Living in Vicenza
Vicenza is a city and commune in the Veneto region, northern Italy, on the river Bacchiglione, west of Venice.
It is the capital of the province of Vicenza and the economic and communications hub of the area.
It is one of the oldest cities in Italy, with a history dating back to the Roman times.
It was the birthplace of the Roman historian Livy and the poet Dante, and the resting place of the saint and doctor of the church, Anthony of Vicenza.
Living in Vicenza as an expat can be both enjoyable and stimulating.
You can experience the charm and beauty of a historic and artistic city that offers a lot of culture and education, but also the convenience and dynamism of a modern and lively urban center..
Vicenza is the second-largest city in the Veneto region, after Venice, and the fifth-largest in northern Italy.
It has about 214,000 inhabitants, of which 65,000 are students at the University of Vicenza, the second-oldest in Italy and one of the most prestigious in Europe.
Vicenza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.
It is known for its landmarks, such as the Scrovegni Chapel, the Basilica of St.
Anthony, the Palazzo della Ragione and the Prato della Valle.
It has a GDP of about €22 billion ($27 billion), making it the 15th richest city in Italy and one of the most productive and innovative in Europe..
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What is Vicenza like?
Vicenza is a cultural and academic city, with a rich and diverse heritage.
It is home to people from different backgrounds, traditions and languages, who have contributed to the city’s identity and character.
Vicenza is also a cultural and academic hub, with a long and illustrious history and legacy.
It hosts many museums, galleries, churches, palaces and events, covering various fields of interest, such as art, science, literature, philosophy, religion, law and medicine.
Some of the most famous cultural attractions in Vicenza are the Botanical Garden, the oldest in the world, the Astronomical Observatory, the oldest in the world still in operation, the Cappella degli Scrovegni, with the masterpiece frescoes by Giotto, the Basilica of St.
Anthony, with the relics of the saint and the sculptures by Donatello, and the University of Vicenza, with its historic buildings and famous alumni, such as Galileo, Copernicus, Vesalius and Petrarch..
Climate
Living in Vicenza means experiencing a humid subtropical climate, with warm summers and cold winters.
In the summer, it’s hot and sunny, and you can enjoy the countryside and the hills.
In the winter, it’s cold and foggy, and you can admire the snow and the mountains.
The spring and the autumn are mild and pleasant, with some rain and some sun.
You can see the flowers and the fruits, and enjoy the festivals and the events.
Vicenza is not prone to flooding, but it can suffer from air pollution, especially in the autumn and the winter, due to the high concentration of traffic and industries.
To cope with this problem, the city has implemented various measures, such as limiting the car access, promoting the public transportation, and encouraging the bike use..
Economy
Vicenza is an industrial and commercial city, and one of the most dynamic and innovative in Italy.
It has a diversified and competitive economy, based on sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and services.
It is also a strategic and logistic hub, with a well-developed transport network, including a high-speed railway, a motorway, and an airport, connecting it to other major Italian and European cities, such as Milan, Rome, Munich, and Paris.
However, Vicenza also faces some economic challenges, such as the impact of the global crisis, the environmental sustainability, the social inclusion, and the digital transformation.
The city authorities have implemented various policies and initiatives to address these issues, such as supporting the local enterprises and startups, promoting the green economy, enhancing the social welfare, and investing in the digital infrastructure..
Education
Vicenza is an academic and scientific city, with a large and diverse student population.
It has one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Italy and Europe, the University of Vicenza, founded in 1222, offering a wide range of courses and degrees, from humanities and arts to science and medicine.
Some of the most famous and renowned academic institutions in Vicenza are the Botanical Garden, the oldest in the world, the Astronomical Observatory, the oldest in the world still in operation, the Scuola Galileiana di Studi Superiori, an elite school for excellence, and the Human Rights Centre, a leading research and training centre.
The city also has many public and private schools, catering to the needs of local families and children.
