Are you planning a trip to Italy’s fashion capital and wondering where to stay in Milan ? In this guide, I’ve selected the best accommodations in Milan so you can easily find a hotel that matches your preferences and your budget. The accommodations are organized by neighborhood, including the most popular areas among tourists.
The third most visited city in Italy (after Rome and Venice), Milano offers a wide range of hotels and apartments to stay in. The only real requirement is to book in advance, as demand is high all year round. Otherwise, you’ll miss out on the best accommodations. If you’re looking to save money, avoid “Fashion Week,” which takes place every year at the end of September, prices skyrocket during fashion week. “Design Week,” held in April, is also a very busy period with a large number of visitors.
One last point before diving into this guide to the best hotels in Milan : the city is very well served by public transportation, with four metro lines. You can stay on the outskirts and reach the Duomo in less than 20 minutes. That’s what we do when we come to Milan by car (to benefit from free parking). We go there regularly since Daniela’s father lives in the city.
So, what is the best neighborhood to stay in Milan ? Where to stay in Milan close to the main tourist attractions ? Which area should you choose to go out at night and party, or on the contrary, to enjoy peace and quiet ? I answer all your questions in this guide.
Where to stay in Milan : neighborhood map
The map below will help you quickly visualize the location of the different neighborhoods mentioned in this guide to the best accommodations in Milan.
Historic center and Duomo district
This is the historic heart of the city and one of the must-see areas in Milan. It is home to the famous Duomo, the third-largest church in the world (construction began in 1386 and was completed five centuries later). The large square in front of the Gothic cathedral is a popular meeting point for tourists and locals alike. Right next door is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, another must-see attraction. If you’ve already visited Naples, it may remind you of the Galleria Umberto I.
Staying in Milan in the Duomo district puts you right next to main historic landmarks. The downside is that this is the most expensive area for accommodation.
Where to stay in Milan in the historic center (Duomo)
- 108 € : La casa-atelier, this apartment for four people is one of the most affordable options to stay near the Duomo (700 m on foot). With a surface area of 80 m², it features two bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen.
- 184 € : Amabilia Suites, located just 100 meters from Cathedral Square, this 4-star accommodation offers spacious, beautifully decorated modern rooms. Some have an incredible view of the cathedral. Breakfast available.
- 189 € : Heart Milan Apartments San Sepolcro Duomo, if you prefer apartment-style accommodation, this one is very well located. This fully equipped 45 m² studio is excellent. A 65 m² apartment with a balcony is also available.
- 260 € : Duomo Rooms, combining classic and modern styles in stunning rooms, this 4-star property is perfect if you want to stay in the heart of Milan’s historic district. Parking available nearby for an extra fee.
Brera District
Located north of the Duomo, Brera is Milan’s chic and bohemian neighborhood. It’s just a 10–15 minute walk from the Duomo, making it a great base for sightseeing. The area is peaceful thanks to its pedestrian zones and limited traffic. It’s also popular with locals for going out, thanks to its many restaurants, cafés, and bars.
The district is home to the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important museums. It’s also an area rich in art and culture, with numerous private art galleries and boutiques. Like the Duomo district, Brera offers mostly high-end accommodations. It’s ideal if you want to treat yourself while staying in Milan, but budget travelers may prefer another area.
Where to stay in Milan in the Brera district
- 130 € : Charming Milan Apartments Brera – Madonnina, One of the more affordable options to stay in Milan in the Brera district. Fully equipped and suitable for up to four people, making it ideal for families.
- 132 € : Brera Apartments, ideally located in the heart of Brera, this large apartment with a kitchen can accommodate up to four people (bedroom + living room). Close to many small restaurants for dinner.
- 152 € : Artsy Loft in Brera – Duomo, this 40 m² apartment is located in Brera, right on the edge of the Duomo district. Very well situated for sightseeing (Duomo 600 m away, Pinacoteca 400 m, La Scala Theatre 400 m).
