Student Accommodation Milan

Looking for your next student accommodation in Milan? University Living is here to help you select from the most trusted student housing in Milan. Universities students in Milan can choose to live in on-campus or off-campus accommodation based on their choice.

Milan is a popular student city in Italy. This city has a large international student community and is home to some of the top universities in Europe. This city is the ideal choice for students looking for quality education and life at an affordable cost.

Top Demanded Student Accommodation in Milan

Milan offers a wide range of student housing options. These include university halls/ dormitories, private apartments, student housing/ villages, and homestays. Each of these properties are equipped with unique housing and furnishing features.

University Halls/ Dorms

Top Universities in Milan, including the Polytechnic and the University of Milan offer university halls or dorms to undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students. These university-managed properties offer a community-centric environment to encourage interaction among students.

Private Apartments

Private apartments in Milan are the perfect choice for students who want an independent and luxurious lifestyle. These properties are equipped with the best furnishing options and offer a spacious living environment. These properties can have a higher rent compared to other housing options in the city.

Student Housing

Student housing or villages are an affordable and convenient choice for university students in Milan. These privately-owned student complexes offer a lot more than essential housing facilities. There are different types of rooms to meet the demands of all types of students. These include shared rooms and apartments, studios, ensuites, and large apartments.

Homestays

Homestays in Milan offer students an authentic Italian experience. It is the perfect opportunity to live with local families. Homestays are ideal for students who want to improve their language skills and immerse in the Italian culture. These include meals and a supportive environment, making it a budget-friendly and enriching choice for international students seeking comfort and community.

About Milan

Milan is the regional capital of Lombardy, Italy. It is the country’s largest city by urban population and a major educational and economic hub. Milan hosts prestigious universities and academies, drawing students from around the world and accounting for 11% of the country’s total enrolled students. It’s a global leader in commerce, finance, design, and fashion, housing Italy’s stock exchange and numerous international businesses.

The city’s strong economy, vibrant cultural scene, and status as an international tourist destination provide students with rich academic and social opportunities. Museums and galleries, including masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, enhance its cultural appeal. Milan’s global connections and resources make it an attractive choice for students seeking education and professional development in a dynamic, multicultural environment.

History of Milan

During the Roman Republic, the Romans captured the settlement of the Insubres in 222 BC, leading to the establishment of Roman control. The region was renamed Cisalpine Gaul, and the city became known as Mediolanum, meaning “in the midst of the plain.” By 49 BC, it was elevated to municipium status under the Lex Roscia.

In the 11th century, Milan opposed the rule of the Holy Roman Emperors, reflecting the rise of independent city-states in northern Italy. Milan warred with neighboring cities like Lodi, Pavia, and Cremona, leading to its partial destruction in 1162 by Frederick I Barbarossa. The Peace of Constance in 1183 restored Milan's commune governance, boosting its prosperity as a major trade hub.

Milan's last independent ruler, Lodovico il Moro, involved France in Italian conflicts, triggering the Italian Wars. In 1525, after the French defeat at the Battle of Pavia, Milan came under Habsburg Spanish control.

On 18 March 1848, Milan rebelled against Austrian rule during the Five Days, briefly forcing their withdrawal. However, Austria reasserted control after the Battle of Custoza. By 1859, Italian nationalists allied with Napoleon III’s France, defeating Austria at the Battle of Solferino and incorporating Milan and Lombardy into Piedmont-Sardinia. This led to the unification of Italy, proclaimed on 17 March 1861.

Facts About Milan

1. The park of Villa Invernizzi in Milan is home to a colony of exotic birds.
2. Milan is the fashion capital of the world and hosts the famous Milan Fashion Week.
3. Milan is home to the iconic Duomo di Milano, one of the largest cathedrals in the world.
4. Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is displayed at Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.
5. Milan houses the oldest shopping mall in the world, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
6. The city’s opera house, La Scala, is one of the most prestigious in the world.
7. Milan’s San Siro Stadium is one of the largest football stadiums in Europe.
8. Milan was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire.
9. The Navigli canals in Milan were once designed with the help of Leonardo da Vinci.

Student Friendly Areas in Milan

Biccoca

Bicocca is an excellent neighborhood for students. This area is home to the University of Milan-Bicocca and fosters a lively academic community. The district has transformed from an industrial area into a modern hub with residential and educational facilities. It offers students affordable housing options compared to central Milan, alongside green spaces and cultural attractions like the HangarBicocca Art Center.

