Wondering What is the safest area to stay in Milan? Are there areas to avoid in Milan? In this post, I will help you to find the Safest areas and neighborhoods to stay in Milan for tourists and the best places to stay in each neighborhood.
Milan is a major city located in northern Italy. It is the capital of the Lombardy region and is one of Italy’s most populous and economically important cities.
Milan is a global financial and business hub, known for its thriving fashion, design, finance, and media industries. It is home to the Italian stock exchange and the headquarters of many multinational corporations.
Milan is one of the world’s fashion capitals, alongside Paris, New York, and London. The city is renowned for its high-end fashion houses, luxury boutiques, and as the host of major fashion events like Milan Fashion Week.
The city is a shopper’s paradise, with designer boutiques along Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls and a popular destination for luxury shopping.
Milan has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, historic buildings, and art galleries. The iconic Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) is a famous Gothic cathedral and one of the largest in the world.
It is also home to several renowned art institutions, including the Pinacoteca di Brera and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” which is housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Milan is a hub for sports, especially football (soccer). The city boasts two major football clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan, both of which have passionate fan bases.
Milan has a well-developed transportation network, including an extensive metro system, making it easy to navigate the city and access surrounding areas.
Is Milan safe for tourists?
Milan, like many major cities around the world, had both safe and potentially less safe areas for tourists. Overall, Milan is generally a safe city for tourists, but it’s essential to take standard precautions to ensure your safety, just as you would in any other major urban destination.
Here are some tips to help you stay safe while visiting Milan:
Stay in well-traveled areas:
Choose accommodations in reputable neighborhoods, especially if you’re not familiar with the city. Areas like Brera, Navigli, and the city center are popular among tourists and generally safe.
Keep an eye on your belongings:
Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist attractions. Use a money belt or neck pouch to keep your valuables secure.
Use official transportation:
Stick to licensed taxis, public transportation, or reputable ride-sharing services like Uber when getting around the city.
Be aware of scams:
Like in many tourist destinations, there can be scams targeting visitors. Be cautious of anyone approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests for money.
Stay informed:
Stay up to date with the local news and any travel advisories or safety recommendations from your embassy or consulate.
Respect local customs:
It’s always a good practice to respect the local culture and customs of the place you’re visiting. This can help you avoid unnecessary conflicts or misunderstandings.
Emergency numbers:
Familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers, which in Italy is 112 for police, medical, and fire emergencies.
Also, talking to locals and seeking advice from your accommodation provider can be helpful in getting specific safety tips for the current conditions in Milan.
What is the safest area to stay in Milan?
The safest areas to stay in Milan for tourists are Brera, Navigli, Storico Centro, Porta Romana, Porta Garibaldi, Citta Studi, and Corso Como. It’s essential to remain vigilant, keep an eye on your belongings, and avoid poorly lit areas at night no matter where you stay.
If you have any concerns about a particular neighborhood or area, consult with your hotel or local authorities for up-to-date safety information.
The safest areas to stay in Milan for tourists are:
1. Brera
Brera is one of Milan’s most charming neighborhoods. It’s known for its artistic atmosphere, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. It’s generally considered safe both day and night.
The area is home to the famous Pinacoteca di Brera where you can find an extensive collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by artists like Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
In the heart of Brera lies the beautiful Brera Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis and great place to relax and enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Strolling through the narrow streets and alleyways of Brera is a delightful experience. You’ll find quaint shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants tucked away in these charming corners.
Brera is known for its design and fashion scene. You can explore trendy boutiques, art galleries, and design shops in the Brera Design District area.
Brera is home to numerous cafes and restaurants serving both traditional Italian cuisine and international fare. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee while people-watching.
While Brera is not as known for nightlife as some other areas of Milan, you can still find bars and wine bars that offer a relaxed and pleasant evening atmosphere.
Although not technically in Brera, Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) is within walking distance. It’s a historic fortress and museum complex worth exploring.
Overall, Brera offers a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors, whether you’re interested in art, culture, or simply soaking up the ambiance of this unique neighborhood. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be centrally located in Milan while experiencing its artistic and historic charm.
Best places to stay in Milan in Brera:
- Luxury ($$$): Bulgari Hotel Milano
- Mid-range ($$): Locanda Pandenus Brera
- Budget ($): ApartHotel Bossi
2. Navigli
Navigli is famous for its canals, lively nightlife, and a variety of bars and restaurants. It’s generally safe, but like any nightlife district, it’s wise to exercise caution late at night.
Navigli comes alive at night with a bustling nightlife scene. The district is famous for its bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s an excellent place to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine, sip cocktails by the canal, or dance the night away.
The heart of Navigli is its network of canals, particularly the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. These canals are lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops. You can take a leisurely stroll along the canalside promenades and enjoy the scenic views.
