Where to stay in Milan? Your Guide to Best Neighborhoods

The Northern Italian city of Milan is one of the most important global fashion hubs and each year in September or October, converts to the center of the fashion world for a few weeks. However, Milan has a lot more to offer than just fashion designers and catwalks.

It is full to the brim with historically significant buildings and museums as well as contemporary artists, restaurants, cafes and bars.

Today, it is Italy’s second-biggest city and attracts tourists from all walks of life with something to do and somewhere to stay for every kind of person! In fact, this amazing city is divided in many neighborhoods offering different vibes, attractions and accommodation prices.

This means that Milan is for everyone and in this guide, I will be going through the best places to stay in Milan depending on what type of traveler you are! As always, I have chosen only the properties with the best reviews, just make sure you book them in advance since this is one of the most tourist cities in the whole of Italy!

Are you ready? Let’s go!

If you’re in a hurry…

If you are in a rush and don’t have the time to read the article, I will start off by providing a very quick overview of some great accommodation choices, all located in central Milan:

Which area should you choose?

Due to this diverse and dynamic personality that Milan has, there are several neighborhoods across the city that might suit you depending on your tastes. I am going to briefly explain some of the most important neighborhoods to stay in to help you make the most of this where to stay in Milan guide!

Most of these neighborhoods are located in the Centro Storico area of Milan which is represented by the ring road that skirts the city centre.

1. Duomo – for first-time visitors
2. Porta Romana – on a budget
3. Brera – for fashion
4. Navigli – for nightlife
5. Porta Venezia – for families
6. Fiera – for soccer
7. Citta Studi – for young travelers

1. Duomo di Milano – where to stay in Milan for the first time

The Duomo district in the historic center (Centro Storico) is the beating heart of Milan. It is the home of such iconic attractions as the Milan Duomo Cathedral, Teatro Alla Scala, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and more.

It is certainly the tourist center of Milan and you will find the crowds and prices to match. However, it is absolutely breathtaking and is everything you could hope for in a romantic Italian city.

Here it is also where you will find spectacular Italian cuisine, buildings steeped in history and some of the best hotels! So here is my where to stay in Milan, Duomo accommodation guide!

Luxury (US$300 and up)

Due to its prominence on the international fashion scene, Milan, at times, is an ultimate luxury destination. It is home to some of the world’s leading brands and is known for quality and luxury. This means there are plenty of 5-star hotels in Milan, Italy and here are my favorites in Centro Storico!

• Park Hyatt Milano – An experience in luxury, the Park Hyatt is a 5-star hotel and it shows. Everything from the lobby to the entrance of the hotel and the 2 Michelin starred restaurant screams luxury. The property is located very nearby the Duomo is extremely central. All rooms have air conditioning and free wifi!
• The Street Milano – This is simply one of the top hotels in Milan! Located just few steps from the Duomo (therefore also nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and Teatro Alla Scala), this boutique hotel offers contemporary-style rooms, free WiFi throughout, and a furnished terrace.

Middle-Priced (From US$250 to US$300)

If you want a hotel in Milan city centre but don’t want to break the bank, then this might just be for you. Although the prices in the Duomo district can be higher, you can find some great deals and not have to compromise on location!

• HeMi Luxury Suites – Again located just to the south of the Duomo di Milano is HeMi. The property has well-appointed rooms, a shared terrace and garden and offers a daily breakfast! One of my favorite places to stay in Milan simply because the rooms are so decadent and the location is great!
• B&B Hotel Milano City Center – A great choice to stay in Milan, this great B&B is located in the heart of Milan Centro Storico and offers guests extremely modern decor, well-appointed rooms that will make you feel warm and welcome throughout your stay. You will enjoy for sure the delicious continental breakfast!

Budget (Up to US$220)

It is certainly a challenge finding cheap hotels in Milan Duomo city center area, however, it is possible! Luckily for you, I’ve done the hard work for you. So cast an eye on these great accommodation options!

• Duomo Hotel & Apartments – With a convenient location just 240 m from Milan Cathedral and at the heart of the commercial and financial districts, this hotel features modern rooms that come with free wifi, a dining area and a fully-equipped kitchenette, so will allow you stay in comfort and be near the key attractions!
• Torino48 Guesthouse – If you’re looking for budget accommodation with a great location in central Milan, stop here! This small and cozy hotel has easy access to everything you need: Duomo, major museums, churches, Naviglio Grande and metro station, plus the host is really helpful!

Things to do in Duomo:

• Explore the Milan Duomo on a self-guided tour!
• Attend an amazing show at the Teatro Alla Scala
• Walk around the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
• Uncover Milan’s hidden gems with this private tour!

