While everyone has heard of Old Town and or seen a picture of Prague Castle, not many people really know what it is actually like to live and study in Prague. From the new, hip neighborhood of Vršovice to the late-time croons on the Jazz Dock, life in Prague is, first and foremost, never boring.

Most international students who study in Prague won’t be required to attend class from sunrise to sunset (at least we hope not!), thus they’ll likely have ample free time to explore the city. Upon arrival, students should get the famous (albeit touristy) sightseeing out of the way, so they can focus on the real deal. The café and bookstore scene in Prague is thriving, offering hundreds of hideaways for those looking to get some studying done. There is practically infinite amounts of art dotting the walls of the National Gallery and equally endless amounts of music being played at the Prague National Theater year round (not to mention the dozens of smaller, quirky venues that host anything from opera festivals to obscure artist exhibitions to pretty rad rave parties). Again, if you choose to study in Prague, life will be anything but boring.

Be warned: you might find yourself developing somewhat of a love-and-hate relationships with Czech cuisine. Mostly meat and starch, Czech food remains delicious and affordable, but not exactly healthy. After you’ve stuffed yourself with fried cheese sandwiches and trdelnik, and you’re looking for something a little more green, try grocery shopping at one of the big supermarkets, like TESCO or Bio Market. Better yet, at a local market or at one of the many organic shops scattered throughout the city’s streets.

Prague, being a major European travel hub, is a considerably more expensive place to live than the rest of the Czech Republic. However, it is still significantly cheaper than any other common study abroad city in Western Europe, and it doesn’t lack in opportunities to have a great time on a budget (considering the fact that a bottle of beer is cheaper than a bottle of water, this shouldn’t be too difficult)! When you’ve had your fill of urban exploration, try adding your own scribbles onto the Lennon Wall, discover new music at the countless underground bars, and check when museums offer free admission dates to save a few bucks.