Experience in Bologna, Italy by Alva

What is it like to live in Bologna? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It's a beautiful city with incredible food. The pizza, pasta and gelato is amazing here. It's a student city, so if you want to party you can do it 7 days a week. Also all the buildings are really beautiful and the narrow streets feel cosy. Another upside is that here's not a lot of tourists. The downsides are that there are very few parks here and no trees or plants anywhere, and in the winter this is one of the coldest cities in Italy.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bologna?

Here are a lot (!!) of students. And a really big amount of exchange and foreign students. There are always parties to go to and if you don't feel like partying you can always han out on one of the thousands bars/pubs or on the piazzas when the weather is fine.

How much does it cost to live in Bologna?

Normal italian prices. The food is a bit cheaper than in northern Europe, but not a lot. If you want to rent a single room apartment you should be prepared to pay at least 500e if you want to live inside the city ring.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Bologna? Is there any advice you can give?

A lot of people rent out rooms, so if you have a nice personality it shouldn't be a problem. If you want an apartment the easiest way is to hire an agency. It costs about 400-1000€, but they help you with everything and I can especially recommend it if your italian is bad.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Amazing. The gelato is wonderful. Otherwise the pizza and pasta is also very good.

What places would you recommend visiting in Bologna?

Go up in one of due torre and check out the view, visit the many many church, see piazza maggiore and go to the big market that is held every friday and saturday.

Is it good to eat out in Bologna? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

The food is good almost everywhere and also pretty cheap. You should try the aperitivo at lab 16 (in via zamboni) where you get a drink and can eat from the buffet for only 7 €.

Is the nightlife good in Bologna? Where is good to go?

It's good. A lot of bars and clubs. Easiest is to go to Via Zamboni and then just ask people there where the place to be for the night is.

What advice would you give future students heading to Bologna?

Make sure you have somewhere to live before you get here, always bring cash everywhere and bring a warm sweater and warm socks for the winter!