Bologna: Italy's quintessential university city
Bologna is home to the University of Bologna (Unibo), founded in 1088 and recognised as the oldest university in the Western world. With more than 90,000 students, the city radiates a scholarly energy you can feel under every portico and across every piazza. For an Erasmus student, living in Bologna is a one-of-a-kind experience: affordable, deeply cultural and steeped in history.
Universities in Bologna for Erasmus students
University of Bologna (Unibo)
The world's oldest university, with faculties spread across the city centre. A vast Erasmus programme with 500+ partner universities worldwide.
Alma Mater Studiorum
Unibo's historic name, also home to its postgraduate arm. English-taught international programmes highly regarded across Europe.
DAMS (Arts, Music & Performance)
One of Italy's most distinctive departments, drawing students from around the world to its performing arts and cinema courses.
Faculty of Engineering
Engineering and sciences hosted at the Ingegneria campus. Strong European reputation and dynamic research environment.
Best neighbourhoods to live in Bologna as an Erasmus
Cirenaica / Mazzini
The student neighbourhood par excellence: 10 minutes on foot from the centre, packed with bars, bookshops and study cafés. The Zona universitaria favourite.
Average price: €420–580/month for a shared-flat roomSan Vitale / Strada Maggiore
Historic and lively, on the doorstep of the main faculties. Buzzing Bologna nightlife and easy walks to lectures.
Average price: €450–620/month for a shared-flat roomBolognina / Corticella
North of the central station: more affordable, multicultural and well connected by tram and train. Ideal for tighter student budgets.
Average price: €340–460/month for a shared-flat roomSaffi / Murri
Residential and quiet, close to the Medicine and Engineering campuses. Loved for its calm streets and high quality of life.
Average price: €380–520/month for a shared-flat roomMonthly cost of living in Bologna
| Item | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Room in shared flat | €340–580 |
| Groceries & food | €180–260 |
| Public transport (TPER) | €30–45 |
| Leisure & nights out | €70–130 |
| Estimated total | €620–1,015 |
Essential tips for your Erasmus in Bologna
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Get your IOL student card (Unibo's official ID): unlocks discounts on transport, museums, cinemas and restaurants.
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Eat at the mense universitarie: high-quality university canteens with full meals for under €4.
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Hang out in Piazza Verdi: the meeting point of every Bologna student, especially in the late afternoon.
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Hunt for a room early: demand to rent a room in Bologna is very high. Start your search at least 3 months ahead.
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