Experience in Bologna, Italy by Maka

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

The city is really fantastic who loves to live in small developed cities. It is historical city with many ancient buildings. People do not know English ( maybe a little) and my advise is to study a little bit Italian and then come here.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bologna?

Hm, as I'm here just for 4 days I would say that student lifestyle is very active as I mentioned. Many excursions and city tours take place organized by different communities.

How much does it cost to live in Bologna?

It is not cheap city. Accommodation maybe is expensive even compared to other cities of the Europe. You can find standard single room in the near city center around at EUR 400 and up and shared room at EUR 300 and up. But remember as city is small, the city center is also small and you can rent accommodation not directly to the heart of the city. Bus runs frequently here and also you can use bicycle and moped. It can take 20-30 minutes to get to your destinations (due to city is small fortunately).
Food and beverage is not too expensive luckily. It costs generally as other countries. Some staff maybe is more cheaper.

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

One advice which I want to share with you is about avoid internet advertisements other than this site. There are many fake advertisements and traps. So the best would be if you come in Bologna and find locally flat by yourself. There are many advertisements (Affittare) in the street walls (especially near the university) and it would not be any problems if you look for the rooms by this method.

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

Food is good in Bologna (of course it is Italy). My favorite dishes still our my national ones but in Italian kitchen I do love Pizza and Carbonara (Pasta) very much.

What places would you recommend visiting in Bologna?

City center is very beautiful as well as old streets.

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

Out is several pizzerias which is very good. One is near via Rizzoli.