Hej och välkommen! Lund, with its rich history and vibrant student culture, is excited to welcome you. Whether you’re here as an exchange student, a full-time international student, or for a short stay, this guide is designed to help you navigate your new life in Lund. From finding accommodation to understanding Swedish traditions, we’ve got you covered.
Finding Accommodation
Lund’s housing market can be challenging, especially for newcomers. If you haven’t secured a place yet, here are some options:
- LU Accommodation: Managed by Lund University, this is often the first stop for international students. It offers dorm-style living, perfect for meeting other students.
- AF Bostäder: As one of the largest student housing providers, AF Bostäder offers a variety of housing options, from corridor rooms to apartments. Be sure to sign up early for the novisch (new student) queue.
- Private housing: If university accommodation isn’t available, websites like BoPoolen and Facebook Marketplace can help. Be cautious of scams—never send money upfront without verifying the offer.
Healthcare in Sweden
Sweden is known for its excellent healthcare, but navigating the system can be tricky without a personnummer (personal identification number). Here’s what you need to know:
- Vårdcentral: Your local health center. Call in the morning, ideally from a Swedish phone number, to book an appointment.
- 1177 Vårdguiden: Sweden’s national healthcare helpline, offering advice and directing you to appropriate services.
- Emergency care: In emergencies, dial 112. Emergency services are accessible even without a personnummer.
If you’re an EU student, bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for easier access to healthcare services.
Weather and Clothing
Southern Sweden’s weather can be a surprise, especially if you’re from a warmer climate. Here’s how to stay comfortable:
- Winter gear: Invest in a good waterproof jacket, boots, and layered clothing. Second-hand stores like Myrorna, Erikshjälpen and Emmaus in Lund offer affordable winter gear.
- Daylight: Prepare for short, dark days during winter. However, long, bright summer days will make up for it. Embrace outdoor activities when the weather permits!
Food and Drink
Swedish food may not be world-famous, but it has its own unique charms. Here’s what to expect:
- Traditional foods: Be ready for dishes like köttbullar (meatballs), gravad lax (cured salmon), and various types of herring.
- Systembolaget: The only place to buy alcohol over 3.5 percent ABV. Supermarkets sell low-alcohol drinks, but for stronger beverages, visit Systembolaget. They have limited hours and strict age checks, so bring your ID.
- Student nations: Student-run organizations that host affordable meals and events. Joining a nation is a great way to meet people and enjoy local food and drinks.
Getting Around Lund
Transportation in Lund and the surrounding region is easy and convenient:
- Bicycles: Lund is a bike-friendly city. You can find a second-hand bike on Facebook groups, local bike shops, or student sales. Don’t forget to equip your bike with lights for night riding, and always wear a helmet.
- Public transport: Lund is well-connected by buses and trains, operated by Skånetrafiken. Download the Skånetrafiken app for buying tickets and checking schedules. As a student, you’re eligible for discounts. Lund’s central location also makes it easy to explore Skåne, Malmö, and even Copenhagen.
Swedish Culture and Traditions
Sweden has a rich cultural heritage, and Lund offers plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in it:
- Fika: More than just a coffee break, fika is a cultural institution. Enjoy coffee, pastries (like kanelbullar or semlor), and conversations with friends.
- Swedish holidays: Learn about traditional celebrations like Midsommar (summer solstice), Lucia (December 13th), and Valborg or Siste april (Walpurgis Night). These events are integral to Swedish culture and are often celebrated in a big way in Lund.
- Sustainable living: Recycling is a way of life in Sweden. You’ll be expected to sort your waste into categories (glass, plastic, paper, metal, organic waste). You can also return bottles and cans at local supermarkets for pant (a small refund).
Outdoor Activities
Sweden’s connection to nature is one of its greatest treasures. Here’s how to enjoy the great outdoors:
- Allemansrätten: The Right of Public Access allows you to freely explore the countryside, camp, hike, and enjoy nature—just respect the environment and private property. Skåne, the region Lund is in, offers beautiful nature reserves and coastal areas. Here are some useful maps and guides.
- Lund’s parks and green spaces: The city is full of parks like Stadsparken and the Lund University Botanical Garden. These are perfect for relaxing or having a picnic with friends.
- Winter sports: Don’t let winter keep you indoors! Lund is close to areas for winter sports like cross-country skiing and ice skating. Check the Lund municipality website for information on ice rinks and nearby forests for skiing trails.
Student Life
Lund’s vibrant student life is one of the main draws for international students. Here are some highlights:
- Student nations: Join one of the 13 student nations in Lund. They organize parties, dinners, sports events, and social activities, offering endless opportunities to meet new people. When you get a membership in Studentlund, you can access all student nations within the organization. Smålands nation is, however, not a part of Studentlund and you can access it without membership.
- Student unions: These organizations represent student interests and organize academic and social events. It’s a great way to get involved and expand your social circle.
- Student associations: As a student at Lund University, you can join various student associations focused on everything from music and theatre (spex) to politics, religion, and technology. Check the Lund University website for more information.
- Nollning: In Lund, ”nollning” or the ”novisch” is organized by the nations, student unions, and various student associations at the beginning of the academic term. The activities can range from social events, games, and parties to more organized events like city tours, treasure hunts, and themed gatherings. It’s a great way to get to know people and become more familiar with the city.
Practical Tips for Living in Lund
To make your life in Lund easier, keep these tips in mind:
- Learning Swedish: While most Swedes speak excellent English, learning some basic Swedish will enrich your experience. Consider taking Swedish courses offered by the university or using apps like Duolingo to practice.
- Banking and mobile services: Without a personnummer, opening a Swedish bank account can be challenging. International banks like Revolut and Wise are good alternatives. For easier communication, get a Swedish SIM card – Comviq, Telia, and Hallon are popular options.
- Swish: Many Swedes use Swish, a mobile payment app linked to a Swedish bank account. It’s a quick and easy way to transfer money, especially for splitting bills with friends.
- Recycling centers: In addition to sorting your household waste, Lund has dedicated recycling centers (återvinningscentraler) for larger items and electronics.
- Personal identification number (Personnummer): If you’re staying for an extended period, applying for a personnummer will simplify many things, from accessing healthcare to opening a bank account. You can apply at the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket).
