Milan, the international fashion capital that’s surely Italy’s most international-feeling city, offers a collection of vastly different neighborhoods, each with its own spirit and character.
Their total number comes up at around 80, all divided into nine municipi (administrative zones). Some areas are more residential, some more historic, while others are perfect for shopping. Here’s your guide to a few of Milan’s can’t-miss neighborhoods.
Duomo
Best Neighborhood for Prime Attractions
The Duomo neighborhood surrounds the skyline-defining Milan Cathedral. This magnificent church sits right at the historical center of the city, making it easy to access famous landmarks like the gorgeous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Palazzo Reale, a favored spot for art and photography exhibitions.
If you prefer to have everything within a short walk without spending much time on public transport, then Duomo fits the bill. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that such proximity translates into higher prices for both restaurants and accommodations.
Brera
Best Neighborhood for Feeling Artsy
Still central and undoubtedly chic, Brera immediately brings to mind the Pinacoteca. A visit to this sprawling complex means admiring crowd-pleasing paintings like Francisco Hayez’s The Kiss, along with amenities such as a botanical garden and an astronomical observatory. It’s a must-visit stop while in this area.
The whole neighborhood of Brera has the aura of a painting from the museum. It’s the ideal place to stroll across cobblestones, explore picturesque corners, and indulge in a mid-afternoon snack at the many literary cafes dotting the streets.
Quadrilatero and San Babila
Best Neighborhood for Shopping
The Quadrilatero della Moda needs little introduction. Lined with the flagship stores of some of the world’s most famous high-fashion brands, the Quadrilatero provides some of the best shopping in Milan and the world. If your trip to Milan is a personal fashion pilgrimage, this is your neighborhood.
Historic and glamorous, San Babila complements this mold, allowing you to soak in that quintessential Milanese feeling. All three of these iconic neighborhoods are popular, so expect to be surrounded by people almost all the time.
Navigli and Darsena
Best Neighborhood for an Aperitivo
The Navigli are quintessentially Milanese. Originally part of a canal system that connected lakes Maggiore and Como with Swiss waterways, the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are vibrant hotspots for Milan’s social life. On the banks of these canals, you’ll experience authentic aperitivi and plenty of people watching. However, if your visit takes place in summer, do remember to bring mosquito repellent.
Sempione and Castello
Best Neighborhood for Greenery
Slightly west of Brera, the area around Parco Sempione is home to Castello Sforzesco, one of Milan’s unmissable landmarks. While only 15 minutes from Piazza del Duomo, this verdant neighborhood offers a bubble of tranquility amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
This area is an excellent choice for those looking to balance convenient access to important landmarks with calming greenery. Note that accommodation prices vary depending on how close you are to the city center.
Porta Venezia
Best Neighborhood for Hip Spots
Porta Venezia has it all: proximity to the historic center, quirky shops for vintage treasures, and a wide selection of cafes, bars, and clubs. Coupled with stunning architecture, you’ll find one of the liveliest neighborhoods in the city. Porta Venezia is anything but boring.
It’s also known as the rainbow corner of Milan, and you’ll discover plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly businesses. Each June, Porta Venezia hosts numerous events for Pride Week, including the iconic Pride parade along Corso Buenos Aires.
NoLo
Best Neighborhood for Student Life
Short for North of Loreto, NoLo is where Milanese student life flourishes. The presence of numerous university buildings creates a young, multicultural atmosphere. Here, you’ll find an array of little shops and quirky restaurants that embody the district’s creative spirit, epitomized by vibrant street art. Indeed, each June, NoLo celebrates creativity with Looperfest, a festival dedicated to graffiti and street art.
Relatively affordable by Milan standards, NoLo offers both value and variety, all just a short metro ride from the Gothic Cathedral.
