Where to Stay in Milan: Best Areas & Hotels for First-Time Visitors

Milan, Italy’s second-largest city, is a global fashion, design, and finance powerhouse. The bustling metropolis is brimming with history and contemporary elegance. It’s an ideal destination for those interested in art, architecture, shopping, and dining. If you’re looking for the best areas to stay in Milan, you’ve come to the right place.

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Accommodation Options in Milan

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Historically significant as a major trade hub thanks to its location between northern Europe and the Mediterranean Sea, Milan has preserved its grandeur through iconic landmarks such as the gothic Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Sforza Castle. The city’s thriving tourism industry offers a variety of accommodation options, from boutique guesthouses to world-class luxury hotels.

In addition to its historical sites, Milan is known for its innovative cultural scene with institutions like Pinacoteca di Brera and the contemporary Fondazione Prada. For sports enthusiasts, a visit to San Siro Stadium is a must. Popular public spaces include Parco Sempione and the Navigli district, which has picturesque canals and cozy cafes.

Though often recognized for its high-end shopping in areas such as Quadrilatero della Moda or Via Monte Napoleone, Milan also offers business centers and charming residential neighborhoods. The city celebrates its cultural importance through events like Milan Fashion Week and the Furniture Fair (Salone del Mobile).

Keep reading this guide to learn about the best areas to stay in Milan, a truly fascinating Italian city.

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What’s the best area to stay in Milan, Italy?

The best area to stay in Milan is the City Center, as it offers easy access to the city’s iconic attractions, such as the famous Piazza del Duomo and the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This area’s rich history and architectural marvels create an unparalleled atmosphere for visitors. You can easily explore world-class shopping, dining, and cultural experiences while staying in the heart of the city. The excellent public transport system also ensures seamless connections to other must-see sites.

Find available accommodation in the Milan City Center.

Best Hotels in Milan City Center

• Best 5-star hotel: Park Hyatt Milano
• Best 4-star hotel: The Street Milano Duomo | a Design Boutique Hotel
• Best 3-star hotel: Hotel Gran Duca Di York
• Best budget hotel: London Hotel
• Best serviced apartments: Aparthotel Meneghino
• Best B&B: Castello Guest House Milano
• Best hostel: Ostello Bello

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Where to Stay in Milan for Sightseeing, Business, or Nightlife

As mentioned above, Milan City Center is the best location for tourists to the Italian city. That said, central Milan is huge, and many more areas offer different vibes and sights. These are some of the best districts to stay in Milano:

• The historic center of Milan, Centro Storico, is ideal for those who want to be in the city’s heart. With its stunning architecture, including the iconic Duomo Cathedral and the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center, there’s always something to see and do. Our favorite hotels here include the Park Hyatt Milano and Aparthotel Meneghino.
• The Milan Fashion District, also known as Quadrilatero d’Oro, is the perfect area to stay in Milan for those who appreciate luxury and designer shopping. This district boasts high-end boutiques, upscale restaurants, and chic bars. The top hotel in the area is the Hotel Manzoni.
• Staying near Milan’s Central Railway Station is an excellent and economical choice. Not only is it one of Europe’s largest train stations, but it’s also a transportation hub for buses and trams. This central location offers easy transportation and budget accommodations, such as B&B Hotel Milano Central Station.
• As one of Milan’s most picturesque neighborhoods, Navigli is built around canals that were once vital for transportation. Today, the area has become a hub for art enthusiasts with its many galleries and vibrant street art scene. A great option here is the Art Hotel Navigli.
• Located in the business district of Milan, Stazione Garibaldi and Porta Nuova are great areas for business and leisure travelers to stay in. The area is well-connected to the rest of the city with public transport and is home to some of the city’s best hotels, including the 5-star Hotel VIU Milan.

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Where to Stay in Milan: Quarter by quarter

Centro Storico is the historical heart of Milan, offering visitors a chance to experience the city’s rich history and stunning architecture.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Vibrant atmosphere
• Historic architecture
• Duomo di Milano
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
• Wide variety of restaurants
• Sforza Castle within walking distance
• Near the fashion district
• La Scala Opera House
• Excellent public transportation
• Luxurious shopping options
• Bustling nightlife scene

Centro Storico di Milano, the historic center of Milan, is a must-visit area for travelers seeking the essence of this vibrant city. Situated in the heart of Milan, Centro Storico has much to offer in terms of history, architecture, and culture. Thus, it is the best area to stay during a first trip to Milan.

