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Now, you might be wondering, is Milan expensive to visit? It’s true that the capital of Italian fashion is renowned for its upscale lifestyle, but don’t let that prevent you from visiting!
With a little know-how and some insider tips, you can discover the hidden gems and affordable experiences that make Milan accessible to travelers on a budget.
As an international student who has had the incredible opportunity to live in Milan, I’ve experienced firsthand the ins and outs of navigating this city with hardly anything but change in my pocket.
In this post, I’ll spill the beans on everything you need to know to make the most of your visit while keeping your wallet happy.
We’ll dive into the cost of food, uncover wallet-friendly accommodation options, reveal the best souvenirs you can get for a few bucks, and even go over some amazing free activities that will make your trip memorable.
Table of Contents
Milan food prices
Milan is home to a diverse culinary scene that caters to all budgets. Whether you’re looking for affordable eats or seeking a memorable dining experience, there are plenty of options to satisfy your tastebuds without breaking the bank.
For budget-friendly meals, street food stands and food trucks are scattered throughout the city, serving up mouthwatering treats like pizza al taglio (by the slice), panzerotti (fried turnovers), and arancini (Sicilian stuffed rice balls).
Prices for street food range from $2 to $6 per item, which makes it an excellent choice for a quick and budget-friendly bite.
Trattorias and osterias are also great options for affordable dining in Milan. These traditional Italian eateries serve hearty, home-style dishes at reasonable prices.
Also read: 12 Best Places for Breakfast in Milan
For a main course and a glass of house wine, you can expect to spend around $13 to $22. Some popular trattorias in Milan include Trattoria la Vecchia Guardia, Trattoria Trippa, and Trattoria della Gloria.
To eat in Milan on a budget, opt for aperitivo, a Milanese happy hour tradition where you can enjoy a drink accompanied by a buffet of appetizers. Aperitivo is usually available in the early evening and can serve as a filling and affordable dinner alternative.
You can also look for local markets like Mercato Metropolitano or Eataly where you’ll find a variety of food stalls offering reasonably priced dishes.
Other than that, try exploring the less touristy neighborhoods and venture away from the city center, as prices tend to be lower in these areas.
Finally, don’t forget to indulge in gelato, a quintessential Italian treat. You can find delicious gelato in Milan for around $2 to $6 per scoop, depending on the size and location.
Also read: 10 Best Food Tours in Milan You Should Book
Cost of hotels in Milan
If you’re searching for budget-friendly options, you can find hotels in Milan for around $50-$80 per night. These hotels offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities.
Some budget hotels in town include Hotel Marte, Hotel Greco, and Hotel San Tomaso. Just note that not all travelers have rated these hotels positively, so read the reviews before booking your stay.
Also, keep in mind that these hotels might be located slightly outside the city center—but are often near subway stations, which makes it extremely easy to navigate and explore Milan.
Besides considering staying outside the historic core, keep an eye out for hotel deals and promotions on travel websites or sign up for newsletters to receive exclusive offers. Booking in advance or during off-peak seasons can also help you secure better rates.
You should also explore alternative options such as hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. These options can often provide cost-effective choices, especially for solo travelers or those seeking a more communal experience.
I speak from experience: on two occasions, I stayed at Ostello Bello, which is a stone’s throw from the Cathedral, and had a wonderful time both times. You can book a bed in an 8-guest dorm for as little as $60, depending on when you visit.
Finally, before making a reservation, compare prices across different platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Transportation costs in Milan
From the efficient subway system to the iconic trams and convenient bike sharing, navigating Milan is relatively straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of transportation costs and some money-saving tips for exploring Milan on a budget.
The subway, locally la metro, features four lines that cover the city center and its outskirts. A single Metro ticket costs about $2.40 and is valid for 90 minutes, allowing transfers within the system.
If you plan to use public transportation extensively, consider purchasing a multi-day transportation pass like the MilanoCard or the ATM Weekly Pass, which offers unlimited travel on public transportation for a specified period.
Another iconic transportation option in Milan is the tram system. Trams are not only a practical way to reach different parts of the city but also offer a scenic and nostalgic experience.
Like the Metro, tram tickets cost $2.40 for a single ride and can be used in the whole system for 90 minutes. Remember to validate your ticket as soon as you get on to avoid any fines.
If you prefer a more eco-friendly and cost-effective way to explore the city, Milan offers a bike-sharing program called BikeMi. You can easily rent a bike from one of the many stations located throughout the city.
BikeMi offers several subscription options, including daily and weekly passes, which makes it an affordable choice for short trips and sightseeing. The weekly pass, for instance, costs less than $10 and allows for an unlimited number of two-hour rides across the city.
Just keep in mind that Milan’s city center is not entirely bike-friendly, so it’s essential to be cautious and follow the designated bike lanes and traffic rules.
Cheap souvenirs in Milan
You don’t have to settle for the usual knickknacks like mugs, key holders, or fridge magnets to keep your spending in check. Milan offers a range of affordable options that are not only representative of the city but also make for unique and memorable keepsakes.
One popular choice is the iconic Moleskine notebook. These stylish and high-quality notebooks are a favorite among writers, artists, and travelers. You can find them in various sizes and designs, with prices ranging from $10 to $20, depending on the specific style you choose.
