Best Areas to Stay in Milan: Complete Neighborhood Guide

Milan stands out as one of the most stylish cities globally, if not the foremost. Renowned for its avant-garde fashion trends and as a hub for some of the world’s most distinguished designers, Milan is truly unique. Serving as the global capital for fashion and various forms of design, it is an essential destination for enthusiasts of fine art, architecture, and creative expression.

With such rich artistic flair and individuality, the neighborhoods within Milan reflect a diverse character. From the high-fashion industrial buildings of Zona Tortona to the vibrant coffee culture of Porta Venezia, Milan has something for every visitor.

Undoubtedly, many tourists will wish to explore the city’s cultural and historical treasures. The Milan Cathedral is celebrated as one of Europe’s most remarkable Gothic cathedrals, while the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II transports visitors back to the 1800s.

The world-renowned painting ‘The Last Supper’ can be viewed at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie convent located in Piazza di Santa Maria. Regardless of one’s views on art or religion, this piece is undeniably a masterpiece.

Now, let us examine the best places to stay in Milan.

Brera

As the artistic nucleus of Milan, Brera provides an excellent choice for those with limited time or for those who revel in the romance of city life.

The streets of Brera are adorned with numerous artisanal boutiques offering everything from locally crafted wines to exquisite oil paintings. For those wishing to take home a piece of Milan, it is advisable to explore the offerings present in Brera.

In terms of architectural significance and cultural attractions, Brera abounds. From the Accademia di Belle Arti to the Museo Astronomico, each corner holds remarkable discoveries.

As the primary tourism center of Milan, Brera can sometimes feel somewhat bustling, particularly during the peak summer months. Visitors can find solace in the Giardino Botanic, an inner-city oasis founded in 1775 that continues to exude historic charm.

Good For: Art Enthusiasts, History Aficionados, Urban Explorers, Couples, Culture Seekers, Families, Senior Travelers: All Types of Visitors

Neighborhood Highlights: Museo del Risorgimento, Osservatorio Astronomico di Brera, Brera Botanica Garden, Teatro alla Scala, Piazza dei Mercanti, Pinacoteca di Brera, Museo del Novecento, Museo Poldi Pezzoli, Sforzesco Castle

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Milano Scala – A carbon-neutral establishment located in the heart of Brera. Each room boasts a unique style and decor while offering similar luxurious amenities, including a private ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, and a spa bath. The hotel’s boutique ambiance combines fashion with comfort. Breakfast is included.
• Brera Prestige B&B – Situated just 250 meters from Sforzesco Castle and the nearest metro station, Lanza Metro Stop. All rooms are spacious, bright, and decorated in calming, neutral tones. Options include both deluxe rooms and junior suites, each equipped with private ensuite bathrooms, hairdryers, and complimentary toiletries.
• Castello Sforzesco Suites by Brera Apartments – This property exudes a calming and warm atmosphere. Every suite is modern, minimalist, and exceptionally stylish. Guests enjoy complimentary WiFi and air conditioning throughout the premises, with maid service available daily. Each suite comes with an ensuite bathroom and basic kitchen facilities.

Porta Nuova

A neighborhood that has experienced significant urban regeneration over the past decade, Porta Nuova is a concrete oasis for city dwellers. For those eager to embrace modern Milan in all its splendor or explore some of the city’s trendiest boutiques, Porta Nuova is the optimal place to stay.

For culinary enthusiasts, Porta Nuova is undoubtedly the premier location within Milan. The recent urban development has led to an influx of diverse restaurants ranging from traditional Italian pizzerias like Carlsberg Øl, to the comforting cuisines of Bianco Latte, alongside international delights such as Parco Sushi & Sashimi, providing ample choices for diners.

Located just north of the dynamic Brera neighborhood, Porta Nuova serves as an ideal home base for urbanites looking to absorb the city’s vibrancy while also appreciating its more traditional elements.