The origins of the area date back to ancient Roman times and some parts of the original Roman walls can still be seen today. Centro Storico Milano has been at the core of Milan’s development through various eras.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is the stunning Gothic cathedral, Duomo di Milano. As one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, it stands tall as a symbol of Milanese power and history. A few steps from the cathedral is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century shopping arcade packed with luxury boutiques.

Another notable site within Centro Storico is Sforza Castle, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from Milanese history. Among the exhibits are works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, whose famous mural painting “The Last Supper” can be admired at Santa Maria delle Grazie church nearby.

The area teems with historical sites, designer boutiques, high-end restaurants serving exquisite Italian cuisine, and fashionable bars offering a taste of Milanese nightlife.

Centro Storico boasts excellent transportation connections. Many public transport options, such as M1 and M3 metro lines, converge here at Duomo station. Additionally, it’s well-connected to other parts of the city via numerous bus and tram lines.

In terms of accommodation in Centro Storico Milano, luxury hotels with top-notch amenities prevail, though there are also options for budget-conscious travelers.

Best Hotels in Centro Storico di Milano

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Home to many luxury boutiques and high-ed hotels, the Milan Fashion District is one of the best areas for an upscale holiday in Milan.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• World-famous fashion brands
• Exclusive shopping experience
• High-end boutiques
• Historical architecture
• Close to iconic Duomo di Milano
• Milan Fashion Week events
• Luxurious hotels and amenities
• Wide variety of dining options

The Milan Fashion District, also known as Quadrilatero della Moda, is a prestigious area near the city center. It is recognized internationally as a hub for luxury fashion and high-end shopping. As one of the most important fashion centers in the world, the district has a long history dating back to the late 19th century when it started as an artisan workshop area.

Today, the district is characterized by luxurious boutiques, high-end designer stores, and exclusive showrooms. Some of the most prominent streets within this area are Via Montenapoleone, Via della Moscova, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni. These streets house revered fashion houses such as Armani, Versace, Gucci, and Prada, among many others. The district also features Palazzo Morando, a historic museum showcasing Milanese art and history.

The general ambiance of the Milan Fashion District is sophisticated. It attracts fashion enthusiasts from around the globe who come to admire its stunning window displays and purchase luxury items from renowned designers. The area boasts numerous high-end restaurants and elegant bars.

Regarding transportation options, several buses and trams pass through the district, while nearby metro stations like Montenapoleone (M3) or San Babila (M1) provide easy access to other parts of the city.

As for accommodations in this opulent district, visitors can expect luxurious hotels offering top-notch service and amenities.

Best Hotels in Quadrilatero della Moda (Milan Fashion District)

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Centered around one of Europe’s largest train stations, Milano Centrale offers excellent connections with other Italian and European destinations, as well as many budget and mid-range hotels.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Central location
• Easy transportation access
• Proximity to historic sites
• Abundance of dining options
• Vibrant nightlife scene
• Budget and midrange accommodations

Centrale Railway Station is situated northeast of Milan’s city center. It is a significant transportation hub and an area to consider when looking for accommodation in Milan. As one of the largest railway stations in Europe, it serves around 320,000 daily passengers while connecting regional, national, and international train lines.

Designed by the famous architect Ulisse Stacchini, Milano Centrale Railway Station was officially inaugurated in 1931. The building’s architectural style showcases a blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco elements. The grand façade is adorned with numerous statues.

The station serves as a principal node of Italy’s rail network and connects Milan to major cities in Italy and across Europe. Milano Centrale offers high-speed train services, including Frecciarossa and Italo, which allow passengers to reach cities like Rome, Naples, Turin, Venice, and Florence within hours. The station also serves international trains connecting to cities such as Zurich, Paris, Geneva, Munich, and Vienna.

One prominent attraction near the station is Pirelli Tower (Grattacielo Pirelli), once the tallest building in Italy. Designed by Italian architects Gio Ponti and Pier Luigi Nervi, this modernist masterpiece stands as a prominent symbol of postwar Italian prosperity.

The area surrounding Milano Centrale Railway Station offers a diverse selection of hotels, from luxury properties to budget-friendly accommodations.

Nearby Corso Buenos Aires is a busy shopping street lined with boutiques and bars. As expected, the Centrale Railway Station area boasts excellent transportation connections. You can access various parts of Milan via bus lines and two metro lines (M2 and M3). In addition, Milano Porta Garibaldi Railway Station is located nearby.

