Erasmus Experience in Padua, Italy

Why did you choose to go to Padua, Italy?

I knew that the city had a good environment because of the large number of students studying there. Beyond this, I always wanted to get to know Italy and its very rich culture.

How long does the grant last? How much money do you get for help?

It was 5 months and the grant was approximately €250 per month.

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What's the student environment like in Padua?

Excellent! As the city isn't very big you can meet up with students in all parts of the city, and so it's easy to get used to the city. There are 60, 000 students in Padua which creates a very good atmosphere.

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

Yes. For those who really want to get to know the Italian culture and its people the city is perfect, seeing that it's not a huge city. The university has good facilites and is quite reputable.

How's the country's food?

Everyone knows Italian food... And I think everyone loves it!

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How did you find accommodation?

Through S. A. S. S. A, the office that treats Erasmus accommodation.

How are the accommodation prices? And the prices in general?

The price of accommodation is very similar to that in Portugal, between €200 and €300, or maybe a bit higher. Prices in general are not very high compared to the rest of the north of Italy, since it's a university town, but they are higher than in Portugal.

What's the language like? Did you attend a language course at the university?

For those who speak a romance language Italian isn't complicated to understand. With a little effort, at the end of your stay you will be able to speak and understand Italian well. I attended a course offered by the university, for Erasmus students. Do it, it may be easy to learn and speak alone, but the course helps you to acquire vocabulary, learn to write correctly and not make basic erros when you speak.

What is the cheapest way to get to Padua from your city?

From Lisbon the cheapest is a TAP plane to Venice during the low season. From Venice there are buses to Padua. Or there are planes from Porto to Bologna and Milan. From here you can take a train to Padua, they come quite frequently.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Padua?

Since the choice isn't huge, you'll easily get to know all the places. But I would advice you to spend the end of the night in the bars on the principle squares.

And eating out in Padua? Can you name your favourite places?

The mensas (cantines)! They're very good and quite cheap, considering the quality of the food.

And in terms of cultural visits?

In every city in Italy there is something to discover on every road. But Venice is close by and it's worth getting to know it properly.

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Do you have any advice you'd like to give future students in Padua?

Make the most of it!