Good For: Architecture Aficionados, Backpackers, Urban Explorers, Couples, Culture Seekers, Gourmets, Nightlife Enthusiasts, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Indro Montanelli Park, Spazio Krizia, Palazzo Dugnani, Porta Garibaldi, The Mall, Case Bonaiti e Malugani, Agenzia delle Entrate

Hotel Recommendations:

• ME Milan II Duca – Featuring a stunning rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Milan’s skyline. Each room showcases a modern and chic design, including private ensuite bathrooms adorned with bright marble. The hotel hosts a bar and DJ sets every evening.
• Hotel Cervo – A remarkable mid-range establishment located in the heart of Porta Nuova. Rooms feature plush carpets and comfortable bedding, ensuring a pleasant stay. Each room includes private bathrooms equipped with shower cubicles and complimentary toiletries. Free WiFi is available throughout.
• Antica Locanda Solferino – Nestled on the boundary of Brera and Porta Nuova, this hotel allows guests to enjoy the best of both areas. Rooms are cozy and exude classic Italian decor. An extensive selection of Sky channels is available on large-screen TVs in all rooms, along with WiFi and a delightful breakfast.

Chinatown

Although Milan’s Chinatown may lack the flamboyance or vibrancy present in cities like London or Sydney, it is teeming with cultural experiences, particularly in terms of culinary offerings. For gastronomy enthusiasts who were intrigued by Porta Nuova, Chinatown presents a myriad of delightful options.

While Milan is known for its Michelin-starred Italian restaurants, Chinatown offers an array of hidden gems along and around Via Paolo Sarpi, featuring not only Chinese cuisine but also various Asian culinary traditions. From quaint dim sum spots to upscale dining establishments like Wang Jiao, there is much to explore in Milan’s Chinatown.

To immerse yourself in the diverse artistic culture of Chinatown, consider visiting La Fabbrica del Vapore – Comune di Milano. This renovated tram factory has transformed into an impressive shared art space.

Good For: Art Enthusiasts, Backpackers, Budget-conscious Travelers, Urban Explorers, Couples, Culture Seekers, Food Lovers, Digital Nomads, Local Experience Seekers, Long-term Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Chinese Restaurants along Via Paolo Sarpi, La Fabbrica del Vapore – Comune di Milano, Monumental Cemetery, Porta Garibaldi

Hotel Recommendations:

• Leonardo Hotel Milan City Centre – This hotel provides a range of air-conditioned ensuite rooms situated in the heart of Chinatown. A highly satisfactory buffet breakfast with gluten-free options is served. Guests are welcome to relax at the on-site bar or the outdoor terrace.
• Garibaldi Apartment – Paolo Sarpi 8 – An ideal accommodation for long-term visitors seeking a home-like setting in Milan. This apartment includes a cozy living area, basic kitchen facilities, and a bedroom. It comfortably accommodates two travelers while also providing an additional sofa bed for two more guests.
• Concoct Milano – The holiday rental complex features options to suit every budget. From luxurious double rooms with garden views to spacious one-bedroom apartments, including a premium one-bedroom option with a private garden. Each accommodation has air conditioning, WiFi, and complimentary toiletries.

Porta Romana

This neighborhood is home to some of Milan’s most affluent residents. Despite its wealth, Porta Romana retains a rustic charm and offers a welcoming ambiance. Although it may not exhibit the refinement of Brera, Porta Romana is nonetheless captivating.

Frequent inquiries from the travel press about whether Porta Romana is Milan’s trendiest neighborhood underscore its growing popularity. For contemporary travelers eager to explore an emerging hotspot before it becomes widely frequented, Porta Romana is an excellent lodging choice in Milan.

A variety of chic cocktail bars await exploration, allowing guests to enjoy a drink while observing the city life.

This area was historically a distillery complex that has been transformed into a stylish and walkable district, making it a must-visit in Milan.

