Erasmus in Catanzaro

Information and advice for Erasmus students in Catanzaro

Catanzaro is located at the narrowest point of the Italian peninsula, in the Calabria region, and has around 83,000 inhabitants. It has a smaller student community, but with its own charm that offers a different environment to that of the great university cities of Italy. The beaches are just a short drive away and the proximity to the mountains allows you to enjoy nature whenever you want to relax for a while. Are you still eager to know more about Erasmus in Catanzaro and life in the city? Keep reading and we will tell you everything you need. Come on! Or, in Italian, andiamo!

Cost of living in Catanzaro, Italy

Unlike Rome or Milan, the cost of living in Catanzaro is cheaper and more affordable. Single rooms in shared student apartments usually range between €200 and €400 per month. These prices may vary depending on the location and conditions of the accommodation.

Regarding food, you can spend between €100 and €250, and in transport about €20 or €40 monthly. Other expenses such as personal purchases, leisure and entertainment will depend on each person's lifestyle. In total, the monthly cost can be estimated between €500 and €700.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Catanzaro

Although Catanzaro isn’t known for having an active nightlife, it offers some leisure options to enjoy with your friends or go out to party. The Lido neighbourhood is usually the most frequented for these purposes. It extends along the Ionian coast and is home to different bars, cafés and clubs where you can go to have a good time and share a few drinks with your friends. Plus, of course, you will be able to enjoy the beach and the golden sand.

A great opportunity to stay up to date with events in the city is to join the ESN Catanzaro. This student association organises parties and activities with which you will be able to integrate into the city and form new friendships.

Culture and gastronomy in Catanzaro, Italy

Catanzaro has a few places you can visit if you want to soak up the local culture. If you like art, the Art Museum (Museo delle Arti di Catanzaro – MARCA) includes paintings, sculptures and temporary exhibitions of modern art by Italian and international artists. The San Giovanni complex (Complesso Monumentale del San Giovanni) is on the remains of a fortification, it includes the Church of San Giovanni and the former convent, and it is now used for exhibitions and cultural events that you can visit at your leisure. Another important cultural attraction in the city is the Teatro Politeama, recognised for its impressive architecture and varied programming. Here you can find operas, concerts, plays and ballet shows.

The gastronomy of the entire region is based on intense flavours and the use of local ingredients. Some typical dishes are “Fileja alla 'nduja” ('nduja is a spicy, unctuous sausage made from pork and red peppers, and mixed with fileja, a traditional Calabrian pasta), or the "Stroncatura a la calabresa” (it’s prepared with an improved paste from the area, garlic, dried tomatoes, pepperoncino, hot pepper, black olives, anchovies and toasted bread). Another classic is “Lagane e cicciari” (a hard wheat pasta recipe cut into short, wide ribbons, including chickpeas, rosemary, garlic and chilli), and we can also mention the “Vecchiarelle” (a typical Christmas appetiser, prepared in the shape of a ball or stick and filled with anchovies or rosamarina).

Advantages of doing Erasmus in Catanzaro, Italy

• Although student life in Catanzaro isn’t as active as in big cities, it attracts many students for its programs in Medicine, Health Sciences, Law, and Economics at the Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro (Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro – UMG), one of the most important in southern Italy.
• Since the student community is smaller, it facilitates the creation of friendships, in a more welcoming and close environment. If you are overwhelmed by big cities, this may be your place!
• Fun is guaranteed with student associations such as the ESN, which constantly organises activities and events so that you can have fun in your free time and get acquainted with the local charm.
• Italian gastronomy is famous in itself, but Calabrian food has an intense and authentic flavour. Here you’ll enjoy typical dishes like “Fileja alla 'nduja” and other products from the region.
• If you enjoy the beach and nature, then you’re in luck. In the warm months you will enjoy the proximity to the Ionian coast and the surrounding landscapes invite you to enjoy the outdoors with picnics or hiking.

Cheap student accommodation in Catanzaro, Italy

Are you looking for accommodation in Catanzaro? You can use our search engine! At Erasmus Play you can find and compare flats, rooms and residences for students in the city, all safe and verified.

Frequently asked questions about doing Erasmus in Catanzaro

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