An International Universityin the Heart of Italy Study Abroad Programs
An International UniversityAfter you arrive
Future and Current Unicollege students, along with their families, will find valuable practical information upon their arrival in Italy. An orientation booklet tailored to each Unicollege campus will be provided, offering comprehensive details on local resources and pertinent advice. This initiative aims to facilitate a smooth transition and enhance the overall experience for students and their families.
Italy enjoys a temperate climate, thanks to the mitigating influence of the sea and the shielding effect of the Alps against chilling Northern winds.
Nevertheless, there is significant climate variation from North to South: the Alps experience very cold winters, while the South and coastal regions have milder winters. Summers are intensely hot, particularly in the South, and generally dry. Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes that temper the temperature, while mountainous regions offer a pleasantly cool climate.
| Item (€/month) | Florence | Mantua | Milan | Turin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent — single room | €500–700 | €350–500 | €600–900 | €400–600 |
| Rent — shared room | €350–500 | €250–400 | €450–650 | €300–450 |
| Groceries | €180–250 | €160–220 | €200–280 | €170–230 |
| Public transport (monthly) | €25 | €25 | €22 | €23 |
| Mobile plan | €7–15 | €7–15 | €7–15 | €7–15 |
| Coffee (espresso al banco) | €1.20–1.50 | €1.00–1.30 | €1.30–1.80 | €1.10–1.40 |
| Lunch out (menu del giorno) | €10–15 | €8–12 | €12–18 | €9–14 |
| Total monthly estimate | €900–1,300 | €700–1,000 | €1,100–1,700 | €800–1,200 |
> Florence, thanks to its central location in Italy, experiences a humid climate with continental features. This translates to cold winters and hot, humid summers. Autumn and spring showcase a combination of sunny days and rainfall. The city witnesses temperatures ranging from 0°C in winter to 35°C in summer throughout the year. Occasional snowfalls can be expected in winter, and like Milano, Florence is susceptible to heavy fog. Rainfall is moderate, and the winter season tends to be relatively drier compared to other times of the year.
> Milano, due to its geographical location, encounters a humid climate with continental traits, characterized by cold winters and hot, humid summers. Autumn and spring bring a mix of sunny days and rainfall. Throughout the year, temperatures can range from 0°C in winter to 35°C in summer. Winter sees occasional snowfalls, and the city often experiences heavy fog. While there is a moderate amount of rainy days, the winter season tends to be relatively dry compared to other seasons.
> Turin, located in the northwest, shares a similar humid continental climate with cold winters and hot, humid summers. Autumn and spring in Turin offer a blend of sunshine and rainfall. The temperature spectrum spans from 0°C in winter to 35°C in summer. Winter brings occasional snow, and fog is a characteristic feature. The city sees a moderate amount of rainy days, with the winter season exhibiting relatively drier conditions compared to other seasons.
> Mantua, situated in the northern part of Italy, also encounters a humid climate with continental characteristics. The winters are cold, and the summers are hot and humid. Similar to Milano and Florence, Mantua experiences a mix of sunny and rainy days during autumn and spring. Temperature fluctuations throughout the year range from 0°C in winter to 35°C in summer. Winter may bring occasional snowfall, and fog is not uncommon. The city experiences a moderate amount of rainy days, with the winter season being relatively drier than other seasons.
The cost of living and spending patterns can vary significantly based on individual preferences, needs, and the specific location of residence. Therefore, offering advice that universally applies to everyone is challenging. Upon arrival in Italy, it’s advisable to have immediate access to cash for travel, food, and other expenses. Planning for around €200-€250 in cash is recommended to cover initial needs. When exchanging currency, carefully consider the timing to secure the best exchange rate. It’s generally not recommended to carry large amounts of cash unless it’s essential.
Before arriving, meticulously plan your budget, taking into account all anticipated expenses, including unforeseen and emergency costs. The following is a list of potential future expenses that may arise (these figures are approximate and should serve as a general guide):
It’s crucial to be flexible and adjust your budget as needed, considering personal circumstances and priorities. Regularly reviewing and updating your financial plan will help you stay within your means and be prepared for any financial challenges that may arise.
Florence: € 400 – € 750 per month
Milan: € 400 – € 800 per month
Turin: € 350 – € 700 per month
Mantua: € 300 – € 600 per month
The approximate prices of some basic items are listed below (in euros):
€ 100-200 for month, but it really depends on your idea of social life.
Most modern smartphones support eSIMs, allowing you to activate a mobile plan digitally without needing a physical SIM card. You can purchase and set it up online even before arriving in Italy, making it very convenient.
Italian providers and international services offer a variety of data plans, so you can choose one that best fits your needs.
Most banks operate from Monday to Friday, with opening hours from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm and from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm.
To initiate the process of opening a bank account, you must meet the following requirements:
Be of legal age (at least 18 years old). Possess a valid ID or passport. Hold a tax code (codice fiscale). Not be declared bankrupt. Upon signing the contract, the bank will provide you with comprehensive information regarding the terms and conditions of service. Additionally, you will receive the essential bank coordinates required for international wire transfers:
IBAN (International Bank Account Number): an alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies your bank account (comprising a check character, national bank code, branch number, and the account number). BIC (Bank Identifier Code) or SWIFT: necessary for sending money worldwide. Before conducting any transactions, an initial deposit must be made into your bank account. Traveler’s checks, checks, and foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange offices, railway stations, and/or airports.
For emergencies such as police assistance (Carabinieri), State Police, Emergency Health Assistance, and Fire Emergency, dial 112.
The national mail service, “Poste Italiane,” operates from 8 am to 1:35 pm, with extended hours in some locations, especially in Milano, where offices may remain open until 7:05 pm. Stamps can be purchased not only at post offices but also at tobacconists and bars displaying a “T” sign. Certain services, like registered mail, are exclusively available at post offices. In addition to traditional mail services, “Poste Italiane” provides banking services, including checking accounts and pre-paid credit cards. Visit www.posteitaliane.it for detailed information about services, office locations, and timetables.
Various companies offer phone services with different rates based on factors such as the time of day and the type of call.
While most homes have a fixed telephone line, mobile phones are widely popular. Different companies provide mobile phone services with varying rates. These companies offer the option to activate prepaid cards (the most economical choice) or contracts.
To sign up with one of these companies, you’ll need:
Activation of your card typically takes a few hours.
Each city has its own app for tickets, journey planning and real-time arrivals. Buy and validate digital tickets directly.
Food, groceries and pharmacy delivery. Heavy promo codes for new accounts.
Italy runs on WhatsApp — landlords, professors, study groups, tutors, even doctors will message you here.
Postepay is the most-used Italian prepaid card. Satispay is the local mobile-payment app accepted by 300,000+ merchants.
Cheap inter-city coach travel — often beats trains on price for medium-distance trips.
Official Italian government app: tax payments, student bonuses, healthcare communications, public-service notifications.
Moovit handles Italian public-transport schedules better than Google Maps in most cities. Worth having both.
The Unicollege International Office runs orientation sessions during the first weeks of each semester — bank-account walk-throughs, SIM activation, healthcare registration and city tours. If you're already enrolled or about to arrive, get in touch and we'll match you with a buddy student in your campus city.
Contact the International Office