Where to Stay in Milan, Italy: 5 Areas & Hotels

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Need help finding a place to stay in Milan? You’ve found the experts.

After touring Milan several times, we’ve gotten to know this city, and we’re here to help you find the perfect home base. From the iconic Duomo and elegant shopping streets to canal paths and buzzing aperitivo spots, Milan’s neighborhoods each offer something unique. 

Whether you want to stay in the heart of the action or somewhere more peaceful, there’s a Milanese neighborhood to match your travel style. And since the city is walkable, it’s easy to explore no matter where you’re staying.

We’ll break down our favorite areas and hotels in Milan, sharing their pros and cons so you can skip the stress and start enjoying your trip. Let’s dive in!

Where To Stay In Milan Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Milan

Milan has a little something for everyone, whether you’re drawn to historic landmarks, chic shopping streets, or vibrant nightlife scenes. It’s a compact, easy-to-navigate city, which means you’re never too far from the action, even if you’re staying somewhere more laid-back. Below, we’ve rounded up our favorite neighborhoods plus a standout mid-range hotel in each.

• Centro Storico – This is where Milan’s grandest sights surround Piazza del Duomo, and Palazzo Segreti is our hidden gem here. It’s a quiet, design-forward boutique stay just steps from the cathedral, castle, and all the action.

• Porta Venezia & Porta Nuova – Located between the Historic Center and Milan Central, these stylish districts mix modern flair with grand architecture and top-tier shopping. We loved Vico Fashion District for its quiet comfort and unbeatable location. 

• Brera – Known for its cobblestone streets, buzzing art scene, and charming restaurants, Brera feels like the soul of Milan. The Unique lives up to its name with spacious rooms, thoughtful touches, and a perfect central location.

• Navigli – Milan’s canal district is especially stunning at night, with buzzing bars, vintage shops, and waterside restaurants. Art Hotel Navigli pairs boutique comfort with gallery-style flair—complete with rooftop terrace, sauna, and Dalì on the walls. 

• Stazione Centrale – Not Milan’s prettiest spot, but unbeatable for train and airport connections. Hotel Flora is a surprisingly cozy find just steps from the station, with friendly staff, clean rooms, and a generous breakfast.

Where to Stay in Milan

Centro Storico

If you’re coming to Milan for the first time and want to be in the middle of everything, Centro Storico is the place to be. This is the historic heart of the city, surrounding Piazza del Duomo, where cobblestone streets lead to architectural icons like the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Teatro alla Scala—all within walking distance. 

Every time we stay here, we feel like we’re stepping into a film set, especially when the sun hits the marble façade of the Duomo just right. It’s magic!

The area is perfect for first-timers, couples, culture lovers, and luxury travelers who want Milan’s top attractions right at their doorstep. You’ll find everything from designer boutiques to historic cafes, along with easy access to the metro, trams, and taxis. And while it can get busy, the energy is electric and hard to resist.

We especially loved wandering down side streets and stumbling upon little wine bars, tucked-away churches, and art-filled courtyards. This part of the city really knows how to balance grandeur with charm.

Just be prepared—hotel rates are higher here, and it can get crowded, but for many, the experience is worth every euro.

Pros

• Walkable to all major attractions, including the Duomo and La Scala
• Amazing dining, shopping, and historic landmarks in one area
• Well-connected to public transport

Cons

• Hotel prices tend to be the highest in Milan
• Crowds are common, especially during weekends and holidays
• Can feel overly touristy in some spots

Luxury – $$$

There’s something effortlessly elegant about Hotel Dei Cavalieri Milano Duomo, and it starts the moment you step into the grand lobby. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Duomo and directly across from Missori metro, this historic hotel places you in the heart of it all, without the noise and chaos you’d expect. 

Rooms blend classic Italian design with modern comforts, and many have beautiful views over the rooftops of Milan. We especially loved the top-floor restaurant and terrace, which served up excellent cocktails with an even better skyline backdrop. The breakfast buffet was generous and delicious, and the staff were always warm and ready to help with recommendations.

