Experience in Catania, Italy by Burcu

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

I have spent 3 months in Catania, it was an Erasmus internship. I would definitely recommend Catania, lucky for me I went there in summer time and enjoyed every minute of it. Catania is a very friendly typical mediterrean city. Since it was not a typical erasmus journey, I had a chance to make many italian friends. They helped me a lot and we had lots of fun.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Catania?

From my experience, I can tell students have a really nice social life. There were so many student activities and clubs. Especially erasmus team was really helpful to me. They always called and asked if there is anything they can help with

How much does it cost to live in Catania?

It is cheaper than many European cities. In fact, even there is a difference between northern and southern Italy.

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

I stayed in my friend's house for the first month, last 2 months I stayed in the dorm which was in a good condition. Not great but it was nice. We had a two meal-a-day.

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

Oh the food..! of course it was delicious! I had lots of pastas and amazing fish dishes! There is really not much about food. You just gotta go there and taste it!

What places would you recommend visiting in Catania?

Well, Etna was a great experience for me I can tell! In the city, I enjoyed all the parks especially the one in the center (villa bella?). There are many local restaurants close to the Duomo square, you should go there for local food. Other than Catania, I got to visit Taormina, Palermo and other Sicily cities which were all worth to visit!

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

Yes, unfortunately I cant remember the exact names. But close to Duomo square, there are really nice local restaurants (trattorias). Arancini you can find in many small restaurants.

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

Yes, especially in summer time it was really nice. The beach clubs were amazing.

What advice would you give future students heading to Catania?

I would definitely say go and live the Sicilian Italy in Catania. It is really different than northern, Italy isnt just Rome and Milano, etc. I believe Sicily is really worth to go and spend time to understand the real Italian Culture. You'll enjoy every second of it! Have fun!