Where To Stay In Milan: Best Hotels And Areas

If you are looking for where to stay in Milan, Italy, you have come to the right place!

Milan is located in northern Italy, in the Lombardy region, just south of the Swiss border.

With a lovely Italian climate, the summers here are warm and humid, and the winters are cold and foggy.

Centro Storico, Navigli, Citta Studi, Brera, Fiera, and San Siro are some of the most popular and beautiful areas in Milan.

This article will be just what you need to decide the best part of Milan to stay in for you!

There are so many options for Milan hotels, so planning can get overwhelming, but we are here to make the process easy for you.

Any one of these gorgeous areas really is a perfect option for where to stay in Milan, and you won’t be disappointed!

Below, we will break down the best places to stay in Milan by area, price, and overall feel of the area.

We will tell you the pros and cons of each area and lay out the best Milan accommodations.

We want you to get an understanding of the unique feel and vibe each section of Milan has to offer so you can make a decision that is best for your interests.

There is something for everyone, and we know you will find the best place to stay in Milan for your trip!

Understanding Milan Neighborhoods

If you aren’t familiar, Milan is a dream destination near the northern border of Italy, just south of Switzerland.

Take a look at a photo of any one of the gorgeous sections of Milan, and you’ll think it’s from a postcard!

When you’re trying to decide which area is right for you, just remember each one is AMAZING no matter your choice of where to stay in Milan!

Whether you are planning your 10 days in Italy, have a bit more time and are spending 2 weeks in Italy, or renting a car and doing an Italy road trip, our itineraries all end in Milan so choosing where to stay by area is very important! 

All the areas of Milan have a unique flavor and flair, but we’ve singled out the five best neighborhoods in Milan: Centro Storico, Navigli, Citta Studi, Brera, and Fiera/San Siro.

Most of the sections are close together so traveling between them is a fairly easy and fun part of your trip to Milan.

If you are renting a car in Italy, please be aware that finding parking can be crazy and expensive.

You should be warned there are specific driving laws in Milan that might get you in trouble if you’re not very careful.

The Congestion Charge area (Area C) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at varying times, limits access to Milan’s city center.

To enter Area C, drivers must purchase a ticket in advance for 5 euros.

We recommend traveling by bus, Metro, and tram while staying in Milan.

The public transportation system is great! The Metro runs on three main lines, and the tram and bus connections fill in where the Metro leaves off.

There are always taxi options available or biking around Milan can be a lot of fun.

Centro Storico Is Where To Stay In Milan For First Timers

The historic center of the city of Milan, the Centro Storico is encompassed within the area once defined by the medieval city walls.

Today, it’s encompassed by the canal streets that form the Corso Navigli, which are distinguishable on the map of the city.

That fact alone grabs your attention with proof of the city’s rich history.

Centro Storico also happens to be the zone of Milan that contains the city’s most famous tourist attractions and landmarks, including the Duomo (a cathedral), the shopping arcade Galleria Vittorio Emmanuelle, and the Teatro alla Scala opera house.

These are some of the best things to do in Italy, making this one of the best areas to stay in Milan!

One of the great things about the Centro Storico is that it’s easily walkable, being rather compact in size.

Centro Storico is a great choice of where to stay in Milan for many reasons, as you can probably already tell!

This section of the city is full of historic monuments, designer boutiques, showrooms, restaurants, and cafes.

The best part is you will find most of these amazing things within close distance of one another.

If you are staying just one day in Milan, this is where you should stay so you are close to everything and do not have to run all over the city.

Upsides: Centro Storico is at the very heart of Milan.

Most of the iconic attractions are located in this section. Everything is within easy walking distance. 

Downsides: A very touristy part of Milan, so expect lots of crowds. Things are a bit more expensive.

Best Places To Stay In Milan Centro Storico

Mid-Range: Hotel Brunelleschi

Located only 150 feet from Missori Metro Station and a 2-minute walk from Milan’s Cathedral, Hotel Brunelleschi is a lovely hotel.

