Erasmus Experience in Genova, Italy by Sebastiaan

Why did you choose to go to Genova, Italy?

It was the only remaining option on such short notice due to a last minute cancellation at the original university (Zurich).

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

My scholarship lasts for 4 months (February - May), I receive 310€ for every complete month spent here (1240€ in total).

What is the student lifestyle like in Genova?

I imagine it is comparable to other European cities. Personally, I only have contact with other Erasmus students so my impression is probably not the complete picture. In the week we mostly study and go to university, sometimes get a drink afterward. In the weekends we go out in Genova itself or make a trip in the beautiful province of Liguria.

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

Yes and no, it depends on your personal preferences. Genova offers a beautiful location and architecture. Prices are reasonable and there's a lively culture. In terms of bureaucracy, professionalism and resources I would recommend a northern country. When comparing within Italy, other cities like Milan and Florence offer a more incredible experience I believe. Genova offers you the sea and the beautiful Mediterranean environment. Either way, I would certainly stick to the northern part of Italy for the same reason I prefer northern countries.

Lastly, Italians seem to be quite fond of their language. Many don't speak a word in English, or even French for that matter. This usually isn't the case for the younger generation, but expect to invest some time learning Italian. Otherwise, you will run into difficult situations sooner or later. (P. S. : Forget about TV and going to the cinema's by the way, they don't have subtitles).

What is the food like?

Being Belgian, the system of primi piati (first dish: carbohydrates (who am I kidding, pasta)) and secondi piati (second dish: meat/fish) feels awkward. I like my whole meal (carbohydrates, proteins and vegetables) together. It also results in an elevated overall price (see the cost of living in Genova) when visiting a restaurant. This is of course not a problem when cooking yourself or going for fast food (pizza). The quality of the food is sufficient/good, however.

As expected, I can find most ingredients I'm used to in the supermarkets. A tip: most supermarkets are very small (Genova is built between the hills and the sea, as a result, there isn't a lot of space), you can find 2 actual "super" markets near Piazza de Ferrari and Calata della Chiappella (west end of the harbor), both are called Coop.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Genova?

Yes, because I changed destinations a month before departing I did not have enough time to find accommodation in advance. I contacted a local agency and they helped me find a place to stay. However (and they did not mention this in advance) they asked a full month's worth payment for their services so this resulted in a 25% cost increase for me (4 effective months to 5 paid).

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How much does it cost to live in Genova?

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

Italian is relatively easy to learn language, certainly compared to English, German or dutch. It remains difficult to learn a language out of the blue off course, but it helps if you know other related or even Germanic languages. I can often derive the meaning of a word using my knowledge of French/German (limited)/dutch/English. I've heard knowing Spanish is also helpful.

There is a free language course offered to Erasmus students. It is, however, a heavy time investment: 5 hours a week (on 2 days). Given a few extra hours lost commuting, I had to stop going as it was interfering with my thesis. Additionally, the classes are given at normal work hours, so you will have to make arrangements in order to go.

I recommend learning the basics of Italian before departing on your Erasmus. As mentioned before, a lot of Italians only know their own language. You will need at least some notions to get around (E. g. at the postal office, train station, shops,... ).

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

I live near Antwerp, Belgium. As to easiest, I would say the plane, it's definitely the fastest way. I'm not fully aware of the prices, but there was a promotion by Brussel's Airlines for Erasmus students at €190 for going back and forth. Normal prices will thus be somewhere north of €95 per flight.

I think the train is cheaper, however. Also here I'm not completely sure, but I had the impression prices ranged from €60 to €120 for 1 trip, depending on when you book. Brussels-Genoa is 2-3 trains however, so it takes significantly longer.

Personally, I came here by car, because I had a lot of luggage. This is definitely not cheap: except for the gas you have to account for quite some toll (going through the Mont Blanc tunnel costed about €50 alone).

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

In one word: Piazza dell'Erbe. The surrounding narrow streets (look it up on Google Maps) are densely packed with young people over the weekend. Here people buy a drink in one of the many bars and enjoy each other's company on the streets. For a perhaps more typical nightlife experience, you can visit a discotheque (e. g. Mako on Corso Italia).

P. S. : Avoid getting accommodation in this region, you won't be able to sleep at all.

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

This is rather difficult, restaurants are hidden away in the narrow streets. You'll certainly be rewarded for searching. At the central square (Piazza de Ferrari), there's a popular place to eat with a buffet. The food isn't particularly good but the people visiting are.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is a lot of history in Genova, the buildings in the city's center are stunning, they originate from the wealthy 16th (I think) century. Certainly worth a visits are the Rolli palaces and Via Garibaldi. Also visit the Museo del Mare to learn about the history, or one of the largest aquaria in Europe: Acquario di Genova. Using a more vertical tram you can also ascend up to the city walls. Here you have an amazing view of the city.

All this information and more you can find by visiting one of the tourist centres.

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

The above answers pretty much sum everything up. Be sure to learn some Italian, try to find accommodation in advance,... Have fun!

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