Image courtesy of Bvlgari Hotel Milano
Milan is a dynamic blend of design-forward fashion, Renaissance architecture and cosmopolitan culture. Despite the historic backdrop, Milan represents the best of Italy’s young, artful contemporary scene.
While dozens of world-class luxury brands, from Prada to Versace, got their start in Milan, the city isn’t just one of the best places to stay in Italy because of its stellar reputation in the fashion world. Milan hosts prestigious museums, galleries and historical sites. Two of Italy’s most reputable universities — Bocconi University and Politecnico di Milano — are found here. TAnd the city also serves as Italy’s financial hub, regularly drawing business travel. This guide will help you decide where to stay in Milan, with neighborhood breakdowns and hotel recommendations provided by Fora travel advisors.
If you’re ready to start planning your Milan trip, connect with a Fora Advisor. They’ll matchmake you to a hotel and neighborhood that meets all your travel preferences, and unlock complimentary hotel perks.
Quadrilatero d’Oro, Centro Storico
Quadrilatero d'Oro, Milan’s "Golden Rectangle" and poshest neighborhood, is a luxury shopping district in Centro Storico, Milan’s historic center. The area is home to both elite fashion boutiques and flagship stores of iconic brands like Prada, Gucci and Versace. Beyond high-end shopping, the area offers sophisticated dining, luxe hotels and an overall stylish atmosphere that’s as much cultivated by its glamorous streets as by the world travelers that walk them.
“When in Milan, I highly recommend shopping on Via Monte Napoleone, known for offering some of the best retail experiences in all of Italy,” Fora Advisor Michelle Oliveira said.
When in Milan, the Duomo di Milano is a must, in particular because of its “remarkable architectural journey,” Michelle said. Indeed, the Gothic cathedral dates back to the 1300s, and was completed in the 1960s. Wendy added that the main floor of the Duomo has a brass zodiac sundial (the largest in Europe, in fact) on its black-and-white marble floor. Different signs are lit up by the sun at solar noon throughout the year.
Where to stay in Quadrilatero d’Oro: Portrait Milano, Grand Hotel et de Milan or Four Seasons Hotel Milano
Image courtesy of Grand Hotel et de Milan
Quadrilatero d’Oro is home to three of Milan’s top hotels: Portrait Milano, Grand Hotel et de Milan and Four Seasons Hotel Milano. All three rank among Fora’s top-booked hotels in Milan, and the former two were both experienced firsthand by Fora Advisors on a 2024 scouting trip.
Portrait Milano offers a refined, boutique experience. It combines timeless elegance with personalized service in a chic setting, just steps from top fashion boutiques. The common spaces are grand, with neutral tones, but the rooms are whitewashed with wood paneling and deep-red accents. Fora Advisor Bekah LeBeau described the property as one for “stylish ‘see-and-be-seen’ clients.”
“Portrait Milano has this effortlessly cool vibe that perfectly captures Milan’s fashion-forward spirit,”Fora Advisor Marisa Schwab added. “It’s where Milan’s energy meets this laid-back sophistication — you'll never want to leave.”
Meanwhile, Grand Hotel et de Milan exudes historic charm with classical décor and furnishings, and its service is exemplary. But its biggest draw may be its on-site restaurants. Every Fora Advisor who participated in the scouting trip raved about the hotel's dining options — particularly Caruso Nuovo, which blends Milanese and Neapolitan culinary traditions. Among the stand-out dishes: Sicilian nocellara del belice (an olive and scabbard fish soup) and a creamy, saffron-infused Milanese risotto (a favorite of Marisa’s).
“From the first bite to the last, each dish is crafted to perfection, making for an unforgettable meal that highlights the best of Italian cuisine," Michelle said.
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Milano
Lastly, Four Seasons Hotel Milano is a quiet, upscale retreat in a former 15th-century convent. The property has lush gardens, a renowned spa and sophisticated Italian décor. If you love the Four Seasons, you’ll especially love this property.