It has lots of services and is conveniently located near Milan’s best attractions.

Brunelleschi Hotel offers a gym, a free internet point in the lobby, a lounge bar with cocktails, and a restaurant.

The rooms come with a mini-bar, TV, and private bathroom.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Duomo Rooms

Located in the historical city center of Milan, only 1,000 feet away from the cathedral, Duomo Rooms is a luxurious and modern lodging in Milan surrounded by ancient history.

The rooms come with private bathrooms, a mini-bar, a flatscreen TV, and toiletries that include free slippers!

You can enjoy an Italian breakfast served each morning and dine on yummy croissants and sip amazing cappuccinos!

Duoro Rooms is also near the Missori Metro stop and La Scala Theater, making it the perfect choice of where to stay in Milan, Italy.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Suite Milano Duomo

The beautiful Suite Milano Duomo is located only 500 feet from Milan’s Cathedral, making it an ideal spot for epic views and easy access to historic landmarks.

The rooms have designer bathrooms and showers, free WiFi, and air conditioning.

There are also apartment options available that come with a balcony and kitchenette.

Suite Milan Duomo is just 150 feet from the Missori Metro Station and just a ten-minute walk from Via Montenapoleone and La Scala Opera House.

You will enjoy staying in the best location in Milan!

Check Rates: Booking.com

Navigli Is The Best Place To Stay In Milan For Nightlife

South of Centro Storico is the lovely section of Milan known as the Navigli District in Porta Genova.

At the heart of Navigli is the Naviglio Grande Canal, the oldest canal in Milan, which consequentially gives the Navigli area its name.

It was built between 1177 and 1257.

It is more than 50 kilometers long and used to be used primarily for transporting goods like marble blocks, which, of course, were used to build the amazing buildings in Milan.

During the summer, you can take a boat tour down the canal for amazing views of the city. This is a fun and unique experience.

Not only is the canal fascinating and historic, but today it is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops!

The entire area of Navigli is full of charming and unique boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cafes.

You don’t have to ride a canal boat to explore this amazing section of Milan, and the city center is within fairly easy walking distance if you like to walk!

Or there are always public transportation options.

There are fantastic restaurants with amazing Italian cuisine in Navigli, and if you are really excited about the food experience during your stay in Milan, Navigli is a great choice!

And if you’re looking for a good option of where to stay in Milan for the nightlife, Navigli is a great choice for you!

Upsides: Lots of amazing restaurants. Great food and shop options. The canal offers a unique and fun experience. Great nightlife. 

Downsides: Very crowded, especially at mealtimes. The boat tours aren’t super interesting if you don’t like history. Not as much to do except for the nightlife.

Where to Stay in Navigli

Affordable: Zebra Naviglio

Zebra Naviglio is one of the best places to stay in Milan if you want something chic and modern without breaking the bank.

The spacious rooms come with plenty of storage, a balcony, a flat-screen TV, and an electric tea pot.

The private bathrooms are modern with big showers.

This property is in a great location near many attractions you can easily walk to.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Art Hotel Navigli

The lovely Art Hotel Navigli offers rooms with air-conditioning, and a tv, and some rooms even come with private balconies, which provide extra charm to your stay in Navigli!

There is a collection of modern art and sculptures in the Art Hotel, which you might have already guessed from the name.

An American-style buffet breakfast is offered, and there is a terrace and a gym with a Turkish bath on the top floor.

The Porta Genova Metro Station is only an easy five-minute walk away from the Art Hotel.

This is one of the best boutique hotels in Milan, and you will love it!

Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: Milano Darsena Apartment

Book a stay at the Milano Darsena Apartment if you are looking for where to stay in Milan with family.

This modern and spacious apartment can sleep up to six people.

There is a big living room with comfy couches and a TV. The bathroom has a shower as well as a large bath.

