Florence is an ideal city for students—small enough to navigate on foot or by bike but large enough to offer plenty of events, activities, and places to explore. This makes it easy to make the most of your exchange experience!
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Florence
Here are some of the key pros and cons of living in a shared flat in Florence:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Florence
- Accommodation in Florence can be pricey, especially considering the size and quality of the apartments. Sharing a flat helps reduce these costs.
- Try to find roommates from other nationalities. Living with Italian or international roommates who speak other languages gives you the chance to practise Italian or at least English.
- Sharing daily life with your flatmates helps you integrate into city life more easily, learning about its culture and ways of living.
- Florence offers various accommodation options, including single and shared rooms, so you can choose what suits you best.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Florence
- Many apartments are part of old buildings and are usually small, making them expensive for their size. Generally, the more central the apartment, the smaller the space.
- You’ll have to share common areas like the living room, bathroom, and kitchen, so you’ll rarely have the entire place to yourself.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Florence
There are several Erasmus+ apps you can download and use for different aspects of your exchange. These apps provide information on the necessary procedures, advice from previous students (including tips on affordable places to try local food like trippa alla fiorentina, pappa al pomodoro, or ravioli di cinghiale), and guides on how to validate subjects and request additional mobility opportunities.
How to meet people in Florence
One of the best ways to meet people when you arrive in the city is to share a flat and connect with your roommates. Additionally, you can use some of the following options:
Student associations in Florence
Student life in the capital of Tuscany is vibrant, thanks to various associations that organise events, activities, and affordable plans for young people. Many faculties have their own associations, and there’s also ESN Florentia, which organises activities and offers discounts for Erasmus students.
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Florence
Facebook groups created by student associations are great for finding out about different events and trips. Groups divided by academic year help students solve doubts and connect with other fellow students.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in Florence
Associations like ESN Florentia create WhatsApp groups where students can join plans and events, helping them stay connected and informed.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Florence
Keep the following tips in mind when looking for a shared flat in Florence:
- The capital of Tuscany is a popular tourist destination, and central streets can be crowded, especially in summer and during tourist seasons. Consider this when choosing the neighbourhood for your stay.
- The faculties of the Universidad Degli Studi di Firenze are spread throughout the city. Find out where your faculty is located to find nearby accommodation or a place that is easily accessible by bike, a favourite mode of transport among students. Check out this article to learn more about this matter.
- It’s important to have clear communication with your roommates, especially regarding house rules, to avoid conflicts when living together.