Erasmus Experience in Siena, Italy by Cécile

How is the university environment in Siena?

Going to university, getting a coffee during the breaks, having lunch at the shopping centre or in the canteen. In the evenings, there are some local places to party or simply sitting in the Piazza del Campo.

Also, there are many things organised for Erasmus students: trips, parties, Tandem, etc.

Would you recommend the city and Siena University to other students?

Yes!

It is a really beautiful city, not too big: for students, it is perfect because everything is accessible on foot! And, like I have already said, there are many things to do, especially for Erasmus students!

I strongly recommend Erasmus students to do an Italian language course (at the University for Foreigners): they are very useful for improving your language level and they are free for Erasmus students!

How much does it cost to live in Siena?

+/- 500€ per month for daily expenses.

For accommodation it costs between 350€ and 500€.

How is your language going? Have you attended courses at the university?

At the University for Foreigners, it is possible to do a language course. At the start, you must do an entrance test to evaluate your level of knowledge (the students are split between 6 groups). The course lasts 1 month.

It is free for Erasmus students.

What is the cheapest way to arrive in Siena from your city?

The cheapest way is by plane, but it is complicated because the airport is in Pisa, therefore you must still take the train or bus after, and this is complicated with suitcases. There is a shuttle service that runs every day from Pisa to Siena, but this leaves early in the morning.

Where do you recommend to go out for an evening in Siena?

In the centre: Barone Rosso, Cambio, Philadelphia (the boss is really nice and there is a large selection of shots), Club 23,...

There are also 2 nightclubs close to Siena: VanillaDisco (some times there are special evenings with discount for Erasmus students and a shuttle bus that comes to Piazza Gramsci in the centre of Siena) e DolceVita.

And to eat in Siena? What are your favourite local places?

"Fonte Giusta" (via Camollia) is a good restaurant and a good market: perfect for young students. With family I would recommend going to "Zeste" (Costa di Sant'Antonio).

Do you have any advice to give to future students of Siena?

- Don't forget to to get an ESN card (for discount in museums, in some bars, etc. ).

- Get information about events in Siena.

- Go to Tandem (an organisation which offers games and themes to discuss in Italian with other Erasmus students): it is good for practicing Italian but also to meet new people.

- Sign up for a language course.