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

Looking for the best areas to stay in Milan? From the charming Centro Storico to the upscale Fashion District and business hubs like Porta Nuova, these are the best districts and hotels in the city.

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

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.


Accommodation Options in Milan

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.


The Best Areas to Stay in Milan: A Summary

If you don’t have time to read the full article, this summarizes our recommended quarters for tourists in Milan. Keep reading to learn more about each of these areas.


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

The City Centre is undoubtedly the best area to stay in Milan
The City Centre is undoubtedly the best area to stay in Milan.

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


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

Located south of the city center, Navigli is a popular area for visitors
Located south of the city center, Navigli is a popular area for visitors.

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.

Where to Stay in Milan: Quarter by quarter

1. Centro Storico

The Best area for Sightseeing

Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Lombardy
Piazza del Duomo, Milan, Lombardy.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the most famous attractions in Milan
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the most famous attractions in Milan.
Centro Storico offers great public transport connections in Milan
Centro Storico offers great public transport connections in Milan.

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

Park Hyatt Milano
Best 5-star hotel
Park Hyatt Milano

Facing the entrance of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Park Hyatt Milano is set in the heart of the fashion district, near the Cathedral and the La Scala Theater. The hotel features free WiFi, a spa, and a gym.

The Street Milano Duomo
Best 4-star hotel
The Street Milano Duomo

Located in the historic center of Milan, just a few steps from the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Duomo, The Street Milano Duomo | a Design Boutique Hotel, offers contemporary-style rooms, free WiFi throughout, and a furnished terrace.

Hotel Gran Duca Di York
Best 3-star hotel
Hotel Gran Duca Di York

Hotel Gran Duca Di York is an artistic establishment in the heart of Milan, set in an 18th-century historic palace with a display of period frescoes in the hall.

London Hotel
Best budget hotel
London Hotel

London Hotel offers a great service in the historic center of Milan, an 8-minute walk from the Duomo. Cairoli Castello Metro Station is just around the corner.

Aparthotel Meneghino
Best serviced apartments
Aparthotel Meneghino

Offering accommodations with air conditioning, Aparthotel Meneghino is located in Milan, 0.8 mi from Duomo Milan. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property.

Castello Guest House Milano
Best B&B
Castello Guest House Milano

Castello Guest House Milano is located in the Milan center and overlooks Piazza Castello Square, a 5-minute walk from Sempione Park.

Ostello Bello
Best hostel
Ostello Bello

Featuring three furnished terraces with hammocks, Ostello Bello is a 10-minute walk from Milan Cathedral. You will receive a free drink on arrival; WiFi is free throughout.



2. Milan Fashion District

The Best area for Upscale Shopping in Milan

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)

Portrait Milano - Lungarno Collection
Best 5-star hotel
Portrait Milano – Lungarno Collection

Portrait Milano – Lungarno Collection has a fitness center, garden, restaurant, and bar in Milan. The property has a 24-hour front desk, airport transportation, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property.

Hotel Manzoni
Best 4-star hotel
Hotel Manzoni

The 4-star Hotel Manzoni is located in the fashionable shopping area of Via Montenapoleone and is a 15-minute walk from the Sforzesco Castle. It offers a well-equipped fitness area, plus elegant rooms with free WiFi.

Velvet Grey Boutique Hotel
Best budget hotel
Velvet Grey Boutique Hotel

Ideally set in the center of Milan, Velvet Grey Boutique Hotel provides free WiFi throughout the property and a terrace. This property is a short distance from attractions such as Duomo Milan and Duomo Metro Station.


3. Milano Centrale Railway Station

Best-Connected District in Milan

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

Hotel Principe Di Savoia - Dorchester Collection
Best 5-star hotel
Hotel Principe Di Savoia – Dorchester Collection

Hotel Principe Di Savoia – Dorchester Collection is steps away from Milan’s Repubblica metro Station, offering a top-floor spa and spacious rooms with classic design and luxury furniture.

AXYHOTELS InnStyle Milano
Best 4-star hotel
AXYHOTELS InnStyle Milano

AXYHOTELS InnStyle Milano is in Milan’s commercial district, just 164 feet from the popular shopping street of Corso Buenos Aires. All rooms offer air conditioning and a 55-inch flat-screen TV. Wi-Fi is free throughout.