Some of the most popular and reputable schools in Vicenza are the Liceo Classico Tito Livio, the Liceo Scientifico Galileo Galilei, the Istituto Tecnico Industriale E.
Fermi, and the Istituto Professionale per i Servizi Sociali..
Cost of living in Vicenza
The cost of living in Vicenza is moderate compared to other Italian cities.
It is the seventh most expensive city in Italy, after Milan, Venice, Rome, Florence, Bologna and Turin.
A family of four estimated monthly costs are €3,052 without rent, and a single person estimated monthly costs are €1,768 without rent.
Rent in Vicenza is also reasonable, especially outside the city center.
For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about €600 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment costs about €1,000 per month.
The prices of food, transportation, utilities, and entertainment are also lower than the national average..
Is Vicenza safe?
Vicenza is a relatively safe city for tourists and expats, with a moderate crime rate compared to other major cities in Italy and Europe.
However, some precautions are recommended, especially in certain areas and situations.
The most common crimes in Vicenza are theft, robbery, fraud, and vandalism, which usually target urban and suburban areas, such as the railway station, the city center, the industrial zone, and the outskirts.
To avoid these risks, it is advisable to be vigilant and careful, to keep your valuables close and secure, to avoid suspicious or aggressive people, and to report any incident to the police.
Vicenza is also generally safe at night, but it is better to avoid walking alone in dark and isolated streets, and to stick to the well-lit and busy areas..
Pros and cons of life in Vicenza
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quaint and beautiful city | Cold in winter |
| Rich history and culture | Expensive housing |
| Proximity to the Alps | Language and culture barriers |
| Delicious food and desserts | Quiet and slow-paced |
| Good public transportation | Areas to avoid at night |
| Moderate cost of living | Low work and opportunities |
| High quality of healthcare | Bureaucratic system |
| Friendly and diverse city | Less vibrant nightlife |
Advantages of Living in Vicenza
Vicenza is a quaint and beautiful city, with a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times.
You can admire its stunning architecture, such as the Palladian buildings, and visit its many museums, galleries, and theaters.
It is also a culinary city, with a variety of delicious dishes and desserts, such as bigoli, baccalà alla vicentina, and tiramisu.
The city has a good public transportation system, which includes buses and trains, and it is well connected to other parts of Italy.
Moreover, you can enjoy its proximity to the Alps, where you can have breathtaking views and exciting activities, such as hiking and skiing.
Vicenza is a friendly and diverse city, where you can meet people from different backgrounds and nationalities, who contribute to the city’s social and cultural life.
Italian is the main language here, but you can also find people who speak English, which makes it easier for you to communicate and find work.
The city has a dynamic and innovative economy, which offers you many opportunities for work and career development, especially in sectors such as tourism, education, technology, and research.
Vicenza has a moderate cost of living, which makes it more affordable than other Italian cities, and a high quality of life, with excellent education, healthcare, and social services, which ensure your well-being and happiness..
Disadvantages of Living in Vicenza
Vicenza can be cold in the winter, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
You can face difficulties in finding affordable housing, especially in the city center, where the demand is high and the supply is low.
You can also encounter problems with the language and culture, as Italian is not widely spoken and the locals can be reserved.
The city can be quiet and slow-paced, which might not suit everyone's lifestyle.
Vicenza is generally safe, but like any city, it has areas that are best avoided at night.
You can also have trouble finding work and opportunities, as the economy is not very stable and the unemployment rate is high, especially for young people and foreigners.
Furthermore, the city can have a bureaucratic system, which can be frustrating and annoying, especially for expats, who have to deal with a lot of paperwork.
In addition to that, compared to other parts of Italy, Vicenza can have a less vibrant nightlife, which can make it less appealing for some people..
FAQs
What is Vicenza like for foreigners?
Vicenza is known for the elegant buildings designed by the 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio.
These include the Palladian Basilica and the Palazzo Chiericati, now home to an art gallery.