2. Porta Romana – where to stay in Milan on a budget

Located south east of the central Duomo (and still very close to it), you will find Porta Romana, named after the old Roman-era gate to the city, an mpressive and beautiful monument that you should definetely see if you decide to stay here!

This is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Milan, where most of the locals hangout during the day. In fact, this area is full of restaurants, bars and cafes, where you can try the authentic italian food and aperitivo!

This district is an eclectic mix of Milan’s new and old with artists and hipsters mixing it up with Milan’s wealthiest. The result is amazing and means you can find something to amuse and excite everybody. It also means that this district is home to some of the best hotels in Milan city center and the best thing is that you find many affordable options!

Luxury (US$270 and up)

As I mentioned, Porta Romana is home to some of the city’s wealthiest residents. It’s proximity to the Centro Storico also means that is a preferred destination for the rich and famous when they visit, so finding luxury accommodation is very fun! Here are some of my favorites!

• Grand Visconti Palace – The Grand Visconti Palace is just that: a palace. The rooms with air conditioning are more like suits, the indoor pool surrounded by marble and with gardens views is majestic and the Milanese food served on the top floor restaurant is exquisite. There is also a spa, Turkish bath and massive garden on the property! This is where to stay in Milan if you want some luxury!
• NH Collection Milano President – Allow yourself to have a completely luxurious experience in this great 5-star hotel, featuring elegant and contemporary rooms (some of them with views of the cathedral), and an onsite restaurant offering typical Milan-style dishes, and generous breakfast buffet served daily!

Middle-Priced (From US$160 to US$250)

• 10 Keys Milano – You will definitely love this 4-star hotel: the rooms come with a coffee machine and a kettle, a nice design, and a very comfortable bed. Other pluses? The option of a sauna in the shower, the delicious breakfast and the super friendly staff!
• Cà Bèla Porta Romana – This great guest house has some great facilities like a shared kitchen and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms themselves are spacious and bright, and the location is great too as it is on the quieter side of Porta Romana!

Budget (Up to US$110)

• Hotel Palladio – Set in a stunning 100+ year-old building, Hotel Palladio will impress upon entry. The feeling will continue as you ascend the antique elevator or marbled staircase into the very spacious rooms. The decor leaves a little to be desired but the sheer size of the room will more than make up for it!
• Hightown Hostel – Find the best value for price in this hostel featuring family rooms, free wifi throughout the property and a cool bar. A plus? The staff is super friendly!

Things to do in Porta Romana:

• Do some alternative shopping in the picturesque shops!
• Attend an art exposition at the Fondazione Prada center
• Relax in the city at the QC Terme!

3. Brera – the coolest area for fashionistas

If you really want to feel luxurious during your stay in Milan, then Brera is a great choice, especially if you’re visiting for Fashion Week!

Brera has been a top Milan district to stay in for years owing much of its popularity to the fashion world and more specifically its proximity to Fashion Week venues! In the former bohemian district, you’ll find many luxury shops and might even see some famous faces at the numerous bars. 

Unfortunately, Brera is not suitable for budget travelers as it’s here where you will find the best luxury hotels in Milan, fashion boutiques, luxury shopping arcades and top restaurants. For this reason, this section will not include a middle-priced or budget suggestions part as there are simply no hotels in those ranges.

Luxury (US$300 and up)

• Locanda Pandenus Brera – Classy, stylish, elegant and homely all that same time, Locanda Pandanus is a great choice to really soak up the wonder that is Brera. The rooms are decorated specifically for the area and feature some fantastic art installations and pieces. The lounge has a fireplace and the restaurant a Michelin star!
• Grand Hotel et de Milan – Probably featured in every Milan where to stay guide ever, The Grand is, in my opinion, one of the top luxury hotels in Milan, Italy. The 5-star venue has multiple restaurants and bars, a high-tech fitness center and the rooms are adorned with 18th-century furniture. It is perhaps the best hotel in Milan!
• Manadarin Oriental Milan – Another 5-star decadent entry is the Mandarin Oriental, well-located within the fashion district. Set in across five 18th century buildings, it is truly out of a fairytale! The rooms are marbled and all come with luxurious features such as a Nespresso machine. There are multiple bars and restaurants that offer top-quality Italian cuisine close by.

Things to do in Brera:

• Go to the Sunday market for art and fashion goods!
• Visit the Pinacoteca de Brera museum
• Have an aperitif at the trendy Fashion Café!
• Enjoy the shows of Fashion Week

4. Navigli – best neighborhood for nightlife and romance

The youth culture and party heart of Milan, Navigli is located in the south of the Centro Storico and really close to the only two remaining canals that were used in the past for transporting goods and people around the city, much like in Venice.

