Erasmus Experience in Bologna, Italy by Catarina

Why did you choose to go to Bologna, Italy?

I chose Italy because I've always been interested in the country, and chose Bologna specifically because it has the oldest university and because is close to some of the most beautiful touristic cities (Venice, Verona, Florence, Milan).

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I stayed for 6 months, from September to February.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bologna?

I didn't get to meet many of the locals because in the beginning I didn't speak the language. But the Erasmus spirit was awesome.

If by student lifestyle you mean the classes, well... attendance was not mandatory.

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

Yes, but probably not to those in engineering if they want to pass the classes (me and my colleagues had some difficulty adapting to their evaluation method).

What is the food like?

Very good. The more time you spend there, the more you get to know the places worth going to.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Bologna?

Yes! I recommend to people that are going in September to begin searching for a place in later June/July, or else you'll be stuck with a very expensive double room in the city, or a room outside the city.

How much does it cost to live in Bologna?

Depends on the person, but accommodation is maybe around 250€ for a place in a double room, the beer is around 4€ in a bar, and the pizza is cheap.

I had a place near my house that, at lunch time, a margarita and a coke cost 3€ (and the pizza was really good).

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Yes. They have free Italian language courses. But I suggest newcomers to get to know the language before arriving. The Duolingo app is free and helpful.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Bologna from your city?

Plane.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Bologna?

For newcomers: Piazza Verdi.

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And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Bologna?

Pizzeria Due Torri is pretty good for starters.