The full kitchen allows you to cook to save money on your trip. The balcony offers views of the city.

You will also be within walking distance of everything in the district.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Citta Studi Is Where To Stay In Milan On A Budget

If you are looking for where to stay in Milan on a budget, Citta Studi (which literally means “city of the studies”) is a great district to choose.

Located on the eastern side of Milan in what is known as Zone 3, Citta Studi is the administrative section of the city.

Politecnico technical university and other scientific branches of the University of Milan are located in this zone, as well as a few well-known hospitals.

As you can see, Citta Studi is not the top tourist section of Milan, but because of that, you can find Milan accommodation for better prices.

You can also find great Milan hostels here if you want a really cheap option.

If you enjoy walking, you can still get to a lot of the more popular sights, or use the great public transportation system to take you into the city center and other Milan districts.

There are still fun things to do and see in Citta Studi!

The Politecnico di Milano is a gorgeous campus and building, the campus being a lovely place to take a walk.

And there are always amazing Italian dining options everywhere in Milan, and Citta Studi is no different!

Upsides: Much cheaper than other sections of Milan. A great place to stay on a budget. Less touristy and crowded.

Downsides: A bit of a distance from the city center. You’ll have a long walk to get to the city center, such as the Milan Cathedral, or have to take public transport. Less touristy options nearby.

Best Hotels In Citta Studi

Affordable: Albergo Leonardo Da Vinci

Rooms at the Albergo Leonardo Da Vinci offer free WiFi, flatscreen TVs, private bathrooms, and toiletries.

There is a snack bar and a shared kettle with tea and coffee offered as well as an Italian breakfast and vending machines.

The hotel is just over 1,000 feet from the Piola Metro, which links to Milano Centrale Train Station.

Only, 1,600 feet from the University and Corso Buenos Aires shopping area, the Leonardo Da Vinci is a convenient and affordable option of where to stay in Milan, Italy!

Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: BB Hotels Aparthotel Citta Studi

Just a five-minute walk from Piola Metro Station, and located near Politecnico University, BB Hotels Aparthotel Citta Studi is a great Milan accommodation choice!

The apartments all have air conditioning, free WiFi, and wooden floors, and come with a kitchen and bathroom, with free toiletries.

The BB Hotel is very close to locations such as the Piazzo Leonardo Da Vinci and public transport options. 

Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Hotel Lombardia

Hotel Lombardia is close to metro stops and the central railway station.

The rooms are comfy with air-conditioning, TVs, and a mini-bar. The bathroom includes a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Grab a meal from Café Bistrot and sit out on the terrace surrounded by greenery.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Brera: The Unique Area To Stay In Milan

Not far from the Duomo and still centrally located in the Citta Studi district of Milan, Brera might be considered the artistic capital of the city.

It is a lovely, unique, and charming district of Milan, rich in ancient history and modern enjoyment.

Like everywhere in Milan, you will find an amazing mix of antique buildings, amazing restaurants, and luxury boutiques.

Brera is a fantastic choice of where to stay in Milan for its central location and individualistic charm.

The streets of Brera make for lovely walks, where you can enjoy admiring the ancient architecture as well as charming little art stories and artesian workshops.

Brera is really the artistic capital!

It is here you will find the Accademia di Belle Arti, which is home to the famous art gallery the Pinacoteca di Brera, the national library or Biblioteca Nazionale Braidense, the Museo Astronomico or Astronomical Museum, and the Giardio Botanico or Botanical gardens.

The Brera is also a classy, high-end neighborhood, which makes staying here an especially unique and dreamy experience.

You are also located close to historic places like the Duomo, and getting there will be easy and fast.

Upsides: Centrally located. Home of the famous museum. Easy distance to the Duomo. Classy and charming neighborhood.  

Downsides: A very touristy area of Milan. Shops and restaurants are quite pricey.

Best Brera Milan Hotels

Affordable: B&B Brera

B&B Brera is a great place to stay in Milan on a budget.

