Charles University, Czech Republic 2025: "I would recommend this destination to anyone who is even slightly thinking about it"

Preparation

Preparing for my Erasmus semester in Prague was incredibly straightforward. The application process was simple, and because I had already been to the city before, I didn’t feel any nervousness about moving there. It didn’t feel like stepping into the unknown. Since Prague is only about 300 kilometers from where I live, I wasn’t worried about being too far from home. If I ever forgot something or needed to go back, it wouldn’t be a problem. What made it even easier was that I traveled by car, which meant I could pack absolutely everything I wanted. I didn’t need to choose between essentials or stress about luggage limits. I just loaded the car and hit the road.

Accommodation

Finding accommodation in Prague turned out to be easier than expected. I joined a Facebook group where students post about available rooms in shared flats across the city. Through that group, I found a room in the very center of Prague, in the area known as Prague 1. The location was ideal. I was within walking distance of everything, which made my daily routine so much easier and more enjoyable. I paid around 13,500 Czech crowns a month, which is about 550 euros, and that covered all expenses including rent, internet, and utilities. The building was quite old and hadn’t been renovated, so it wasn’t the prettiest or most modern place. But honestly, that didn’t really matter. The fact that I lived in the heart of the city made a huge difference. On top of that, the apartment was shared exclusively with other students, many of whom were also on Erasmus. That helped a lot in creating a friendly and social atmosphere from day one. It didn’t take long for us to cook together, go out, or plan spontaneous trips.

Studies at the host university

Studying in Prague was a really positive experience. The university offered a large selection of courses in English, and I had the freedom to choose subjects that actually interested me. My weekly schedule was manageable, which gave me enough time to enjoy the city, meet new people, and even travel a bit. The professors were young, approachable, and very open-minded. What I liked most was the relaxed atmosphere. The teachers treated us more like equals, and there were even moments when we went out for a drink after class. It created a very casual and enjoyable learning environment. The academic system itself was clear and flexible, and I never had any issues arranging courses or dealing with paperwork. One really cool part was the free sports program. If you managed to sign up early enough, you could take part in regular classes like Pilates or yoga without paying anything. I was lucky to get a spot in Pilates, and it quickly became part of my weekly routine.

Daily

Life in Prague itself was beautiful. Compared to a busy city like Berlin, it felt calm and slow in the best way. People around me weren’t constantly rushing, and the whole atmosphere was more relaxed and human. The locals were extremely friendly, funny, and easy to talk to. Even as a foreigner, I felt welcome and comfortable everywhere I went. The nightlife was great, with a wide variety of places to go out. Whether you were into clubs, live music, or just hanging out in cozy bars, there was always something happening. And even though Prague is considered one of the more expensive cities in the Czech Republic, I still found prices to be reasonable compared to other European cities. What really makes Prague stand out is its unique charm. The old town is absolutely stunning. Every time I walked through it, I felt like I had been transported into a different era. It’s hard to describe just how magical the city feels when you’re wandering through cobblestone streets, surrounded by beautiful buildings, towers, and bridges. Even though it’s a capital city, it doesn’t feel like one. It’s more personal, more walkable, and cozier than many bigger cities I’ve visited.

Conclusion

Looking back, I can honestly say that this Erasmus experience was one of the best decisions of my life. Even though it was already my third Erasmus, it had a special impact on me. I grew a lot as a person. I became more confident, more independent, and more open to different cultures and lifestyles. The friendships I made, the memories I created, and the things I learned outside the classroom were just as valuable as my academic experiences. I would rate the whole thing a ten out of ten, without hesitation. The university was great, the city was amazing, and both international offices (at home and in Prague) offered outstanding support every step of the way. I would recommend this destination to anyone who is even slightly thinking about it. It turned out to be not just a study exchange, but a life-changing chapter I will always treasure.