Erasmus in Malta or Zagreb: Where to Stay During an Erasmus Semester?

Erasmus: A Unique Opportunity to Study Abroad

Every year, hundreds of thousands of European students take advantage of the Erasmus+ programme to complete part of their studies at a partner institution abroad. Created by the European Union in 1987, this initiative promotes student mobility and offers participants the opportunity to discover new teaching methods, experience a different culture, and sometimes even learn a new language.

The programme is primarily intended for higher education students enrolled at institutions participating in Erasmus+. Apprentices, doctoral candidates, interns, and certain teaching staff members may also benefit from international mobility opportunities through the programme.

Today, Erasmus+ covers all member states of the European Union, as well as several associated countries such as Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Türkiye, Serbia, and North Macedonia. Many other partner countries around the world also participate in specific Erasmus+ actions.

Among the most popular destinations for European students are Malta and Zagreb, two locations that offer an excellent quality of life, relatively affordable living costs, and a particularly vibrant international environment.

Focus: Studying in Malta

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, between Sicily and the North African coast, Malta is one of the smallest member states of the European Union. The archipelago covers an area of approximately 316 km² and has a population of just over 560,000 inhabitants. Its Mediterranean climate is particularly attractive to international students, thanks to its mild winters and sunny summers.

The country's main higher education institution is University of Malta, located in Msida, close to the capital, Valletta. Each year, the university welcomes a large number of international students through the Erasmus+ programme and maintains an extensive network of academic partnerships across Europe.

Several accommodation options are available for students spending an Erasmus semester in Malta:

• Private student residences located near the campus;

• Shared apartments, which are particularly popular among international students;

• Furnished apartments available for short- or medium-term rental;

• Accommodation managed or recommended by local student associations.

Msida, Gżira, Sliema, and St. Julian's are among the most sought-after locations for students in Malta. These areas provide quick access to the university while allowing students to enjoy student life, local shops, restaurants, and the seafront. Through our local network, we support students with their relocation by helping them find accommodation suited to their needs and, when desired, internship opportunities.

Beyond academics, Malta is renowned for its exceptional historical heritage, fortified cities, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene, making it one of the most popular Erasmus destinations in Europe.

Focus: Studying in Zagreb

As the capital of Croatia, Zagreb is located in the northwestern part of the country, at the foot of the Medvednica mountain range. The city has a population of approximately 688,000 inhabitants, making it the largest urban area in Croatia. Its continental climate is characterized by warm summers and colder winters than those typically experienced in Mediterranean destinations.

Zagreb is widely recognized for its vibrant academic environment. University of Zagreb, founded in 1669, is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Southeast Europe and welcomes a large number of international students every year through the Erasmus programme. Its faculties of law, economics, medicine, engineering, and humanities attract students from across Europe.

When it comes to accommodation, Erasmus students can generally choose from several options:

• University residence halls;

• Rooms in private homes;

• Independent studio apartments;

• Shared flats, which are particularly popular in student districts.

The neighborhoods of Donji Grad, Trešnjevka, Maksimir, and Trnje are especially popular among students due to their proximity to university campuses and public transportation.

We support students throughout their accommodation and internship search process. Thanks to our network of local partners, we help them identify housing solutions that match their budget and requirements, as well as internship opportunities related to their academic background. Our support enables students to prepare for their mobility experience under the best possible conditions and to focus fully on their academic and professional journey in Zagreb.

One of Zagreb’s greatest advantages is its cost of living, which is often lower than that of many Western European capitals. As a result, students benefit from an excellent balance between quality of life, cultural richness, and affordable housing costs.

Why Study Abroad for a Semester?

Choosing an Erasmus destination is about much more than simply finding accommodation or selecting a university. Studying abroad is often a genuine personal and professional growth opportunity that can have a lasting impact on a student's future.

Here are five great reasons to take the leap:

• Improve your language skills through everyday immersion;

• Discover a new culture and broaden your perspective;

• Enhance your CV and stand out to future employers;

• Gain independence and self-confidence;

• Build an international network of friends and future professionals.

Whether you are drawn to the Mediterranean sunshine of Malta or the cultural dynamism of Zagreb, an Erasmus semester is an enriching experience that often leaves a lasting mark on a student's academic and personal journey.

However, choosing the right accommodation remains a key step in making the most of this adventure and ensuring a successful stay under the best possible conditions.

Need Support Finding Accommodation or an Internship?

Preparing for an Erasmus semester often requires planning and managing a number of important steps, including:

• Finding suitable accommodation;

• Preparing application documents;

• Searching for an internship;

• Contacting local organizations and institutions;

• Organizing your arrival and settling into your new destination.

To make your international mobility experience easier, we offer personalized support for students planning to study in Malta or Zagreb.

Thanks to our network of local partners and our in-depth knowledge of both destinations, we can help you find accommodation that matches your budget and preferences, as well as internship opportunities aligned with your academic background and professional goals. Our aim is to help you prepare for your departure with confidence and make the most of your experience abroad.

Feel free to contact us to discuss your Erasmus project and discover the solutions we can offer to support your mobility journey.