To get to know Centro Storico in
Milan is to get to know the city altogether. This isn't to say that this one neighborhood encapsulates what the famous metropolis is all about, but as the city center, it's representative of what makes Milan an exciting city. From its iconic Duomo di Milano to its high-end hotspots, there's a lot to see, eat, and do in Centro Storico. Not only is it a great place to stay, but it's also a fabulous district where you can truly get a good sense of what it's like to live and love in Milan.
Where is Centro Storico in Milan?
True to its name, Centro Storico is right smack in the center of Milan. As the city's zone 1, it's almost as if all the roads lead to this district. Many of
Milan's central neighborhoods are only a hop and a skip away, namely Brera, Porta Romana, Central Station, Navigli, and more. The fact that it's the city center already makes it the most coveted address in Milan, what more with all these popular areas nearby? No matter where you're coming from, it's fairly easy to get to Centro Storico and back.
Is it Safe in Centro Storico, Milan?
Generally speaking, Centro Storic is a safe neighborhood in Milan. It helps that it's the city center, filled with some of the most famous landmarks, hotspots, and more. The neighborhood has ample security, and it's often crowded enough that there are rarely any serious crimes here. Though it still sees pickpocketing and petty thievery, Centro Storico is safe overall. That's on top of the fact that
Milan's crime rates are slightly above mid-range. The general crime rate is currently 60%, which is relatively high, so it pays to be careful when you go out in Centro Storico.
What's The Vibe in Centro Storico, Milan?
As the city center, Centro Storico tends to be lively and crowded. It's perhaps the most crowded part of Milan, even more so than some of the equally popular neighborhoods. There's also no doubt that it's the most tourist-friendly part of the city, especially since the iconic Duomi di Milano is here. The world-famous Gothic church, one of the biggest of its kind in the world, serves as the centerpiece of the district. It's such an extraordinary sight that anyone
moving to Milan considers settling down in Centro Storico. Fortunately, there are many residences right by the church.
Is it Expensive in Centro Storico, Milan?
There's no doubt that Centro Storico is an expensive city district. It's even safe to say that it's one of the priciest neighborhoods in Milan, and that's saying something, considering that
Milan's living costs are already high. If you want to live in Centro Storico, you'll need to earn a lot to stay comfortable here. When you eat out, for instance, it will cost you as much as €20.00 to €28.00 per meal in an inexpensive restaurant. What more when you dine in an upscale hotspot? At the same time, luxury shopping defines Centro Storico's retail scene, most famously Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a treasure trove of the biggest designer brands.
What to See in Centro Storico, Milan
Centro Storico is the best place to go sightseeing in Milan. Right off the bat, the district has the iconic Duomo di Milan right at the center of the neighborhood. Not only is it one of the best Gothic architectural marvels, but it's also one of the biggest churches in the world. It's practically the symbol of the city, akin to the likes of the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Colosseum in Rome. There's also the Renaissance-era Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, which has Leonardo Da Vinci's world-famous 'Last Supper' mural. It's right up there as one of the most famous paintings in the world.
What to Do in Centro Storico, Milan
What is Milan known for? Fashion, food, and art, right? Well, its city center is the best place to indulge in all of that. If you want to get your hands on designer goods from brands that famously operate here, go to places like Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, two popular strips lined with high-end boutiques. There's also the previously mentioned Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is one of Italy's oldest shopping arcades. Want to enjoy Milan's culinary scene? Centro Storico boasts some of the best and trendiest restaurants. And of course, the museums and art galleries will satisfy any art lover living in Milan.
The Best Restaurants in Centro Storico, Milan
Speaking of Milan's best restaurants, there's no doubt that many of them are in Centro Storico. They range from traditional trattorias to some of
Milan's best Michelin-starred restaurants. The city may be better known for its fashion, but food still reigns supreme here, too. A lot of the fabulous hotspots listed below are not to be overlooked! Al Cantinone on Via Agnello is a great example, a classic Italian restaurant that specializes in local Lombardian cuisine. Andry on Via Rovello, on the other hand, is where you'll want to indulge in some serious seafood. Oysters on pizza, anyone?
Here are some of Centro Storico’s finest restaurants you need to check out:
- Maio Restaurant in Rinascente Milano on Piazza del Duomo
- La Corte di San Maurilio Duomo 1982 on Via S. Maurilio
- Al Cantinone on Via Agnello
- Ristorante Galleria in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Il Marchese Milano on Via dei Bossi
- Andry on Via Rovello
- Trattoria Trippa on Via Giorgio Vasari
- DeRos Restaurant on Via Romagnosi
- Ristorante Risoelatte on Via Manfredo Camperio
- Seta by Antonio Guida in Centro Congressi Fondazione Cariplo on Via Monte di Pietà
What to Know About Centro Storico, Milan Apartments
Though Centro Storico is a notoriously expensive neighborhood, the rent here isn't as high as many might think. The average rent in the city center ranges from €1,005.79 to €2,500.00 per month, depending on how big the property is and where it's located within the district. It's pricey to live here, for sure, but it's not necessarily the most expensive. It helps that Centro Storico's real estate market is diverse, ranging from cozy studio flats to some of the biggest
luxury apartments to rent in Milan. Even if you're not the wealthiest, it's still possible to get a place you can afford here.
If you truly want to get to know Milan, learn all about Centro Storico. Not only is it the city center, but the place itself already says a lot about the famous metropolis, from its most iconic landmark to popular hotspots.