Città Studi

Città Studi, meaning "studies city," is a district in Milan within Zone 3. It got its name because it hosts the Politecnico Technical University and many science and technology departments of the University of Milan. The district is also home to some of Milan’s well-known hospitals, like the IRCCS National Cancer Foundation and the Carlo Besta Neurological Institute.

Brera

Brera is a charming and artistic district in Milan. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. It is a popular spot for locals and vistors because of the cobbled streets, art galleries, boutique shops, and outdoor cafés. The Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera) is a highlight, showcasing masterpieces by Italian artists. The district’s bohemian vibe, combined with historic architecture and a lively nightlife, creates a perfect blend of culture and entertainment. Brera is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and inspiring experience in the heart of Milan.

Ideal Cost of Living in Milan

The average cost of living for a student in Milan is €1,011/ month, excluding rent. The cost of living can vary based on the student’s lifestyle and resources required. The tuition fees at the universities in Milan

1. Tuition Fees: €900 to €4000/ Year
2. Accommodation Rent: €800 to €1,500/ month
3. Food and Groceries: €200 to 325/ month
4. Electricity and Utilities: €150 to €250/ month
5. Public Transportation: €70 to €100/ month
6. Cost of Internet & Mobile phone: €100 to €200/ month
7. Cost of Dinner at a restaurant: €200 to €300 / month
8. Cost of Laundry: €50 to €70/ month
9. Cost of Stationery and Textbooks: €50- €100/ month
10. Cost of Clothing: €150 to €200/ month

Public Transportation in Milan

Milan’s public transportation is efficient and affordable. Bus and metro services in the city operate late into the evening. If you're staying in the city center, you'll likely use it mainly for trips to and from the airport.

However, if your accommodation is outside the central area and you plan on using public transport frequently, the Milan Pass could be a cost-effective option. This pass offers unlimited access to the city’s public transit and includes entry to several key attractions.

Metro

Milan’s metro network is the largest in Italy, with four lines that are fast, efficient, and easy to navigate for getting around the city.

Tram

With 18 tram lines, Milan offers a scenic and reliable way to travel across the city, operating until midnight daily.

Bus

The city has 80 bus lines, providing extensive coverage of the city, including some trolleybus routes for an eco-friendly option.

Sightseeing Bus

The sightseeing bus allows tourists to explore Milan’s main attractions while offering a hop-on, hop-off experience.

Tickets and Travel Cards

A range of travel cards and tickets are available, including options for unlimited travel on public transport for convenience and cost savings.

Tourist Attractions in Milan

Duomo, Cathedral of Milano

Duomo is Milan's majestic cathedral. It is famous for its intricate Gothic design and stunning panoramic views from the spires. It is a must-see landmark in the city's heart.

Castello Sforzesco

Castello Sforzesco is a historic fortress that hosts several museums. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Milan’s rich artistic and cultural heritage and masterpieces by Leonardo and Michelangelo.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Galleria Vittorio Emanuale II is a beautiful 19th-century shopping gallery. It is well-known for its glass roof and luxury stores. Students can soak in Milan's fashionable ambiance.

The Fashion District - Quadrilatero della Moda

This is Milan's high-end fashion district. It is home to the most famous designer boutiques, a perfect place to witness Italian style and indulge in shopping.

Brera Art Gallery

Brera Art Gallery is nestled in a charming neighborhood. It houses masterpieces by renowned artists like Caravaggio and Raphael and offers a deep dive into Renaissance and Baroque art.

Universities in Milan

Milan is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Europe. These are institutes of excellence, offering quality education at an affordable rate. Milan was also listed among the “Most Livable Cities”. Here are some of the best universities in Milan, Italy.

Polytechnic University of Milan

Politecnico di Milano is a popular university in Italy. It is ranked #140 in the QS World University 2025 list. The university has three campuses—Città Studi, Leonardo, and Bovisa. It has a total enrollment of over 47,000 students. It offers two major intakes annually: September (fall) and February (spring). Politecnico di Milano is known for its strong engineering, architecture, and design programs.

University of Milan

The University of Milan is the second most important university in the city. It is ranked #149 in the QS World University 2025 list. The university has over 60,000 students enrolled across various disciplines. Admissions are offered in two main intakes: September and February. Popular programs include Medicine, Law, Political Science, and Biotechnology. The university is a top choice for students interested in interdisciplinary studies and academic rigor.

Catholic University of Sacred Heart

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC) is one of Italy’s top universities. It has around 40,000 students and offers a wide range of courses, including Business Administration, Economics, Psychology, and Medicine. The university has multiple intakes, with the main one in September. It is known for its strong academic reputation and diverse international programs.