For music lovers, opera records make for an excellent souvenir. Milan is renowned for its opera scene, and you can find a wide selection of opera recordings at record stores and music shops from $15 to $30, depending on the rarity and condition of the album.
If you have a penchant for antiques, head to Fiera di Sinigaglia, a popular flea market held every Saturday along the Naviglio Grande. Prices of each item can vary significantly depending on the condition and vendor, but you can often find interesting pieces starting from around $20 and up.
As for food souvenirs, Milan offers a delicious array of options. Wine is a classic choice, and you can find excellent bottles of Italian wine starting from around $10.
Panettone, a traditional Milanese Christmas cake, is another popular treat to bring back home. You’ll find a small-sized panettone starting from $5, which makes it a budget-friendly and scrumptious souvenir.
Cheese lovers will relish the variety available in the city. Gorgonzola, a beloved Milanese blue cheese, is a perfect choice. You can purchase a small wheel or wedge for around $5 to $10, depending on the size and brand.
Free things to do in Milan
Though most of the more exciting activities in town can cost anything from a few to hundreds of euros, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Milan without breaking the bank, from relaxing in lush parks to walking down the fashion capital’s glamorous streets.
Relax at Parco Sempione: Located right behind the suggestive Sforza Castle, this expansive park offers lush greenery, picturesque lakes, and peaceful pathways perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends.
Window-shop at Quadrilatero della Moda: Step into the world of high fashion without spending a dime by indulging in some window-shopping at this iconic fashion district, which is home to prestigious designer boutiques, luxurious flagship stores, and stunning showrooms.
Stroll through Quadrilatero del Silenzio: This charming area is tucked away from the bustling crowds and offers a glimpse into Milan’s rich history. Wander its narrow, picturesque streets lined with beautiful buildings, quaint shops, and traditional trattorias.
People-watch at the Navigli district: Dive into the vibrant energy of the Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals and lively atmosphere. Grab a seat at a bench and observe locals and visitors alike as they pass by and soak in the bohemian charm of this lovely neighborhood.
Explore the Galleria d’Arte Moderna: Art enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to visit Milan’s renowned modern art gallery. Admission to this cultural gem is free on the first and third Tuesday of every month after 2 p.m. and every first Sunday of the month.
Go on a church-hopping tour: Discover the architectural marvels of Milan Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, known as the “Sistine Chapel of Milan” for its exquisite frescoes, and make your way to the Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio, one of the oldest churches in Milan and a symbol of the city’s early Christian history.
Milan budget per day
To put it bluntly, the overall cost of a trip to Milan can vary depending on your preferences, spending habits, and even the time of year you visit.
Still, by opting for budget-friendly accommodation, using public transportation, enjoying affordable local cuisine, and being selective with paid attractions, you can comfortably explore Milan on an average daily budget of $60-$100 per person.
Remember, budget travel doesn’t mean missing out on the essence of Milan. With careful planning and smart spending, you can soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere for a fraction of your rich cousin’s budget.
More tips for exploring Milan on a budget
First off, consider the time of year you plan to visit. Milan is a popular tourist destination, and during peak seasons like summer or fashion weeks, prices for accommodations and attractions can skyrocket.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when the weather is pleasant, and you’ll likely find more affordable options — but skip the Furniture Fair, which is usually held in mid-to-late April.
When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in budget-friendly options such as hostels or guesthouses. And look for accommodations in neighborhoods slightly away from the city center, like Navigli or Porta Romana, where prices tend to be more reasonable.
Transportation in Milan can be relatively affordable if you rely on public transportation. The city has an extensive metro and bus network that lets you get around the city easily. Consider purchasing a travel card or pass that offers unlimited rides for a certain duration.
Plus, Milan is a perfectly walkable city thanks to its flat topography, so take advantage of strolling through its charming streets and neighborhoods, saving money on transportation while discovering hidden gems.
As for dining, seek out local trattorias, osterias, and pizzerias that offer affordable yet authentic dining experiences. Keep an eye out for aperitivo specials, where you can enjoy a drink and a buffet of appetizers for a fixed price, typically in the early evening.
And don’t forget to try some street food like panzerotti and arancini, which are not only tasty but also budget-friendly options.
Finally, one of the great things about Milan is its abundance of cultural attractions that offer free or discounted admission.
Take advantage of free entry days at museums like the Pinacoteca di Brera or the Galleria d’Arte Moderna. Explore the city’s beautiful parks, like Parco Sempione or Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli, where you can relax without spending a dime.
So… is Milan expensive to visit?
The bottom line is it doesn’t have to be—but of course, your own definition of expensive may lead you to come to a different conclusion. Though cheaper than London or Paris, objectively Milan is indeed one of the most expensive cities in Western Europe.
You’ll struggle to spend less than $60 a day when visiting Milan, which can sound like a lot depending on your financial standing and the exchange rate of your home country’s currency relative to the euro.
Having said that, if you manage to set aside a few hundred dollars + whatever airfare from your local airport may cost, you’ll get to have a blast in Milan without digging into your savings or running into debt.
Buon viaggio!