Each room includes air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, and a kettle.

Windows offer a pretty view of the city.

While the room is simple, it is a great Milan base near many bars, restaurants, and shops.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Cosy Nest in the Heart of Brera

If you are looking for a home away from home in Milan, the Cosy Nest in the Heart of Brera is for you!

This apartment has everything you need for a great Milan vacation. There is a full kitchen, a washing machine, WiFi, and a hairdryer.

There is a queen-sized bed and a fold-out sofa bed so while the apartment is only 538 square feet, up to four people could sleep there.

It is also in a great location within walking distance of Duomo Square.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Luxury: The Unique

Located only 1,600 feet from Sforzesco Castle and a ten-minute walk from the La Scala Theater and the Milan Cathedral, the Unique is a gorgeous choice of where to stay in Milan for a luxury experience!

All air-conditioned rooms at the Unique feature a flat-screen TV, a kettle, a coffee machine, and a mini-bar.

The private bathroom is fitted with a shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer.

For your comfort, slippers and bathrobes are also provided. Some units come with a balcony.

Check Rates: Booking.com

San Siro Is Where To Stay In Milan For Families

Unlike most of the extremely touristy districts of Milan, San Siro is a residential area, consisting of modest trattorias and cheap hotels.

Its neighboring district of Fiera offers a similar kind of quiet neighborhood with a much more local feel, fewer tourists, and cheaper options.

There is not a lot to do and see in the San Siro district itself except for the famous San Siro Stadium!

Its true name is the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, but everyone calls it the Siro Stadium.

It is a football stadium, home of AC Milan and Internazionale.

It has a seating capacity of 80,018, which makes it one of the biggest stadiums in Europe, and the very biggest in Italy!

You can take tours at the Siro Stadium and see displays and trophies in its museum.

Considering San Siro is a bit off the beaten path and an area of Milano with a much more local and chill atmosphere, it makes it an ideal place to say for families, especially with young children.

It’s still in the Milan area, so taking public transport to get to the city center is an easy option, but you will be able to retreat to a quiet neighborhood when your fun days of sightseeing end.

Upsides: A  quiet and more local feel. Off the beaten path. Less touristy. Close proximity to the San Siro Stadium. Cheaper.

Downsides: Farther from the city center. You will need a car or public transport to get to some of the more touristy spots in Milan.

Best Places to Stay in San Siro

Budget: Residence Desenzano

Recently renovated, Residence Desenzano is a cozy and extremely affordable choice of where to stay in Milan, Italy!

It’s only a five-minute walk from Gambara Metro Station as well as lots of other public transportation services, making it a convenient location.

The studio apartments offer free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies.  

This is where to stay near Milan if you want to be out of the noisier parts of the city.

Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Antares Hotel Rubens

Antares Hotel Rubens is one of the cool places to stay in Milan with many amenities.

You will enjoy the fitness center, wine bar, and rooftop restaurant. You can dine with a view!

This is one of the best hotels in Milan with many pops of color and cool patterns to add charm to the property.

The large rooms have comfy beds, satellite TV, and refreshing air conditioning.

There are metro stops nearby as well as restaurants and bars.

Check Rates: Booking.com 

Luxury: The Bike Garage

The Bike Garage is where to stay in Milan with kids because there is plenty of room for everyone!

This 1184-square-foot, ground-floor apartment can sleep up to six people.

You’ll have everything you need to feel at home including a full kitchen, washing machine, flat-screen TV, WiFi, and air conditioning.

You will be close to metro stops so you can easily get into the city center.

Check Rates: Booking.com

There are so many wonderful places to stay in Milan! We know you will find a district that speaks to you!

From affordable hotels to roomy apartments, each Milan accommodation is great so you can relax on your Italy trip.

We can’t wait to hear your thoughts on visiting Milan. It is an absolutely unforgettable place to visit.

We hope this article has helped you find the best part of Milan to stay in, and you have an amazing trip!

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