Erasmus Experience in Padua, Italy by Eva

Why did you decide to go to Padua, Italy?

It was the town that had an agreement with my university.

How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive in aid?

I came for the second semester. I still haven't received the grant, but I believe that it is around 300 euros a month.

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What's the student atmosphere like in Padua?

Very good, it's a small town full of university students!

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

Of course and without a doubt - the student atmosphere is phenomenal, it's small but you have everything, and it is very connected to other important towns like Venice, Milan or Bologna.

What's the food there like?

Delicious! Italian food - pasta everyday and pizzas at the end of the week, and don't forget the coffee!

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Padua?

No, you have two options - you can find yourself a flat (quite easy on Facebook groups, given that as it's a university town, there's a lot of rental movement). The other option is through SASSA who have a website - you sign up and they find you a residence.

How much does it cost to live in Padua?

It is a bit more expensive than in Spain. Rent costs 300 euros a month, university meals cost around 5 euros per meal. Don't forget to get a bicycle to get around town for around 30/40 euros.

How's the language learning? Have you gone on any course at the University?

I didn't speak Italian, and the truth is I 'capisco' (Italian for 'I understand') a lot now. Knowing Spanish, you can make yourself understood very well with everyone, but nothing is better than knowing a bit of Italian and English to get to know other Erasmus students.

What is the cheapest way of getting to Padua from your town?

There are various airports around. In Venice, there are two airports (Treviso and Marco Polo), and you've got another two in Milan (Bergamo and Malpensa). To get there, you have trains from Padua to Milan / Venice and lots of buses that take you to the airport.

Where would you recommend for partying in Padua?

Lots! I recommend joining the ESN group who put on lots of parties and trips around the town.

For eating out in Padua, where would you recommend?

Any place that sells pizza! Remember that you eat walking around the streets!

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Where would you recommend for a cultural visit?

Simply walking around Padua is a cultural visit, the centre is quite big and full of beautiful buildings and quarters. The Capella degli Scrovegni is an obligatory visit.

Any advice for future students in Padua?

It's better in the second semester, given that the good weather allows you the most to take advantage of the town!