Good For: Trendy Travelers, Budget-conscious Travelers, Urban Explorers, Couples, Culture Seekers, Food Lovers, Digital Nomads, Local Experience Seekers, Long-term Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Chic Cocktail Bars, Museum of Engineering, Nina Lumer Gallery, Piazzale Libia, Fondazione Prada, Teatro Carcano Centro d’arte Contemporanea, Giardino Marcello Candia

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Five – A modern and minimalist hotel close to Bocconi University in Porta Romana. Rooms are soundproofed, equipped with air conditioning and WiFi. An impressive American-style breakfast buffet is included in some room rates. The hotel is just 50 meters from Porta Romana Metro Station.
• UNA Hotel Mediterraneo – This value-oriented hotel in central Porta Romana includes unlimited WiFi and a generous breakfast buffet in its room rates. Each room offers a comfortable double bed, ensuite bathroom, and flat-screen TV, all in a modern and bright layout.
• Hotel Porta Romana – A comfortable mid-range hotel providing amenities like free internet access in the lobby and air conditioning throughout. The complimentary buffet breakfast adds substantial value. Rooms, although basic, are clean and comfortable, with family and single accommodations available.

Isola

Originally an isolated section of Milan, Isola has become extremely trendy. Having recently garnered significant attention and investment, this neighborhood is now essential to modern Milan.

Thanks to the purple metro line, access to Isola has improved significantly, allowing visitors and long-term residents to experience local life while remaining just minutes away from Milan’s historical attractions. What is there not to appreciate?

Isola is becoming increasingly popular with a youthful and vibrant community, making it an ideal location for digital nomads and long-term visitors seeking to balance tourist highlights with local living.

The local coffee culture thrives alongside a lively nightlife scene. Isola’s architectural aesthetics are impressive, capturing the hearts of aspiring designers and urban photographers alike.

Good For: Architecture Enthusiasts, Trendy Travelers, Budget-conscious Travelers, Urban Explorers, Couples, Culture Seekers, Food Lovers, Digital Nomads, Local Experience Seekers, Long-term Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Bosco Verticale, Kasa dei Libri, Galleria d’arte Lucie Fontaine, Brand New Gallery, The Don Gallery, Blue Note Milano, Santa Maria alla Fontana, Foundry Napoleonic Eugenia

Hotel Recommendations:

• BB Hotel Aparthotel Isola – This establishment is perfect for travelers requiring extended stays in Milan, offering spacious split-level apartments with a spiral staircase leading to the bedroom and living area. Each apartment includes basic kitchen facilities and private bathrooms.
• Hotel Zara Milano – This hotel provides a classic Italian breakfast included in the room rate. Free WiFi and on-site parking augment its attractiveness. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s garden or bar. All rooms feature comfortable double beds and ensuite bathrooms.
• AC Hotel Milano, a Marriott Lifestyle Hotel – Centrally located in Isola, this hotel has excellent transport links to the city center. Its modern rooms boast minimalist furniture and ample space. An impressive fitness center is available for guest use, and breakfast is included in select rates.

Porta Venezia

Porta Venezia stands as one of the historical highlights within central Milan. The existing gate dates back to the 19th century, yet its origins trace to the Medieval period, and even earlier.

In Porta Venezia, a harmonious blend of historical and modern Milan thrives. Visitors can shop at contemporary outlets like H&M alongside ancient treasures such as Palazzo Serbelloni.

Additionally, Porta Venezia is considered one of Milan’s top neighborhoods for shopping. The area features elite high-street brands like Zara and Foot Locker, alongside an extraordinary array of second-hand, high-fashion items. It’s possible to procure previously runway items at discounted prices.

After a day of shopping, the Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli offers a tranquil place for relaxation.

Good For: Art Aficionados, Urban Explorers, Culture Seekers, Food Enthusiasts, Shopping Enthusiasts, Fashion Lovers, Whistle-Stop Travelers, Luxury Travelers: All Types of Visitors

Neighborhood Highlights: Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, Palazzo Serbelloni, Casa Guazzoni, Porta Venezia Gate, Palazzo e Torre Rasini, Villa Invernizzi, Natural History Museum, Palazzo Luraschi, Berri Meregalli S House

Hotel Recommendations:

• Worldhotel Cristoforo Colombo – A bright, luxurious property situated in the heart of Porta Venezia. Most rooms feature ornate, traditional styles, while some benefit from modern renovations. All rooms include private ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries provided by Roberto Cavalli. The hotel features an Italian restaurant and a luxury spa complex.
• Eurohotel – Set in a stunning 1920s building located in the center of Porta Venezia. The hotel has a boutique feel along with a fitness room and spa center. All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and WiFi. Breakfast is included in some room rates.
• Hotel Fenice – A contemporary, bright hotel directly opposite Porta Venezia Metro. Each room has a private ensuite bathroom, with either a bathtub or a shower cubicle. All rooms feature air-conditioning and complimentary WiFi. A hearty breakfast is included.

