Known as one of the world's fashion capitals, Milan is an elegant, clean and well organised city. Being the second largest city in Italy after Rome, you are sure to find everything you need in it, but its magnitude can also be intimidating when it comes to choosing where to live. Here at idealista we are here to help and are going to have a look at some of the best neighbourhoods in Milan to live in depending on your needs, with something for students, families, young singles and much more.
Porta Venezia: the young and gay-friendly neighbourhood
An area which is increasingly popular with young people and the LGBTQ community is Porto Venezia which was also recently named in the list of the world's coolest neighbourhoods. Porto Venezia is as lively as it is elegant and is home to a wide range of shops, historic buildings and important museums such as the Natural History Museum, as well as being known for its strong community spirit. If you plan to settle in this buzzing neighbourhood, take note that the flats overlooking the main roads and avenues are often home to a lot of traffic and therefore can be a noisy place to live.
Città Studi and Navigli: best for students
The Navigli neighbourhood is found in the southwest of Milan and is set along the banks of two canals, Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, and is close to 3 of Milan's main universities: IULM, Bocconi and Naba. The area well and truly thrives on student life, while Città Studi literally translates as “Study City” due to its location close to the Politecnico di Milano University. Both areas are home to lots of Italian and international students and have affordable rentals for those in search of a dynamic lifestyle.
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Porta Romana: one of Milan's coolest areas
Porta Romana is a neighbourhood which is close enough to the city centre that you can easily walk there, but far enough removed to not be so chaotic, making it a pleasant place to live. This area is home to beautifully kept avenues with chic homes (perfect for buyers with a higher budget) and designer boutiques, and is contrasted with a vibrant, hipster vibe, home to buzzing street cafes and pubs; undoubtedly a favourite nightlife spot for locals.
Isola: ideal for business people and young families
Isola is an up-and-coming neighbourhood in the northern part of Milan and it could be said that this area is slightly secluded; Isola does mean island after all. After a troubled past and previously home to a high crime rate, Isola is quickly becoming one of the best places to live in Milan for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the centre without going too far away. The area is popular with those who work in the Porta Nuova business district, as well as young families, and it's worth noting that in this area you'll certianly be able to get more for your money when it comes to buying or renting property in Milan.
Fiera and San Siro: the best neighbourhoods for families and expats
Fiera is known as one of the best areas of Milan for families and offers the best of both worlds: the Fiera neighbourhood has a relaxing suburban vibe but is still well connected to the rest of the city and doesn't feel isolated. The area is mainly residential and is home to various schools and education options, while those after a little bit more of an atmosphere and more nightlife options could opt to live in the neighboring San Siro district, an equally great option for families and an area which is especially popular with expats.
Monza: step outside the city and save money
Monza is not strictly a neighbourhood in Milan, but for those who want to live a little further outside the city and get more for their money, Monza is a great option. Just a 10 minute train journey from Milan, the small city of Monza is once again great for families, pensioners, and those who want more open space. Perhaps more famous for it's Formula 1 race, Monza is home to all the local facilities that you will need, as well as large parks and great transport links to the centre of Milan.
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