Fora Perks at Portrait Milano:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Grand Hotel et de Milan:
VIP status, breakfast daily and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Milan:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Related guide: Fora Advisor Irene Wilkoff's Portrait Milano Overview
Brera & Sempione, Centro Storico
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Milan
Brera is one of Milan’s most charming and artistic neighborhoods. It directly borders Quadrilatero d’Oro to the west. Brera has a bohemian vibe and cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, cafés and a mix of indie and upscale boutiques. At its heart is the Pinacoteca di Brera, a prestigious art museum showcasing masterpieces from Italian Renaissance artists. The neighborhood also offers a fantastic mix of traditional and modern dining options, from cozy trattorias to trendy international eateries.
“I love Brera in Milan for the authentic Italian vibe,” Fora Advisor Wendy Wallace said, noting the neighborhood is great for people (and fashion) watching.
In neighboring Sempione, you’ll find Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest and most popular city park, and some of the city’s most notable historic landmarks, like the iconic Arco della Pace and Sforza Castle, which houses several museums and art collections. (Fora Advisor Ashley Emala recommended visiting the castle at sunset to catch the city lights as they turn on.) To the west of the park, and especially around Corso Sempione Quadrilatero d’Oro, you’ll find a busy nightlife scene, with many bars and restaurants.
Related guide: Fora Advisor Wendy Wallace's Guide to Milan: A Luxurious Escape into Art, History and Style
Where to stay in Brera: Mandarin Oriental, Milan or Bvlgari Hotel Milano
Image courtesy of Bvlgari Hotel Milano
Sempione is light on accommodation options, but Brera is home to two of Fora’s top-booked hotels in Milan. Mandarin Oriental, Milan’s aesthetic pairs Milanese and Hong Kong-inspired design. This five-star hotel is set across four 18th-century buildings and offers spacious rooms and suites. Enjoy a Michelin-Starred dining experience at Seta — the roasted duck is glorious — and relax at its high-end spa, which includes an indoor pool and a range of wellness treatments.
Alternatively, Bvlgari Hotel Milano is an exquisite urban retreat that blends refined luxury with a tranquil, green setting just steps from Milan's upscale Via Montenapoleone, a street famous for its shopping. This property offers sleek, contemporary rooms and suites with Italian design. Bvlgari’s private garden is an oasis away from the city’s buzzing streets, while its namesake restaurant and bar attract a stylish crowd of travelers and locals.
Fora Perks at Mandarin Oriental, Milan:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, dedicated ambassador support and an upgrade whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Bvlgari Hotel Milano:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, VIP status, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
More hotel options in Centro Storico: Vico Milano or Aethos Milan
Image courtesy of Aethos Milan
Staying anywhere in Centro Storico puts you within walking distance of many of Milan’s most interesting attractions. Vico Milano and Aethos Milan, both among Fora’s top-booked hotels in the city, sit between Quadrilatero d’Oro and the hip neighborhood of Navigli.
Vico Milano is a modern boutique hotel with an artistic atmosphere and approachable rates. Each room has its own distinct character, with contemporary furnishings, curated artwork and upscale amenities that create a stylish and comfortable environment. Aethos Milan is another boutique option emphasizing bespoke décor and art that reflect the area’s bohemian spirit. The vibe is upscale and stylish, with a welcoming lounge, a rooftop bar and a bistro serving Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a social setting and easy access to Milan’s many art galleries and nightlife hub in Navigli.
Fora Perks at Vico Milano:
€20 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, an upgrade whenever possible and guaranteed late check-out.
Fora Perks at Aethos Milan:
Complimentary bottle of wine, discounted parking and an upgrade whenever possible.
Navigli and Via Tortona
Navigli and Via Tortona (a famous street in Porta Genova) are where to stay in Milan if you’re looking for a trendy base or love contemporary art. Both neighborhoods are southwest of the city’s Centro Storico, and both exemplify Milan’s dedication to art and fashion, albeit from complementary perspectives. Navigli celebrates the best of vintage fashion and boutique shopping. Via Tortona focuses on avant-garde styles and new-age innovation, which is why it’s the setting for Milan’s Design Week every year (one more reason Milan is among the best places to visit in Italy).
