Where to Stay in Milan
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Milan
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Navigli
The historic canal district, buzzing with energy, outdoor cafes, bars, and artisan workshops.
Our top picks in Navigli
Isola
A trendy, up-and-coming district known for its street art, independent shops, and lively aperitivo scene.
Our top picks in Isola
Porta Venezia
An elegant and diverse district with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, parks, and a lively LGBTQ+ scene.
Our top picks in Porta Venezia
A large hotel with a rooftop pool and spa, located directly on Corso Buenos Aires.
Book NowModern hotel offering good amenities and a convenient location near the public gardens.
Book NowA charming, historic inn with a cozy atmosphere and personalized service.
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Navigli | Budget | The historic canal district, buzzing with energy, outdoor cafes, bars, and artisan workshops. | nightlifefoodies |
Brera | Luxury | An artistic and bohemian heart with charming cobblestone streets, galleries, and boutiques. | culturecouples |
Isola | Mid-range | A trendy, up-and-coming district known for its street art, independent shops, and lively aperitivo scene. | nightlifefoodies |
Porta Venezia | Mid-range | An elegant and diverse district with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, parks, and a lively LGBTQ+ scene. | first-timerscouples |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Milan
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Milan
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Milan. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Milan
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Milan
Navigli
BudgetThe historic canal district, buzzing with energy, outdoor cafes, bars, and artisan workshops.
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Great for aperitivo
- +Unique canal views
- -Extremely crowded in the evenings
- -Can be noisy
Brera
LuxuryAn artistic and bohemian heart with charming cobblestone streets, galleries, and boutiques.
- +Charming atmosphere
- +Excellent dining options
- +Central location
- -Can be crowded
- -Expensive
Isola
Mid-rangeA trendy, up-and-coming district known for its street art, independent shops, and lively aperitivo scene.
- +Vibrant nightlife
- +Good value for money
- +Authentic local feel
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Less polished than central areas
Porta Venezia
Mid-rangeAn elegant and diverse district with beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, parks, and a lively LGBTQ+ scene.
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Green spaces
- +Good transport links
- -Can feel a bit spread out
- -Corso Buenos Aires is very commercial
Daily Budget (Budget)
EUR 70/day
Hidden Gems in Milan
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Navigli District
FREEExplore the charming canals built by Leonardo da Vinci. By day, it's a picturesque area, but by night, it transforms into a vibrant hub with numerous bars and restaurants.
Mercato di Via Fauche
FREEExperience a lively local market where you can find fresh produce, clothing, and everyday items. It's a great place to observe Milanese daily life and pick up some authentic souvenirs.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Milan
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Milan Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Milan on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Milan Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Milan with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Milan: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Milan's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Milan: Scenic Excursion
Escape Milan for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Milan Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Milan's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Milan
Backpackers in Milan: FAQ
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