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Digital Nomad Guide to Milan, Italy | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Milan, Italy

Digital Nomad Life in Milan, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Milan, Italy because it is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural heritage. It is also a great place to work remotely, with plenty of cafes, co-working spaces, and other amenities. The best neighborhood to live in is Navigli, which is known for its canals, restaurants, and nightlife. The approximate population of Milan, Italy is 1.3 million. The weather in Milan, Italy is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (2-24 Celsius). The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Milan is estimated to be around $1,500-$2,000 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Milan is approximately $1,000-$1,500 USD per month.

Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While

How do I meet people in Milan?

When we asked people living in Milan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Milan is a bustling city with plenty of places to meet people. One option is to join online or virtual communities such as Meetup and Couchsurfing, or to join a hobby or sports related activities like taking a language class or playing a sport. Additionally, you can also attend local events such as markets, exhibitions or festivals to meet locals, make new contacts or just enjoy the atmosphere. Alternatively, many cafes, bars and restaurants provide a great atmosphere to socialize and meet people. Finally, if you are looking for something more structured, consider attending a conference or seminar," said one person in Milan.

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What is life like in Milan?

When we asked people living in Milan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"All of the above, but Milan is generally known for it's work opportunities and faster paced lifestyle compared to the rest of the country," said one person in Milan.

"Life as an expat in Milan is vibrant and dynamic, characterized by a blend of work and leisure. The city offers numerous cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and historical landmarks, alongside a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and restaurants," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

View More Answers

Italian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

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Where should I live in Milan?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Milan can be done through various methods, including real estate agencies, online platforms like Immobiliare.it and Idealista, and social media groups dedicated to housing. It's common to use a real estate agent to navigate the competitive market and handle legal aspects," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

"Finding a suitable place to live in Milan can be a daunting task, but the following tips should help you in your search: -Research online for rental listings in Milan: there are plenty of websites and online databases with a large selection of listings in various neighbourhoods. Short-term rentals might also be available. -Visit the neighbourhood you are interested in living in: this is a great way to get an idea of the local amenities, services and activities on offer, as well as to get a better sense of the atmosphere of the area. -Visit a few properties: it is important to make sure the home meets your requirements before you sign a contract. -Check the lease agreement carefully: check the term of the contract and make sure you understand all the conditions. -Be prepared to act quickly: the demand for rental properties in Milan is high and a good property won’t be available for long," explained one foreigner living in Milan, Italy.

What do I need to know before moving to Milan?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Milan, they said:

"Before retiring in Milan, it's crucial to understand the cost of living, which is higher than in many other Italian cities, particularly for housing and healthcare. Ensure you have adequate financial resources or pension to cover these costs. Also, try visiting the city beforehand to explore neighborhoods and amenities," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

View More Answers

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Milan?

"Expatriates in Milan appreciate the combination of traditional Italian culture and modern amenities. They enjoy the numerous historical sites throughout the city, such as the Duomo di Milano and Castello Sforzesco. Milan's many restaurants and cafes provide an abundance of authentic Italian cuisine and a great place to socialize. The city is also apart of the fashion capital of the world and features world-famous designers. Expats in Milan also enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and music venues. The city has something to offer everyone, from shopping to outdoor activities, so there is truly something for everyone," explained one expat living in Milan, Italy.

Italian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do people find most challenging about the culture in Milan?

"Expats typically find adjusting to a new culture to be the most challenging. Language barriers and adapting to unfamiliar cultural norms can be difficult to overcome. Finding or maintaining a job in a different country can sometimes be complicated due to differences in laws or regulations. Expats can also find it difficult to make new friends and build a support network. Isolation, homesickness, and feeling disconnected from family and friends can also be difficult for expats to deal with. Finally, physical and psychological health concerns can be more difficult to address in a foreign country," remarked one member in Milan.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Milan for a while?

"If you will be in Milan for an extended period, you will need to get a long-term Italian residence permit. This permit usually requires a valid passport, a non-Italian residence permit if you are not of European origin, evidence of the intended purpose of your stay and proof of financial means. Additionally, if you are not a citizen of the European Union (EU), you will also need a visa in order to enter Italy," said one expat who made the move to Milan.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Milan?

We asked people in Milan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"In Milan, the most important thing to remember is to be respectful and polite. It is important to greet people warmly upon meeting them and show them respect; avoid offensive language, rude or brusque behaviour, and interrupting others. In spite of the modern, fast-paced atmosphere of Milan, it is important to be aware of and adhere to the city's strict dress code. Milanese tend to dress more formally than elsewhere in Italy so it is best to opt for conservative clothing when out in public. Also, when visiting churches, it is important to dress appropriately, regardless of gender and to observe any signage indicating different dress codes. Lastly, do not be offended if Italians stick to their own cliques, as it is usually seen as a form of politeness and respect to their own. While engaging in conversations with Milanese, avoid talking too loud as it is seen as an impolite gesture," said one person in Milan.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are healthcare services like in Milan?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Milan, they replied:

"Milan offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city is home to a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of specialized centers for the treatment of specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. Additionally, Milan is home to a number of pharmacies, laboratories, and other medical facilities that provide a range of services, including diagnostic testing, vaccinations, and medical advice. Milan also has a number of specialized centers for the elderly, disabled, and those with chronic illnesses," explained one expat living in Milan, Italy.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are the pros and cons of living in Milan?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Milan often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, excellent cuisine, and convenient public transportation. They also enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces, as well as its proximity to other major cities in Europe. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Milan to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded and noisy. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Italian," wrote one digital nomad living in Milan, Italy.

"People often like Milan for its dynamic lifestyle, rich cultural scene, and status as a fashion and design capital. The city's efficient public transportation, high-quality healthcare, and educational institutions are also appreciated. On the downside, the high cost of living, particularly for housing, can be a significant drawback, and some may find the city's fast-paced, work-oriented environment less appealing compared to the more relaxed lifestyle in other parts of Italy," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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