Navigli has a thriving arts scene, with many art galleries and studios showcasing contemporary and traditional art. You can explore the local art scene by visiting these galleries and, sometimes, even meeting artists.
Navigli is known for its vintage and antique shops. The Mercatone dell’Antiquariato (Antiques Market) and the Mercato Metropolitano is where you can shop for local products, crafts, and vintage items.
Porta Ticinese historic city gate is at the southern end of Navigli and marks the entrance to the district. It’s a popular meeting point and a great place to start your exploration of the area.
Chiesa di San Cristoforo sul Naviglio located along the Naviglio Grande canal is a notable architectural landmark in Navigli. Its unique design and peaceful ambiance make it worth a visit.
Navigli is generally safe for tourists, but as with any lively district, it’s a good idea to exercise caution, especially late at night. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Best places to stay in Milan in Navigli:
- Luxury ($$$): Magna Pars l’Hotel à Parfum
- Mid-range ($$): Art Hotel Navigli
- Budget ($): Easy Milano – Rooms and Apartments Navigli
3. Storico Centro
Storico Centro (Historic Center) is one of the best areas to stay in Milan for first-time travelers. It is rich in history, culture, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit for travelers interested in art, history, and Italian heritage.
The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate façade are a must-see. You can also visit the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Milan.
Piazza del Duomo in front of the Duomo is a central gathering place and often hosts events, performances, and festivals. It’s a great spot to start your exploration of the historic center.
Adjacent to the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the historic shopping arcade renowned for its elegant architecture, high-end boutiques, and cafes. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, or people-watching.
Teatro alla Scala, or La Scala, is one of the world’s most famous opera houses. Even if you don’t attend a performance, you can visit the museum to learn about its history and see costumes, musical instruments, and memorabilia.
The Centro also offers easy access to the Sforza Castle, which houses several museums, including the Pinacoteca del Castello Sforzesco, featuring an impressive art collection.
Located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper iconic fresco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to its popularity, it’s essential to book tickets in advance to view this masterpiece.
Sant’Ambrogio Basilica is one of the oldest in Milan and is dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Saint Ambrose. Its Romanesque architecture and religious significance make it a notable attraction.
You can take a leisurely stroll around Piazza Mercanti, a picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings and is a peaceful oasis in the bustling city center.
The Palazzo Reale di Milano, or Royal Palace, was once the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte. Today, it hosts exhibitions and cultural events.
Storico Centro is generally a safe area, but as with any tourist destination, be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, especially in crowded places.
Best places to stay in Milan Storico Centro:
- Luxury ($$$): Radisson Collection Hotel, Palazzo Touring Club Milan
- Mid-range ($$): The Square Milano Duomo
- Budget ($): Aparthotel Dei Mercanti
4. Porta Romana
Porta Romana is a residential neighborhood with a local vibe, located just south of the historic city center. It’s considered safe and has good public transportation connections.
The name “Porta Romana” translates to “Roman Gate” in English. It derives from the fact that this area was one of the gates in the medieval city walls of Milan. While the original gate no longer exists, the district retains its historical charm.
One of the notable landmarks in the area is the Porta Romana Arch (Arco di Porta Romana), which is a triumphal arch that was built in the 16th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Charles V to Milan. It serves as a gateway to the district.
Porta Romana is primarily a residential area, known for its elegant apartments and townhouses. It is a desirable neighborhood for both locals and expatriates due to its central location and good public transportation connections.
Corso di Porta Romana is a major street that leads through the gate and into the heart of Milan. It is lined with shops, boutiques, and cafes, making it popular for shopping and dining.
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore has a campus in the Porta Romana area, making it a hub for education and research.
Porta Romana is well-connected to the rest of Milan by public transportation. It has its own metro station (Porta Romana, Line M3), which provides easy access to other parts of the city.
Porta Romana is a well-rounded district in Milan, offering a mix of history, culture, residential living, and modern amenities. It provides a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling city center while still being conveniently located for exploring Milan’s attractions.
Best places to stay in Milan in Porta Romana:
- Mid-range ($$): 10 KEYS MILANO
- Budget ($): Sigieri Residence Milano
- Budget ($): Hotel Five
5. Porta Garibaldi
Porta Garibaldi is known for its modern architecture, high-end shopping, and the Porta Nuova business district. It has a well-developed transportation network.
Porta Garibaldi is generally considered safe, especially in the main areas. Like any urban area, it’s advisable to be cautious at night and take standard safety precautions such as safeguarding your belongings.
Porta Garibaldi is relatively close to Milan’s city center, making it convenient for accessing popular attractions like the Duomo, Sforza Castle, and the Brera district.
Porta Garibaldi is a major transportation hub in Milan, with a central train station known as Milano Porta Garibaldi railway station. This station connects Milan to various cities in Italy and Europe, making it a convenient area for travelers.
The neighborhood has seen significant urban development in recent years, with many modern skyscrapers, office buildings, and residential complexes. This has transformed Porta Garibaldi into a trendy and up-and-coming area.