But what really sets this hotel apart is its unbeatable location. It’s close to everything, yet somehow still feels tucked away. Expect to pay between €330 and €600 per night, depending on room type and season.

Check availability and book your stay at Hotel Dei Cavalieri Milano Duomo here!

Mid-range – $$

Palazzo Segreti is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem in the heart of Milan. Tucked into a quiet side street just a short walk from the Duomo and Sforzesco Castle, this boutique hotel is all about intimacy, design, and location. It’s ideal for couples, solo travelers, and anyone who appreciates a refined stay.

Each room is styled with warm lighting, contemporary art, and thoughtful details, from luxe bathrobes to curated minibars. Ours had a freestanding tub near floor-to-ceiling windows. It was perfect after a day of sightseeing!

Breakfast is simple but high-quality, and the staff are attentive without being overbearing. Despite being in the city center, the atmosphere is quiet and restful. You’re steps from cafes, shops, and metro access, yet it feels worlds away inside. Expect rates around €260 to €400 per night, depending on room type and season.

Book your mid-range stay at Palazzo Segreti here!

Budget – $

If you’re after a budget stay with a serious personality right in the heart of Milan, Ostello Bello Milano Duomo is a no-brainer. Just a 10-minute walk from the Duomo, this lively hostel blends affordability with thoughtful design and unbeatable social energy.

Rooms are colorful and clean, with private bathrooms in both dorms and doubles, plus perks like air conditioning and secure lockers. The shared kitchen is stocked and open 24/7, and the on-site bar and terrace with hammocks are perfect for meeting other travelers or just kicking back after a day in the city.

Breakfast is surprisingly solid, and the staff go above and beyond to make your stay feel easy. With dorm beds from around €45 and private rooms from €180, it’s an excellent-value option for solo travelers, backpackers, and sociable couples. 

Book a night here and quickly see why this spot has such a loyal following!

Related Read: If you need some activities to add to your schedule, read our blog about the 10 best things to do in Milan!

Porta Venezia & Porta Nuova

If you’re looking for that sweet spot between Milan’s classic charm and its sleek modern edge, Porta Venezia and Porta Nuova are where you’ll find it. These two neighboring districts feel like one seamless area, and together, they make one of our favorite places to stay in the city. They’re stylish, well-located, and filled with character.

Porta Venezia has grand 19th-century buildings, a leafy park (Giardini Indro Montanelli), and a super vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, especially around Via Lecco. Just a short walk away, Porta Nuova is all glass and steel with futuristic architecture, chic cafes, and the iconic Bosco Verticale towers. 

Corso Buenos Aires, one of Europe’s longest shopping streets, cuts through the area—perfect if you’re planning to squeeze in some fashion finds. We came here for “just a quick look” and left with two bags and zero regrets.

What we love about this area is how it’s effortlessly connected. You’re close to Milan Central, not far from the Duomo, and surrounded by great food, nightlife, and even art museums like the GAM. It’s ideal for first-timers who want a balance of everything, or for return visitors who want something a bit more local and modern.

Pros

• Great location between Milan Central and the Duomo
• Fantastic shopping, especially on Corso Buenos Aires
• A good mix of nightlife, museums, and restaurants

Cons

• Can get quite busy during rush hour and weekends
• Not as charming or historic as some other areas
• Some streets feel more commercial than cozy

Luxury – $$$

Staying at The Westin Palace feels like stepping into a calm, elegant oasis right in the heart of Milan. We loved the ivy-covered façade and the warm welcome from the staff—seriously, they treated us like royalty. Our room was spacious and beautifully designed, with one of the most comfortable beds we’ve ever slept in (shoutout to that Westin Heavenly Bed!).

