Where to Live in Milan as a Student: Guide to the Best University Neighborhoods (2025)

A practical guide for those moving to Milan to study: recommended neighborhoods, transport connections, services, and lifestyle.

If you’re moving to Milan for university, choosing the right neighborhood can affect not just how close you are to campus, but also your daily life. In this updated guide, you’ll discover the areas best suited for students — based on convenience, atmosphere, costs, and connections.

What’s the best neighborhood for students attending the Politecnico di Milano?

Bovisa: young, authentic, and well-connected

Bovisa is home to the Politecnico’s Bovisa campus. In recent years, the neighborhood has undergone a transformation: workshops, creative spaces, small artisan businesses, and a growing student community.
Living here means being just a few minutes from class, in an authentic atmosphere away from the chaos of the city center.

Excellent connections to the city center via the suburban railway line.
Furnished and functional apartments.
Simple eateries, supermarkets, and everyday services right nearby.

Where to live if you study at the University of Milan (Statale) or at the Politecnico’s main campus?

Città Studi: the timeless classic that always works

It’s one of Milan’s historic university districts — perfect for those seeking a good balance between study, convenience, and quality of life. Supermarkets, bookstores, gyms, green spaces, and cafés with Wi-Fi: everything a student needs.

Excellent connections by tram and metro.
Safe and well-organized environment.
A lively yet peaceful neighborhood atmosphere.

Are the Navigli a good area for students?

Navigli: where study and city life meet

For those looking for more than just an apartment, the Navigli offer a truly unique lifestyle. Waterfront cafés, design studios, and a young, creative atmosphere make this area ideal for students attending NABA or IULM — or anyone who wants to experience Milan to the fullest.

Vibrant and inspiring area.
Extremely convenient for creative universities.
Moderate to high cost, but the experience is worth it.

What’s it like living in Bicocca as a student?

Bicocca: green, quiet, and well-connected

Perfect for students of the University of Milano-Bicocca or anyone seeking a quieter residential area. The spaces are large, there’s plenty of greenery, and rents are generally lower compared to other neighborhoods.

Connected by the Lilac metro line and tram.
More space, less chaos.
Ideal for those who study and work at the same time.

Before choosing where to live in Milan, read this:

📌 What’s the most affordable neighborhood for students in Milan?
Bicocca is among the most affordable areas, offering good quality of life and reasonable prices.

What’s the best neighborhood for Politecnico students?
Bovisa for the modern campus, Città Studi for the historic one.

Are the Navigli only about nightlife?
No, many students choose them for their creative atmosphere and proximity to NABA and IULM.

When should you start looking for a place in Milan?
At least 2–3 months before the start of classes, especially in the most sought-after areas.

Every student experiences Milan differently. What matters most is understanding what’s truly important to you: convenience, a quiet environment, creative inspiration, or a strong network of services.

Whatever you choose, Milan will find a way to surprise you.