Navigli is famous for its network of historic canals that once served as essential trade routes. Today, these canals are lined with cafés, art studios and indie shops. During the day, explore artisan boutiques and vintage stores or enjoy a coffee by the water. At night, the neighborhood transforms into one of Milan’s most popular nightlife spots. Its many bars, restaurants and aperitivo spots create a lively scene that draws both locals and international travelers. If you time your visit right, you can also check out one of Navigli’s monthly antique markets and art galleries.
Via Tortona, on the northern side of the Naviglio Grande Canal, was once part of an industrial area, but has since been transformed into a design hub. Former factories were repurposed as showrooms, art studios, galleries and eateries ranging from trendy bistros to hidden gems of authentic Italian cuisine.
Related guide: Local Food and Culture in Milan
Porta Nuova, Porta Garibaldi and Chinatown
Image courtesy of Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano
Porta Nuova and Porta Garibaldi have undergone a dramatic transformation over the past couple of decades, reinventing northern Milan as a bastion of contemporary Milanese culture and architecture. Striking skyscrapers and abstract geometric buildings give the former an almost futuristic feel, while the former still hosts pockets of historic structures.
Among Porta Nuova’s most interesting landmarks are the iconic Bosco Verticale, a pair of “vertical forest” towers. Trees and other vegetation are grown on dedicated platforms that climb up the entire tower, showcasing how lush greenery can sustainably exist in contemporary urban environments. The area features high-end shopping, trendy eateries and several elegant hotels. The neighborhood is also home to Gae Aulenti Square, a modern plaza that’s a popular spot for events. Porta Nuova is also the city’s business hub, so this is likely where you’ll want to stay in Milan if you’re visiting in a professional capacity.
Northern Milan isn’t exclusively business. Porta Garibaldi bustles with vibrant energy day and night. The area boasts tons of upscale shops and restaurants, along with easy access to the nightlife of Corso Como. Porta Garibaldi’s central train station makes it a convenient hub for travelers coming in and out of the city, too.
Finally, Milan’s Chinatown, located just to the west of Porta Garibaldi, is the city’s oldest non-Italian neighborhood; it’s also a foodie’s paradise. The lively district — which is perhaps better described as a multi-cultural hub — hosts a selection of authentic East Asian restaurants, grocery stores and street-food stalls. It also has a growing presence of hip cafés, boutique shops and contemporary art galleries. During the Chinese New Year, the neighborhood comes alive with parades and festivals.
Where to stay in or near Puerto Nuovo, Milan: Hotel Principe Di Savoia, Casa Baglioni or Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano
Image courtesy of Hotel Principe Di Savoia
Staying in Puerto Nuovo also puts you within walking distance of Brera and Quadrilatero d’Oro, not to mention northern Milan’s own array of attractions. Fora’s top-booked hotel in Milan — Hotel Principe Di Savoia — is found here, as are two standout properties our scouting team enjoyed.
Hotel Principe Di Savoia, one of the first hotels in Italy to earn a Michelin Key, promises timeless luxury and sophisticated Italian décor. With plush rooms, a rooftop spa and fine Milanese dining, this five-star property offers an indulgent experience paired with impeccable service. Hotel Principe Di Savoia is one of Milan’s most iconic luxury hotels, and has a reputation for hosting celebrities, dignitaries and other VIPs.
Casa Baglioni is a luxurious boutique hotel located on the border of Brera and Puerto Nuovo. The vibe is intimate and refined, with an aesthetic inspired by 1960s Italian art and design; expect warm woods with cool blue and cream accents.
“In a bustling city like Milan that can often be gray and rainy, stepping into Casa Baglioni feels like coming home, but with an elevated Milanese twist,” Fora Advisor Ashley Emala said.
Fora Advisor Bekah LeBeau added that the restaurant is a must-visit: “The Baglioni served the best bowl of pasta I ate in all of Milan, and they also had a cream pie dessert that I am still dreaming about.”
