My Erasmus Experience in Florence, Italy by Mélanie

Why did you choose to go to Florence, Italy?

I wanted to discover somewhere new, I'd never been there before and everybody was telling me all these great things about it.

How long's your stay? What financial aid do you receive?

I'm here for a year and I still haven't had any financial help yet.

What's the student vibe like in Florence?

The student atmosphere is amazing. There's lots of Erasmus associations who look after us and organise nights out for practically every night of the week, as well as excursions to other Italian cities. You'll never be bored in Florence! There aren't any dormitory towns nearby.

Would you recommend the city or university to other students?

Absolutely! The University of Florence offers interesting well-taught lessons and the teachers are really skilful and passionate about their subject.

What's Italy's food like?

The food is divine. Coming from France, I'm used to eating a high standard of food, so you can trust me when I say that to say we eat exquisitely well here is an understatement- it's fabulous!

Was it hard to find accommodation in Florence?

Take your time finding accommodation and don't just leave it for the week before. I searched for somewhere to live for several months on Bakeca.

What are living costs like in Florence?

Florence is an expensive city but after being there for a little while I learned that you can find cheaper places if you stay away from the touristy areas.

What's it like learning the language there? Did you take part in a language course organised by the university?

I didn't sign up for an Italian language course, I just go to my classes, which I find are good for improving my speaking skills, as well as meeting up with other students from the university to practise talking with them too. I also study for my lessons using Italian textbooks, which adds to my vocabulary.

What's the most economical way to get to Florence from your home town?

Ryanair recently created a new flight that goes from Marseille to Pisa. From there, there are connecting bus shuttles to Florence which run continuously. The only issue is that the Marseille to Pisa flight isn't available from November to March but if I need to travel during these times, then I fly from Marseille to Rome and then catch the train to Florence.

Where do you recommend to go out in Florence?

I recommend the Santa Croce quarter which is where all students meet up to go for a drink or go out.

And to eat in Florence? What are your favourite places?

I love the bars that do 'aperitivo' as for 5 euros you get a cocktail and can help yourself to the buffet. These places are a great place to go for dinner, are pretty cheap, and are luckily pretty normal to find in the city bars!

And what cultural places do you recommend going to see?

I suggest visiting Duomo (Florence Cathedral), Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi, as well as Baboli Gardens.

Any advice for future students going to Florence?

Don't hesitate to broad your horizons- meet and hang out with people who are from different nationalities!