The most expensive city for students in Italy is Milan, with total monthly costs around €950–€1,500, driven by high rent, food, and transport expenses, followed by Bologna at €850–€1,200.
10 Best Cities to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Italy’s popularity among international students is supported by global education research. According to UNESCO and OECD international mobility data, Italy consistently ranks among the top European countries for international student enrollment, largely due to its public university system, lower tuition fees compared to the UK or USA, and internationally recognized degrees. Italin cities including Milan, Rome, Florence, Bologna, Siena, Pisa, Turin, Venice, Padua, and Trento are known for globally ranked universities, international communities, and diverse academic specializations.
Metro cities in Italy such as Milan is known for business, design, and career opportunities; Rome and Florence attract students interested in humanities, arts, and culture; Bologna and Padua are famous for academic tradition and affordability; while cities like Turin, Pisa, and Trento appeal to students seeking quality education at a lower cost.
Why Italy is a Top Study Destination for International Students?
Italy ranks as a top destination for international students due to academic heritage, public affordability, and global recognition. A European Commission Erasmus+ impact study shows Italy as one of the most chosen countries for exchange students because of program quality and mobility access.
Official Italian education data shows that in the academic year 2023/2024 there were about 132,152 students with foreign citizenship enrolled in Italian universities, doubling since 2009/2010—a trend that highlights growing international interest.
QS World University Rankings highlight Italian universities for research output and subject strength, especially in engineering, arts, and humanities. International students seeking quality education, lower tuition, and international exposure choose Italy over other European countries.
What are the Best Cities for International Students in Italy?
The top 10 cities to study in Italy for international students are mentioned below.
- Milan
- Rome
- Florence
- Bologna
- Siena
- Pisa
- Turin
- Venice
- Padua
- Trento
1. Milan
Milan welcomes the international students seeking top universities and global exposure. The leading world-recognized institutions in Milan include Politecnico di Milano, Bocconi University, and the University of Milan. These universities offer many English-taught programs in business, engineering, design, and economics.
Milan hosts one of the largest international students communities in Italy. The city has a significant number of Indian student studying across public and private universities. Student life in Milan stays active through campuses, internships, events, and shared housing.
Living costs in Milan stays higher as it is the most expensive to live and study in Italy. However, finding part-time work is easier in Milan to manage living expenses. Most international students in Milan usually work at McDonalds or with food delivery companies such as Glovo or Deliveroo. Indian communities, student associations, and cultural groups in Milan support newcomers through guidance and social ties.
Milan is well-connected via public transport. Trams and buses in Milan are functional throughout the day, making it easier for students to move between campus and accommodation.
2. Rome
Rome attracts international students seeking strong academics tied to history, law, and public studies.
The top universities in Rome include Sapienza University of Rome, University of Rome Tor Vergata, and Roma Tre University. These institutions lead in humanities, political science, archaeology, medicine, and social sciences.
Many programs offer English-taught tracks, especially at graduate level.
Student life in Rome blends campus study with museums, public spaces, and cultural events. Living costs in Rome range from moderate to high, depending on distance from the city center. Finding an accommodation feels competitive, since demand stays high near universities. However, compared to Milan, renting an accommodation in Rome is easier.
Rome has a rich cultural diversity, which allows international students to easily merge with the locals. Finding part time jobs in Rome is easier for Indian students to meet their living expenses.
3. Florence
Florence draws around 8,000–10,000 international students each year, according to the European Commission Erasmus+ Study 2022, highlighting its appeal for exchange and full-degree students.
The Florence city is known for arts and design programs offered in English at recognized universities such as the University of Florence and Polimoda, which attract students worldwide. Its rich Renaissance heritage, museums, and cultural events make Florence highly appealing to international learners.
Florence is easier to navigate by foot, with most campuses, libraries, and historic sites within easy reach, creating a compact, student-friendly lifestyle. Living costs remain moderate—lower than Milan, but slightly higher than Rome. International students can easily find a part-time job to balance housing, meals, and transport expense in Florence.
4. Bologna
Bologna ranks as one of Italy’s top study destinations, known for its historic and student-focused environment.
Home to the University of Bologna, Europe’s oldest 938 years old University, the city carries a reputation for academic excellence and tradition. Bologna’s layout and transport favor students, with bike lanes, pedestrian areas, and campus hubs creating a highly student-centric city.
Living costs in Bologna are high, making it the second most expensive city in Italy after Milan, though housing and dining remain slightly more manageable than Milan. The city hosts a strong international community, with students from India, Europe, and beyond forming clubs, cultural groups, and support networks that help newcomers adjust socially and academically.
