Iban's Erasmus Experience in Milan, Italy

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Why did you choose to go to Milan, Italy?

I chose to go to Milan because I like Italy, and they didn't require any accredited language certifications there.

How long does your grant last for? How much money do you receive as financial support?

It lasts for 10 months, and I receive 300€ a month for a period of 5 months.

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What is student life like in Milan?

It's average - people do what they want to do.

Would you recommend the city and your university in Milan to other students?

It's one of the best universities in Europe, so this means that it also has its downsides. The university's organisation with regards to some aspects of student life is a little chaotic sometimes.

What is the food like in Italy?

Good - Italy is the country of pasta and pizza.

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Was it difficult for you to find accommodation in Milan?

Yes, a little bit. I recommend going there with plenty of time to find something and having an alternative plan too, like a hostel, where you can extend your stay if you don't find anything in the short period of time you allocate yourself.

The Italians are a little bit like scrap dealers; they charge you significant amounts for flats in mediocre or very poor conditions.

And, they normally use the living room as a single, double, or even triple, bedroom...

Good luck...

How much does it cost to live in Milan?

The prices are similar to (or slightly more than) those of Spain, but there are things that do cost more without any seemingly logical explanation.

The rent prices for flats are quite expensive.

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What is the language like? Did you go to any language classes at the university?

In theory, it's similar to Spanish, so if the Italians talk to you slowly (and with gestures), it's quite understandable. However, when you are in class and they speak faster, using set expressions, irony, jokes, and jargon, it's more difficult to understand, of course.

I didn't attend any language classes at the university because I missed the enrolment deadline. (Although, I came to Italy four years ago for a Professional Training internship for 3 months, so I had somewhat of a baseline knowledge of Italian).

What is the cheapest way of getting to Milan from your city?

By plane. There are three airports that serve Milan, but the one that's cheapest to fly to is Bergamo, which is a little further away from Milan itself (in the city of Bergamo), but there are several bus services that take you to Milan's Central Station in one hour for just 5€.

Which places would you recommend for nightlife in Milan?

• Alcatraz
• Old Fashion
• The Club
• Hollywood
• Le Banque

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And eating out in Milan? Can you mention your favourite places?

Aleatorios.

And cultural hotspots?

• Duomo
• Navigli (an area where there are lots of bars with aperitifs)
• Different churches/chapels which you will find dotted around the streets of Milan
• Just walking around to discover new things (this is the best way of getting to know the city)

Is there any advice that you want to give to future students in Milan?

Getting an ESN card is essential (for the association that organises parties, cultural trips and events, activities, etc. ).

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