public transport is efficient, and many students opt for a monthly pass, which costs approximately 480 SEK (approx. €44). However, many people prefer to travel by bicycle, even in winter, as the city is well suited to this and it is a more economical means of transport.

As for food, supermarkets such as ICA, Lidl and Coop offer a range of prices. A student can spend between 1,800-2,500 SEK (approx. €150-210) per month on food, depending on their habits and whether they cook at home or eat out.

Adding up transport, food and leisure expenses, a student typically spends between SEK 10,500–13,500 (approx. €900–1,150) per month.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Umeå

Although Umeå is not a city with a vibrant nightlife, it does have bars and nightclubs where students gather, such as Kårhuset Origo, Cinco, or Lottas Krog & Pub. In addition, many events organised by the university and student associations make for an active social life.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, Umeå offers numerous options. Döbelns Park, which is in the city centre, is ideal for walks and picnics, while Gammlia, an open-air museum with traditional houses, is perfect for learning about local history. In winter, many people enjoy (Gammlia friluftsmuseum), which is perfect for learning about local history. Many people also enjoy cross-country skiing or ice skating on the frozen lakes.

One of Umeå's biggest attractions is the opportunity to see the Northern Lights. From the outskirts of the city, far from light pollution, you can admire these natural lights in the sky. Another interesting plan would be to visit the Umeälven river, where there are trails that are perfect for walking or cycling all year round.

Culture and gastronomy in Umeå, Sweden

Umeå has a varied cultural offering. If you’re interested in history, you can visit the Västerbotten Museum (Västerbottens museum), where you can see exhibitions on Sami culture and the history of the region. Also noteworthy is the Bildmuseet, a contemporary art museum with innovative exhibitions.

For music and events lovers, the city hosts the Umeå Open festival, which brings together both Swedish and international artists. There are also concerts and shows at NorrlandsOperan, the city's most important theatre. Other festivals you can enjoy in this Swedish city are Brännbollsyran, House of Metal and the Umeå Jazz Festival.

When it comes to food, Umeå offers the chance to try traditional Swedish dishes. One of the most typical is “palt”, a kind of potato dumpling stuffed with pork, ideal for cold days. You can also try "surströmming", a fermented herring with a strong smell, but which many Swedes enjoy. Finally, you can try "gravad lax" (marinated salmon with dill).

If you’re looking for inexpensive places to eat, restaurants such as Kummin Restaurang & Catering or Droskan offer affordable options for students.

Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Umeå

Studying in Umeå has certain pros and cons that are worth considering when choosing it as an exchange destination.

Advantages

• Umeå is a prime location for nature lovers. Surrounded by forests and rivers, it’s ideal for hiking, skiing or simply enjoying unique landscapes.
• Being in northern Sweden, you have the opportunity to see the Northern Lights during the winter months.
• The student environment is very active, with a university that welcomes many international students.
• Activities organised by the university and associations facilitate integration and socialisation.
• Another positive point is the population's level of English. In Sweden, most people speak English fluently, so you won't have any problems communicating, even if you don't speak Swedish.

Disadvantages

• The cost of living is higher than in other Erasmus destinations, especially when compared to cities in southern Europe. Although there are affordable options, life in general is more expensive.
• The cold winter weather can be challenging. For several months, temperatures drop considerably and there are few hours of daylight, which can affect your mood if you aren’t used to it.
• Finally, nightlife is limited compared to large European cities. Although there are bars and some events, the offering is not as extensive as in other capitals.

Cheap student accommodation in Umeå, Sweden

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

FAQ about doing Erasmus in Umeå

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