🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Milan home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s a city that will leave you enchanted. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class art scene, Milan is a haven for remote workers who crave culture and sophistication. The city’s vibe is unmistakably Italian - passionate, expressive, and always on the go. From the bustling streets of the city center to the charming neighborhoods, Milan has a unique energy that’s hard to resist. As a Milan digital nomad, you’ll find that the city offers a great balance of work and play, with plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and grow.
One of the reasons why nomads love Milan is its excellent location. The city is strategically situated in the heart of Europe, making it easy to explore other destinations in Italy and beyond. With three international airports and a comprehensive public transportation system, getting around is a breeze. Plus, Milan is a hub for startups and entrepreneurs, with a thriving tech scene that’s perfect for networking and collaboration. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee, Milan has everything you need to succeed as a digital nomad.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live and work in Milan, there are several options to consider. Here are three of my favorites:
- Brera: This charming neighborhood is located in the heart of Milan and is known for its narrow streets, picturesque piazzas, and stunning architecture. Brera is home to many artists, designers, and creatives, making it the perfect spot for digital nomads who value inspiration and community. Rent prices in Brera are around €900-€1,200 (approximately $1,000-$1,300 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Isola: This up-and-coming neighborhood is located just north of the city center and is quickly becoming a hub for startups and entrepreneurs. Isola is home to many coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for remote workers who need a productive and social environment. Rent prices in Isola are around €800-€1,100 (approximately $900-$1,200 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Navigli: This historic neighborhood is located just south of the city center and is known for its picturesque canals, charming streets, and vibrant nightlife. Navigli is a great spot for digital nomads who want to experience the authentic Milanese lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore, dine, and socialize. Rent prices in Navigli are around €700-€1,000 (approximately $800-$1,100 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Milan can be relatively high, especially when it comes to rent and food. However, with some careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to live comfortably as a digital nomad in Milan. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:
- Rent: €900-€1,200 (approximately $1,000-$1,300 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Food: €10-€20 (approximately $11-$22 USD) per meal at a mid-range restaurant, €5-€10 (approximately $6-$11 USD) per meal at a street food stall or market
- Transportation: €1.50 (approximately $1.70 USD) for a single ticket on public transportation, €35 (approximately $40 USD) for a monthly pass
- Coworking: €200-€500 (approximately $220-$550 USD) per month for a desk at a coworking space
Overall, the cost of living in Milan can range from €1,500-€2,500 (approximately $1,700-$2,800 USD) per month, depending on your lifestyle and preferences.
Internet & Coworking
Milan has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with fast and reliable connections available throughout the city. The average internet speed in Milan is around 47 Mbps, making it easy to stay productive and connected as a digital nomad. Some popular coworking spaces in Milan include:
- WeWork: With several locations throughout the city, WeWork offers a range of flexible workspaces and amenities, including high-speed internet, printing and scanning, and community events.
- Impact Hub: Located in the heart of Milan, Impact Hub is a coworking space that’s dedicated to social and environmental impact. Members can enjoy high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a range of community events and workshops.
- Coworking Navigli: This coworking space is located in the charming Navigli neighborhood and offers a range of workspaces, including private offices, shared desks, and meeting rooms.
Some popular cafes with good internet and a productive atmosphere include:
- Caffè Greco: Located in the heart of Milan, Caffè Greco is a historic cafe that’s perfect for working and people-watching.
- Caffè Campari: This iconic cafe is located in the trendy Navigli neighborhood and offers a range of coffee, drinks, and snacks, as well as fast and reliable internet.
- Bulgari Hotel: Located in the heart of Milan, the Bulgari Hotel is a luxurious spot that’s perfect for working and relaxing. The hotel’s cafe offers a range of coffee, drinks, and snacks, as well as fast and reliable internet.
Milan has a thriving digital nomad community, with many opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and attend events and meetups. Some popular groups and events include:
- Milan Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is dedicated to connecting digital nomads in Milan and offers a range of resources, including job postings, apartment listings, and social events.
- Nomad List: This community-driven platform offers a range of resources and information for digital nomads, including city guides, job listings, and social events.
- Startup Grind: This global startup community has a strong presence in Milan, with regular events and meetups that bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators.
Culture & Lifestyle
Milan is a city that’s steeped in culture and tradition, with a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. As a digital nomad in Milan, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience the local lifestyle and customs, including:
- Food: Milanese cuisine is known for its rich flavors and hearty portions, with popular dishes including risotto alla milanese, osso buco, and panettone. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as aperol spritz and negroni, at one of the many bars and cafes throughout the city.
- Dating: Milan is a great city for singles, with a thriving nightlife and social scene. Try attending some of the local events and meetups, such as the Milan Digital Nomads group, to connect with like-minded individuals.
- Nightlife: Milan has a vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from trendy bars and clubs to live music venues and jazz clubs. Some popular spots include the Navigli neighborhood, the Corso Como, and the Brera district.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to ensure that you have the necessary visas and documentation to live and work in Milan. The most common type of visa for digital nomads is the tourist visa, which allows you to stay in Italy for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a work visa or residence permit. It’s always a good idea to check with the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information and requirements.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads in Milan:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at one of the many mobile phone stores throughout the city, such as TIM or Vodafone. Prices start from around €10-€20 (approximately $11-$22 USD) per month for a basic plan.
- Transportation: Milan has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. You can purchase a single ticket for €1.50 (approximately $1.70 USD) or a monthly pass for €35 (approximately $40 USD).
- Safety: Milan is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Weather: Milan has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. Be sure to pack accordingly, with lightweight clothing for the summer months and warm layers for the winter.
