With its legendary university, lively piazzas, and irresistible food scene, Bologna has earned its reputation as one of Europe’s top student destinations. Boasting the oldest university in Italy, it's no surprise that many international students choose to study abroad in Bologna. The city’s distinctive red rooftops hide a maze of welcoming neighbourhoods, each with a different vibe to suit different international students. Plus, its layout means you’re rarely far from a lecture hall, a local trattoria, or a group of friends gathered for an evening in Piazza Verdi, enjoying student life.
Types of student housing in Bologna
Student accommodation comes in many shapes and sizes, from classic Bologna university residences, student dormitories, and rooms for rent in student apartments.
However, navigating the city’s patchwork of neighbourhoods (and finding student accommodation that won’t drain your budget) can be tricky. Plus, with so many students coming and going, you have to be on the ball when looking for available accommodation. It's a good idea to sort a room ahead of time to avoid the rush of students at the start of the academic year.
At least the practical side of study in Bologna is not too tricky to get your head around, as there are so many other people in the same boat as you.
Cost of student accommodation
As of April 2025, rent prices in Bologna averaged €18 per m², making an 80 m² apartment around €1,440 per month. While the historic centre remains the priciest spot—perfect for anyone who wants to live close to the action—budget-conscious students often look further out. San Ruffillo and Toscana, tucked between two leafy parks, are the cheapest neighbourhoods to rent in Bologna.
If you’re hoping to save, cheap student accommodation in these neighbourhoods can start from just €300 per month for a room in a shared flat, leaving you with more spare change for pizza, books, and Aperol spritzes
Where to live in Bologna as a student
If you’re packing your bags to start university or Erasmus in Bologna, the age-old question is: where should you live to get the full student experience? Choosing the best neighbourhood in Bologna to live as a student is important for getting the most out of your studies abroad.
Centro Storico
Right at the heart of the city, the Centro Storico pulses with student energy and history. Here, medieval streets wind through stunning piazzas like Piazza Maggiore and the ever-buzzing Piazza Verdi—epicentre of student hangouts, open-air concerts, and late-night socialising.
Highlights
- Surrounded by ancient buildings, historic libraries, independent bookshops, and beloved trattorias.
- Cultural life is non-stop—catch street performances, exhibitions, and impromptu events.
- Some of Bologna’s best nightlife is a short stroll away.
Transport
Centro Storico is the city’s transport hub—literally everything is walkable and there are frequent buses from Piazza Maggiore to other districts and the central train station.
Proximity to university
Steps from the main university buildings. Living here means minimal commute—expect to walk less than 10 minutes to most faculties.
- Rooms for rent in Centro Storico
- Studio apartments in Centro Storico
- Long-term rentals in Centro Storico
San Vitale (University District)
Home to the iconic university buildings and student haunts, San Vitale is a hotspot for local and international students. Streets here are covered with flyers for upcoming gigs, language exchanges, or open-air DJ sets at Piazza Scaravilli.
Highlights
- Packed with affordable eateries, cheap pizzerias, quirky cafés, and stationery shops.
- Student associations and cultural centres are all around.
- Famous for vintage markets and easy-going social life.
Transport
Extremely well-connected. Buses run through Via San Vitale and to the train station. Walking from here to the university is usually under 5 minutes.
Proximity to university
Most apartments are next door or even in the same building as the lecture halls. You’ll practically wake up on campus.
Bolognina
A multicultural, fast-changing neighbourhood just north of Bologna Centrale train station. This area has an urban edge, creative spirit, and bargains for student renters.
Highlights
- Known for street markets, industrial-chic clubs, and international grocery stores.
- Great value for larger apartments, co-living spaces, or those sharing with friends.
- Home to trendy cafés, vintage stores, and live music venues.
Transport
The central train station is right next door, with dozens of bus lines connecting you to campus and every corner of the city.
Proximity to university
A bit further from the main campus (15–20 minutes by foot or 10 minutes by bus), but still very manageable.
San Donato
San Donato is a classic student residential area, particularly popular with science and engineering students. It’s more laid-back and residential than the city centre, with leafy parks and a relaxed community feel.
Highlights
- Large public parks and sports centres nearby.
- Budget-friendly trattorias are everywhere.
- Perfect for those who enjoy quieter evenings after lectures.
Transport
Served by several city bus lines and cycle-friendly routes leading straight to campus and the heart of the city.
Proximity to university
Excellent for students attending faculties in the northern part of Bologna—usually a 10- to 20-minute walk or a quick bike ride.
Santo Stefano
Santo Stefano offers a more refined, tranquil setting, with beautiful gardens, elegant streets, and less of the party crowd. It’s popular with older students or anyone craving a quiet retreat, but still within easy cycling distance of the action.
Highlights
- Charming parks, hidden cafés, and weekend antique markets.
- Less noisy but plenty of authentic Bolognese culture.
- Closer to some postgraduate faculties and research centres.
Transport
Good bus connections to the rest of Bologna, plus seamless cycling to the centre in 10–15 minutes.
Proximity to university
A little further from the core campus area—usually 15–20 minutes by bike or bus to reach most university buildings.
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