5. Siena
Siena is one of Italy’s safest and most peaceful cities, attracting international students who prefer a quieter study environment. Siena is home to 780 years old University of Siena that offers strong programs in law, economics, and medicine, with several courses available in English. The city is less crowded than Milan or Rome, apart from the tourist surge in summer, giving students a calm, focused lifestyle.
Living costs in Siena remain lower than major metro cities, and finding student accommodation is generally easier compared to Milan, Rome, or Bologna. Its compact streets, historic charm, and pleasant Mediterranean climate make daily life comfortable and walkable for students.
Siena also supports a small but close-knit international community, helping new students adapt socially and academically. The city of Siena is famous for Piazza del Campo, the city’s central square and a hub of social life. Famous for its shell-shaped design and historic architecture, the square hosts events like the Palio horse race, offering a unique glimpse into local culture and traditions.
6. Pisa
Pisa is internationally famous for the Leaning Tower of Pisa and its historic university, attracting students who enjoy a blend of heritage and modern academics. International students prefer Pisa for its compact campus life, English-taught programs, and strong research opportunities, especially at the University of Pisa, one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious institutions.
At the University of Pisa, about 7 % of the student body is international, according to Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings data. UniPi is popular among Asian students pursuing PhD and research programs due to advanced lab facilities and strong academic reputation.
Living costs in Pisa remain lower than Milan, Rome, or Bologna, making it a more affordable option for international students. Finding accommodation is easier than in bigger metro cities, with university-managed housing and private rentals available near campus. By availaing regional DSU Scholarship, indian students can study and live for free in Pisa throughout their course at University of Pisa.
Public transport in Pisa is reliable, with buses connecting university areas to the city center, and cycling is common for daily commutes. Part-time jobs in Pisa are easy to get, often in hospitality, cafés, tutoring, or research assistant positions, allowing students to support themselves while studying.
7. Turin
Turin’s popularity among international students is boosted by its strategic location and pleasant climate.
Nestled in northern Italy near the Alps, the city offers easy travel to major European hubs like Milan, Geneva, and Lyon.
The weather features mild summers and snowy winters, which appeals to students who enjoy seasonal variety and outdoor activities.
Globally recognized universities in Turin include University of Turin and Politecnico di Torino, offering English-taught programs in engineering, computer science, business, and economics. The city is a cheaper option for living as an international student compared to Milan, Bologna, or Florence, with lower rents and manageable daily expenses.
Renting apartments in Turin is relatively easier, thanks to a balanced housing market and university support services.
Indian students can apply for EDISU need-based scholarships, which help cover living costs while studying in Turin. The city is well-connected by public transport, making it easier for students to navigate without hiring a taxi or private car.
8. Venice
Venice is world-famous as a tourist hotspot, with its canals, historic architecture, and cultural festivals drawing millions each year. Beyond tourism, students choose Venice for its unique study environment, blending history, arts, and international academic programs. Its walkable streets, canals, and safe neighborhoods add to Venice’s appeal, making it both an inspiring and practical choice for study abroad.
Top universities for international student in Venice include Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and IUAV University of Venice, offering English-taught courses in economics, arts, design, architecture, and humanities.
The city maintains a moderate cost of living compared to Milan and Rome, though housing near the historic center can be pricier. Finding a student accommodation is manageable, with university housing and private rentals outside the main tourist areas.
Venice supports a small but active international student community, including Indian students who benefit from cultural groups and social networks. International student in Venice can find part-time jobs available in cafés, tourism services, and tutoring, allowing students to earn while experiencing city life.
9. Padua
Padua attracts international students seeking a smaller-city experience with strong academics and manageable living costs. University of Padua, one of Italy’s oldest and most respected institutions, offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in medicine, science, engineering, and humanities, including English-taught degrees.
Padua, being a safe city for students in Italy, offers lower rent and overall expenses compared to Milan and Rome, making it ideal for students on a budget. Its compact city layout supports a walkable, student-friendly lifestyle, with safe streets and easy access to campus facilities. Padua is best for learners who want a focused study environment, a supportive international community, and affordable living while still enjoying cultural and social activities.
Finding part-time jobs in Padua is a bit difficult for international students. However, need and merit-based sholarships supported by University of Padua help students to meet the living expenses.
10. Trento
Trento is a top choice for international students due to its academic excellence and strong research environment.
The University of Trento ranks among Italy’s best for teaching and research, excelling in sociology, law, cognitive science, and technology.
