Going on Erasmus is without a doubt a life-changing experience, but how do you know you’re choosing the right Erasmus destination? Keep reading to discover our best tips on how to pick the best Erasmus destinations in Europe based on your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Before choosing your Erasmus city, take some time to define your personal and academic goals. Once you know what you want from your Erasmus experience, it’ll be much easier to narrow down your options.
Personal Goals: What do you hope to gain from studying abroad? Maybe it’s improving your language skills, experiencing a new culture, or gaining independence.
Academic Goals: What courses are you interested in, and how do they fit into your degree? Consider the academic reputation of potential host universities and the quality of education in your field.
Best Erasmus Destinations in Europe
Every Erasmus destination offers something unique, but some cities have become favourites among students over the years. We’re talking about places like: Lisbon (Portugal), Berlin (Germany), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Prague (Czechia), Bologna (Italy), all known for their active student life, cultural diversity, and international atmosphere.
These are just a few of the best Erasmus destinations in Europe, but remember: the right one depends on your personal and academic goals. Let’s explore how to find your perfect match.
Research Countries and Cities
- Cost of Living
The cost of living can make a big difference when deciding where to go. Research expenses like accommodation, food, and transport, as these will directly impact your budget when studying abroad.
Tip: You’ll usually find more affordable housing and lower living costs outside the bigger cities, even in countries that are generally more expensive.
For more guidance, check out our article on How Much Does It Cost to Go on Erasmus?
- Language
Do you want to improve a specific language, or would you prefer to study in English? Verify the language of instruction for the courses you’re interested in and check that the university offers enough English-taught subjects that align with your degree.
If you’ll be attending classes in another language, make sure the university provides preparatory language courses for international students.
- Culture and Travel
What kind of country or city appeals to you the most? Consider the cultural experience, city size, and how easy it is to travel around. Choosing a well-connected city makes weekend trips across Europe much easier!
- Weather and Lifestyle
The weather and local lifestyle can shape your whole experience. Picture your everyday life: do you see yourself studying by the beach, exploring mountains, or enjoying cozy cafés on rainy afternoons? Choose a city where you’ll feel comfortable.
- Look into Host Universities
Check your home university’s list of partner institutions to find programs that match your field of study.
- Course Compatibility and Learning Agreement
Make sure the host university offers courses similar in content to your current degree. This will ensure your ECTS credits transfer smoothly when you return home.
Your Learning Agreement is a key part of the Erasmus process; it officially outlines the courses you’ll take abroad and how they fit into your degree. Once you start classes, you’ll have to double-check that everything aligns with your study plan and schedule or, if necessary, adjust the Learning Agreement.
- Other Practical Aspects to Consider
Housing and Transport: Research student housing options and the city’s public transport to make your daily life easier.
Funding: Erasmus grants vary by country, so factor this into your budget. Staying open-minded beyond the most popular Erasmus destinations can also help you discover more affordable, hidden gems.
No matter your destination, peace of mind comes first. Make sure you secure travel insurance that meets all the Erasmus+ programme requirements, OnCampus Abroad offers comprehensive coverage for Erasmus students, so you can focus on what truly matters: living your experience to the fullest.
Final Thoughts
Do your research and try to come up with a list of at least two or three potential destinations. Don’t fall in love with just one option, compare them, make a good old pros and cons list, and keep an open mind.
At the end of the day, wherever you go, you’ll likely have the best time of your life. Because in Erasmus, it’s not only about the destination, but also about the people you meet and the experiences that shape you along the way.