Image courtesy of Casa Baglioni
Palazzo Parigi also sits on the border of Brera and Puerto Nuevo, only a block or so from Casa Baglioni, but offers a dramatically different atmosphere. This elite hotel combines classical Italian and Parisian elegance with a touch of modern design. Expect a sophisticated retreat with impeccable service, lavish suites and a world-class spa.
“The hotel is owned and run by women, and it shows with every thoughtful detail; for example, the closet space is a 10 out of 10,” Bekah said, adding that Palazzo Parigi was her favorite hotel on the scouting trip. “And the spa: Heaven on Earth. It has a huge underground pool and some of the most beautiful treatment rooms I've ever seen.”
Fora Perks at Hotel Principe Di Savoia:
€100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Casa Baglioni:
Complimentary air and concierge services.
Fora Perks at Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milan:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Central Station (Stazione Centrale)
Milan’s Central Station area may not have the same kind of allure as Centro Storico, but as the city’s primary transportation hub, it does offer convenience. This is especially true if you’re visiting multiple destinations, as the Central Station Area not only connects Milan to the rest of Italy, but to much of Europe. You’ll find a wide variety of accommodations here, ranging from affordable boutique hotels to upscale properties. Even though this neighborhood is technically removed from the city’s central district, you’re still close to many of Milan’s top attractions. In recent years, the Central Station area has developed a trendy dining and nightlife scene.
Related article: The Best Boutique Hotels in Italy: 8 Luxurious Options
Porta Romana
Porta Romana offers a more residential experience among Milan’s most traveled districts. It’s a little more authentic to daily life here, and where to stay in Milan if you’re looking for a quieter base without sacrificing convenient access to the rest of the city. This up-and-coming neighborhood has been the site of a nightlife renaissance of sorts, with a variety of upscale bars and restaurants taking root. Still, the nightlife in Puerto Romana is fairly relaxed compared to that of Navigli or Brera.
Fora Advisor Wendy Wallace recommended the Fondazione Prada museum for contemporary art and design junkies: “While you’re there, grab a coffee at the Wes Anderson-designed café — it’s very charming,” she said.
Let a Fora Advisor help you decide where to stay in Milan
Chat with a Fora Advisor for help deciding where to stay in Milan. They’ll break down all your options and tailor your stay to your travel preferences and budget. Plus, they’ll unlock complimentary hotel perks at any one of our dozens of travel partners across Milan. If you also need help deciding what to do in Milan, your advisor will help you build a travel plan per your interests.
Where to stay in Milan: FAQs
Read on for answers to questions about where to stay in Milan, along with general travel information.
How many days should you stay in Milan?
Two to three days offer enough time to enjoy many of Milan’s highlights, like the Duomo di Milano, the city’s fashion and shopping districts and Sforza Castle. Many travelers pair a trip to Milan with a visit to the Italian lakes (like Lake Como and Lake Garda).
Related guides: Milan Escape: Unveiling the City in Two Days and Relaxation in Lake Como and Milan
How far in advance should you book hotels in Milan?
Image courtesy of Casa Baglioni
For the best selection, we recommend booking your stay in Milan at least two to three months in advance. Last-minute bookings are possible, but may offer a limited selection, especially during events like Design Week. (Various fashion events are held throughout the year.)
When’s the best time to visit Milan? What’s the city’s weather like?
Milan is a year-round destination, though Fora Advisor Ashley Emala noted that the city is hot in August. Fora Advisor Bekah LeBeau loved visiting during fall, which is technically part of Milan’s low travel season. She added that the crowds were sparse and “rain in Milan felt cozy.”
Is Milan safe for travelers? Are there any areas in Milan that should be avoided?
Milan is safe for travelers, though it's wise to stay cautious in crowded areas like Central Station, as petty crime does occur. Otherwise, exercise normal travel precautions.
Is Milan walkable? Should you rent a car?
Milan is indeed walkable, especially in the central districts. The city also has an efficient public transport system, so renting a car is usually unnecessary unless you’re interested in exploring rural areas outside the city.
Which area in Milan has the best shopping?
Quadrilatero d'Oro is Milan's premier shopping district, known for luxury boutiques and the original locations of many top designers like Armani and Dolce & Gabbana.
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