Erasmus Experience in Milano, Italy by Deniz

Why did you choose to go to Milan, Italy?

Mostly because of Politecnico di Milano. To be honest Milano, as a city, wasn't my first choice.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I received 350 euros per month for 8 or 9 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Milan?

Milano is a very vibrant city. There is always an interesting activity for different tastes. And there is a lot of foreign students from all over the world.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Milan to other students?

Yes, I had great time there!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Milan?

University dormitories are expensive and not very comfortable (In my case; shared rooms, just one kichen for 4 buildings). With a friend of mine, we were able to find a flat with two rooms nearly for the same price.

How much does it cost to live in Milan?

I can’t give a number but it is expensive compared to other cities. Scholarship that I received was just enough to pay my rent.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

It depends on the mother language, for a native French speaker it is easy but that may not be case for a native Chinese speaker. But everyone speaks English in Milano, and there is serious language courses in the University for those who want to learn Italian.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Milan from your city?

Low-cost airlines! Milano is a very well connected city. I heard that there is also some bus lines, but I never took one.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Milan?

There are a lot of places, but if you don’t go to Navigli or Brera for an aperitivo, your Erasmus doesn’t count!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Permanent collections of museums in Milan are very rich. I especially recommend Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum, Castello to see Michelangelo's art, Brera Gallery for Italian painters and Ambrosiana Gallery (for Caravaggio). You can also see Ultima Cena in Santa Maria delle Grazie. Scala is a must see to. And there is a lot of temporary cultural events.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Milan in the future?

If they want to learn Italian they must make extra effort, everyone speak English so it’s difficult to practice Italian.