Experience in Bologna, Italy by Margarida

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

Bologna is incredible.

The city is super beautiful, safe and open minded.

What is the student lifestyle like in Bologna?

As a student you will probably be all the time in the street "Via Zamboni": the majority of the faculties are nearby as well as the most of the famous bars.

In the weekends Giardini Margherita is nice park to get some rest.

Once you get confident speaking italian you will explore "Via del Pratello".

How much does it cost to live in Bologna?

Renting a room in the city center is a good option to enjoy Bologna, however it can be expensive and in an old house.

Bologna is an expensive city, although you can manage to save some money by cooking at home or trying take aways (restaurants are really expensive).

Drinking something in a bar is in general very costly, therefore just buy something in a supermarket and then do as the Italians do: bring your drinks and gather your friends in piazza verdi!

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

It depends a lot in your requirements...

I found a room in two days after arriving in Bologna, however I planned visits to possible rooms before going. So my advice is that you spend some time trying to contact landlords to schedule a date to visit their apartments (you should always check personally the apartment). In addition, take into consideration the possible people sharing a house with you. The house can be ugly/old/.., but if you have nice flat mates, you will be happy in Bologna!

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

Bologna's food is AMAZING. In general, erasmus students came back from bologna with some extra pounds.

My favorite dishes are tortellini, tortellone, penne arrabiata, gnocchi gorgonzola...

What places would you recommend visiting in Bologna?

You must close to Cinema Lumiere in a monday evening (if it is summmer or a Saturday morning otherwise). It is "Il Mercato della Terra di Bologna", i. e., a market with the most italian traditional food.

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

- "Nonna Cesira" in Via Saragozza during lunch; have tortellini con ragu for 4.60€

- "la tua piadina" in via del Pratello (cheap)

- "osteria dell'orsa" in via mentana

- "Sorbetteria Castiglione" in via castiglione; have the best ice cream of your life.

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

It is great! The streets in the center have lots of young people, you will fell safe.

Just try any place in via del pratello or via zamboni.

"Cassero" is the most famous disco in Bologna.

What advice would you give future students heading to Bologna?

Be aware of the activities in Bologna. There is always something happening (a concert, a movie, an exhibition... ) that will make you fill in love with this city.