Experience in Macerata, Sara's Italy

What is everyday life like in Macerata? Would you recommend it?

Macerata is a small university town: everything is within an arm's reach, the life of the city, both within the university and greater community, takes place inside the walls of Macerata. In addition to the numerous student houses (of which the quality is sufficient), you can find apartments of all types in the centre of Macerata. The university campuses are easily reached by foot without the need to take public transport. Life in general there is peaceful, even if it could be seen as a little boring and repetitive at times, compared to other university cities.

What is the student atmosphere like in Macerata?

The student atmosphere in Macerata is reasonably lively: there are many collective activities, events, exhibitions, but you often have to search to find them.

What are the living costs in Macerata?

I would not know, depends on the financial status upon starting university there. If you compare Macerata to cities such as Bologna, Rome or Milan (that are much more expensive, regarding living costs) it is quite cheap.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Macerata? Could you give some advice?

No, it's not especially complicated. Usually within the university, there are some notice boards, where students can post advertisements to share or fill a place in an apartment. The biggest problem is however that of bureaucracy, I would not recommend the estate agencies.

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

Being a student, I very rarely went out for dinner. However everything is good: Ascoli olives, fried gnocchi, lasagne, hunted game.

According to you, what places should you visit in Macerata?

Obviously Macerata is a very pleasant city to visit. Overall it is close to the see and to Civitanova, which is reachable by train or by bus. The countryside and the Mountains around Macerata are beautiful if you like that sort of thing.

And eating in Macerata? What are your favourite local dishes?

Macerata has a very cheap student canteen where you can eat, if not very well, although it's definitely best to get a hot meal. I don't know about other places to eat during the evening.

Which places would you recommend to go out in Macerata?

Oh, that's easy. Macerata doesn't have many local bars: those more suited to an aperitif are Maracuja and Venanzetti, both directly in the centre; For after dinner, I recommend Porte or Truck (especially on Thursday evenings); if your'e searching for something a bit more alternative, there are also some social clubs just outside.

What advice would you give to future visitors of Macerata?

If you like quite a calm and peaceful lifestyle in an agricultural city, then Macerata is the right place for you! However, if you're an exchange student coming to visit Italy, I recommend the you visit the bigger cities.