Erasmus Experience in Venice, Italy by Sam

Why did you choose to go to Venice, Italy?

I wanted to go to study in Italy anyway. I had a few options, among which was Venice. Venice is small and unless you don't have to get off the island, you can basically do everything by foot. Moreover there are lots of cultural things to do, lots of museums. Since I knew this city already a little bit I decided to go here.

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

I am staying for one semester. From the Dutch government I get a little bit less then 300 euro and I receive 100 euros extra for public transport, since it's during the week or in the weekends for free. It's pretty nice, because in Venice you don't really use public transport, unless you use the waterbus. And you'll get 900 euros in total as a student from the European Union.

What is the student lifestyle like in Venice?

It's pretty nice. There are lots of places to get some food for good prices, like pasta and (slices of) pizza. Going out is unfortunately a little bit more difficult. But there are pretty nice places anywhere to have a drink and to chat.

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

Yes, I certainly do. It's a nice city, lots of cultural things to do and the level is pretty okay, not to difficult.

What is the food like?

The food is the best, it's Italian. You'll eat pizza and pasta so much. And of course these are so much better than anywhere in the world.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Venice?

Not so difficult. There are a lot of Facebook groups or lists with landlords from the University. However you should better not accept the Junghans or San Tomà accommodations from University, these are quite bad. And make sure you search for a single room, because a lot of double rooms are offered!

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How much does it cost to live in Venice?

Not so expensive as in The Netherlands. I pay 350 euros for a single room on a pretty nice location. A lot of people are paying even less then me. The location in combination with the prices are way better here than at home.

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

Italian remains difficult for Dutch people. I already did Italian before so I could make myself understandable. A lot of courses are offered from A1 to C1 courses.

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

By plane of course, it's too far and too expensive by train or bus.

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

You can have a nice drink at "Skillà Bar" or "Chat Noir", but you should go out at "F30". The atmosphere is quite good over there and the music as well. However really clubbing can be difficult, you should know where to go.

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

A lot of restaurants are good. For lunch go to "Bar Duchamp" or some other places at Campo Santa Margherita. There are lots of good restaurants in Venice, as long as you don't come too close too San Mark's square, that's really expensive.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

So many! The basilica, the ducal palace, the Biënnale (art exposition), the campanile (tower), the islands Burano and Murano, the Getto, the Rialto Bridge, Palazzo Grassi (art), and so many more.

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

Enjoy your time, eat Italian food, try to speak some Italian, drink Spritz all day and visit some museums while you're there.

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