Where to Stay in Milan (For One or Two Nights 2023)

Milan is known as the capital of fashion and design thanks to international events like the Fashion Week and Furniture Fair. The city is also the home of the third-largest church in Italy, the Duomo Cathedral, and the world-famous artwork of Leonardo Da Vinci – the Last Supper. It’s a great destination for art, history or shopping lovers.

The city is divided into 9 administrative zones (boroughs). Zone 1 (Centro Storico) covers all the famous sites and shops. In most cases, this zone is all you need. The zone itself consists of smaller neighbourhoods. Most of the tourist sites and shops are located in the central zone.

In general, you can’t go wrong staying anywhere in zone 1. Still, I would recommend you to choose the North-Eastern areas. The metro stations are more and close to each other in these areas. After a long day of sightseeing, the last thing you will want is to walk one more kilometre to the closest metro station.

During my trip to Milan, I stayed near Corso Buenos Aires. I didn’t stay here for the shopping (although I didn’t miss to check out a few stores). I chose the area because of its closeness to the Historic Centre and the Central train station.

Corso Buenos Aires is the perfect area to stay in Milan for 1-2 nights (especially if you plan any day trips).

In a hurry? Looking for a comfy hotel with an excellent rating?
Then check out The Square Milano Duomo – it’s the most popular hotel.

The hotel is right in the Historic City Centre, very close to the cathedral. The elegant rooms are spacious and well equipped. Plus, the hotel features an awesome restaurant and a rooftop bar with fantastic views of the city.
Why book – 330m from Duomo, private parking nearby, air conditioning

Where to stay in Milan for one night (or two nights)

• Corso Buenos Aires – for sightseeing and transport links
• Duomo di Milano – the best area to stay for tourists
• Quadrilatero della moda and Porta Venezia – for shopping
• Corso Sempione and Navigli – for nightlife

You can easily catch a shuttle bus to both airports (Malpensa Airport and Bergamo Airport) even if you have an early morning flight. You’ll be close to nice restaurants, a huge shopping street and you’ll avoid the run-down area just next to the Central station.

Why stay near Corso Buenos Aires

• it’s the perfect area for transport links and day trips
• the central train station is about a 15min walk
• the Duomo is only 3 stops away by the metro
• ideal place for shopping – Corso Buenos Aires is the longest shopping street in the city

It’s one of the most popular hotels near Corso Buenos Aires. And there is a reason why. The hotel features an awesome spa and wellness centre, private parking on-site and an airport shuttle. In addition, the location is ideal – only 600m away from the Central train station. Going to the Historic Centre is also easy – metro station Lima is just around the corner (only 3 stops to Duomo). The perfect hotel to stay for one night in Milan.
Why book – 800m from the Central station, next to metro station, wellness centre, excellent breakfast

Strategic location, close to shops, a metro station and restaurants. The hotel features spacious quiet rooms with comfortable beds. Fabulous breakfast with a lot of options (including vegetarian). In addition, you’ll find a rooftop terrace with splendid city views and a spa centre with a Finnish sauna and Turkish bath.
Why book – 900m from the Central station, next to metro station, wellness centre, fabulous breakfast with vegetarian options

However, if you have a lot of luggage or a really early flight or train to catch, you’d better stay a little closer to the train station.

It’s one of the best rated and closest hotels near Central station. It’s a great place to stay if you’re travelling by train. The hotel features a free mini-bar and a fantastic breakfast with a wide range of food offerings.
Why book – 200m from the Central station, private parking, fantastic breakfast

Where do tourists stay in Milan? Where should I stay when visiting Milan?
If this is your first-time to Milan, choosing the right area is essential. The area around the Duomo Cathedral is better for tourists, while Navigli is a preferable place for nightlife.

The best place to stay in Milan for sightseeing is right in the heart of the city, near the Duomo Cathedral. Here are most of the top tourist attractions and high-end fashion boutiques. Everything you’ll need will be less than 1km away from your hotel. You can easily explore the city on foot.

The Cathedral, better known as the Duomo, is in the centre of the city. It is also the most famous landmark. By picking a hotel nearby, you’d be close to all major tourist sites, the best restaurants and bars in the city. The area around the Duomo is also the best location if you wondering where to stay in Milan for 2 nights. 

The city centre is a great choice for travellers interested in luxury brand shopping, too. Last but not least, by booking a hotel near the cathedral you’ll be able to enjoy a romantic walk at night or party till late in the evening. Therefore wondering how to get back to your hotel or spending a lot of time commuting will not be an issue.

The beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a famous shopping mall, is in a few minutes’ walk away.

Why stay near the Duomo

• You’ll be at walking distance from the main landmarks.
• Most of the tourist sites are here: Duomo Cathedral, Teatro alla Scala and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
• Go for window shopping at the most famous mall – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
• The area is also very well connected to the other parts of the city via the metro lines M1 and M3.
• Brera is a small artsy district to the north of the Duomo. Its narrow streets are packed with exclusive boutiques, bars and cosy restaurants.

