When I first arrived in Toruń, I did not know what to expect. I had heard that it was a small city in Poland with a lot of history. But I did not know how beautiful, peaceful, and interesting it would be. In this article, I want to share my Erasmus experience in Toruń, and talk about the places I visited and the things I learned.

The most obvious thing I have observed here is that everywhere is very green. Even places with Gothic architecture are sometimes covered in greenery. This region receives rainfall even during the summer, and I can say that the average temperature is generally lower compared to countries like Turkey that are closer to the equator.

A City Full of History

Toruń is one of the oldest cities in Poland. It is located in the north of the country, on the Vistula River. The city is famous for its medieval old town, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. When I walked in the old town for the first time, I felt like I was in a fairy tale. The streets are made of stone, and the buildings are very old but well protected.

One of the most famous things about Toruń is that it is the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, the man who said that the Earth goes around the Sun. You can visit the House of Copernicus, which is now a museum. Inside, you can learn about his life, see old books and tools, and understand more about his ideas. I enjoyed this museum because it was interesting and easy to understand, even for people who are not science students.

The Old Town

The old town is the heart of Toruń. It is full of colorful buildings, cafes, restaurants, and small shops. I loved it. Gothic architecture looks very unique and cool. The Old Town Hall is a beautiful building in the center. You can go to the top of the tower and see the whole city. However, I could not find a chance to go there. 

Just next to the Town Hall, there is a statue of Copernicus. It is a great place to take photos. There is also a nice fountain where many people meet, especially during warm days.

Gingerbread – A Sweet Symbol of Toruń

Toruń is also famous for its gingerbread, called „pierniki” in Polish. The smell of fresh gingerbread is everywhere in the old town. There is a special Gingerbread Museum, where you can learn about the history of this sweet and even make your own gingerbread.

Other Attractions

One of my favorite places in Toruń is the Vistula River boulevard. It’s a quiet place to walk, talk with friends, or just sit and relax. During sunny days, many students and families spend time there. There are also small boats, and sometimes people play music near the water.

Student Life in Toruń

As an Erasmus student, I found Toruń a great place to study and live. The university is called Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU). It is one of the best universities in Poland, and many international students come here every year. I am in AKSIM right now. It is a small university but very rich for Erasmus opportunities.

The student dormitories are comfortable and not very expensive. I have met people from different countries, and we often cook together or explore the city. Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Toruń organizes trips, language exchanges, and cultural nights. I did not join them yet. Just searched a little. My friends help me to get used to city and they show me where can I buy stuff, eat. In addition, they also help me to find places like monuments.

Polish Food and Culture

Polish food is very tasty. My favorite dishes are pierogi (dumplings with cheese, meat, or potatoes), żurek (sour soup), and placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes). In Toruń, you can find many traditional restaurants with good prices. There are also kebab places, burger restaurants, and cafes with delicious cakes. Kebabs are also very delicious and cheap options for students. Even some places you can find discounts for students.

Polish people are kind and helpful. At first, it was difficult to speak with older people who don’t speak English, but young people are usually happy to help. I also tried to learn some Polish words, and people were happy when I used them.

Weather and Seasons

The weather in Toruń changes a lot during the year. I came here in July. In summer, I can say that weather is very cold when we compare throughout the world especially place that I came from without any hesitation. It sometimes might be rainy even in Summer. As far as I can observe, the Polish used to it. The weather in Toruń changes with the seasons. Spring is mild and fresh, with flowers and green parks. Summer is warm and sunny, perfect for walking by the river. Autumn is cooler, with colorful leaves and a calm feeling. Winter is cold, and sometimes it snows. Students wear warm clothes and drink hot tea. Each season has its own beauty and atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

Many Erasmus students choose big cities like Warsaw, Kraków, or Wrocław. These cities are large, busy, and full of modern life. But I think Toruń is different in a good way. It is smaller, quieter, and easier to explore. I don’t waste time in traffic or long distances. Everything is close—university, shops, and cafes. Toruń also feels more friendly and relaxed. It has beautiful history, good student life, and a peaceful atmosphere. I feel safe and comfortable here. For me, Toruń is the perfect place to focus on study, make friends, and enjoy daily life without stress.

Living in Toruń as an Erasmus student is one of the best experiences of my life. The city is not too big, so it is easy to get around, but it is also full of culture, history, and student life. I am learning many things, making good friends, and creating memories that I will never forget. 

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