Experience in Florence, Italy by Hediyeh

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

Florence is a beautiful city packed with history, great art and architecture. For students Florence is a good place, because its not too big, which makes it easier to really get to know the city and its surroundings.

What is the student lifestyle like in Florence?

Unfortunatly there are no events going on between the universities but making friends is not a problem. Just approach people you find interesting! And try to get to know people outside your Uni, a small tip! Things we do outside school are small trips to the cities around Florence(Viareggio is always a safe card when you want some sun and beach), we go to house parties or the clubs (which unfortunately are'nt that good in my opinion), or just chill at a piazza or have an ice cream by the river.

How much does it cost to live in Florence?

That depends wether you want to live alone or with anyone. Sharing an apartment can be really cheap (like 350€/month and up), sharing a room is even cheaper (could be around 200€/month) but living alone is quite pricey. You'll might find an apartment at 650€ but thats the minimum and there are not a lot of those in the city center.

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

Yes and no, if you eager to find one, and if you aren't picky you won't have much problem finding housing. But I can recommend looking in Facebook groups and accommodation websites like Casa.it, Mioaffitto.it, housinginflorence.it and so on. And always ask your school if they have any collaboration with any landlord or if they could help you with the housing situation in any way!

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

Some places are real touristic rip offs with quite nasty food to be honest, but tourists seem to like it! These you can easily find around the Duomo, and the very central parts.
But just by walking away from the touristic spots, you find really good restaurants with good prices.
My favorite dishes are spaghetti arrabiata, risotto, a caprese with fresh mozzarella or a really good panino.

What places would you recommend visiting in Florence?

Piazzale Michelangelo, Giardino delle Rose, Piazza San Nicolò, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, piazza Santo Spirito, Santa Croce church, Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi, Galleria Accademia, Mercato Centrale, San Lorenzo etc

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

Some places are really bad, some are so good. You can always find good food around Oltarno/ Santo Spirito, there is a place called Bistro Santa Rosa located a 10 min walk from Santo Spirito which is super cozy and nice. I can recommend the zucchini risotto at Borgo Antico and I absolutely love the paninis at All'Antico Vinaio and my all time favourite ice cream can be found at Eduardo.

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

Not really, only club that is good are only open during summertime and is located on top of piazzale michelangelo. Otherwise the jazz club is quite a nice place to go to if you're in to that kind of music.
For the deep house and techno lovers there is no problem to enjoy the club life because that is basically the only music playing in the clubs. Then they also have Tenax which is located outside the center, and is a huge techno club.

What advice would you give future students heading to Florence?

Enjoy! Have fun! Dare to explore the city and approach new people. You will do fine!