Best Hotels near Milano Centrale Station

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Navigli is an enchanting neighborhood famous for its picturesque canals, bustling nightlife scene, and vibrant artistic community.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Rich history and architecture
• Proximity to famous landmarks
• Vibrant nightlife scene
• Wide range of dining options
• Picturesque canals and bridges
• Fashionable shopping streets
• Convenient public transportation
• Art studios and galleries around

Navigli, situated in the southern part of Milan, Italy, is a picturesque district known for its canals, historic bridges, and vibrant atmosphere. The district gets its name (navigable canal) from its main waterways, Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, which were built for transportation and irrigation. Construction of these navigable canals dates back to the 12th century but saw significant development during the Renaissance period under the supervision of Leonardo da Vinci.

Navigli Quarter is home to many art galleries, antique shops, and fashion boutiques lining the streets around the canals. Nightlife in Navigli is lively, with numerous bars and restaurants along the canal banks. The district hosts several events throughout the year, including the popular monthly antique market – Fiera di Sinigaglia – which provides an opportunity to buy vintage items and collectibles.

Navigli’s attractions extend beyond its waterways. Key landmarks like Vicolo dei Lavandai offer glimpses into the daily life of launderers in the 18th century. Also worth visiting is Chiesa di San Cristoforo sul Naviglio, a historic church renowned for its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere.

Navigli is very pedestrian-friendly. The nearest metro station is Porta Genova (M2 line). Additionally, several tram lines (namely 3, 9, and 10) traverse this area.

Best Hotels in Navigli

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Porta Nuova is a trendy and upscale area located near the heart of Milan.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Vibrant atmosphere
• Proximity to Central Station
• Abundance of shopping options
• Easy access to public transportation
• Multitude of dining choices
• Corso Como nightlife
• Modern architecture of Porta Nuova district

Stazione Garibaldi and Porta Nuova are appealing destinations for travelers seeking the best areas to stay in Milan. Situated in the northern part of the city, these areas have become vital hubs of modern Milan.

Stazione Garibaldi is named after its central train station. As Milan’s second-largest station, it offers regional, national, and international trains operated by Trenitalia, Trenord, and Italo. Notable destinations reachable from Stazione Garibaldi include Rome, Naples, Turin, and Zurich. Additionally, the station provides an interchange with two Metro lines: M2 (green line) and M5 (lilac line).

Porta Nuova, translating to “New Gate,” was one of the medieval gates of old Milan; however, today, it has become a thriving business district with distinctive architectural marvels, with modern buildings designed by renowned architects, such as Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) and the UniCredit Tower.

Not far away, Cimitero Monumentale is known for its stunning funerary sculptures and decorative tombs, the final resting place of many prominent Italian figures.

Additionally, the area offers art galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars.

Best Hotels in Garibaldi & Porta Nuova

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Known for its Art Nouveau architecture and LGBTQ+ nightlife, Porta Venezia is a great location for tourists in Milan.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Vibrant LGBTQ+ community
• Stylish bars and cafes
• Proximity to Corso Buenos Aires shopping
• Diverse dining options

Porta Venezia, in northeastern Milan, offers easy access to many popular attractions and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene.

In the early 20th century, this neighborhood was predominantly residential; however, it gradually acquired an artistic and intellectual reputation as galleries, cafes, and bookshops started to populate the area. Today, Porta Venezia hosts Milan Pride events.

The area boasts numerous cultural attractions such as the Public Gardens Indro Montanelli – one of Milan’s oldest parks – that houses both the Natural History Museum and the Planetarium. Corso Buenos Aires, known for its plethora of shops, is a shopper’s paradise in Porta Venezia.

In terms of nightlife, the district offers a variety of bars and nightclubs catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Via Lecco stands out as a hotspot for several well-known gay venues.

Transportation around Porta Venezia is convenient. The Red M1 subway line at Porta Venezia station and tram lines 5, 9, and 33 serve the district.

Best Hotels in Porta Venezia

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Milan’s Sempione Quarter offers beautiful green spaces and attractions.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Vibrant atmosphere
• Proximity to city center
• Scenic Parco Sempione
• Rich history
• Wide range of restaurants
• High-end shopping district
• Sforza Castle

Sempione, located in northwestern Milan, is known for its picturesque parks and historical monuments. The district is adjacent to the city center, making it one of the best areas to stay in Milan for travelers seeking a relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the bustling city life.

The area’s most iconic landmark is Parco Sempione, a vast park established in the late 19th century with pathways amidst beautiful gardens and ponds.

Other attractions in Sempione include Arco della Pace and Castello Sforzesco. Arco della Pace, a grand archway built in the early 19th century, was initially constructed to celebrate Napoleon’s victories. Meanwhile, Castello Sforzesco is a fortress dating back to the 15th century that now houses multiple museums with notable art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Sempione’s transportation options are very convenient. The area is served by several tram lines (lines 1, 10, 61). On the other hand, Milano Cadorna railway station is just a short distance southeast of the park and offers direct connections to Malpensa Airport and regional trains.

