1. Lake Como:

If you only have one day to escape Milan, Lake Como is the move. Hop on a regional train from Milano Centrale, and in just over an hour, you’ll step into a postcard.

Once you arrive in Como, grab a gelato and stroll the promenade, or—if you’re feeling adventurous—take the funicular up to Brunate for sweeping lake views. Want more? Hop on a ferry to Bellagio, Varenna, or Menaggio, each with its own unique charm.

What to do:

• Take a boat across the lake
• Snap pics of villas that look straight out of a movie
• Chill with locals in quaint piazzas
• Pretend you’re George Clooney for the day

Budget tip: Regional trains are cheap, and ferries between towns are affordable with a student card. Bring snacks and water to save!

2. Verona: Romance & Renaissance Vibes

Only about 1 hour 15 minutes by train, Verona is the dreamy, Shakespearean escape you didn’t know you needed. Yes, it’s the home of Romeo and Juliet, but this city is much more than a balcony.

Explore the cobblestone streets, grab an espresso in Piazza delle Erbe, and climb the Torre dei Lamberti for stunning views. And if you’re here during opera season, the ancient Arena di Verona hosts live performances under the stars. Even if opera isn’t your thing, the experience is unforgettable.

Must-dos:

• Visit Juliet’s house and leave a note on the wall
• Check out the Arena (yes, older than the Colosseum!)
• Wander the historic center, full of cozy shops and street performers

3. Turin: Royal Energy with a Chill Twist

Just under 1 hour by high-speed train, Turin (Torino) is Milan’s cooler, quieter cousin. Fewer tourists, lots of history, and some of the best chocolate and coffee in Italy. Plus, it’s full of student-friendly cafés and museums.

Expect wide boulevards, elegant piazzas, and charming bookstores you could spend all afternoon in. It’s perfect for a cozy, culture-packed day—especially when Milan gets rainy or hectic.

Highlights:

• Visit the Egyptian Museum (second-largest in the world!)
• Sip bicerin (Turin’s signature hot chocolate + espresso drink)
• Chill in the Parco del Valentino along the river

4. Bergamo: Fairytale Views & Peaceful Vibes

Only 50 minutes from Milan by train, Bergamo is often overlooked—and that’s exactly why you should go. The Città Alta (Upper Town) is perched above the newer city, reached by a charming funicular, and surrounded by medieval walls and stone alleys.

It’s like walking through a fairytale. Spend your day eating rustic pizza, walking the city walls, and taking in sweeping views of the surrounding hills.

Don’t miss:

• The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
• A scenic walk on the Venetian Walls
• Local treats like polenta cake

Perfect for a peaceful, budget-friendly day when you want to escape the city crowds.

5. Cinque Terre: Colorful Coastline Dreams

Okay, this one’s a longer trip (about 3.5 hours by train), but if you’re willing to wake up early, it’s 100% worth it.

The Cinque Terre is a string of five pastel-painted fishing villages clinging to cliffs above the Mediterranean. Think postcard perfection meets hiking trails, sea breezes, and seafood pasta that will ruin all other pasta for you.

How to do it:

• Take a train to La Spezia, then hop the local Cinque Terre Express
• Visit all five villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore
• Hike a section of the trail and reward yourself with pesto and beach time

Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen! This is a full-day adventure and perfect if you’ve got visiting friends or family.

Bonus Tips for Student Travelers

• Use your student discount on regional and high-speed trains—just ask when booking or check Trenitalia/Italo apps.
• Book early for better fares (especially for Cinque Terre or weekends).
• Download Omio or Trainline to compare and book trains quickly.
• Pack snacks! Italian trains don’t always have food service.
• Save tickets for expense tracking or if you’re doing a student visa renewal later.
• And yes—charge your phone for all the stunning photos!

Escape, Recharge & Return Inspired

One of the best parts of studying abroad in Milan is that you can hop on a train and, in just a few hours, be in an entirely different world—lakes, mountains, coastlines, castles, and more.

So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed with classes or just need a reset, don’t think twice—escape the city for the day. You’ll come back with fresh energy, a camera roll full of magic, and a deeper love for Italy’s endless beauty.

The post 🌍Easy Escapes from Milan: Day Trips & Weekend Getaways for Students✨ appeared first on Apartments Renting Milan.

New in Milan? Must-Know Tips for International Students

So you’re moving to Milan — exciting! Whether you’re coming for university or an unforgettable adventure, here’s a fun and helpful guide to make your landing smoother.

Milan has it all: stunning architecture, rich history, amazing food and an international vibe . You’ll meet people from all over the world and fall in love with the city’s energy.

Must-See Places
You can’t say you’ve been to Milan if you haven’t seen:
– The Duomo (yes, the one you’ve seen in every postcard!)
– Museums like ArmaniSilos, Fondazione Prada, Museo del ‘900, and Alfa Romeo
– The Castello Sforzesco – Milan’s very own castle
– Stadio San Siro – Home to AC Milan & Inter
– Trendy neighborhoods like Brera, Navigli (perfect for aperitivo ), and CityLife

Weather & Packing Tips
Summer in Milan can get hot!
– May to June: around 65–75°F (18–24°C)
– June to July: 75–90°F (24–32°C)
Bring light clothes, comfy shoes and maybe an umbrella – you never know!

Cultural Differences – USA vs Italy
– Everything is smaller (fridges, beds, even coffee!)
– No free refills
– Air conditioning isn’t always a thing
– Tipping? Only if service was good – not mandatory
– Dates are written DD/MM/YY
– Currency: Euro (€)
– Public transport works great! Use it daily with Google Maps (not Apple Maps )

Getting from the Airport
Just landed? Here’s how to reach your new home:
– Always have your address handy to show the taxi driver
– You can take a taxi, train, or bus – your choice!
– Taxi from Malpensa: €120–€150
– Train from Malpensa: €13
– Bus: €10

Smart Budgeting Tips
Milan isn’t cheap — but with a few tricks, you’ll be fine:
– Plan about $150 USD/week for personal expenses
– Always check for student discounts
– Bring around €200 cash on arrival (don’t bring home currency to exchange!)
– Use ATMs at actual banks — avoid random machines on the street
– You’ll likely pay a foreign transaction fee when using your card, so be aware

Visa Info
If you’re from the US or Canada:
No visa needed, but you can only stay for 90 days in any 180-day period.
(Planning to stay longer? Look into a student visa before traveling.)

Before You Go – Final Tips
Pack light but smart:
– Bring your meds for the entire stay
– Buy your shampoo, soap, etc. once you arrive
– Learn a few basic Italian phrases (they go a long way!)
– Bring a universal power adapter
– Get an Italian SIM card
– Make copies of your passport and documents, just in case

Let Milan surprise you. It’s more than fashion and football — it’s a city full of life, opportunity, and really good espresso.
See you soon!

The post Moving to Milan: What International Students Should Know Before Arrival 🇮🇹 appeared first on Apartments Renting Milan.