It is a great choice for expats who appreciate history and architecture.
Vicenza offers many attractions, such as historical sites, museums, and theaters, as well as a rich food and wine culture.
Living in Vicenza as an expat can be both enjoyable and challenging.
You can enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and peaceful city that offers a high quality of life, but you also have to deal with the drawbacks of a city that can be quiet and reserved.
However, many expats have loved their time in Vicenza, especially because of the rich history and modern amenities..
What is Vicenza like for students?
Vicenza is a city located in the Veneto region of Italy, in the northeast of the country.
This city is recognized for its architecture they call it "Palladio City" since this architect made many outstanding works in the city.
Vicenza is a small city and the youth scene tends to focus on university students, who carry out a myriad of activities during the week.
However, one of the advantages of living in Vicenza is that it has a very good connection by public transport with other cities in northern and central Italy.
Thanks to this you will be able to easily reach other cities such as Venice, Verona and Padua, etc.
Are you looking for cheap student accommodation in Vicenza? We recommend that you search well in advance, since that way you will be able to choose from a greater variety of apartments, rooms and student residences..
What is Vicenza like for women?
Vicenza is a city where women encounter various challenges and opportunities, depending on their personal and social circumstances.
Some women in Vicenza may face the effects of gender inequality, which can limit their freedom, rights, and opportunities in various domains, such as education, work, health, and politics.
Some women in Vicenza enjoy the benefits of a high quality of life, with a relaxed pace, a safe and quiet environment, and a high level of public services.
The city offers a wide range of services and activities for all tastes, including a vibrant gastronomic scene.
Some women in Vicenza experience a mix of challenges and opportunities, depending on their specific location, social class, family background, personal attitude, and individual choices..
What is Vicenza like for LGBTQ people?
Vicenza is a city where LGBTQ people face different levels of acceptance and discrimination, depending on their personal and social contexts.
Some LGBTQ people in Vicenza find the city to be relatively welcoming and tolerant.
They can access some events, resources, and services that cater to their needs and interests, such as the Vicenza Pride and the G.A.G.A.
Vicenza, an LGBT+ organization born from the experience of the Vicenza Pride 2013.
Some LGBTQ people in Vicenza encounter the city to be prejudiced, intolerant, or stigmatized, especially in some sectors of the society.
They have to deal with ignorance, homophobia, and discrimination that affect their safety, rights, and well-being.
Some LGBTQ people in Vicenza adapt to the city by being discreet and respectful of the local customs and traditions, while also seeking support and community from other LGBTQ people or allies..
Is Vicenza a poor city?
Vicenza is a prosperous city in Italy, with more than 80,000 enterprises on the territory, generating a turnover of 40 billion € and an export volume of nearly 18 billion €.
The strengths of the economy lie in sectors such as mechanics and engineering, electronics, jewelry, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, tanning, fashion, and food processing.
The unemployment rate is between 5 and 6% and the employment rate is over 67%.
Vicenza is the third-largest Italian industrial center as measured by the value of its exports, and is one of the country's wealthiest cities..
Is Vicenza dirty?
Vicenza is a city in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its rich history and cultural heritage.
However, specific information about the cleanliness of Vicenza is not readily available from the search results.
It’s important to note that cleanliness can vary from place to place within a city and can be subjective based on personal perceptions..
Is Vicenza walkable?
Vicenza’s public transportation is managed by Società Vicentina Trasporti.
The city has 20 public transport lines that make approximately 1,820 trips per day, covering over 3.7 million km annually.
This suggests that the public transport system in Vicenza is quite extensive and efficient, potentially making the city fairly walkable.
However, specific details about the walkability of Vicenza, such as the presence of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, the accessibility of attractions, or the existence of bike-sharing services, are not explicitly mentioned in the search results.
As with any city, the walkability can vary in different areas and can be influenced by factors such as traffic and urban planning..