Best Hotels in Sempione

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Città Studi is a lively area known for its prestigious universities and vibrant student atmosphere.

Why is this the best area to stay in Milan:
• Vibrant student atmosphere
• Renowned universities
• Affordable accommodation options
• Lively nightlife scene
• Excellent public transportation

Città Studi, located in eastern Milan, is known for its educational institutions. True to its name, which translates to “City of Studies,” Città Studi houses several prestigious educational institutions, such as the Politecnico di Milano and the University of Milan.

The history of Città Studi dates to the early 20th century when the area started developing as an education hub. Today, it is a bustling district where students, researchers, and academics from all over the world converge.

In terms of attractions, Città Studi offers a pleasant mix of green spaces and historic buildings. One notable spot is the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology, where visitors can learn about the life and works of the famous Renaissance polymath. Another point of interest is the Orto Botanico di Brera, a beautiful botanical garden.

Being a student-centered area, you can find several budget-friendly cafes and restaurants.

Regarding transportation options, Città Studi enjoys excellent connectivity with buses, trams, and metro lines (Piola on Line 2 and Lambrate on Line 2).

Best Hotels in Città Studi

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Fiera Milano CityLife is a popular choice for those attending exhibitions and events at the expansive conference center located in this area.

Fiera Milano Citylife is a strategic location in Milan, especially for those attending congresses or fairs. Located in the northwestern part of the city, this modern district is known for its exhibition and conference center and innovative architecture.

As expected, the key feature of the Citylife area is its state-of-the-art convention center, which hosts numerous international events each year, drawing business travelers from around the globe. The iconic CityLife Shopping District is situated nearby; it features upscale shops and boutiques alongside fine dining restaurants.

Fiera Milano Citylife offers contemporary landmarks. Three distinctive skyscrapers, “Tre Torri” or “The Three Towers,” designed by renowned architects Zaha Hadid, Arata Isozaki, and Daniel Libeskind, dominate the skyline. Additionally, the district is home to a contemporary urban park called CityLife Park, which provides a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city.

Regarding transportation options, Fiera Milano Citylife is served by three metro stations: Domodossola (Line M5), Tre Torri (Line M5), and Amendola (Line M1). Additionally, tram lines 12, 14, and 27 also pass through the district.

Best Hotels near Fiera Milano CityLife

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Loreto offers visitors a unique combination of lively markets, historic architecture, and authentic Italian lifestyle.

Loreto and NoLo are located in the northern part of Milan. NoLo, short for “Nord Loreto,” is an emerging district that has witnessed significant development and revitalization in recent years.

The area is praised for its creative and contemporary energy. In this up-and-coming district, visitors can discover an eclectic range of artistic studios, theaters, independent shops, and vibrant street art.

Loreto is home to green spaces like Parco Trotter. Meanwhile, Piazzale Loreto serves as a bustling hub of activity with its numerous cafes and shops.

Both areas benefit from excellent public transportation connections. Two major metro stations connect Loreto on lines M1 (Red) and M2 (Green). NoLo is served by tram lines and buses. Additionally, Milano Centrale train station is within walking distance.

Best Hotels in Loreto & NoLo

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For those flying into Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP), staying near the airport can be convenient.

Malpensa Airport (MXP) is a major international airport located 49 kilometers northwest of Milan. Serving as the largest airport for the Lombardy region and the second-most important in Italy, it is an essential hub for both Italian and international travel. The airport is home to two passenger terminals, with Terminal 1 primarily handling international flights and Terminal 2 focused on low-cost carriers and European routes.

As one of Italy’s busiest airports, Malpensa Airport serves numerous airlines and offers a wide range of destinations. Major airlines, including ITA, Ryanair, and EasyJet, operate at MXP. The airport serves some 190 destinations in 90 countries.

The Malpensa Express train provides an efficient transportation option between Milano Centrale Station or Milano Porta Garibaldi Station and MXP. Alternatively, several bus services also connect the airport with Milan city center.

Best Hotels near MXP

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Staying near Linate Airport is a good choice for those arriving or departing from this airport.

Linate Airport (LIN), Milan’s secondary airport, is located approximately 7 kilometers east of the city center. It mainly handles domestic and short-haul European flights. ITA, Italy’s national airline, and numerous low-cost carriers operate out of Linate.

The airport is easily accessible by metro and bus; Metro Line 4 connects Linate Airport (Linate Aeroporto Station) with San Babila Metro Station in central Milan in roughly 15 minutes.

Best Hotels near Linate Airport

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