Experience in Milan, Italy by Astha

What is it like to live in Milan? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I have been living in Milan for the past four months, and it has definitely been a great experience. The city has much to offer in terms of tourist attractions as well as less explored corners. Each area has its own identity and its fun to explore them! The transport system is good, and even though the city is not too big, it still is one of the fanciest cities in the world, so of course it is beautiful!

What is the student lifestyle like in Milan?

It is quite nice. Politecnico university, being the biggest in Milan attracts students from all over the world. Then there are also famous private universities like NABA, Domus Academy and Istituto Marangoni, etcetera, which have contributed to the large student population in Milan. So it's quite nice as it gives you more opportunities to interact and explore! And the culture is quite nice and straightforward - study during the day, and relax over a few drinks at night on the weekdays (aperitivo for the win!) and dress up and go clubbing on the weekends!

How much does it cost to live in Milan?

Milan being one of the famous tourist destinations in Europe is a little more pricey than most other towns and cities, and I feel that landlords take advantage of the large student population pooling in every year (which is one area where I feel Milan is lacking on - affordable student residences). Monthly rents start from 300-400 euros for a shared room in a private apartment, studio apartments start from 800-900 euros, and one bedroom apartments usually start from 1100-1200 euros. Obviously the location matters, and these prices are for within the M1-M3 zone.

As for other living expenses, the travel ATM card costs 22 euros per month for students and persons below 26 years of age. Groceries cost about 100-150 euros per month, and night outs usually cost 10-15 euros for aperitivo, and 10-20 euros for clubbing. Eating out can cost anywhere between 10-20 euros per person as well.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Milan? Is there any advice you can give?

I did find it difficult to find affordable accommodation in Milan as my campus is Politecnico Bovisa and I found that there is a lack of student residences there. I wanted to be as close to the college as possible so I avoided the cheaper alternatives towards the south of Milan. I had to explore and interact with students, both international and local residents, to find good, affordable options. My advice is to be on the lookout, keep engaging with other students as someone might need a new roommate or flatmate! Don't go to big agency offices as they have enormous commissions and securities without guaranteeing accommodation (in my experience). Keep checking websites as well, and try to go and visit the locations of the places you like on websites like Spotahome and Erasmusu. You might get to know the agency/landlord (they have their posters outside the building) and end up avoiding paying the commission of the website!

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is great - after all it is Italy! My favourite dishes have to be pizzas and pastas! But I also really like the fusion Japanese and Chinese food you find in Milan. It's authentic and modern and really good! Also, I absolutely love gelato, so that is another favorite. And of course, I love the famous Italian Arancini!

What places would you recommend visiting in Milan?

The Duomo Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo - Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II mall obviously. It is a mix of classic and contemporary- old architecture combined with modern lifestyle creates a memorable experience! Then there is Fondazione Prada, the Pirelli Hangar, Darsena-Navigli (beautiful area on the banks of the canal), Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper, Castello Sforzeco and Parco Sempione. Then there is the Triennale museum, Pinacoteca di Brera (famous art gallery), AC Milan San Siro Stadium, La Scala opera, etcetera.

Is it good to eat out in Milan? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes of course. Spontini's pizzas are a must! I love pasta at Miscuzi (in Centrale and Isola), Japanese fusion at Temakinho (near Duomo) and Tenoha (near Darsena) and mexican food at Calavera (in Citylife - Tre Torri). For the renowned Arancini, you can go to the Arancineria in Darsena (near the Navigli canal) and get a lot of options, in terms of fillings; both the traditional ones as well as with ham and cheese, chocolate, etcetera. I also really like the Amsterdam fries near Darsena only, with the cocktail sauce - absolute heaven!

Is the nightlife good in Milan? Where is good to go?

Yes, the weekend lights up in Milan! From Thursday to Saturday, nightlife is really good. Entries to clubs/bars are anywhere between 10-20 euros. Good nightlife areas are Garibaldi-Moscova, Darsena-Navigli, and the Cadorna-Brera-Duomo area. You can find good clubs filled with students even in Domodossola. One of the biggest clubs that is a hit with students is Alcatraz near Lancetti. If you are a part of the Erasmus society, they host parties for students every day in different clubs/bars, which are also a very good and affordable experience.

What advice would you give future students heading to Milan?

Milan is one of the most beautiful and fanciest cities in the world, and it holds so many secret attractions that it is impossible to see them all if you don't explore on your own! The transport system is good and reliable. Remember to be aware of pickpockets at night (my friends have been victims of phone stealers). You definitely have to go for aperitivo (an Italian concept of paying a fixed amount for one drink and unlimited buffet) which is a beautiful and authentic experience! And at the end, enjoy the experience, because you are lucky to call Milan your home!