Erasmus Experience in Padova, Italy by Leona

Why did you choose to go to Padova, Italy?

Because I'm in love with Italian language, cuisine, cities, culture and because the University of Padua offers many interesting courses both in Italian as in English. Besides this, its location is perfect for the ones who like travelling because the best locations can be reached by train or bus and there is also an airport very close (Venice, Marco Polo) with many low budget flights).

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

It is 460 euros. Transport is not well organised so most students use bikes, which are great due to the fact that the most important places in Padova can be reached by bike pretty fast (almost 90% of students owns his own).

What is the student lifestyle like in Padova?

One fourth of all citizens of Padua are students so it is a great example of student city with a very positive and lively atmosphere, especially around the main university areas. Also, the AEP ESN crew is great so they always organised interesting meetings and unforgettable trips for Erasmus people to get to know better and enjoy their Erasmus experience as much as possible.

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

Yes, definitely!

What is the food like?

Fabulous! From pasta, pizza, gelato, to Spritz which is unavoidable ingredient of every gathering.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Padova?

No, SASSA serviceprovides all students the ability to choose a dormitory they offer or students can deny that and find their own accommodation.

How much does it cost to live in Padova?

460 euros of scholarship is enough for the accommodation (between 250 and 300 euros in the dormitory) and partly for the basic life costs, while it takes extra money for partying and travelling, of course.

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

If you are a Roman language speaker, you won't have troubles understanding it, it also has similarities with English. There are free language courses according to your language level in the local language centre.

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

By bus.

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

Life is the best club for me, then Factory, Fishmarket... But before, drinking at the Piazza dei signori or Spritz in some of the many bars in the centre.

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

Rosso pomodoro and Il Duomo.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Prato della Valle, Basilica di San Antonio, Piazza dei signori, Palazzo Bo...

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

Choose Padova, you won't be sorry!