Milan is compact and easy to get around: the historic centre in the middle, with neighbourhoods all around it.
- Duomo / Centro Storico: right in the centre, within walking distance of most major sights, with plenty of hotels and restaurants. The best pick for a first visit.
- Brera: cobbled streets, galleries and charming little bars. Suits those who love an artsy feel.
- Isola: trendy bars and usually lower prices than the centre. Suits budget travellers.
- Navigli: the canal district, lively at night with canal-side restaurants and bars.
- Zona Tortona: the design and fashion district, full of creative studios.
- Porta Garibaldi: near the railway station, with modern buildings. Suits business travellers and anyone taking day trips by train.
- Porta Venezia: close to parks and museums, good for families and culture lovers.
Safety notes
- Milan is generally fairly safe. Brera, Porta Venezia and Zona Tortona are calm and less touristy than the centre.
- Visitors usually avoid staying in outlying areas such as Quarto Oggiaro and Corvetto: far from the sights and with more petty theft.