- 220 € : Hotel Milano Scala, this beautiful 4-star eco-certified hotel (carbon neutral) features a panoramic rooftop terrace surrounded by plants. Excellent location, with most tourist attractions within walking distance.
It may come as a surprise, but Milan has canals known as navigli in Italian. They were built in the Middle Ages. Don’t expect the atmosphere of Amsterdam or Venice—it’s completely different. Navigli is the district favored by young Milanese who come to enjoy an aperitivo at one of the many bars and restaurants lining the canals. During the day on weekends, stalls selling clothes, vintage items, and bric-a-brac line the canal banks. If you’re young and enjoy nightlife, this is a great area to stay in Milan. It’s also suitable for smaller budgets, as you can find affordable accommodations here.
Navigli is slightly outside the historic center, about a 30-minute walk from the Duomo. You can reach the center more quickly via the M2 metro line (P.TA Genova FS stop) or by tram.
Where to stay in Milan in the navigli district
- 68 € : Easy Milano Apartment Navigli, this 45 m² studio is one of the cheapest options to stay in Milan in the Navigli area. Two sleeping areas (sofa bed + large double bed) and a fully equipped kitchenette. Excellent value for money.
- 95 € : Casa David, a 45 m² mezzanine apartment ideally located in the heart of Navigli, allowing you to enjoy the lively atmosphere while still being quiet. It also has excellent guest reviews.
- 149 € : Ripa 57 Milano, a lovely 32 m² apartment with exposed stone walls and a kitchenette. It even features a balcony overlooking the canal. Plenty of restaurants nearby if you don’t feel like cooking.
- 152 € : Milano Apartments Darsena, this 45 m² apartment can accommodate up to five people with one bedroom and a living room featuring three sofa beds. Private kitchen, courtyard view, TV with Netflix subscription. Breakfast included.
Castello and Sempione district
North of the Duomo and south of the Porta del Sempione lies the Sforza Castle (one of Milan’s must-see monuments) and the vast Sempione Park, which adds green space to the city. The area is home to several museums and a small aquarium. It’s particularly well suited for families with children who want a quieter stay while remaining close to the center.
The Castello and Sempione district is served by two metro lines (M1 and M2) and is just a 15-minute walk from the Duomo.
Where to stay in Milan in the Castello and Sempione district
- 115 € : Flatty Apartments – Cirillo, located behind the park, this well-equipped 22 m² apartment is one of the most affordable places to stay in Milan in the Sempione area.
- 118 € : Zebra Rosso, this 20 m² studio includes a kitchenette and everything you need to cook. Quietly located in a historic building, halfway between the Brera Pinacoteca and Sforza Castle. Metro stop 200 m away.
- 159 € : Casa da Suite Cometa, this large, fully equipped 85 m² apartment can accommodate up to five people, making it a good option for large families.
Train station district
Milan’s main train station (Stazione Centrale) is located north of the Brera district. This is where you’ll arrive if you come to Milan by train. Metro lines 2 and 5 pass through the station, making the area easy to access. For budget travelers who want to stay close to the city center, this is where you’ll find cheap accommodations in Milan. The station district also has a strategic location if you plan to explore beyond the city by train. You can, for example, take a day trip to Lake Orta, spend a weekend at Lake Maggiore, or visit Lake Como.
Where to stay in Milan in the train station district
- 64 € : 43 Station Hotel, one of the cheapest places to stay in Milan near the station, offering excellent value for money. Well located and quiet. Metro 300 m away.
- 73 € : Isola Dal Verme Flat, located in the Isola district, 400 m from the station, this 45 m² apartment with a fully equipped kitchen offers good value for money. Many shops and restaurants nearby.
- 105 € : AC Hotel Milano by Marriott, this hotel from the famous international chain offers rooms with city views and is well connected by public transport.
- 123 € : Porta Garibaldi B&B, this bed and breakfast offers attractive 45 m² studios with a private kitchen, washing machine, and dryer. Station and metro 400 m away. Breakfast included.
