Erasmus Experience in Pisa, Italy

Why did you choose to go to Pisa, Italy?

It was my third option. I've always liked Italy. Pisa was my choice, amongst many others, because it was one of the few universities that actually replied to my queries and questions about the programme.

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

I received the grant the day that I went to Pisa, it was supposed to be given each month that I was away, but that didn't happen. The money that you get depends on my factors: family income, means, subjects taken, etc.

What's the student environment like in Pisa?

It's very good. The University of Pisa has young people to help you when you arrive, to integrate with other students.

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

Yes. The University of Pisa, despite what you hear from Italians, is amongst the three best universities of economics in Italy. The university has good facilities, there is no penalty for missing classes (which is good), the teachers are generally kind, and there are lots of exams (forget little pieces of work).

How's the country's food?

The food is the best! Italian food is very good! And every day there is an Italian aperitif which I would recommend trying.

How did you find accommodation?

Regarding accommodation, this part wasn't quite as good! Before going I had contacted the Erasmus office in Pisa, and they guaranteed that they would help me find a room, because the university doesn't have halls of residence. And they barely helped me at all, you have to find it by yourself. And in general the houses in Pisa are all old buildings, and don't have many terms and conditions. But I stayed in a house 10 minutes from the centre and it had very few conditions, it was perfect for the months that I was there.

Advice: if you decide to go to Pisa, get there two or three weeks before you start, so that you can find a house.

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

It depends on the location. If you're in the centre it's very expensive, if you're a bit further out it's cheaper.

It also depends on whether the room is single or shared, or if you have bills included or not. In general they vary from between €200 and €400 (with or without bills).

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

You will learn the language with time. Yes, I attended an Italian course offered by the University of Pisa.

But I would advise that you learn the basics of Italian before you go, because in general no one speaks another language besides Italian (in general they don't speak English).

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

Plane. There aren't direct flights from Lisbon to Pisa. There are only flights from Porto, with Ryanair. But the problem with Ryanair is that it's a low-cost airline, and you can only take one piece of carry-on luggage, which won't work for many people who are living away for several months.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Pisa?

There aren't many places, because the city is small. But there are two places where everyone goes:

• Piazza Vettovaglie (city centre)
• Bazeel (bar)

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

In the Piazza Vettovaglie there are very good pizzas at good prices.

There is also a restaurant close to the Corso Italia (the busiest road in Pisa), there are pizzas in the metro!

And in terms of cultural visits?

A little different from in Portugal, different customs, at the beginning you might be a bit shocked, but you get used to it.

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

I advise you to live the experience to the fullest!

The city is small, and, as a general rule in Italy, everything closes at the weekend.

Students in Pisa, a semester is perfect, it might be a bit too small for a whole year. But on the other hand, Pisa is close to Florence which is worth a visit, Ryanair goes to Pisa, and you can travel to other countries for very reasonable prices.

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There's also a place to visit which is an hour and a half from Pisa which isn't very well known, but it's a like the Caribbean in Italy. It's called "Cinque Terra", search it on Google and go and see for yourselves!