Erasmus Experience in Firenze, Italy by Magdalena

Why did you choose to go to Firenze, Italy?

Because I had to choose between Wissmar, Germany and Florence. Even if I know German really well, I've had already started to study some italian and I decided to continue study this language in that beautiful, italian city.

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

I did my exchange for period of 9 months and I've been receiving 360 euro a month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Firenze?

It depends where you study, how you see the Erasmus opportunity, how you organize your daily life and what economical opportunities do you have.

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

I was studying at ISIA Firenze - Instituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche, not at the University of Florence. I am highly recommending this place, in fact I am doing specialization there now.

What is the food like?

Food is really very very good:) You should try, learn how to cook and make some experiment!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Firenze?

Yes, I have found it by myself. Firstly I was living in a double room and I paid 250 euro. (expenses excluded) Then I've found a single one and I was obligated to pay 320 euro. (expenses excluded)

How much does it cost to live in Firenze?

During the first year I was spending 740 euro a month and I paid attention for what I was spending the money, where I was going out etc.

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

I have done courses before the Erasmus experience and then as I was having 8 hours of lectures every day. I've had to go with it well and fast.

University of Florence has a language center that has a lot of available courses for Erasmus students and tandem meetings to improve listening and speaking.

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

For me the best option was Wizz Air airlines. Destination that you can pick is Bologna or Pisa from my home Sofia, Bulgaria. An hour and a half was duration of flight. Cost can be low if you buy a ticket a little bit before.

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

It always depends on the season and the personal taste.

I could recommend Volume- very pleasant local with good localization.

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

• Sicilian restaurant - the name was Lo Skipper, street: via degli Alfani 78r
• For apperitivi - Soul Kitchen

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I recommend :

• Te la do io Firenze
• Cinema Odeon

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Firenze in the future?

You should explore as much as you can and don't close yourselves in groups of people only from your nationality.