Porta Romana district
Located southwest of the Duomo, this is a fairly upscale residential area and not usually the first neighborhood people think of when choosing where to stay in Milan. Porta Romana is a historic district at the crossroads of Roman times and Spanish rule. It features markets, many bars, and is known for its spas. The area is slightly farther from the Duomo (30 minutes on foot) but just two stops away on metro line 3.
Where to stay in Milan in the Porta Romana district
- 91 € : Porta Romana, this newly available apartment for tourists has two bedrooms and a total surface area of 80 m². It can accommodate four people and offers excellent value for money for Milan.
- 93 € : Sigieri Residence Milano, this residence offers air-conditioned studios and apartments in a modern style, with views of the city or the inner courtyard. A 10-minute walk from Porta Romana metro station.
- 117 € : Hotel Piacenza, this 3-star hotel offers modern rooms with private bathrooms. A buffet breakfast with sweet and savory options is included.
- 162 € : Colorful Porta Romana, this 50 m² apartment with a bedroom and living room can accommodate up to four people. Beautiful fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and washing machine. Metro stop 500 m away, just two stops from the Duomo.
Porta Venezia district
This is the trendiest district in the city, home to Milan’s bourgeoisie. It’s characterized by its 19th-century Italian architectural style. Porta Venezia features a large park (Giardini Indro Montanelli), the Natural History Museum, the Gallery of Modern Art, and many shops. It’s a major shopping area in Milan.
Where to stay in Milan in the Porta Venezia district
- 62 € : PrimoPiano – Melzo A, this very well-equipped and well-located 28 m² apartment is ideal for two people. One of the cheapest accomodations in Milan in the Porta Venezia district.
- 123 € : 10 Via Giuseppe Sirtori, with excellent guest reviews (rated 9.5), this apartment can accommodate up to four people. A bonus: free toiletries and breakfast included.
- 171 € : Ai Suma Hotel, this 3-star hotel offers modern rooms with breakfast included. Located just steps from the station and Porta Venezia metro stop, and 300 m from the park.
- 200 € : ViaBoschetti1, a very well-equipped 50 m² apartment in a beautiful bourgeois building. Close to the park and just 200 m from the nearest metro stop (two stops from the Duomo).
Where to stay in Milan on a budget
It’s entirely possible to stay in Milan without spending a fortune, even budget travelers can find great options. You’ll need to move away from the Duomo to find cheap accommodations in Milan, but thanks to the extensive public transport network (metro, tram, and bus), you can quickly reach the historic center. Another key factor for getting good prices is booking well in advance. It’s no secret that the best—and cheapest—hotels and apartments are booked first.
Backpackers will be pleased to know that Milan has several hostels offering dormitory beds, allowing you to save your budget for experiences rather than accommodation.
Below is a list of the best budget accommodations in Milan. I’ve divided it into two sections: first, the “best of” hostels, and then, for those who prefer a private room, the top 5 cheap hotels in Milan.
In this guide, I only include accommodations with good guest reviews and located not too far from the city center (within 3 km). It’s possible to find even cheaper options, but I’ll spare you the run-down hotels 🙂
The best hostels to stay in Milan
- 20 € : Hightown Hostel, one of the best value-for-money hostels in Milan. Bed in a 6-person dormitory. Located south of the city, 800 m from the nearest metro (4 stops to the historic center).
- 33 € : Ostelzzz Milano, located near the central station, this hostel offers capsule-style beds in a mixed dormitory with air conditioning. Breakfast included.
- 36 € : Combo Milano, located in the lively and youthful Navigli district, this hostel offers bunk beds in a 6-person mixed dormitory, as well as female-only dorms. Breakfast included.
- 47 € : Ostello Bello, slightly more expensive than the others, but it makes up for it with an excellent location just 800 meters from the Duomo. Bed in an 8-person mixed dormitory and terraces with hammocks.
