Wandering in the oldest university towns

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Combining this book and bars as well as scientific and social life, historic towns here are home to some of the oldest universities in the world. Filled with a variety of student traditions, these cities also have a variety of restaurants, nightlife and entertainment in accordance with the frugal student budget. This could be interesting destination on your next vacation.

1. Bologna, Italy

The University may not precede the Roman empire, but the University of Bologna, founded in 1088 remains the oldest university in Europe. Combine radical politics with a little glamor of Italy, Bologna itself contains interesting mix of architecture, history and culinary.

Because one of the things culinary is closely connected with Italy, then Bologna can be regarded as the unofficial capital of the Italian culinary. A place to spend a night fit for a culinary tour in Bologna Osteria restaurant is located close to the university Osteria dell’Orsa. This place often becomes a gathering place for poets and philosophers to enjoy the authentic local cuisine.

Then you can go to the Cantina Bentivoglio Via Mascarella to chew tortelloni with butter while sipping one of the 400 wines that are stored either in the basement.

2. Montpellier, France

Searching for Mediterranean blend of sun, medieval treasures, and youth culture, then you will find Montpelier, the capital of Languedoc-Roussillon region of France is attractive. There you will also find the University of Montpellier (12th century) which offers the world’s oldest medical school west.

Being in Montpellier you can visit the Museum of Anatomy in the Rue de l’Ecole-de-Medecine adjacent to the operating theater of the 19th century. Take also the time to wander around the old quarter, where you will find a mysterious labyrinth and a narrow stone path.

For a vibrant cafe culture, you can explore and Rue Jean-Jaurès Universite. At 46 Rue Universite, you can have lunch at L’Oignon Givre, where students usually enjoy the salad. If the sea breezes call, local bus and soon you’ll be on the beach in less than half an hour.

3. Oxford, England

One of the most respected universities in the world, Oxford has spawned intellectual figures and world leaders since 1096. Want a peek as what’s in it? You can join a tour of campus with the main beam at the Bodleian library. Harry Potter movie fans will recognize this library.

To mingle in a spirit of intellectual Oxford, you can visit the Eagle and Child in 49 St Giles, where JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis and other members of the Inklings literary society met for lunch. Next, you may go to Turf Tavern pub favorite student (theturftavern.co.uk).

4. Coimbra, Portugal

Founded by the ancient Romans, Coimbra claim as the oldest and most respected university in Portugal. Inside the campus, you get a peek at the impressive baroque library, picturing students learn logic, law and astronomy.

If you are lucky enough to visit in May, you can take part in Queima das Fitas, a festival to commemorate the end of the academic year. At this event you can join the student in front of the cathedral in the ritual celebration.

5. Salamanca, Spain

Plundered by Hannibal, seized by the Visigoths and conquered by the Moors, this UNESCO world heritage site has undergone many historical narratives. In the journey, one of the most important year is 1134, when King Alfonso IX of León founded the University of Salamanca with marvelous renaissance architecture largely made of sandstone.

In Salamanca you can visit the Museum of Art Nouveau and Art Deco in the Calle de El Expolio 14 S or marvel at the Cathedral in downtown Romenesque Calle de Meléndez amazing.

To find the center of student nightlife, you can stroll around the university and the Plaza Mayor which is one of the best square in Spain to watch the show bullfighting. (Quoted from bbc.com)

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