Though famous as a fashion capital,
Milan doesn't exactly enjoy a reputation as a romantic destination. At least, it’s not on the same level as equally prominent Italian cities, such as Rome, Venice, and even Florence. Perhaps the city's glamour simply overshadows the romantic potential within the metropolis, but this is still a very crowded city that's home to millions of people. As such, it shouldn't be that hard to date in Milan, right? Well, before you try your hand at it, it's worth knowing more about it first. Discover how locals, specifically the Italians, court potential partners, find out where you can meet new people, and more.
Are Italians Romantic?
Hollywood movies and romance novels have led the world to believe that Italians are the most passionate and romantic lovers. They're passionate, for sure, but are they truly romantic? The answer to this is more complex. Most Italians are confident, direct, and, as already mentioned, passionate. Many tend to flirt aggressively, and they don't skirt around when expressing their interest in a particular person. With that said, however, Italian people are not a monolith. How one will date or court you will depend on their unique personality and how much they like you from the start.
The Gender Roles in Italy
Despite how open and liberal many Italians have become over the years, traditional gender roles still play a huge role in the country. Even in a relatively progressive city like Milan. For a majority of locals here, men still like to take charge, while several women don't mind taking a more submissive role. Then again, it still depends on the individual. Men looking to date in Milan should expect that most women have become much more independent and prefer equal treatment above everything else. Traditional
Italian social customs might require men to pay the bill, for instance, but women today have no qualms about sharing the bill or even paying it themselves altogether.
What is Italy's Dating Culture?
To get to know Italy's dating culture is to get to know Milan's dating scene. For one thing, being direct goes a long way. Don't be coy about your attraction and interest in other people. You won't get anywhere with that attitude! Instead, express your interest outwardly, perhaps by going up to them and introducing yourself or even asking a friend (who already knows them) to tell them outright. Upon starting the courting period, don't be afraid to flirt. Shower them with flattery, but always be honest about that. The Italians always know when you're being fake with your compliments.
Where to Meet People in Milan
You simply need to get out there to meet people in Milan. No matter where you are in the city, be it in any of
Milan's central neighborhoods or the outer suburbs, there are many places to meet new friends, partners, and more. With how confident and direct Italians are, it's easy enough to just go to the bar, and someone will go up to you to say hi. Meetup groups are also common in Milan, often formed by people who share similar hobbies, pastimes, and the like. If you find out about one on social media and the like, don't hesitate to attend!
Milan's Top Dating Apps
While the most famous apps are also popular here, there are a few that you'll find are uniquely well-known in Milan. Naturally, the former includes Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble, to name a few. They're practically fool-proof in helping you find someone you might be interested in or, at the very least, help you score a hookup! As for the latter, MeetMe is commonly used in the city; as its name suggests, it encourages users to meet each other in person. Badoo is another one, which also provides a nice platform for chatting and instant messaging.
What's a Typical Date in Milan?
Milan may not be known as a food capital, but it's still a great place for eating out. Don't forget that Italians are as passionate about food as they are about romance. Hence, one of the common date ideas here is to indulge in food and wine together. That's easy enough with all the traditional trattorias and
Michelin-starred restaurants in Milan. You can also pack a lunch and go on a picnic in a beautiful park or famous public square. As long as you're enjoying each other's company with food, you're sure to have a good time!
What about The LGBTQ+ in Milan?
Members of the LGBTQ+ community have nothing to worry about regarding dating in Milan. The city is famously queer-friendly, especially Porta Venezia, which serves as Milan's resident “gayborhood.” This is the district where you'll find local and foreign gays, lesbians, transgender folks, and non-binary members alike hanging out, having fun, and, of course, dating. The bars and clubs here provide the perfect space to meet new people, most commonly even hooking up for a one-night-stand. Meanwhile, apps like Grindr, Her, and Romeo are fairly common in Milan as well.
What are Relationships with Italians Like?
You might be surprised to know that relationships with Italians tend to be slow and steady. Even if you got sexually fairly quickly at the start of your relationships, getting more serious is a different matter entirely. It will take some time for you guys to move in together and even more so before they introduce you to their family. At the same time, expect many in Milan, which is a fairly progressive city, to be non-monogamous. Your partner may outwardly call you their boyfriend/girlfriend, but it's not that far-fetched that they have other such partners at the same time. Hence, you should express your boundaries the moment you decide to get steady with someone.
Dating in Milan is a bit more complex than people realize. It's worth knowing the culture, etiquette, and even the apps for dating here so you can better navigate the city's ever-complicated dating scene.
