Milan, the fashion capital of Italy and, to many, the world, is renowned for its high-end shopping, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. While it may be associated with luxury, there are several areas in Milan that offer budget-friendly accommodations without compromising on convenience or charm.
Today, we’re in the shadow of Madonna, exploring some of the city’s more affordable accommodation options and neighbourhoods. With that in mind, here’s where to stay in Milan if you’re travelling on a budget.
Navigli
Situated along the picturesque Naviglio Grande canal, the Navigli neighbourhood is known for its bohemian atmosphere and lively nightlife. This area is dotted with trendy bars, quaint cafes, and vintage shops. The abundance of affordable guesthouses and budget hotels makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers. Some hotels offering rooms at reasonable prices in Navigli include Hotel Minerva, Hotel La Vignetta, and Hotel Milano Navigli.
There’s plenty of public transport bases here too, including trams, buses, and the Porta Genova railway station, which is just a fifteen minute ride to Milano Centrale.
Navigli also offers plenty of budget-friendly activities that can enrich your travel experience without breaking the bank. Take a stroll along the picturesque Naviglio Grande, one of Milan’s iconic canals, where you can indulge in people-watching and admire the quaint surroundings.
Visit the Mercato Metropolitano, a food market offering affordable local delicacies, or check out the monthly antique market where you can browse through the countless stalls selling unique relics from the past. If you’re a fan of art, stop by Vicolo dei Lavandai and enjoy the countless murals that adorn its walls for free. Finally, end your day at Darsena, Milan’s old harbour, for a serene sunset view, a simple pleasure offering unforgettable memories.
Porta Ticinese
Located just south of the city centre, Porta Ticinese is a vibrant neighbourhood that blends history with a youthful energy. It is home to the iconic Porta Ticinese arch and is surrounded by charming streets filled with boutiques, markets, and street art. The area offers a range of budget accommodations, including Hotel Dei Fiori, Hotel Marte, and Hotel Five.
Travellers staying in the neighbourhood will find plenty of wallet-friendly dining options. Some popular choices include Aethos Pizza & Bar, known for its delicious Italian pizza and intimate atmosphere, and Chihuahua Tacos, offering a taste of Mexican and Latin cuisine.
For dessert lovers, Il Negozietto del Gelato serves some of the best ice cream in Milan, while Be Bop provides a delightful selection of gluten-free dishes. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink (hey, who isn’t?) Madison Bar offers a variety of cold, crisp lagers, creative cocktails and finger food that clocks in at under €10 a plate.
Sempione
Sempione is the cheapest area on our list, offering budget-friendly accommodation options near the city’s largest park, the unforgettable Sforza Castle, and Chinatown. Some affordable hotels in this area include the AC Hotel Milan Sesto and Grand Hotel Villa Torretta.
Of course, in any area with a Chinatown, there are going to be affordable, delicious food options, and Sempione is no exception. Don’t miss out on these five cracking places:
- Ravioleria Sarpi: Known for offering some of the best dumplings in Milan.
- Al Mercato Noodle Bar: A trendy spot famous for its Asian-inspired noodle dishes.
- Da Lisa, Enoteca & Osteria: Known for its fusion of Italian and Chinese cuisine.
- Ristorante Yuebin (Yuebinlou): Famed for its excellent Chinese seafood dishes.
- Ramenamano: Serves delicious Chinese and Asian cuisine.
Isola
Nestled north of the city centre, Isola is an up-and-coming neighbourhood with a trendy and artistic vibe. It is known for its diverse community, modern architecture, and vibrant street life. Isola offers a mix of budget-friendly hotels and hostels, such as Hotel Zara Milano, Hotel Metrò, and Ostello Bello.
Be sure to visit the historic Castello Sforzesco, or admire the stunning architecture of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Bargain hunters can browse through the Sinigaglia Flea Market, and finish up at the Vinyl Pub, where cocktails are cheap, cheerful and eminently chuggable.
Brera
Brera is one of Milan’s most historic and picturesque neighbourhoods. Its narrow cobblestone streets are lined with art galleries, antique shops, and charming cafes, ideal for sipping espresso and intermittent strolling. While it is considered an upscale area, there are affordable accommodations available, including Hotel Ritter, Hotel San Giovanni, and Hotel Palazzo delle Stelline.
Busto Arsizio
If you’re travelling to Milan on a budget, consider setting up your base in Busto Arsizio, a hidden gem just a stone’s throw away from the fashion capital. This charming city is only about 30 kilometres north of Milan and promises a wealth of affordable options without compromising on the authentic Italian experience.
Busto Arsizio is particularly known for its inexpensive accommodation, offering not only cheap hotels but also family-run guesthouses and B&Bs at rates significantly lower than those in central Milan. Popular options include Tommy Vitello B&B and the Jet Hotel.
The excellent transport links between the cities make hopping back and forth for sightseeing and shopping in Milan both economical and effortless, with a quick and affordable Milan airport transfer between nearby Malpensa airport and Milan city centre a wise option for those staying in Busto Arsizio.
Città Studi
Città Studi, meaning ‘City of Studies’, is home to several universities and educational institutions. And with them, you’ll find student prices to match. This vibrant neighbourhood has a youthful atmosphere and offers budget-friendly options for students and travellers alike. Recommended hotels in Città Studi include Hotel Dieci, Hotel Florence, and Hotel Sara.
The area has a thriving nightlife, thanks to its student population, and offers a good range of Italian trattorie, including the superlative Crono and Trattoria Bertamè. Trams provide quick connections to the city centre, and the Duomo is only a 30-minute walk away if you’re based in the southern part of the district.
The Bottom Line
Milan may be known for its luxury, but there are plenty of budget-friendly areas that offer comfortable and affordable accommodations. Whether you prefer the bohemian charm of Navigli, the artistic vibe of Isola, or the historical allure of Brera, each neighbourhood has its own unique appeal. By choosing one of these areas, you can experience the best of Milan without breaking the bank.