Known as the “Silicon Valley of the Alps”, Trento hosts research centers like Fondazione Bruno Kessler and Edmund Mach Foundation, linking students to industry and innovation. UniTrento offers numerous English-taught programs, double degrees, and exchange opportunities, attracting a global student body.
Trento city is safe, walkable, and scenic, providing one of Italy’s highest qualities of life. Its medium-sized campus allows close interaction with professors and a dynamic, multicultural learning environment, making Trento ideal for students seeking strong academics in a supportive setting.
What to Consider Before Choosing a City to Study in Italy?
Before choosing a city to study in Italy, international students should consider several key factors mentioned below.
1. Academic Focus: Different cities and universities specialize in certain fields. Milan and Turin excel in business, design, and engineering, Rome and Florence in humanities and arts, while Bologna, Padua, and Trento focus on research and sciences. Choosing a city aligned with your program ensures better resources, faculty, and career opportunities.
2. Cost of Living: Expenses in Italy vary widely from city to city. Milan and Bologna are among the most expensive, while cities like Siena, Pisa, and Trento offer more affordable housing and daily costs. Students should budget for rent, food, transport, and leisure before committing.
3. Accommodation Availability: Bigger cities such as Milan, Bologna, and Florence may have high demand for student housing, making it harder to find affordable apartments. Smaller cities like Siena or Trento usually offer easier access to both university dorms and private rentals.
4. Safety and Quality of Life: Safety, walkability, and local infrastructure impact daily life. Cities like Trento, Padua, and Siena are known for low crime and student-friendly streets, whereas bigger cities require extra awareness in crowded areas.
5. International Community: Cities with larger international student populations provide cultural support networks, language exchange, and easier adaptation. Milan, Rome, and Bologna host the largest communities, while smaller cities have close-knit but active international circles.
6. Lifestyle and Social Opportunities: Consider cultural activities, nightlife, public transport, and social clubs. University cities with vibrant student life, like Milan, Rome, and Florence, offer diverse experiences, while quieter cities like Siena or Trento provide a calm study-focused environment.
7. Language and English-Taught Programs: Availability of English-taught courses affects study options for non-Italian speakers. Most top universities in Milan, Bologna, Rome, and Pisa provide a wide range of English programs, while smaller cities may offer fewer but still high-quality options.
What is the Difference to Live in Milan vs Bologna vs Florence vs Rome as an International Student?
The main differences to live in Milan vs Bologna vs Florence vs Rome for international students is summarized in the table below.
| City | Academic Focus | Budget Required | Lifestyle Fit | Total Cost of Living(€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milan | Business, Design, Engineering; strong industry connections | High; rent and living costs above average | Vibrant urban life, nightlife, internships, international student networks | 950–1,500 |
| Bologna | Research, Sciences, Humanities; oldest university with strong academic tradition | Moderate; slightly lower than Milan | Student-centric city, walkable, vibrant academic community | 800–1,200 |
| Florence | Arts, Humanities, Design; English-taught programs in creative fields | Moderate; lower than Milan, slightly higher than Bologna | Walkable, culturally rich, close to historic sites | 850–1,200 |
| Rome | Humanities, Arts, Political Science; large universities with diverse programs | Moderate to High; housing costs vary by district | Cultural and historical environment, museums, festivals; busy city lifestyle | 900–1,350 |
Which is the Best City in Italy for International Students?
Milan, Bologna, Florence, Padua, Pisa, and Siena are the best cities in Italy for international students. These cities include world-class high-ranking universities providing quality education.
Which Italian City Has the Best Universities?
Italy’s top universities are located in Milan, Bologna, Rome, and Turin, making these cities the best for high-quality education.
Is Italy Safe for Indian Students?
Yes, Italy is generally safe for Indian students, with low to moderate crime levels and strong protections in student areas, though safety can vary by city and neighborhood.
Which is the safest city in italy for international students?
According to Numbeo’s 2025 Crime Index, major Italian cities like Trento, Padua, and Siena rank among the safest for residents and students, with low incidents of violent crime and strong public policing. Cities such as Milan and Rome, while overall safe, have busier tourist zones where petty theft can occur, so students are advised to stay alert in crowded areas and use secure accommodations.
Which City is Cheapest for Indian Students in Italy?
For Indian students seeking affordability, Siena, Pisa, Padua, and Trento rank as the cheapest cities to study in Italy. These cities offer lower rent, modest daily expenses, and easier access to student housing compared to metro hubs like Milan, Rome, or Bologna.