Student life in Trento: everything you need to know

Trento is a city that wins everyone over. Compact, safe, clean, surrounded by stunning Alpine landscapes, and home to a world-class university — you'll rarely regret choosing it. If you're considering Trento for your university years, this guide has everything you need to find a place and settle in smoothly.

The university: UniTrento

Founded in 1962, the Università degli Studi di Trento is one of Italy's younger universities, yet in just a few decades it has climbed straight to the top of national rankings for research and teaching quality. With around 16,000 students (including a large international community), it offers top-tier courses in Economics, Law, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, and Sociology.

The campus is spread across several locations in the city center, with some facilities in the neighboring towns of Rovereto and Mesiano.

The best neighborhoods to find a home

Historic Center (Centro Storico)

Trento boasts a gorgeous historic center complete with Renaissance buildings, fountains, and one of Trentino's most beautiful cathedral squares. Living here means having everything at your doorstep — faculties, services, and student life. Rents are on the higher end for Trento. Single rooms go for between €450 and €620.

University Zone & Povo

UniTrento's science hub is in Povo, up on the hills east of the city. If you're studying engineering, math, or physics, this is your spot if you want to skip the daily commute. Single rooms range between €400 and €550.

Piedicastello & Gardolo

These northern neighborhoods are peaceful, well-connected to the center, and offer good quality living at more affordable rates. Single rooms go for between €380 and €500.

Villazzano & Mattarello

A bit further out on the hills but with significantly cheaper rents. Perfect if you have a car or a bike. Single rooms start from €320.

Rovereto

Just a 25-minute train ride from Trento, Rovereto is a great alternative if you want to save on rent and don't mind commuting. Expect lower prices and a highly pleasant city vibe.

Cost of living in Trento

Trento is moderately priced — cheaper than Milan, but slightly more expensive than cities in Emilia-Romagna:

• Single room rent: €350 – €620

• Groceries: €150 – €250

• Public transport: €30 – €45 (monthly pass)

• Leisure & going out: €80 – €180

• University materials: €20 – €50

Estimated total: €630 – €1,145 per month

Getting around

Trento is incredibly bike-friendly. The cycle paths running along the Adige river cross the city from north to south and are among the most scenic in Italy. Getting around on two wheels is hands down the fastest and most enjoyable way to navigate the center.

The local bus network (Trentino Trasporti) is highly efficient, covering the entire city and surrounding areas. A student monthly pass costs around €30.

Trento's train station sits on the Brennero line, offering frequent trains to Verona (1 hour), Bologna (2 hours), and Innsbruck (1.5 hours). It's a strategic hub no matter where you're traveling from.

Student life in Trento

Trento has a vibrant, international student scene. With so many international students around, the vibe is cosmopolitan and inspiring. Student associations are highly active, organizing events, parties, hikes, and cultural initiatives year-round.

But Trento's ultimate superpower is its nature. In just 20 minutes by car you are in the Dolomites; in 30 minutes you can be at Lake Garda. Skiing in the winter, hiking and climbing in the summer — the outdoor lifestyle here is second to none.

Finding a place in Trento: practical tips

Start early. Trento has a competitive rental market for its size. The best rooms near campus get snapped up between May and June for September starts.

Consider Rovereto as a backup. If you need to keep costs down, Rovereto is a fantastic choice. The train to Trento is frequent and the savings on rent can be major.

Plan your Povo commute. If your classes are at the science hub in Povo, check your route. Buses run regularly, but rush hour can slow things down.

Check out Opera Universitaria. This body manages university housing at subsidized rates. Apply as early as possible — spaces are limited and highly requested.

Why choose Stanza Semplice in Trento

With Stanza Semplice, you get single and double rooms in renovated apartments with all bills included and zero deposit. No surprises at the end of the month, no bureaucratic headaches. Just a great, comfortable room designed for students.

Our apartments in Trento are strategically located near the faculties and public transport. Every detail is designed to make you feel at home from day one.

Find your room in Trento and launch your university adventure in one of Italy's most beautiful cities.