B&B Hotel Milano Central Station
Best 3-star hotel
B&B Hotel Milano Central Station

B&B Hotel Milano Central Station offers accommodations in Milan, a 5-minute walk from Milano Centrale Train Station and 0.6 mi from the Porta Nuova district.

Hotel Repubblica
Best budget hotel
Hotel Repubblica

Well set in the Central Station district of Milan, Hotel Repubblica is located a 6-minute walk from Centrale Metro Station.

numa I Loreto Apartments
Best serviced apartments
numa I Loreto Apartments

Numa I Loreto Apartments is a sustainable condo hotel in Milan near Centrale Metro Station. Among this property’s facilities are an elevator, private check-in and check-out, and free Wifi throughout the property.


4. Navigli

A Great Area for Nightlife & Food

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

Magna Pars l'Hotel à Parfum
Best 5-star hotel
Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum

With a central location in Milan, the Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum is a luxury 5-star hotel offering ultra-modern suites with free Wi-Fi. The wellness center features a gym with Technogym equipment and a Turkish bath.

Art Hotel Navigli
Best 4-star hotel
Art Hotel Navigli

In the lively Navigli area of Milan, the Art Hotel features a collection of modern art sculptures and paintings, private internal pay parking, rooms with free Wi-Fi, a mini-bar, and an electric kettle.

Hotel Des Etrangers
Best 3-star hotel
Hotel Des Etrangers

Located 10 minutes from Milan’s Via Tortona area, Hotel Des Etrangers offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. Every morning, guests can enjoy a sweet and savory breakfast.

Hotel La Vignetta
Best budget hotel
Hotel La Vignetta

Hotel La Vignetta offers clean and comfortable rooms with free WiFi access. It is a 10-minute walk from Bocconi University and the Colonne di San Lorenzo area.

VERSOVERDE HOTEL Alzaia Naviglio Grande
Best serviced apartments
VERSOVERDE HOTEL Alzaia Naviglio Grande

Featuring free WiFi and air conditioning, VERSOVERDE HOTEL Alzaia Naviglio Grande is located in Milan, 0.6 mi from MUDEC. The San Cristoforo Church is a 5-minute walk away.


5. Stazione Garibaldi & Porta Nuova

Best Area for Business Travelers

View of Milan's Financial and Business District
View of Milan’s Financial and Business District
Vertical Forest, Milan
Vertical Forest, Milan
Piazza Gae Aulenti is Milan's modern epicenter
Piazza Gae Aulenti is Milan’s modern epicenter

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

Hotel VIU Milan
Best 5-star hotel
Hotel VIU Milan

Offering a rooftop pool with 360° panoramic views, Hotel VIU Milan is located in Milan’s city center, a 10-minute walk from Piazza Ge Aulenti and the fashionable Corso Como area. The hotel has a spa center, sauna, and fitness center.

Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze
Best 4-star hotel
Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze

Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze is in the heart of Milan, near Porta Garibaldi Metro and Train Stations, with links to the Rho Fiera and Expo Exhibition Center.

Hotel San Guido
Best 3-star hotel
Hotel San Guido

Historic Hotel San Guido offers a continental breakfast, air-conditioned rooms, and free Wi-Fi in the entire building.

BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola
Best budget hotel
BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola

BB Hotels Aparthotel Isola is located in the Stazione Garibaldi district of Milan, a short walk from Porta Garibaldi Station and just two metro stops from Milan Central Station. Free WiFi is available throughout.


6. Porta Venezia

Best Area for LGBTQ+ Travelers

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

Credit: Ham II, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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

Worldhotel Cristoforo Colombo
Best 4-star hotel
Worldhotel Cristoforo Colombo

Located on Corso Buenos Aires, Worldhotel Cristoforo Colombo is steps from Porta Venezia Metro Station. It features a spa and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.

Hotel Fenice
Best 3-star hotel
Hotel Fenice

Hotel Fenice is located in Milan’s lively Corso Buenos Aires, just opposite Porta Venezia Metro. The rooms come with free WiFi, air conditioning, and parquet floors.

Hotel Teco
Best budget hotel
Hotel Teco

Teco Hotel is set between the Porta Venezia Train, Metro Station, and Lima Metro Station. It features a snack bar and reception, both open 24 hours a day. The rooms offer free Wi-Fi and a TV with satellite channels.

Ostelzzz Milano
Best hostel
Ostelzzz Milano

Ostelzzz Milano features a shared lounge. Popular points of interest nearby include the Gallery of Modern Art and Villa Necchi Campiglio.


