My erasmus experience in Macerata, Italy

Why did you choose to go to Macerata, Italy?

Actually I didn't have as many options as I would have liked. I wanted to go to Germany, but I couldn't, so I chose Italy.

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

My scholarship is for 9 months, and I get enough from my University to live (even though I don't get the money on time, so I need to pay first by myself)

What is the student lifestyle like in Macerata?

There's not so much. Well, in the 1st semester there were more people, and we usually go to Karaoke, or clubbing (we don't have many options though)

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

I would. There are a lot of Erasmus, but don't expect many clubs or things to do.

What is the food like?

It is the typical Italian food: pasta, pizza and so on.

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How did you find your accommodation?

I applied for a residence, so I knew where I would stay before coming. But others found a flat with no problem (it's harder if you're staying one for one semester, many owners don't like that)

What are the accommodation prices like? What are prices like for other things in general?

You can find accomodation in the city centre for 150 € (single room). If you include the Internet connection, gas, electricity and so on, it would be something like 200€ per month. About prices for other stuff, it's a bit more expensive than Spain, much more expensive than Poland, and cheaper than other countries like Scandinavian ones.

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

Italian is quite easy for me, as it's pretty similar to my mother tongue. In any way, there are courses organised for new Erasmus students.

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

I go by bus from León to Barajas Airport (Madrid) and then I flew to Ancona. There are buses and trains available to reach Macerata afterwards.

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

Terminal is my favourite place. But the best clubs are in other cities such as Civitanova Marche or Porto Recanati (there are buses if you don't have a car).

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

In Piazza Mazzini there's a nice one, I haven't been in so many of them, so I can't recommend a lot of places.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Sferisterio, the old town.

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

I can just say that It's going to be your best year/semester!

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