Federica's Experience in Verona, Italy

What do you think about life in Verona? Would you recommend it? What is it like?

Life in Verona is quite calm, I would definitely recommend it. The city is incredibly beautiful, but in terms of student life the city doesn't offer many student parties or bars.

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What is it like to study in Verona?

It depends on the faculty: law is quite difficult, literature and economics aren't as bad, especially for Erasmus.

How much does it cost to live in Verona?

Living costs are average, the historical centre is more expensive compared to the area around the university, and you can find anything from typical restaurants to fast food. The people of Verona drink a lot though, and if you get on board with these "local" habits you will realise that the 'aperitivi' are probably what will hurt your wallets the most!

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Verona? Do you have any advice?

No, the zona universitaria offers a wide choice at low prices (200/300 euros per month). There is a high turnover: the apartments are rented and left frequently, but this mostly happens in the summer towards the start of the academic year. Verona is modestly sized, you can cross the whole centre in less than 20 minutes on foot.

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What is the local food like? Which are your favourite dishes?

The typical Veronese dishes are unusual but are absolutely worth trying, even if they might not be to everyone's taste. Apart from that you will find many pizzerias, piadinerias, Chinese and Japanese restaurants.

In your opinion, what are the best places to visit in Verona?

Definitely the historical centre (Arena, Castel Vecchio, Castel San Pietro, San Fermo, Juliet's house; every corner of the city is full of art), but also the Lake Garda area and and the Valpolicella are must-sees. In summer life almost entirely shifts towards the towns of Lazise/Bardolino/Garda.

Is it good to eat out in Verona? Can you tell us about your favourite places?

It depends on what you fancy and on the zone you are in, there is a good variety of dishes and prices. Stay away from the "overly central" restaurants (all for tourists, all too expensive) be wary of Piazza Bra, Piazza Erbe and the area next to Porta Borsari. Find the university area and some of the osterie (pubs) in Borgo Venezia, it's definitely the best option.

Where do you suggest for nightlife in Verona?

Piazza Erbe is full of bars for nights out, from which you can easily walk to the zona universitaria where the nightlife on Wednesday nights is based or la zona Duomo on Fridays and Saturdays. For dancing there are three or four really popular bars: Berfi's, Alterego, Dorian Gray (accessible by shuttle). In those places there is plenty of PR, and as Verona is a small city it isn't difficult to fund out where the party is.

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Do you have any advice for future visitors to Verona?

Find accommodation close to Via XX settembre/Lungadige Porta Vittoria/Borgo Venezia: the historical centre is expensive and inconvenient for going out. The Veronese people are famous for their apparent lack of friendliness, but you'll find that with the right people you will have a great time!