Experience in Perugia

Why did you choose to go to Perugia, Italy?

I chose Perugia because I wanted to do my Erasmus in Italy and it was a small, comfortable city in the centre of the country.

How long does the grant last? How much financial help do you receive?

I receive a grant of 300€ per month for 5 months.

What’s the student life like in Perugia?

There are lots of Erasmus students, particularly Spanish ones, so overall it’s good.

Would you recommend the city and the university of Perugia to other students?

The university is a little chaotic but as with the country in general it takes a bit of time to get used to the classes in Italian, etc. The teachers give you lots of help to pass the exams.

What’s the food like in the country?

The food is so tasty: pizza, pasta, Italian ice-cream… Also, at Mensa you can get a plate of pasta, rice or mash/soup, an accompaniment (green beans, potatoes, broccoli…), yoghurt of fruit, bread and a drink for 2 euros which is really good, so I’d recommend getting the card as soon as you arrive.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Perugia?

I’d recommend staying in a hostel and looking for a place that you really like, in September everyone is the same and it won’t be much trouble. I’d also recommend staying somewhere close to the centre and the university, the majority of people stay in flats because the residences don’t have a very good reputation and it’s also cheaper.

How much does it cost to live in Perugia?

Renting a flat is cheap compared to other Italian cities, and the food is too.

How is the language? Did you take a course at university?

The language is similar to Spanish so you’ll have no problem starting from nothing. As for me, I did a 15 day course that was offered by the university for free. I’d recommend living with Italian people to learn much more since it’s not difficult and will help you a lot with the speaking exams and to know another language.

What’s the best way to get to Perugia from your city?

The cheapest way is to get a plane from Madrid-Rome and then a train to Perugia.

Where would you recommend to party in Perugia?

There are bars to go to in the centre and clubs on the outskirts but you need to take a free bus that will take you and bring you back. ESN also organize parties in people’s houses.

And to eat in Perugia? Can you list your favourite places?

The two best pizzerias in Perugia are La Mediterranea and La Romantica, the pizzas are delicious and there’s also La Botte where they cost 3. 50€ and are a decent quality for the price, they there are lots of places that sell slices of pizza (pizza al taglio) for 1€.

And for a cultural trip?

Perugia is a medieval city full of hills and beautiful viewpoints. The historic centre is very pretty and in October there’s a chocolate festival so it fills with people and stalls.

Any advice for future students in Perugia?

That they enjoy this marvellous experience, that they meet lots of people, that they travel and that they don’t think twice about going wherever it may be because each part of Erasmus is going to be enjoyable.