Erasmus Experience in Padova, Italy by Afisa

Why did you choose to go to Padua, Italy?

The culture and the call of Italy's beauty!

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

A total of 10 months. A long with my student loan I receive an Erasmus grant of £3000 separated into two payments. It's really helped!

What is the student lifestyle like in Padua?

It's a student city built around the university, bustling with all kinds of students and carefree people. Drinking is a huge part of the culture and having an 'aperitif' before dinner is common! Most students are friendly and easy to get along with!

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

The city is quite quiet on the basis that coming from a big city like Bristol in England where there is always something to do, Padova can seem almost empty as there isn't much on the entertainment front to do things.

What is the food like?

Pizza! Pasta! Gelato! All things Italian, however garlic bread isn't a thing here and neither is pepperoni pizza which is something I learned the hard way. Prosciutto is everywhere, don't think you can get away from it. As for other cultural food, there is one good Chinese restaurant and a few Indians and that's about it. Oh and a Maccies!

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Padua?

No I went through the university and it was fairly simple and painfree.

How much does it cost to live in Padua?

Depending on your accommodation, a uni residence charges 270 a month, a private flat can be up to €400 a month!

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

There is a free language course for the first semester and a paid one after that, Italian is quite tricky as some words and phrases are easy to catch whereas others take time to underhand. Locals also speak fast which makes understanding more difficult.

What's the easiest or most economical way to move around Padua?

Bikes, everyone has one and they are quite adorable. However there are a ton of stolen bikes and theifs, chances are your bike will be stolen if your not extremely careful!

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

There are a ton of bars with outside seating that are amazing in the warmer months, the two big clubs are factory and fish market; you'll find most the student population at them on a Wednesday and weekends!

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

Shanghai, and basically every pizzaria!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are quite a few museums and basilicas both in padova and the surrounding cities, most famous; Venice! There are easy access train routes to other cities so you can explore Italy quite easily!

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

Don't expect the Italy in the movies, I mean aspects are there but it's not as overrated as people make it out to be!