The rooftop terrace has views for days, and we spent a whole afternoon lounging in the sun with an espresso. We also made good use of the spa and gym, which were both immaculate. Being just steps from the Repubblica metro made it super easy to zip around the city.

Rooms usually range from €300 to €600 per night, depending on the room type and season. It’s the kind of place that makes every day in Milan feel a little extra special.

Check availability here and treat yourself to a stay at The Westin Palace!

Mid-range – $$

Tucked away in Milan’s upscale fashion district, Vico Fashion District turned out to be one of our favorite mid-range finds. The location couldn’t have been more convenient: just a short walk to the San Babila metro and close enough to the Duomo that we never had to take a taxi. 

The rooms were modern and spotless, with thoughtful touches like a Nespresso machine, comfy work desk, and even a private balcony in mine! It felt super safe and peaceful, yet still right in the middle of everything. We loved starting our mornings with a cappuccino in the courtyard before heading out for the day. 

Whether you’re in town to shop or just want to explore the city with ease, this is a solid choice. Rooms generally range from €150 to €300 per night, depending on the room and season.

Check current room rates and book your stay at Vico Fashion District here!

Budget – $

For a budget stay that doesn’t skimp on convenience, Hotel Brianza really came through. The location is fantastic—just a few minutes’ walk from Repubblica Station and only three metro stops to the Duomo. We loved that we could roll our suitcases from Milano Centrale without breaking a sweat, and still be set away on a quieter street.

Our room was simple but clean, with everything we needed: solid WiFi, a comfy bed, and a private bathroom. The staff were genuinely kind and helpful, even offering to store our bags after checkout so we could keep exploring. 

Breakfast was affordable, surprisingly good, and definitely worth adding on. Rooms generally start at just €90 per night, which is great value in Milan.

Snag your budget stay at Hotel Brianza here before it books up!

Brera

Brera might just be the dreamiest neighborhood in Milan. Set between the Duomo and Porta Garibaldi, this compact and elegant district feels like stepping into a storybook. Think cobblestone streets, boutique galleries, wine bars spilling onto the sidewalks, and some of the best people-watching in the city. 

It’s perfect for couples, art lovers, and anyone who wants a mix of charm, culture, and convenience. One of the biggest draws here is the Pinacoteca di Brera, an incredible art museum housed in a former monastery. We could’ve spent hours wandering those galleries. 

The neighborhood is also within walking distance of Milan’s Fashion District and the Sforza Castle, so it’s easy to explore without ever needing the metro.

What really sets Brera apart, though, is the vibe. It’s upscale without being stuffy, stylish but still relaxed. This is where locals come for aperitivo, and we loved how alive it felt at night without being overwhelming. 

If you want to feel like you’re living in Milan rather than just visiting, Brera’s the place to be. It’s one of those neighborhoods that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Pros

• Charming streets, amazing art, and a lively café culture
• Walkable to top sights like the Duomo and Fashion District
• Upscale but still intimate and local

Cons

• Hotels here can be pricey, especially in peak season
• It’s a small neighborhood, so options may be limited
• Some streets get busy with foot traffic in the evenings

Luxury – $$$

The moment we stepped into Casa Brera, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Milan, we knew this place was special. It’s modern Milan at its most refined, polished design, with five-star service, and a location that’s hard to beat. Nestled just behind La Scala and a short walk from the Galleria, it puts you right in the heart of the city while still feeling blissfully quiet.

Our room had city views, plush bedding, and all the comforts you’d expect from a top-tier luxury stay. But the real showstopper? That rooftop pool. We loved spending the golden hour on a lounge chair with a spritz in hand, staring out over the Milan skyline. The hotel also has four restaurants, and breakfast here was next-level.

Rooms typically range from €600 to €1,000+ per night, depending on room type and season. Casa Brera is the kind of splurge you’ll be raving about long after check-out.

Check prices and availability for your luxury stay in Brera here!

