Erasmus Experience in Piacenza, Italy by Sophie

Why did you choose to go to Piacenza, Italy?

My school in the Netherlands choose Piacenza, I did not really had a choice.

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

I was in Piacenza for 6 weeks, but before that I was also abroad. Per month I recieved 250 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Piacenza?

I was there for a summer program, so there were no students going to school who would normally be at school. But mostly I got to class from 9 to 5 and had lunch in the catine of the school.

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

Yes. Piacenza is a nice city and the people are nice too.

What is the food like?

The food is amazing. Since I was doing a summerschool about reginal products I have really experienced all foods. Also my Italian friends took me to restraurants and bars where we got served amazing traditional food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Piacenza?

I found a room through Facebook. There are different types of groups on Facebook where rooms are offered.

How much does it cost to live in Piacenza?

As much as you make it yourself really. If you don't want to party or go out for diner, you will have a cheap lifestyle. Diners are around 20 euros a time, depending on just eating a pizza or a 5 course diner. The clubs are more outside the city and the entrance and drinks are rather expensive, but worth it.

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

Depending on how good you are with languages, you might learn Italian more quick than someone else. Also, almost nobody speak English, so basic knowledge is very nice to have.

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

I travelled by car. Because of that I could also travel by car in and around the city. When we got to Milano, we took the train because of parking issues in the city. You could also park your car at the last metro station and take the metro into Milano.

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

Paradise, on fridaynights.

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

Charlie is a really good pizzaria and they have an English menu.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Not much really, I mostly got to the big cities and around the Garda Lake.

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

Be a member of the International Students of Piacenza Facebook, it is really helpful.