Emilia's Erasmus Experience in Pavia, Italy

Why did you choose to go to Pavia, Italy?

Because it was recommended to me, and I would recommend it too. It's the perfect city to do an Erasmus exchange. Pavia offers you the advantage of having a big city close by, like Milan, but without having such outrageous prices (although Pavia is still rather expensive - except for the cocktails in the Raise). Besides, being a small university town, there is a good atmosphere every day (especially on Wednesday) and you can walk practically everywhere.

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How long did the scholarship last? How much money did you receive to help you with living costs?

I still haven't received the last two payments, but as I am from Andalusia I was one of the ones who received the most money; I don't know exact figures but equally in Paviayou can't live off just the scholarship money . It is, as I said, a small city but a bit expensive.

What is the student lifestyle like in Pavia?

Incredible.

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

Without a doubt, especially for students studying health. It is one of the best universities in northern Italy and it is not difficult to pass the subjects.

I had friends studying law who did say it was a little more difficult but they still passed.

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What is the food like there?

Who doesn't like pizza and pasta? In Pavia, (and all over Italy) they have a lot of what is known as an 'aperitivo' (appetizer) dinner, which includes a free buffet and cocktail for 7 euros.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Pavia?

My flat was one of the most expensive (950 euros/month for three people, without electricity or gas), but I also have to say that it was in the best condition (I have seen everything) and was in the best location, being in Estrada Nuova which is the most central of Pavia.

How much does it cost to live in Pavia?

It all depends on how you want to live, I think you will easily spend about 1000 euros/month.

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

I can hold my own pretty well in Italian. I went an Italian course offered by the University of Pavia (which cost 200 euros) but I would not recommend it at all. The best way to learn Italian is to speak to people.

What's the cheapest way to travel to Pavia from your city?

From Granada: Malaga airport - Milan airport (Malpensa or Bergamo), bus from the airport to Milan train station (Milano Centrale); 5 euros if you are travelling from Bergamo (flight with Ryanair) and 10 euros if you are travelling from Malpensa (flight with Easyjet).

Once in Milano Centrale buy a train ticket to Pavia for 3. 85 euros which only takes half an hour.

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

Nirvana, Raise, Cantina , but in Pavia people usually drink in the Duomo. As I mentioned, when you are so close to Milan, you can also party in Milan. Take the 23:00 train and come back at 6:00.

In Pavia and Milan you can drink in the street as long as it is in plastic bottles.

And to eat in Pavia? Can you recommend some good restaurants?

La bella napoli, in Piazza Vittoria I liked it a lot but the waiters are not very nice. The pizzeria Regisole in the Piazza del Duomo square... then if you want to have an aperitif there are a thousand places.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Pavia as a monumental city does not have much to see (you can easily see everything in one day). I recommend visiting la Certosa di Pavia (7 min by train and it's free to enter) - entry times were quite random, but it is worth it.

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

Enjoy Pavia to the full, don't be left without anything to do. Travel a lot, for me, Pavia is the perfect option for this - you can take trains all over Italy from Milano Centrale and flights to Italy and the rest of Europe from Milan (which is one of the cheapest airports).

Speak Italian! It's good that the Spaniards always get to know each other but don't just meet people from your country, practice the language!

Any other questions? If you have any other questions you can write to me whenever you want.