Erasmus experience in Bologna, Italy

Why did you decide to go to Bologna, Italy?

For its cities, landscapes and citizens, Italy is a wonderful country. It's truly incredible that cities such as Bologna exist, where the Erasmus environment in the city centre is amazing, my friends and I still think about Piazza Verdi. I must also mention the contributions this city makes to the arts, culture, gastronomy, the location, the public transport connections, amongst other characteristics.

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How long was your scholarship?

I was in Bologna for 7 months.

How was student life in Bologna?

The first thing that comes to mind is the city centre, the environment seemed to be run by young people, in addition to the different organisations that organised trips, outings, meals, lunches, festivals and all that you can imagine.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Bologna to other students?

Would 100% recommend, I'm not biased, I met many people who came to Bologna and didn't regret their decision at all to take advantage of this opportunity, you should too.

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What’s the food like in Italy?

With regards to the food, I don't know what to say. Honestly I didn't eat any pizza, pasta, gelato, nor did I go to the Chianti region in Tuscany to try their wines. Neither do I know what is antipasto, and I have no idea about bolognese. What is that? Risotto? I think I've heard this word before, and although "I promise" that I hardly ate any of these things, almost everyone returned home with an extra kilo and not exactly in their suitcases.

How did you find accomodation? Was it difficult?

If you plan in advance, it's not difficult. I arrived there with a group of strangers and once there we started looking for flats. Others might be more prepared, but don't completely rule out the fantastic idea of leaving everything to the last minute, if you want a really typical Erasmus experience.

How was the language? Did you attend any courses at the university?

They really encourage learning the native language. I recommend taking special classes, if you find the right one you will form a friendship with the teacher, and thanks to them you will meet more people.

Where are the best places to go out in Bologna?

Soda Pops is small and at first you think you won't go there at all during your Erasmus, and then it becomes the place to go on Mondays.

You'll always have a good time at Giardini.

Kinki Boy is the most alternative.

After these, I recommend going out in the outskirts of the centre of Bologna so you can also sample a more Italian atmosphere.

Qubò is where all the Erasmus hang out the most.

For more information about parties etc. get an ESN and ESEG card as soon as you arrive.

For wine tastings I suggest via San Stefano, which has various wine bars.

And eating in Bologna? What are your favourite places?

There are so many great places for lunch:

• Trattoria Leonida, Ristorante Pappagallo, Nicola's, Osteria dell'Orsa, Mercato di Mezzo, and all of the restaurants in the area are fantastic such as Calice and Osteria Del Podesta.
• As I remember the best gelato I tried was on calle Piazza Camilo Benso, I don't remember the name of the place, but it was incredible.
• You can find the best pizzas in Scalinatella, the owner is a great friend now, you can eat pizza for dinner almost every day, you will find some of the best in Spacca Napoli.
• Don't forget to try some of the best lunches, such as those at Lab 16 and Empire English Pub.

I'll stop there because I'm in love with all the restaurants, pizzerias, bars...

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And for a cultural visit?

You have a wide range of possibilities, from going up to the Santuario Madonna di San Luca, visits to the domes, all the basilicas such as San Petronio, San Stefano, San Giovanni in Monte, and palaces. Don't forget to go to the Archiginnasio library, it's beautiful. Go see the magnificent squares, Piazza Verdi, Piazza Maggiore, and the museums. I had many opportunities to see a lot of these things thanks to my TFG (final degree project).

Any advice you want to give to future students going to Bologna?

If you decide to go to Bologna, make the most of every day, meet new people, and don't waste a day staying at home.