5 Best Cities to Study Abroad in Italy

Before we start talking about the best cities to study in Italy, let’s go on a tour and get to know this country. Italy has been a center of learning for thousands of years. Home to the oldest university in the Western world (University of Bologna).

From Roman ruins to Renaissance architecture. From volcanic mountains to sunny vineyards, Italy is one hell of a charming country.

It attracts students from all over the world because of its rich culture, history and beautiful natural areas, hence studying in Italy a true experience.

We got to know how to register at an Italian university and obtaining a visa to study. Furthermore, we learned about the costs of studying and living in Italy, and now, briefly here is a trip for you down the best cities to study in Italy!

Table of Contents

Milan, the best city in Italy for international students

Known as the economic and financial capital of Italy. Milan is a modern city and the second-largest city in Italy in terms of population after Rome. Located in northern Italy in the northwestern part of the Po Valley, Milan ranks first in Italy and 22nd among the best student cities in the world.

As one of the largest urban centers in Europe and the International Center for Finance and Business. The city provides students with great opportunities in many industries.

Milan has been a pioneer in fashion, art, industrial design and global architecture since the 1950s and 1960s. Home to many amazing museums and cultural places. The city of Milan is very well-connected to an excellent public transport system, and it is served by three airports to facilitate weekend travel.

Rome, the capital city

The capital of Italy. What more do you need to see? One of the most beautiful cities in the Mediterranean. Rome is located in central Italy, in the Lazio region, on the Tiber River.

Living in Rome is an important part of the university’s experience. Nevertheless, students get the opportunity to study at high-level universities while learning about art, history and culture.

Living in Rome can be undeniably hard at first and newcomers may find it difficult to live in this city, but it is well worth exploring and getting to know.

The public transportation system in this city is improving as new metro lines added. However, the workers continue to discover the ancient ruins along the road. Consequently, making the construction of new lines a bit late.

Discover also our ranking of the best universities in Italy

Pisa, the quiet city

Pisa is one of the richest cities in Southern Europe. The name of this historic city is reminiscent of the Bell Tower, commonly known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of Italy’s most famous landmarks.

For students who are not looking for megacities, the city of Pisa is the quietest and most suitable for them. Pisa is located in Tuscany. Certainly, an experience to remember!

Pisa provides an ideal base for exploring the Tuscany region with its mountains and coast. There are three universities in Pisa and Galileo Airport. So if you’re looking for a place to live and to study in Italy, Pisa is one of the best cities to check out.

It is the birthplace of both the Italian philosopher and astronomer Galileo Galilei, and Leonardo da Vinci who was not only a painter but also cartographer, engineer, botanist, musician, geologist and sculptor.

Bologna, for a prestigious cuisine

One of the most advanced Italian cities. Despite being a small city, you can walk around on foot or by bicycle. Also, there is no metro service in this city.

The public transportation is limited to buses and a train station. Also, rooms in private homes are plentiful and affordable.

Indeed, Bologna cuisine is second to none, meanwhile, this city is famous for its many amazing dishes like Tortellini in Broado and Mortadella Bolognese.

Bologna is distinguished by its university, which is considered one of the oldest universities and among the best universities for studying in Italy.

Padua, a small student-friendly city in Italy

Padua (or Padova) is increasing in popularity among international students in Italy, and for a good reason. In fact, more than 30% of its population are international students, living in a city with a strong sense of community.

Moreover, Padua is the perfect destination for lovers of culture and arts, as well as music enthusiasts. It is famous for its medieval style buildings, its more than 20 museums, its 800-year-old market, the largest piazza and the first university botanical garden: the Orto Botanico di Padova in the country.

Furthermore, the university of Padua, is among the oldest in the world, since its origin dates back to 1222. Hosting more than 60,000 students, the university not only offers quality education, it also provides opportunities for international exchanges. And for its students, Padua also has bike-friendly streets and affordable student housing rents. Did we mention it was one of the best places to study abroad in Italy?