Life in Ústí
Welcome to your new home! This guide covers essential information to help you navigate everyday life in Ústí nad Labem, from getting around the city to finding medical help. You don't have to figure everything out on your own: your Buddy can answer questions, help you with practical things, and show you their favourite places around town.
Public Transport (DÚK)
🚌 Getting Around Ústí
Ústí nad Labem is part of the Ústí Region integrated transport system (DÚK). Trolleybuses and buses are the most common ways to get around the city.
- Student discounts: Eligible students can get discounted fares on public transport and certain train and regional bus journeys across the Czech Republic. Ask your university or Buddy which student ID or documents you need to qualify.
- Buying tickets: The DÚKapka mobile app is a convenient way to buy tickets. Depending on the service, you may also be able to pay by contactless card at the yellow terminals on board or buy a ticket from a tobacco shop (trafika).
- Monthly and semester passes: If you travel frequently, a time-based pass may be worthwhile. Check the available options in DÚKapka or at the DPmÚL Customer Centre at Revoluční 26. Your Buddy can help you understand the options and, if needed, with the forms.
Post Office & Parcels
📦 Receiving Mail and Parcels
Ordering something online or expecting a parcel from home? Here are a few things to know about receiving mail at the dormitories.
- Addressing mail to the dormitories: Ask the sender to include your full name, room number, building name (K1 or K2), and the relevant dormitory address. The address provided for the dormitories is Klíšská 979/129, 400 01 Ústí nad Labem. Check your accommodation instructions to make sure the building details are correct.
- Collecting parcels at reception: Parcels and letters may be left at the main K1 reception. Check your mailbox and keep an eye out for any notification from the receptionist or delivery company.
- If a delivery fails: Your parcel may be taken to a post office or collection point. Check the delivery notice for the exact location and remember to bring your passport or another accepted ID and the collection notice.
Tip: For online shopping, look for parcel lockers and collection points such as Zásilkovna or AlzaBox. They can be convenient alternatives to home delivery. Check the available language options in each service's app.
Healthcare & Hospitals
🏥 What to Do If You Feel Unwell
Finding your way around a healthcare system in another country can be stressful. If you need help, contact your Buddy if possible. They may be able to explain the next steps or help you communicate, although they cannot replace a medical professional or an official interpreter.
- Minor illnesses: For general advice about common, minor symptoms, you can visit a pharmacy (lékárna). If you need a prescription, medical examination, or a doctor's note for your university, contact a general practitioner (praktický lékař).
- Urgent and emergency care: Masaryk Hospital (Masarykova nemocnice) is located at Sociální péče 3316/12a, Bukov. Check the current location and opening arrangements for the service you need before travelling, unless it is an emergency.
- Insurance and documents: Take your passport or accepted ID and your health insurance card or insurance documents. EU students can generally use a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medically necessary state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay; students from outside the EU should check the terms of their insurance policy. Depending on your coverage and the treatment, you may need to pay some costs yourself and request reimbursement later.
ESN Events
🎉 Meet People and Make Memories
Erasmus is about more than studying: it is a chance to meet people, discover new places, and make memories. ESN Ústí organises events throughout the year, with activities taking place frequently and in a wide variety of formats. There is always something new to discover!
- Something for everyone: Events may include social meet-ups, parties, cultural activities, sports, trips, and relaxed evenings with other international students. The programme varies throughout the year, so keep an eye on announcements.
- Stay up to date: Follow ESN Ústí's official social media channels and join the student communication groups shared with you to hear about upcoming events and sign-up details.
- Explore with your Buddy: Your Buddy can help you get to know the city, show you their favourite cafés and places, explain how things work locally, or recommend places worth visiting. You can also ask whether they would like to join you at an ESN event.
- Get involved: Come along, meet other international and local students, and don't be afraid to join an activity even if you don't know anyone yet. ESN events are a great way to make friends and feel part of the community.
- Your Welcome Pack: You will receive a Welcome Pack with useful information and items as Vodafone SIM card or ESNcard to help you with your stay. Check the information provided by ESN Ústí for details about its contents and collection.
🚨 Emergencies
If there is a serious medical emergency, accident, theft, or fire, seek help immediately. Save these emergency numbers in your phone:
In a serious incident, once you are safe and emergency services have been contacted if necessary, inform your Buddy Coordinator or an ESN Ústí board member if appropriate. They may be able to help you find further support.