🌍 Overview
Milan, Italy - the epicenter of Italian style, innovation, and digital nomadism. As a seasoned remote worker and travel writer, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Milan home for several months, and I can confidently say it’s an ideal destination for digital nomads. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and forward-thinking attitude, Milan checks all the boxes for a successful remote work experience. From the scenic canals of the Navigli neighborhood to the bustling streets of Corso Como, Milan’s diverse neighborhoods offer a unique blend of work, play, and community.
What draws digital nomads to Milan? For starters, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other major European cities. A one-bedroom apartment can be rented for around $927 per month, making it an attractive option for remote workers on a budget. Additionally, Milan boasts an impressive array of coworking spaces, with options like Hub Milan and WeWork offering flexible memberships and high-speed internet. The city also has a thriving nomad community, with regular meetups and events organized by groups like Milan Digital Nomads and Nomad List.
But Milan’s appeal extends beyond its infrastructure and affordability. The city has a unique energy, with a perfect blend of Italian flair and international sophistication. From the stunning Duomo to the cutting-edge design of the Museo del Novecento, Milan is a city that seamlessly blends past and present. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Milan has something for everyone.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods
Brera District
The Brera District is a charming, bohemian neighborhood that’s perfect for digital nomads. With its narrow streets, quaint cafes, and stunning piazzas, Brera has a unique, laid-back vibe that’s hard to find in other parts of the city. Rent-wise, you can expect to pay around $1,200-1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. The neighborhood is relatively quiet, making it ideal for remote workers who need a peaceful environment to focus.
One of the best things about Brera is its proximity to the city center, with the iconic Duomo just a short walk away. The neighborhood is also home to a number of excellent cafes, including the iconic Caffè Greco, which has been serving up delicious coffee and pastries since 1780. While Brera is a bit pricier than some of the other neighborhoods, its unique atmosphere and excellent infrastructure make it a top choice for digital nomads.
Isola Neighborhood
The Isola Neighborhood is a hidden gem in Milan’s northeastern corner. This former industrial area has been transformed into a thriving hub of creativity, with a stunning array of street art, independent shops, and trendy cafes. Rent-wise, you can expect to pay around $900-1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. The neighborhood is relatively quiet, making it ideal for remote workers who need a peaceful environment to focus.
One of the best things about Isola is its vibrant community of artists and entrepreneurs. The neighborhood is home to a number of excellent coworking spaces, including the innovative Factory 156, which offers flexible memberships and state-of-the-art facilities. Isola is also a foodie’s paradise, with a number of excellent restaurants and cafes serving up everything from artisanal pizza to gourmet coffee.
Porta Romana Neighborhood
The Porta Romana Neighborhood is a bustling, cosmopolitan area that’s perfect for digital nomads. With its vibrant streets, stunning architecture, and excellent public transportation links, Porta Romana is an ideal base for exploring the city. Rent-wise, you can expect to pay around $1,000-1,300 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. The neighborhood is relatively noisy, but the energy is infectious, making it a great choice for remote workers who thrive in a fast-paced environment.
One of the best things about Porta Romana is its proximity to the city’s major attractions, including the iconic Castello Sforzesco and the stunning Parco Sempione. The neighborhood is also home to a number of excellent cafes, including the highly-recommended Caffè Un Po’, which serves up delicious coffee and pastries in a cozy, vintage atmosphere.
Città Studi Neighborhood
The Città Studi Neighborhood is a popular area for students and young professionals, with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for digital nomads. With its stunning architecture, excellent public transportation links, and affordable rent, Città Studi is an ideal base for exploring the city. Rent-wise, you can expect to pay around $800-1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. The neighborhood is relatively noisy, but the energy is infectious, making it a great choice for remote workers who thrive in a fast-paced environment.
One of the best things about Città Studi is its proximity to the city’s major universities, including the prestigious Politecnico di Milano. The neighborhood is also home to a number of excellent cafes, including the highly-recommended Caffè della Ricerca, which serves up delicious coffee and pastries in a cozy, academic atmosphere.
Digital Nomad Guide
Coworking Spaces
Milan has an impressive array of coworking spaces, with options like Hub Milan and WeWork offering flexible memberships and high-speed internet. Here are a few of the best coworking spaces in the city:
- Hub Milan: Located in the heart of the city, Hub Milan offers flexible memberships and state-of-the-art facilities. Membership rates start at around $300 per month.
- WeWork: With several locations throughout the city, WeWork is a popular choice for digital nomads. Membership rates start at around $400 per month.
- Factory 156: Located in the trendy Isola Neighborhood, Factory 156 offers flexible memberships and a vibrant community of artists and entrepreneurs. Membership rates start at around $200 per month.
