Exploring Milan: the best free activities for students
Milan capital of fashion and design is a vibrant city full of cultural opportunities, perfect for college students. Even with a limited budget, it is possible to enjoy many of the wonders the city has to offer. Here is a list of the best free or low-cost activities for students in Milan.
1. Free or cheap museums
Museum of the Twentieth Century
The Museum of the Twentieth Century , located inside the Palazzo dell’Arengario in Piazza del Duomo, houses a vast collection of 20th-century Italian artworks. With a breathtaking panoramic view of the square and Milan Cathedral, it not only offers a journey through the different artistic currents of the last century, but is also a privileged vantage point over the city.
Over 400 works are collected here, including masterpieces by artists such as Boccioni, Carrà, De Chirico, Fontana and many others. The exhibition itinerary spans several floors, starting from the historical avant-garde and ending with contemporary art.
In addition to permanent exhibitions, the Museum of the Twentieth Century regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, lectures, workshops and educational activities for students and art enthusiasts. Every first and third Tuesday of the month from 2 p.m., admission is free, making art accessible to all.
Brera Picture Gallery
La Brera Art Gallery is one of the most prestigious art galleries in Italy, located in the Brera art district. The gallery is housed in the Brera Palace, which also includes the Academy of Fine Arts, the Braidense Library, the Astronomical Observatory, the Botanical Garden and the Lombard Institute of Science and Letters.
This institution boasts priceless works, including masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, Hayez, Mantegna, and many other masters of Italian and international painting. The gallery is particularly known for its Mantegna’s “Dead Christ” and Hayez’s “Kiss.”
Students from schools of fine arts, architecture and cultural heritage conservation can enter for free by presenting a valid ID. What’s more, every first Sunday of the month admission is free for all, an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in art without spending anything.
Museum of Science and Technology “Leonardo da Vinci”
The National Museum of Science and Technology “Leonardo da Vinci” is the largest science and technology museum in Italy, located on Via San Vittore. Founded in 1953, it is dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci and celebrates his inventions and contributions to science and technology.
The museum houses an extensive collection of models built from Leonardo’s drawings, as well as numerous sections devoted to different areas of science and technology, such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, telecommunications and more. Particularly impressive is the transportation section, which includes historic trains, ships, and planes.
There are many interactive workshops and educational activities aimed at students of all ages that are designed to stimulate curiosity and interest in science and technology, making learning fun and engaging.
Although admission is not free there are discounted rates for students and special promotions throughout the year. You can find offers and special days with reduced or free admission, especially during special events or celebrations.
2. Parks and Green Spaces
Simplon Park
Sempione Park , located in the heart of Milan, is one of the city’s largest and busiest parks. Adjacent to Castello Sforzesco, it offers a unique combination of nature, art and history, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Milan.
Attractions:
- Arco della Pace: Located at the northwestern end of the park, this neoclassical monument is one of the symbols of Milan.
- Civic Arena: an old neoclassical amphitheater that hosts sporting events and concerts.
- Civic Aquarium: a small but fascinating aquarium featuring local marine species. Admission is free every first and third Tuesday of the month from 2 p.m. and every first Sunday of the month.
- Sempione Park Library: a perfect place to read or study outdoors.
Sempione Park is ideal for jogging, walking, picnicking, and sports activities. It often hosts cultural events, theater performances and outdoor concerts, many of which are free.
Indro Montanelli Gardens
I Indro Montanelli Gardens , also known as Giardini Pubblici, are located in the Porta Venezia neighborhood. Founded in 1784, they are one of Milan’s first public parks and offer an oasis of greenery and tranquility in the middle of the city.
Attractions:
- Municipal Museum of Natural History: housed within the gardens, the museum offers an extensive collection of natural exhibits. Admission is free every first Sunday of the month.
- Milan Planetarium: one of the largest planetariums in Italy, it offers astronomical shows and lectures at very affordable prices.
- Pond: a small man-made lake that adds a touch of serenity to the park.
The gardens are perfect for a relaxing walk, jog, or outdoor study. The park also has children’s play areas and numerous benches to sit and enjoy the greenery.
Vertical Forest
The Bosco Verticale , located in the Porta Nuova district, is one of the most innovative architectural projects in Milan. Consisting of two residential towers, the Vertical Forest is covered with more than 20,000 plants and trees, creating a true vertical urban forest.
Attractions:
- Sustainable Architecture: the Bosco Verticale is an example of sustainable architecture that combines innovative design and respect for the environment. It is designed to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution.
- Walk around: the Porta Nuova area has become one of the most modern and lively areas of Milan, with numerous bars, restaurants and stores.
Although it is not possible to enter the buildings themselves without being a resident, it is possible to admire the Bosco Verticale from the outside and stroll through the nearby Library of Trees Park, a large public park with paths, lawns, and play areas.
3. Cultural Events
MiTo SeptemberMusic
The festival MiTo SettembreMusica is an annual event held in September involving the cities of Milan and Turin. A collaboration between the two cities, the festival offers a wide range of classical music concerts, many of which are free or affordable.
The festival program includes symphony concerts, solo recitals, chamber music and choral performances, performed by internationally renowned artists and young emerging talents.
Concerts are held at various venues around the city, including theaters, churches, squares and parks, allowing a wide audience to attend and enjoy the music.
Milan Film Festival
The Milan Film Festival is a must-attend event for lovers of independent cinema that takes place every September and features a selection of films, shorts and documentaries from around the world.
In addition to screenings, the festival offers meetings with filmmakers, workshops, master classes and special events. Many of the activities are free or low-cost, making them accessible to all.
The screenings are held in various locations around the city, including parks, squares and cinemas, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Fashion Week
La Fashion Week in Milan is one of the most important events in the international fashion calendar. Twice a year, in February/March and September/October, the city is transformed into a stage for fashion shows, presentations and fashion-related events.
Although many fashion shows are by invitation only, there are numerous events that are free and open to the public, such as exhibitions, installations and presentations. Many brands also hold pop-up events and temporary stores, offering an immersive experience in the world of fashion.
4. Other Activities.
Navigli
The Navigli is one of the most picturesque areas of Milan, characterized by canals, restaurants, bars and craft stores. Every last Saturday of the month, the Antiques Market enlivens the area with stalls selling vintage items, books, clothes and more.
Attractions:
- Darsena: Milan’s recently redeveloped old harbor is a perfect place to stroll and relax.
- Washerman’s Alley: an atmospheric corner where washerwomen once washed clothes in the canal.
Open Universities
Major universities in Milan, such as the University of Milan and the Polytechnic, regularly offer lectures, seminars and workshops open to the public. These events are often free and cover a wide range of topics, from science to literature, from economics to art.
Churches and historical monuments
Milan is rich in churches and historical monuments that are worth a visit. Besides the famous Milan Cathedral, there are many other lesser-known but equally fascinating churches and monuments.
Duomo di Milano: Admission to the cathedral is free, but you can purchase a ticket to climb the terraces and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore: Known as the “Sistine Chapel of Milan,” this Renaissance church is famous for its spectacular frescoes and tranquil atmosphere.
Conclusion
Milan offers a wide range of free or low-cost activities that allow students to explore the city without emptying their wallets. Whether you are into art, nature, music or culture, you are sure to find something interesting to do.
In addition, our In-Domus student residences are well connected and allow you to move around the city easily.
Enjoy your exploration!