7. Sempione

An upscale and Quiet Area to Stay in Milan

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

City Life Hotel Poliziano, by R Collection Hotels
Best 4-star hotel
City Life Hotel Poliziano, by R Collection Hotels

Strategically located in one of Milan’s most lively districts, City Life Hotel Polizano is a 4-star hotel.

B&B Hotel Milano Cenisio Garibaldi
Best 3-star hotel
B&B Hotel Milano Cenisio Garibaldi

Offering rooms with modern décor, B&B Hotel Milano Cenisio Garibaldi is located in Milan. High-speed fiber optic internet is available in the rooms and public areas.

Hotel Losanna
Best budget hotel
Hotel Losanna

Set opposite the FieraMilanocity exhibition center; Hotel Losanna is a modern 3-star hotel in Milan. It offers free Wi-Fi and excellent public transport links.


8. Città Studi

A Great Area to Stay in Milan

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

Credit: Kiban, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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

Magville
Best 4-star hotel
Magville

Located in Milan, a 13-minute walk from Villa Necchi Campiglio, Magville has accommodations with a garden, private parking, a shared lounge, and a terrace. This 4-star hotel offers a bar.

21 House of Stories Città Studi
Best 3-star hotel
21 House of Stories Città Studi

Boasting a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center, 21 House of Stories Città Studi is conveniently located in Milan and offers free WiFi throughout the property.

Hotel Malta
Best budget hotel
Hotel Malta

Hotel Malta is close to the shopping area along Corso Buenos Aires. Milan Central Station is just two stops away.

Aria Boutique Apartments Farneti
Best serviced apartments
Aria Boutique Apartments Farneti

Offering a garden and a terrace, Aria Boutique Apartments Farneti in Milan is close to Centrale Metro Station and GAM Milano. Among this property’s facilities are an elevator, private check-in and check-out, and free Wifi throughout the property.


9. Fiera Milano CityLife

Best Location for Fairs & Congresses

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

Credit: böhringer friedrich, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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

Meliá Milano
Best 5-star hotel
Meliá Milano

Just a 2-minute walk from Lotto Metro Stop, Meliá Milano offers a free 24-hour gym and spacious rooms with elegant décor. CityLife Shopping District is a 10-minute walk away.

NH Collection Milano CityLife
Best 4-star hotel
NH Collection Milano CityLife

NH Collection Milano CityLife is steps from Portello metro station in the heart of Milan CityLife’s district. The hotel has a restaurant with an outdoor area and features a seasonal pool located on the hotel’s rooftop on the 13th floor. The bar is located at the border of the pool.

Lancaster Hotel
Best 3-star hotel
Lancaster Hotel

Hotel Lancaster is set in a central but tranquil area of Milan, just a 15-minute walk from the city center. Each room is air-conditioned and has a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

Boutique Hotel Calais Milano
Best budget hotel
Boutique Hotel Calais Milano

The Calais offers functional rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom. Wagner Metro Station is 4 minutes away.


10. Loreto & NoLo

Up-and-Coming Area in Milan

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

NH Milano Corso Buenos Aires
Best 4-star hotel
NH Milano Corso Buenos Aires

Located in Milan, a 10-minute walk from Centrale Metro Station, NH Milano Corso Buenos Aires has accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, and a bar. This 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. Guests can have a drink at the snack bar.

Hotel Stradivari
Best 3-star hotel
Hotel Stradivari

Featuring a terrace, bar, and views of the city, Hotel Stradivari is located in Milan, a 15-minute walk from Centrale Metro Station. With a shared lounge, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiF.


11. Malpensa Airport

Best Area for Connecting Travelers

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

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

Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel & Conference Centre
Best 4-star hotel
Sheraton Milan Malpensa Airport Hotel & Conference Centre

Sheraton Milan Malpensa Hotel is located inside Malpensa Airport’s Terminal 1. It offers air-conditioned rooms with a mini-bar and flat-screen TV. A fitness center is also available.


12. Linate Airport

Good Area for Connecting Travelers

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

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

Moxy Milan Linate Airport
Best 3-star hotel
Moxy Milan Linate Airport

Conveniently located a short ride from Milan Linate Airport and Metro Line 4. Moxy Milan Linate Airport offers stylish and pet-friendly accommodations in Segrate with free WiFi.