Corso Como is a famous street in Porta Garibaldi known for its high-end fashion boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The Isola district, which is part of Porta Garibaldi, has become particularly fashionable. It’s known for its vibrant street art, quirky shops, and a lively atmosphere. The area has attracted a young and creative crowd.
If you’re looking for a modern and dynamic neighborhood with easy access to transportation and a mix of cultural and entertainment options, Porta Garibaldi could be a good choice for your stay in Milan.
Best places to stay in Milan in Porta Garibaldi:
- Luxury ($$$): Palazzo Cornalia
- Mid-range ($$): Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze
- Budget ($): Hotel Ritter
6. Città Studi
Città Studi is known for its university campuses. It’s generally safe and has a student-friendly atmosphere. During the day, it’s safe to explore, but as with any area, it’s wise to take precautions at night.
Città Studi, located in the eastern part of Milan, is known for its concentration of educational and research institutions. It’s often referred to as the “City of Studies” because of the numerous universities, colleges, and schools in the area.
The main university in Città Studi is the Politecnico di Milano, one of Italy’s most prestigious technical universities.
The area is well-connected to the rest of Milan through public transportation, including trams and buses. This makes it easy to access other parts of the city.
Città Studi has some cultural attractions, such as The Natural History Museum (Museo di Storia Naturale) located in the area.
Città Studi has a unique blend of academia and local life. It’s not as touristy as some other areas in Milan, so you can get a more authentic feel for daily life in the city. You’ll find a mix of students, researchers, and local residents in the neighborhood.
Overall, Città Studi is a safe and interesting neighborhood, especially if you travel on a budget or you have an interest in education and academic institutions. It offers a different perspective on Milan compared to the more touristy areas of the city.
Best places to stay in Milan in Città Studi:
- Budget ($): 21 House of Stories Città Studi
- Budget ($): Bronzino House
- Budget ($): BB Hotels Aparthotel Città Studi
7. Corso Como
Corso Como is a well-known street in Milan, and it’s also the name of the surrounding area, which has become a fashionable and trendy district in the city.
The Corso Como area is centrally located in Milan and is easily accessible by public transportation, including metro and buses. It’s not far from Milan’s main train station, Milano Centrale.
Corso Como is famous for its high-end shopping. The street itself features many boutique shops, fashion stores, and design studios. It’s a popular destination for those interested in fashion and design.
Corso Como is renowned for its nightlife. The street and the surrounding area are home to several upscale bars, clubs, and lounges. It’s a popular spot for those looking for a vibrant and stylish nightlife scene.
Corso Como is generally considered a safe area, especially during the daytime and early evening when it’s bustling with shoppers and visitors. But, as with any nightlife district, it’s advisable to be cautious late at night and in the early morning hours.
Corso Como 10 is a multi-purpose complex in the area, which includes a concept store, art gallery, bookstore, and a garden cafe. It’s a cultural and shopping hub where you can explore unique and curated selections of fashion, art, and design.
Best places to stay in Milan in Corso Como:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Tocq
- Budget ($): Porta Garibaldi
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel VIU Milan
What areas to avoid staying in Milan?
Milan is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any major metropolitan area, there are some neighborhoods and areas that may be less desirable for visitors.
Here are some areas to consider avoiding or taking extra precautions in when staying in Milan:
Milan Centrale Station Area:
While Milano Centrale is a major train station and transportation hub, the immediate vicinity may not be as charming or tourist-friendly as other parts of the city. Exercise caution with your belongings in crowded areas around the station.
Isola:
While this area has been undergoing significant redevelopment in recent years, some parts of Isola may still be less safe, especially after dark. It’s a good idea to stay closer to the central parts of the city.
Lambrate:
This district is known for its train station and transportation hubs, which can attract a transient population.
While it’s not necessarily unsafe, some tourists might prefer more central and tourist-friendly neighborhoods.
Ripamonti/Navigli Area:
While Navigli itself is a popular and lively area with many bars and restaurants, parts of Ripamonti, especially away from the main canal area, can be less inviting at night.
Stick to the well-trafficked areas and exercise usual precautions.
Bicocca:
This is another rapidly developing area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. While it’s generally safe, it may lack the charm and amenities that central Milan offers to tourists.
Rogoredo:
Rogoredo is mainly a residential district and not particularly geared toward tourists. There may be fewer attractions and less vibrant nightlife here.
San Siro Area:
While the San Siro Stadium itself is a popular attraction, the surrounding area is more residential and might not have as many amenities or entertainment options for tourists.
As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and take usual safety precautions when exploring Milan, especially at night.
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In conclusion, Brera, Navigli, Storico Centro, Porta Romana, Porta Garibaldi, Citta Studi, and Corso Como are the best and safest places to stay in Milan for tourists. It’s always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings no matter where you stay.