3 Budgeting Tips for Your Semester Abroad in Perugia
Looking for ways to save money while studying abroad in Italy? These budgeting tips for students in Perugia will help you manage daily expenses, from groceries and dining to transportation, so you can enjoy your semester abroad without overspending.
Studying abroad is a life-changing experience, but managing your finances while living in a new country can feel overwhelming. Between groceries, transportation, and the occasional night out, expenses add up quickly. The good news? Perugia is one of the most affordable university cities for international students, making it easier for students to live well on a budget. With a little planning and smart choices, you can enjoy everything the city has to offer without stressing about money. Here are three practical tips to help you budget wisely during your semester abroad.
1. Grocery Shop Smart
In Perugia, you’ll notice two types of grocery shopping experiences: the small minimart-style stores in the historic center (like Coop, Pam, and Umbrò) and the larger supermarkets in the modern part 
of town. The smaller shops are convenient when you need just a few items, but prices and selection are limited. For a real weekly stock-up, plan a trip on the MiniMetrò to the larger Coop. You’ll find lower prices, a wider variety of products, and plenty of fresh ingredients.
A quick pro tip: don’t overlook store-brand products. Just like in the U.S., Italian supermarkets have their own lines of pasta, sauces, snacks, and drinks that are just as good as name brands—at a fraction of the cost. Planning one big trip a week with roommates or friends makes grocery shopping more efficient and keeps your spending predictable.
2. Balance Cooking and Dining Out
Your Umbra apartment comes with a furnished kitchen, which makes cooking at home one of the easiest ways to save money. Buying fresh ingredients and preparing meals with your roommates can become part of your routine—and part of the fun.
That said, eating out in Perugia doesn’t have to drain your wallet. A classic pizza dinner can cost between 10 and 20 euro, depending on what you order to drink or on the side, and many portions are big enough to share or save for later. Local pizzerias, trattorias, and even Asian restaurants around town offer affordable meals, often under 15 euro. The trick is balance: cook at home most of the time, then budget for a few meals out each week. It’s an essential part of experiencing Italian culture—and well worth the splurge.
3. Use Student-Friendly Transportation
Perugia’s historic center is very walkable, but when you need to get further—say, to the train station or to explore outside the city—the MiniMetrò will become your best friend. Investing in a 10-ride card is both convenient and cost-effective.
For regional travel, buses are often the cheapest choice, but trains tend to be more reliable and only slightly more expensive. If weekend trips are on your bucket list (and they should be!), budgeting a little extra for transportation will help you explore Italy stress-free.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget that the Umbra Institute regularly organizes free pizza nights and offers student discounts on the MiniMetrò. Taking advantage of these perks means you’ll have more room in your budget for the adventures that matter most.