What I Wish I Knew Before Studying Abroad in Milan

• Let’s start with transportation, because optimism will not save you. Milan’s trains, trams, and buses are generally efficient, but they are always crowded. Rush hour is irrelevant; personal space is theoretical. I’ve seen people pressed against doors with nowhere to move, backpacks wedged into ribs, and commuters negotiating inches like it’s a professional sport. This is normal. Accept it early, and your commute will immediately feel less personal and far more manageable.

• In terms of reliability, trains were consistently the strongest performer in my experience. Trams were hit-or-miss, and buses were the weakest link, particularly toward the end of my stay and in certain areas such as Chinatown. Routes changed, detours appeared with little notice, and nighttime service could be unpredictable. The operational takeaway is simple: always have a backup plan. Build buffer time into your schedule, especially if you’re heading somewhere time-sensitive like class, work, or the airport. Ubers are difficult to secure, particularly during peak hours. Taxis are more reliable, but only if you go to designated taxi stands, and yes, there will be a line. Google Maps is your most dependable tool in Europe; it accounts for real-time changes far better than Apple Maps, which I would politely bench for this experience.

• Groceries operate on a completely different rhythm than in the U.S. Italians shop frequently, not in bulk. Grocery stores are everywhere, often just a few minutes from your apartment. If you’re living near Aparto Ripamonti, access will not be an issue. Overbuying is unnecessary and, frankly, inconvenient. You’ll still find yourself stopping in weekly for essentials like bread, eggs, or produce, even if you meal prep. That’s simply how life is structured, and once you lean into it, it feels far more natural than it sounds.

• Getting to the airport deserves its own warning label. If you’re flying out of Malpensa, take the Malpensa Express train. Period. I nearly missed my flight twice by trying to be flexible, and at one point paid €114 for an Uber, an experience I do not recommend. Even if the train requires waiting, it will still be faster, cheaper, and significantly less stressful than scrambling for a car. Learn from my mistakes and default to the train.

• When it comes to travel, plan more within Italy. I traveled extensively across Europe, but in hindsight, I didn’t see enough of Italy itself, and that was a miss. Beyond Milan, Florence, Venice, and Rome, smaller cities are more accessible, more affordable, and deeply rewarding. Italy’s train system makes this easy, but be aware: luggage size and weight limits are enforced. Eight kilograms means eight kilograms. There is no negotiating this point.

A few final operational notes. Carry a reusable water bottle. Expect service charges at restaurants, and know you’ll be asked if you want still or sparkling water every single time. Cards are widely accepted, but cash is still essential for markets, particularly around the canals. Carry a modest amount, enough to be prepared, not enough to stress over. Also, Milan has pigeons, and they are bold. Proceed accordingly.

Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity, but it rewards preparation, not assumption. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and question what you think you know early on. Milan will meet you halfway. The rest is on you.

Best of luck,
Kashaf Iftikhar