Top 5 cheap hotels in Milan
- 61 € : bellaMI, at this price, you have no excuse not to visit Milan. Double room with private bathroom, air conditioning, fridge, Wi-Fi, and TV. Located in the Porta Vittoria district, 1.6 km from the Duomo.
- 69 € : Hotel America, this 1-star hotel offers double rooms with either private or shared bathrooms. Friendly welcome. Located in the Porta Vittoria district.
- 79 € : Hotel 22 Marzo, located in the green Porta Vittoria area, this 2-star hotel is close to public transport (bus and tram right in front). Breakfast available for €5.
- 84 € : Hotel Garda, just a 5-minute walk from Milan’s central station, yet on a quiet street, this 3-star hotel offers double or triple rooms. Breakfast available.
- 91 € : J24 Hotel Milano, proof that it’s possible to stay in a 4-star hotel in Milan for under €100 per night. Located just 2 minutes from the Maciachini metro stop (6 stops to the Duomo).
Hotel with free parking in Milan
Finding a hotel or apartment in Milan that offers free private parking is quite a challenge. Most hotels in the historic center do not have parking facilities. For travelers arriving by car, they usually offer parking in a nearby public or private garage at a minimum cost of €25 per night (which can go up to €35 per night for private parking). This is the kind of option that quickly drives up the price of your stay.
We always come to Milan by car because it’s more convenient for us and, above all, much cheaper than the train (Nice is only 3 hours and 15 minutes by car from Milan). After extensive research to find accommodation with parking included, we chose the Hilton Garden Inn Milan North (€110/night). It’s located 6 km north of the historic center, close to a highway exit. The “Villa S. Giovanni” metro stop on line 1 is just 100 m from the hotel, allowing you to reach the Duomo in 15 minutes. It’s a 4-star hotel from the famous Hilton chain, so there are no surprises in terms of amenities. The generous breakfast is served as a large buffet (included depending on the rate).
In neighborhoods farther from the city center, you may find free street parking, but it’s always a gamble. On vacation, you don’t necessarily want to spend an hour circling the streets or park 500 m from your accommodation.
Apartment with free parking
Some apartments offer private parking at no extra cost, but this remains very rare. If you know of any addresses, feel free to share them in the blog comments—I’ll add them to the article.
Milan ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone)
Be careful: if you choose accommodation with parking in central Milan, you will inevitably enter the ZTL (limited traffic zone). ZTLs, which exist in many Italian cities, designate central areas where car traffic is restricted except in specific cases. As a tourist, you’ll automatically receive a €90 fine if you enter Milan’s ZTL by car without authorization.
If your hotel or apartment is located within the ZTL (you can find maps and descriptions of the different zones on the city’s official website), your host must complete a form with your name and license plate number and submit it to the local authorities for the duration of your stay. Be sure to check the procedure with your hotel or Airbnb before arriving. To easily recognize ZTLs, I recommend reading my article on limited traffic zones in Italy.
Otherwise, I recommend parking on the outskirts of the ZTL and taking the metro. To save time, I suggest booking your parking in Milan with Parclick—it’s simple, fast, and will help you save money !
How to reach the city center from Milan airport
If you’re not arriving by car or train (the station is almost in the city center), you’ll reach Milan by plane. There are three different airports serving Milan, used by different airlines. Be sure to check where you’re landing—low-cost airlines generally use Bergamo Airport.
- Milan Malpensa airport : the main airport, located 40 km from the city. You can reach the city center by train (buy a ticket for the Malpensa Express) or by bus.
- Milan Linate airport (Enrico Forlanini) : the closest airport to the center, just 8 km away. Mainly used for domestic flights. Bus services connect it to the city center.
- Bergamo airport : used by low-cost airlines and therefore the farthest from the city (45 km). Buses connect it to Milan’s central station.
Now you know where to stay in Milan. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment on the blog.
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