Mid-range – $$

There’s something so fitting about staying at The Unique in Brera, because that’s exactly how it felt—one-of-a-kind. The hotel is tucked away on a lively little square, just steps from Sforzesco Castle and a quick walk to the Duomo. 

We loved how intimate it was with only a few rooms, so it felt private and peaceful, even though we were in the heart of the action. Our room had tons of space, gorgeous natural light, and all the thoughtful touches, including a proper coffee machine, a super comfy bed, and even a cozy balcony overlooking the street below. 

The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, making everything feel effortless from check-in to check-out. Prices typically range from €280 to €380 per night, depending on the season and room type.

Browse room options here and book your stay at The Unique!

Budget – $

If you’re after Brera charm without the Brera price tag, Castello Sforzesco Suites by Brera Apartments is a seriously smart pick. The location is unbeatable—just a few minutes from the castle and a quick stroll to the Duomo, yet tucked away enough to feel peaceful.

Our suite was surprisingly spacious and stylish, with clean modern finishes, great lighting (yes, it matters!), and thoughtful touches like a coffee machine and blackout blinds. There’s no full reception here, but check-in was smooth and the team was super responsive and helpful the whole way through.

Rooms typically range from €150 to €300 per night, which is excellent value for this part of Milan. It’s a cozy, no-fuss option that still feels stylish and puts you right in the heart of the city.

Book your budget-friendly stay at Castello Sforzesco Suites here!

Navigli

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes staying somewhere with energy, character, and late-night gelato just steps from your door, Navigli might be your perfect match. This is Milan’s most atmospheric district, built around a network of historic canals that date back to the 12th century—yes, Leonardo da Vinci even had a hand in designing part of it.

During the day, Navigli is all about vintage markets, quirky boutiques, and art galleries hidden behind ivy-covered courtyards. But come evening, the neighborhood transforms. The air fills with music, chatter, and the smell of wood-fired pizza drifting from open-air patios.

The canals light up with twinkling string lights and the sound of clinking glasses as locals and travelers spill into waterside bars and trattorias for aperitivo. We loved grabbing a Negroni and watching the world go by along the canal banks.

You’re a little farther from Milan’s main tourist sights here, but the tradeoff is totally worth it if you want local flavor, great food, and a laid-back, bohemian feel. Navigli is ideal for younger travelers, couples, and anyone looking to soak up the social side of Milan.

Pros

• Lively nightlife, especially along the canal
• Great for vintage shopping, art, and café hopping
• Lots of character and local flair

Cons

• Can be noisy at night, especially on weekends
• Not walking distance to the Duomo or main attractions
• Fewer upscale hotel options compared to the central areas

Luxury – $$$

21 House of Stories Navigli isn’t just a place to stay, it’s an experience. From the moment we walked in, the vibe was young, stylish, and full of life. The design is modern without being cold, and the rooftop pool with panoramic views over Milan was hands down one of our favorite spots to unwind.

Our room was bright, clean, and full of clever little touches like free snacks and drinks in the minibar, great coffee, and a super comfy bed. Downstairs, the garden and lounge area made it easy to settle in with a spritz, and breakfast was far better than your standard hotel fare. 

Rates typically range from €200 to €560 per night, depending on the room type and season.

If you want boutique luxury with major personality, 21 House of Stories Navigli is the place to be.

Check availability for your travel dates and reserve your luxury stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Art Hotel Navigli brings something a little different to the Milan hotel scene—where else can you sleep among works by Dalì and Man Ray? This place blends boutique charm with gallery vibes, and the location couldn’t be better. 

You’re tucked just off the canal, steps from all the action, but still on a quiet enough street to actually get some sleep. Our room was spacious and super comfortable, with a great bed and a balcony perfect for morning coffee. We also loved the rooftop terrace and sauna—yes, this place has a sauna! 

Breakfast was surprisingly impressive too, with plenty of options to fuel a day of exploring. Prices generally range from €120 to €350 per night, depending on the season and room type.