In addition to being the home of lots of culture, life and dining which is great for young people, Navigli can at times be a quiet and picturesque area. Its aperitivo scene faces the water meaning it can be a great romantic destination for couples too! 

Note: The prices are surprisingly high in Navigli despite the youth culture, so the budget parameters have been adjusted.

Luxury (US$300 and up)

• Magna Pars l’Hotel – Are you ready for this amazing accommodation option? With a central location in Milan, this luxury 5-star hotel offers ultra-modern suites with free Wi-Fi, a wellness center with a gym with Technogym equipment and a Turkish bath, and much more!
• Aethos, Milan – Another of the great design hotels in Milan, this time based upon antiquities from a bygone era making guests feel like they have stepped back in time. The luxurious suites are all themed and are simply stunning, perfect for couples! The bars of nearby Porta Genova are a few minutes walk away!

Middle-Priced (From US$200 to US$300)

• Nhow Milan – Nhow Milan is a 4-star modern hotel located right next to the canals. Another design concept hotel, this time the theme being modern and contemporary art. This concept makes for some truly unique rooms that are colorful and vibrant. The property also has in-house dining and a gym!
• Maison Borella – Wedged beautifully between the two canals is Maison Borella. A more traditional style hotel than we are used to seeing in Navigli, Borella has a wonderfully spacious lounge, an outdoor atrium and a classic bar. The rooms are spacious and some even come with a wonderful view of the canals!

Budget (Up to US$200)

• Studio Apartment Vicolo Lavandai – Located in the heart of the Navigli area, you will be able to stay near the famous canals and not pay an exorbitant amount! The apartments of the property have conditioning, a kitchen and a private bathroom!
• Combo Milano – Great modern hostel featuring clean rooms or dorms and comfy beds, located right amongst the nightlife action and bars of Navigli! Here you’ll have access to a shared lounge and shared kitchen, as well as a terrace!

Things to do in Navigli:

• Have a typical “American” in one of the many bars!
• Buy some souvenirs at the weekly flea Fiera di Senigallia market
• Dance the night at Puerto Alegre club!

5. Porta Venezia – best area for families

Sitting on the north-eastern edge of the Centro Storico is Porta Venezia or Venice Gate, one of the last remaining bastions of the working class close to the center. It is fast becoming one of the most developed and metropolitan neighborhoods, offering many attractions and things to do for every member of the family!

The area itself is a little confusing, the Porta Venezia landmark is situated on one corner of the Giardini Pubblici which is a stunning public park, perfect for a picnic with the family! 

To the north of this area there’s Lazzaretto, where most of the hotels are located, and home to the famous Corso Buenos Aires & Corso Garibaldi, where you can do the best shopping in the city, offering the highest concentration of clothing stores in Europe! 

Luxury (US$165 and up)

• Hotel Manin – Wedged between the Duomo della Milan and giardini pubblici is Hotel Manin. This 4-star venue excels in providing great, spacious and modern accommodation in a central location. There is in-house dining and a bar and some rooms have a view of the park! The hotel has been owned and run by the same family for over 100 years.
• Hotel Cavour – Situated on the south-western edge of the park is Hotel Cavour, not far from Corso Buenos Aires. Amongst its best features are a Turkish spa, fitness center and in-house restaurant offering up delicious Italian food and drink! Of course close to the park but also close to a long-distance train station! Some suites have stunning views of the piazza which makes for an amazing photo!

Middle-Priced (From US$110 to US$165)

• Magville – Undoubtedly the best feature of this hotel is its charming garden and terrace. The accommodation features family rooms, 24-hour front desk, airport transfers to Milan Malpensa Airport, room service and free WiFi, all for great value for the price!
• WorldHotel Casati 18 – Located at only 5-minute walk from the shopping street Corso Buenos Aires, the elegant WorldHotel Casati 18 will offer you classic-style interiors, a free internet point, and very stylish rooms with tea/coffee facilities.

Budget (Up to US$110

• Ostelzzz Milano – If you want to get a great deal at a cheap price, then read no further, Ostelzzz Milano is for you. One of the cheapest (high-rated) options for your stay in Milan, here each dormitory is equipped with a shared bathroom and an Italian breakfast is served daily!

Things to do in Porta Venezia:

• Escape the city to explore Lake Como with this tour!
• Go crazy shopping in Corso Buenos Aires
• Gaze at the impressive and historic Porta Venezia
• Browse some European art at the GAM!