Zona Tortona

Fashion enthusiasts will likely be familiar with Zona Tortona, as it serves as the venue for both Milan Design Week and Milan Fashion Week. Fortunately, this neighborhood is well-prepared for the influx of visitors during these weeks.

For those attending the design or fashion events, it is advisable to secure accommodation well in advance.

Regardless of attendance at scheduled events, Zona Tortona remains an exciting and vibrant locale to stay in Milan. Thanks to design week and fashion week, numerous upscale dining and cocktail venues flourish, catering to those with discerning tastes.

A key attraction year-round in Zona Tortona is Armani Silos, a four-story museum showcasing the works of renowned fashion designer Giorgio Armani.

Good For: Art Enthusiasts, Urban Explorers, Culture Seekers, Food Lovers, Shopping Enthusiasts, Fashion Lovers, Luxury Travelers: Visitors During Fashion Week/Design Week

Neighborhood Highlights: Milan Fashion Week, Milan Design Week, Armani Silos, Mudec Museum of Culture, BASE Museum, Giardino Vincenzo Muccioli, Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci

Hotel Recommendations:

• Nhow Milan – A modern hotel located in the heart of Zona Tortona that exudes a vibrant hostel-like atmosphere. The hotel showcases a remarkable collection of contemporary art. Each room boasts unique designs with stylish finishes and includes complimentary toiletries, slippers, and plush bathrobes in ensuite bathrooms.
• Hotel Magna Pars – A luxurious 5-star establishment ideal during Fashion Week, offering lavish, modern suites that surpass expectations in comfort. A superb breakfast is included in the room rate, with room service available.
• Atmos Luxe Navigli – A boutique hotel situated along the border of Zona Tortona and Navigli, offering both private ensuite rooms and hostel-style communal accommodations. A communal lounge and kitchen are available, and breakfast can be requested for a fee, with complimentary WiFi throughout.

Central Station Area

Milan is a bustling metropolis well-connected to virtually every major city in Europe via bus or rail. Due to its relatively higher costs, Milan often serves as a quick stopover for backpackers and interrail travelers.

If you are budget-conscious or planning a brief stay in Milan, the Central Station Area offers a sensible lodging choice. Guests can benefit from reduced taxi fares and proximity to key tourist attractions.

While the Central Station neighborhood leans towards functionality compared to places like Brera, its transportation hub nature allows for quick access to desired destinations. Notably, hotspots like Milan Cathedral and Piazza Della Scala are within less than an hour’s walking distance.

Good For: Budget-conscious Travelers, Backpackers, Urban Explorers, Culture Seekers, Whistle-Stop Travelers

Neighborhood Highlights: Boschi Di Stefano Museum-Home, Arcobaleno Film Center, Elfo Puccini, Porta Venezia, Civico Planetario Ulrico Hoepli, Berri Meregalli House, Brera

Hotel Recommendations:

• Hotel Michelangelo – Located in a striking, towering building just 50 meters from Milano Centrale Train Station, this hotel features soundproofed rooms with many offering city views. Each room comes equipped with a Smart TV, free minibar, and complimentary WiFi. Breakfast is included in select room rates, and parking options are available.
• NYX Milan – A contemporary hotel situated a mere three-minute walk from Milano Centrale Train Station. All rooms are fitted with 40” flat-screen TVs, ensuite bathrooms, and complimentary toiletries. The hotel’s Clash bar provides a welcoming atmosphere for guests to meet and socialize. There are both single and triple room options available, as well as doubles.
• Spice Hotel Milano – This modern, urban-style hotel is located just a five-minute walk from major transport links. Rooms are stylish and spacious, equipped with essential amenities including ensuite bathrooms, WiFi, and televisions. The staff is dedicated to assisting guests with their needs.