Book your one-of-a-kind stay at Art Hotel Navigli here!

Budget – $

Don’t let the “hostel” label fool you. Combo Milano is seriously cool and a total gem for budget travelers. Right on the canal in the heart of Navigli, this place has style, great energy, and one of the best hostel breakfasts I’ve ever had (there were even vegan cakes and three types of milk!).

We stayed in a private room, but dorms are also available for those keeping things extra budget-friendly. Everything was spotless, well-designed, and surprisingly spacious. There’s a great little café, a coworking lounge, and a leafy courtyard that’s perfect for a chill moment away from the city buzz. 

Plus, the location puts you within walking distance of bars, vintage shops, and the metro. Rates start around €60 for a dorm bed and €200 for a private room with breakfast included. For design-forward vibes on a shoestring budget, Combo Milano nails it!

Check availability and book your bed (or room) here before it fills up!

Related Read: Not sure how to spend your time in Milan? Have a look at our detailed 3-day itinerary that goes over all the best things to do and places to eat!

Stazione Centrale

Stazione Centrale might not be Milan’s prettiest neighborhood, but what it lacks in charm, it more than makes up for in convenience. If you’re arriving by train or planning day trips to places like Lake Como, Venice, or Verona, this is hands down the most practical place to stay. 

The station itself is stunning, with grand architecture and soaring marble halls that are more impressive than you might expect from a train hub. I remember walking in and thinking it felt more like a museum than a transit point. Even if you’re not catching a train, it’s worth popping in just to take a look around.

This area is ideal for business travelers, short stays, or anyone with early departures or a packed itinerary. You’re well-connected to both metro lines and airport shuttles, and there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and affordable hotel options nearby.

While it’s not known for cultural sights, you’re still within 15–20 minutes of the Duomo and other top attractions by metro. And if you know where to look, you’ll find some hidden gems here too, like rooftop bars, local bakeries, and quiet courtyards tucked between busy streets.

Pros

• Extremely well-connected to trains, metros, and airport transfers
• Great for short stays or early departures
• More affordable accommodations than central Milan

Cons

• Not the most scenic or historic neighborhood
• Can feel busy and hectic, especially around the station
• Fewer cultural attractions within walking distance

Luxury – $$$

What makes Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale stand out is how effortlessly it blends style, comfort, and location. Just an 8-minute walk from the train station, this hotel feels like a quiet retreat from the busy streets outside, but step inside and it’s all sleek design, glowing light installations, and curated art.

The rooftop bar on the 13th floor is reason enough to stay here. We kicked off every evening with cocktails and sweeping skyline views—it honestly felt more like a hidden gem than a hotel bar. Our room was plush and calming, and the bed was one of the comfiest I’ve slept in. 

The spa area is another bonus, with a moody indoor pool, sauna, and steam room that made it easy to unwind after a long travel day. Rooms typically range from €250 to €500+ per night, depending on the room and season.

Book your stay at Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale here—you’ll love the vibe!

Mid-range – $$

For a super convenient and comfortable stay right near the train station, Hotel Flora really delivers. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Milano Centrale, but still manages to feel cozy and tucked away from the hustle. 

The rooms are classic and clean, with all the basics you need, and we loved the thoughtful touches like blackout curtains and a surprisingly comfy mattress. And shoutout to the amazing staff! Everyone we interacted with was genuinely kind and helpful, offering great tips and making sure we felt welcome. 

Breakfast was generous and fresh (you know we never skip it!), and we appreciated how easy it was to catch the metro or airport shuttle right nearby. Rooms here usually range from €90 to €350 per night, including breakfast.

Hotel Flora is a great pick for your Milan trip—book it early here, it fills fast!

Budget – $

We’ll be honest, Hotel Bolzano doesn’t look like much from the outside, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, it’s surprisingly modern and clean, with comfy rooms and friendly staff who go out of their way to help (I was even loaned a travel adapter, which was a total lifesaver). 

