Erasmus experience in Lecce, Italy

Why did you decide to go to Lecce, Italy?

Because I wanted to go as far into south of Italy as possible, because of the weather and the culture, and because there was already a partnership established between my university and their.

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How long was the scholarship valid? How much money did you get for support?

I was there 5 months and got 750 euros (720 euros in November, 30 euros backpay I'm still owed) for it

What is the student lifestyle like in Lecce?

Very good, we were a small group of Erasmus students, everyone knew everyone, we kept busy and did a lot together, and were very well looked after by the guest university. I met many Italians as well, who are all very friendly and open to other cultures and languages.

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

Absolutely. They take good care of foreign students and the south of Italy is so amazing I'll be going there again and again for holidays.

What is the national food like?

Italian food is the best food in the world anyway, most of all the pizzas and ice-cream!

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How did you find your accommodation?

With support of the university. There are students at the university, who read through the accommodation ads, meet with exchange students every evening and go see the room together.

What are the prices of accommodation like? And the prices in general?

Rent is cheap, my basic rent was 165 euros, additional costs were paid every 2 months, every time 20 or 30 euros. There are some things that are very cheap like Pizza, fresh vegetables and alcohol. Other things are as expensive as in Germany, for example the entrance fee for the disco or the cinema.

Is the language easy to understand? Does the University offer language courses?

I already underwent a language course on my home university, then I did a another language course in Lecce and of course through the every day cohabitation with Italians, evenings out and at the University.

What is the most economical way to get from Lecce to your city?

I paid around 30 euros for a ticket on Air Berlin and received 20 kilos baggage allowance. The flights fly from Cologne-Bonn, Stuttgart and Munich to Bari and Brindisi. From Brindisi a shuttle bus will take you to Lecce (40 minutes), from Bari you'll have to catch the train and then take a bus, the travel time is longer. The other option is RyanAir, but you'll have to pay extra for baggage allowance and it flies only to Bari.

According to your opinion where is the best place to party in Lecce?

There is only one place, the city centre.

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And to eat? Can you recommend a few good restaurants?

La Rusticana is great, but then again I've never had a bad experience eating out in Lecce.

Are there interesting cultural attractions to visit?

Simply run through the historic city centre with open eyes and admire the churches, a trip to Otranto, Gallipoli and Santa Maria di Leuca is well worth it as well.

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Would you like to offer up some additional advice to other students who might be coming to Lecce in the future?

Embrace the Italian way of life without prejudice and you'll have plenty of fun.