New, spotlessly clean hotel within a short walk to the Duomo. Rooms are elegant, spacious and well equipped. In addition, the hotel features an awesome restaurant and a rooftop bar with fantastic views of the city.
Why book – 330m from Duomo, private parking nearby, air conditioning

Only 50m away from the cathedral, Maison Milano is one of the best 4-star hotels near Duomo. You couldn’t find a better location than this hotel. Spacious and soundproof rooms with chic decoration. Also Via Torino, one of the main shopping streets, is just around the corner.
Why book – 50m from Duomo, air conditioning, 24-hour front desk, spacious rooms

Rosa Grand Milano is a great family hotel near the Duomo. The location is great for sightseeing and shopping, only 2min away from the cathedral and 500m from the subway. The hotel features a modern wellness centre and stylish rooms. They even offer a pillow selection!
Why book – 100m from Duomo, private parking nearby, wellness centre, spacious rooms

The hotel has a perfect location, just a few steps away from the Duomo Cathedral. Located in a historical building that dates back to the late 19th century, the interior of Mate Giulia is nothing like its exterior. Common areas and rooms are chic, funky, modern and colourful. The furniture throughout the hotel bears the unmistakable signature of Patricia Urquiola.
Why book – 50m from Duomo, public parking nearby, wellness centre, boutique rooms

NH Collection Milano President is in the Historic centre, just 400m away from the Duomo. All rooms and suites are designed with strong attention to detail and guests’ comfort. Some of the suites offer breathtaking views of the cathedral.
Why book – 400m from Duomo, air conditioning, spacious rooms, fabulous breakfast

If you are looking for truly luxurious accommodation, Park Hyatt is your best bet. It’s one of the, if not the, best 5-star hotels near Duomo – just 100m away. Enjoy exquisite Italian design with a spectacular view of the cathedral or the luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The hotel offers everything you’ll need for an unforgettable stay in Milan.
Why book – 100m from Duomo, public parking nearby, Spa and wellness centre, spacious rooms

Spacious luxurious accommodation in the historic centre with excellent facilities. At walking distance to all attractions and metro links.
Why book – excellent location, 300m from Duomo, private parking

These modernly furnished apartments are just 300m from the Duomo Cathedral.
Why book – 300m from Duomo, public parking nearby, air conditioning

The area around Porta Venezia is the best place to stay in Milan for shopping. There are two main shopping areas, both located near Porta Venezia.

Where to stay in Milan for shopping

• Porta Venezia – perfect location for shopping (right between the city’s longest shopping street and a high-end shopping district)
• Quadrilatero della moda – the city’s most famous high-end shopping district
• Corso Buenos Aires – the longest shopping street in Milan

Quadrilatero della moda is a high-end shopping district. It’s located north-east of the Duomo. The neighbourhood is also called – Quadrilatero d’Oro, which means the Golden Rectangle. Via Monte Napoleone is the most expensive street, featuring names like Prada, Gucci store, Cartier and Fendi. Here you’ll also find the world-famous shopping mall, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Senato Hotel is an ideal place to stay for shopping in Quadrilatero della moda district. It’s positioned very conveniently – close to the subway, many tourist attractions and shops. The hotel features stylish comfortable rooms and excellent toiletries.
Why book – located in the shopping district, air-conditioning, stylish atmosphere

Baglioni Hotel Carlton is right in the city’s fashion area yet in a quiet street. You’re just a short walk from all boutique stores and tourist attractions, including Duomo Cathedral. Rooms are spacious and comfortable with a nice classical decor.
Why book – located in the shopping district, wellness facilities, private parking on-site, boutique rooms

If you are looking for mainstream stores, then Corso Buenos Aires is the place. This is the longest shopping street in the city. There are more than 350 stores and outlets! Corso Buenos Aires starts at Porta Venezia and ends in Piazzale Loreto. The area is also full of cheap local restaurants.

This is the best place to stay for shopping on Corso Buenos Aires. The hotel is at the beginning of the street, near Porta Venezia. The subway is only 50m away, so you can reach the Duomo and the Historic Centre in less than a few minutes. The hotel features a great spa centre and a free minibar.
Why book – location next to a shopping street, wellness centre, boutique rooms

If you’re visiting Milan for nightlife, I’d recommend you staying in Corso Sempione and Navigli. These are the two main entertainment areas.

Where to stay in Milan for nightlife

• Navigli – popular nightlife area with a lot of clubs and aperitif bars
• Corso Sempione – a popular spot for trendy bars and clubs

Navigli canal area is not central, yet it’s a popular nightlife spot. There are a lot of clubs and aperitif bars along the canals where you can sit for a glass of wine and cheap eats.

This area is also an awesome place for an evening stroll. Navigli is very romantic, especially at sunset. However, keep in mind that the metro connections to the city centre are not so good.

Located right in the lively Navigli neighbourhood, this artsy hotel is ideal for all interested in nightlife. The surrounding area is bursting with restaurants and bars. The Historic Centre is within reach (the metro station P.TA Genova FS is 500m away).
Why book – 40m from Naviglio Grande, artsy atmosphere, excellent spa

Corso Sempione is more central place than Navigli. It’s home to the most popular trendy bars and clubs. There are a lot of aperitif bars and good restaurants, too. Thus, if you’re looking for a great area for nightlife close to the tourist attractions, choose Corso Sempione.

Lancaster is a small gorgeous hotel with super friendly and attentive staff. It’s situated in a nice quiet area with a lot of restaurants and cafés around. Moreover, Sforza Castle and Parco Sempione are less than 500m away.
Why book – 300m from Corso Sempione, WiFi, excellent customer service