The location couldn’t be better: just one block from Milano Centrale, which made catching early trains an absolute breeze. The rooms are small but functional, with a mini-fridge, desk, and solid air-conditioning—basically, everything you need for a quick and easy stay. 

We also loved having a grocery store across the street and plenty of casual restaurants nearby. Prices can start as low as just €80 per night, and that includes breakfast if you book the right rate. It’s a fuss-free, well-connected stay that delivers exactly what you need for a night or two in Milan.

Check current rates for this top-value hotel here!

Top Activities to do in Milan

Now that you have found the perfect place to stay in Milan, it’s time to fill your itinerary! There is so much to do in Milan that we were a little overwhelmed at first. No worries, though – we have listed our five favorite Milan activities below so you can easily plan your trip!

• See Milan’s top sights with a guide – Gawking at Milan’s impressive sights is one thing, but they were even more impressive as we learned all about them from a guide on this walking tour! The Last Supper, Sforza Castle, and Milan Cathedral were just a few of the things we saw in this quick and easy tour.

• Visit the Swiss Alps – Escape the city on this scenic train trip to the Swiss Alps! This felt like it was straight out of a movie as we chugged along the mountains and into Switzerland. Taking this tour made the whole day seamless!

• Bicycle around Brera – Find hidden gems in the beautiful Brera district with this locally guided bike tour. We had so much fun weaving through the charming streets, past Milan’s iconic sights, and learning from our guide!

• Take a food tour – If you travel for food, you’ll love this food tour of Milan! Italian food is world-famous for a reason, and we ate the best dishes on this tour, including pizza, artisanal meats and cheese, gelato, wine, and more!

• Tour La Scala Opera House – As one of Milan’s most famous places, we couldn’t wait to go behind the scenes at La Scala! This small-group tour was an intimate way to learn about Milan’s history and culture – it doesn’t get much more iconic than this!

Renting a Car in Italy

Renting a car in Italy is one of the best ways to explore the country beyond the cities—think charming Tuscan villages, dramatic Amalfi Coast drives, and hidden gems in the countryside. While Italy’s roads can be a little chaotic (especially in cities), with the right preparation, renting a car here can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

We always use Discover Cars when booking our rentals, and highly recommend them. They compare dozens of providers to find you the best rates, include important filters like “automatic transmission,” and offer affordable full insurance coverage. For more info, you can read our in-depth Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Italy

• Drive on the right: Italians drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Right turns on red are illegal, and you must often yield to vehicles coming from the right at intersections.
• Stay alert and confident: Italian driving can feel aggressive in cities—expect assertive drivers, scooters weaving through traffic, and liberal horn use (often just a form of communication). Stay calm and practice defensive driving.
• Insurance is a must: We highly recommend adding full coverage insurance when booking. Minor damage like scratches and dents is common, especially in cities, and Discover Cars’ full protection gives you peace of mind at a low cost!
• Mind the ZTL zones: Many city centers have restricted traffic zones called ZTLs. Entering without a permit can result in a fine. Check with your hotel and use GPS with ZTL alerts.
• Choose the right vehicle: Roads in Italy can be narrow and parking tight, so a compact car is usually best. Most rentals are manual, but if you need an automatic, you can easily filter for one when booking with Discover Cars. 

What You Need to Rent a Car in Italy

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, you’ll likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
• You must be at least 18 years old, but renters under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Italy on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

We did a lot of walking around and exploring in Milan, so we were happy to have a perfect place to stay. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly, mid-range, or luxury accommodation, you’ll find somewhere comfortable and in the best area to fully experience Milan!

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Italy blogs. We have been all over the country and love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers. Here are a few more blogs that might help you plan your trip!

How to Spend THREE Days in Lake Como, Italy: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend ONE or TWO days in Siena, Italy: 1 or 2 Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE Days in Verona, Italy: 3-Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE DAYS in Milan – 3-Day Itinerary