Internet Quality
Milan’s internet quality is generally excellent, with average speeds of around 17 Mbps. Fiber availability is widespread, making it easy to find reliable, high-speed internet.
Nomad Community
Milan has a thriving nomad community, with regular meetups and events organized by groups like Milan Digital Nomads and Nomad List. Some of the best places to meet fellow nomads include:
- Hub Milan: Regular meetups and events are organized at Hub Milan, making it a great place to connect with fellow nomads.
- WeWork: WeWork also hosts regular meetups and events, making it a great place to connect with fellow nomads.
- Caffè Greco: This iconic cafe has been a hub for nomads and locals alike for decades, making it a great place to meet fellow travelers.
Cafes and Restaurants
Milan has an incredible food scene, with a wide range of cafes and restaurants serving up everything from artisanal pizza to gourmet coffee. Here are a few of the best places to work and dine:
- Caffè Greco: This iconic cafe has been serving up delicious coffee and pastries since 1780.
- Caffè Un Po’: This highly-recommended cafe serves up delicious coffee and pastries in a cozy, vintage atmosphere.
- Pizzeria La Notizia: This popular pizzeria serves up some of the city’s best pizza, with a wide range of toppings and a cozy atmosphere.
Visa Options
Remote workers can apply for a variety of visas, including:
- Visa for Remote Workers: This visa is specifically designed for remote workers, allowing them to stay in the country for up to 6 months.
- Freelance Visa: This visa is for freelancers who want to work in the country for up to 1 year.
- Startup Visa: This visa is for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the country.
Banking and Practical Setup
Milan has a well-developed banking system, with a wide range of banks and ATMs throughout the city. Here are a few tips for setting up your finances:
- Open a local bank account: This will make it easier to manage your finances and access your money.
- Get a local SIM card: This will give you access to high-speed internet and phone services.
- Set up an Italian tax code: This will make it easier to file your taxes and access government services.
🎨 Culture & Vibe
Local Customs and Etiquette
Milan has a unique culture and set of customs, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and respect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Greet locals with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
- Use formal language when speaking to older Italians or those in positions of authority.
- Avoid eating on the go or in public places.
Food Scene
Milan has an incredible food scene, with a wide range of restaurants serving up everything from artisanal pizza to gourmet coffee. Here are a few must-try dishes:
- Risotto alla Milanese: This classic dish is made with saffron-infused risotto and served with ossobuco.
- Pollo alla Cacciatora: This hearty dish is made with chicken, onions, and mushrooms, and served with pasta or rice.
- Tiramisù: This popular dessert is made with ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, and espresso.
Nightlife and Social Scene
Milan has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Here are a few popular areas to explore:
- Corso Como: This trendy street is lined with bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Brera District: This charming neighborhood has a number of excellent bars and restaurants.
- Navigli Neighborhood: This former industrial area has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, with a number of excellent bars and live music venues.
⭐ Highlights
Here are a few must-see attractions and experiences:
- Duomo: This iconic cathedral is a must-see attraction, with its stunning architecture and beautiful piazza.
- Castello Sforzesco: This stunning castle has been transformed into a museum, with a wide range of art and artifacts on display.
- Parco Sempione: This beautiful park is a great place to relax and unwind, with its stunning gardens and scenic views.
- Museo del Novecento: This modern art museum has a wide range of exhibitions and events, making it a great place to explore.
- Navigli Neighborhood: This former industrial area has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity, with a number of excellent bars and live music venues.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few essential tips for navigating Milan:
- Learn some Italian: While many Milanese speak English, learning some basic Italian will make it easier to navigate the city.
- Get a local SIM card: This will give you access to high-speed internet and phone services.
- Set up an Italian tax code: This will make it easier to file your taxes and access government services.
- Explore the city on foot: Milan is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot.
- Try some local food: Milan has an incredible food scene, with a wide range of restaurants serving up everything from artisanal pizza to gourmet coffee.
Visa Requirements
Here are a few visa requirements for common nationalities:
- US citizens: Can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
- EU citizens: Can stay in the country indefinitely without a visa.
- UK citizens: Can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
- Australian citizens: Can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.
Getting Around
Milan has an excellent public transportation system, with a wide range of buses, trams, and metro lines. Here are a few tips for getting around:
- Buy a local SIM card: This will give you access to high-speed internet and phone services.
- Use public transportation: Milan’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable.
- Walk or bike: Milan is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Safety Considerations
Milan is generally a safe city, but there are a few areas to avoid:
- Avoid walking alone at night in deserted areas.
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Milan is in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October), when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Avoid visiting during peak summer months, when the city can be hot and crowded.
Local Tips and Warnings
Here are a few local tips and warnings:
- Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Avoid eating at touristy restaurants, which can be overpriced and mediocre.
- Try some local food, which is often delicious and affordable.
- Explore the city on foot, which is a great way to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