6. Fiera – where to stay in Milan for soccer

Fiera is a residential and quiet area located Northwest of the city center, the ideal choice if you don’t want to be in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city or if you want to check out the famous Fiera di Milano at the exhibition center.

But in fact, there is one aspect I have yet to mention: football or soccer to those of you from the USA. The Italians love it, and Milan is the spiritual home of Italian football as Italy’s two most famous and successful teams are based here; Internazionale (Inter Milan) and AC Milan at the San Siro Stadium. 

And if this wasn’t enough for you, here you’ll also find home to much cheaper hotels than those in the south of the city as well as many shops, cafés, and lush parks.

Luxury (US$165 and up)

• Enterprise Hotel Design & Boutique – The building is less than inviting from the outside, but once you step inside it will take your breath away! Designed and decorated in a stunning modern motif, the lobby and dining areas are splendid. The rooms with air conditioning are spacious and there is a 24-hour gym, spa and wellness center!
• Anjoy&Bleev Room – This 4-star hotel is welcoming and spotless, and will make you feel immediately at home! The room has a balcony, air conditioning, a private bathroom, and access to a terrace where you can relax. The location is excellent for those who have to go to the fair!

Middle-Priced (From US$110 to US$165)

• Lancaster Hotel – The Lancaster Hotel in Sempione is a great example of a hotel that would be double the price if it was in the city center. Features of a 5-star hotel carry a 3-star price tag! A daily buffet breakfast and stunning interior design are my favorite features of this hotel.
• Daniela B&B Fiera – Located only 900 m from Rho Fiera Milano Exhibition Centre, this B&B has great value and will make you feel welcome during your stay in Milan! Here you can enjoy an Italian-style breakfast, modernly furnished rooms and a lovely garden for very reasonable prices!

Budget (Up to US$110) 

• Peralba autohotel – With free private parking, from Peralba Autohotel you can reach the Rho-Pero exhibition center in only a 10-minute drive. Start your day with an Italian buffet breakfast and try the traditional Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant, together with a selection of fine wines… everything at very reasonable prices!
• Il giardino di Fiorina – Feel at home away from home in this cozy and lovely hotel, where you’ll have the luck to try a very good Italian breakfast! The best part? The area is very quiet and easily accessible from the train station!

Things to do in Fiera:

• Catch a football match at the San Siro Stadium!
• Have a picnic at the beautiful Parco Sempione
• Attend one of the seasonal fairs at the Fiera Milano!

7. Citta Studi – Milan’s student quarter

Situated northwest of the Duomo, on the second ring road around the city center, lays Cittá Studi, in other words, Milan’s student quarter. In fact, this area is home to one of the main universities in Milan (Università degli Studi di Milano), which is one of the 21 most prestigious institutions in the League of European Research Universities!

Here all the students come together and gather in parks, green areas and gardens, creating a lively and laid-back atmosphere! The area also has lots of bars, restaurants, movie theatres and art galleries offering super cool exhibitions.

For these reasons and for the area’s more affordable prices in terms of accommodation, Cittá Studi is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Milan for young travelers!

Luxury (US$165 and up)

• Mia Aparthotel – If you are looking for luxury without having to renounce to the comfort of a house, this elegant aparthotel is for you! Spacious rooms with an amazing jacuzzi, great attention to detail and design, and perfect location well-connected to other parts of the city… what more do you need?
• Best Western Plus Hotel Galles – Want to enjoy some deserved relaxation after an intense day of visiting? Then check out this luxury hotel, offering wellness facilities such as a gym, sauna, a Turkish bath, an indoor pool and a wide range of relaxing massages!

Middle-Priced (From US$110 to US$165)

• Bronzino House – Find great hospitality and value for price in this cozy bed and breakfast! The apartments are clean, very comfortable, beautiful and in a very good location. You will also love the Italian breakfast served every morning!
• BB Hotels Aparthotel Città Studi – This hotel has one of the best positions in the city, 5 minutes walk from the Metro Station and next to Milan’s Politecnico University. Check out its modern apartments with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, they are spacious, comfortable and fully equipped!

Budget (Up to US$110) 

• Cà Bèla – Check out one of the best budget options in the east area of ​​Milan! You will find well-structured and designed mini apartments for long or short stays, excellent value for money and excellent customer service.
• Hotel San Biagio – Do you want to save money? Then this cozy hotel could be a very good option for your stay! Its location is very convenient, surrounded by lots of bars and restaurants and few steps from the Loreto Metro Station!

Things to do in Citta Studi:

• Grab some street food at Piazza Leonardo da Vinci
• Relax in the green Giardini Pubblici!
• Check out the art works at the Modern Art Gallery!