Erasmus Experience in Rome, Italy by Merve

Why did you choose to go to Rome, Italy?

It was the best choice among the others.

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

Scholarship was for 10 months, I received 500 Euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Rome?

Hmm... normal.

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

Yes, they should definitely go!

What is the food like?

Italian cuisine is, obviously, amazing. You can never had enough of different types of pizza and pasta.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Rome?

Rents are quite high in Rome.

How much does it cost to live in Rome?

A lot! Rent and monthly spending approximately costs 800-900 euros or more.

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

Yes, Italian is an easy language and since Italian don't really speak English, one way or another, you learn Italian. There are Italian courses for Erasmus students but sadly only for one level.

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

By plane.

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

Piazza Navona, San Lorenzo.

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

Pastificio, Carlo Menta, Necci dal 1924, Dar Poeta, Navona Notte, Cul de Sac, Ponte e Parione, Pizza del Cinque, Giolitti (ice cream), Pompi (tiramisu), Queen's Chips Amsterdam, Ciuri Ciuri (desserts), Said dal 1923...

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Everything! Apart from the obvious landmarks, don't forget to book a visit to Domus Aurea; and visit Villa Farnesina.

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

After the first shock of complete chaos in Rome passes, you get to see the beauty in the impossibly cosmopolitan way the city flourished. Enjoy it and remind yourself how lucky you are. Get lost in the historical center, walk and walk and walk. There is something to see at the end of every street.