I'm moving to Milan, where should I live?

Lots of people write into Milanostyle.com asking questions BEFORE they even get here. One question came in about where should one look for an apartment?

Well, my suggestions (and favorite areas of town) for a young professional moving to Milan would be:

Brera/Solferino: prices are outrageous but if it is short term, it will be very memorable to have lived in the center of town. There are also some of the old canals and winding cobblestone roads.

Porta Romana: near enough to the center and far enough removed to not be so chaotic.

Magenta/Vincenzo Monti: is very central, and very charming and close to the Parco Sempione, - great if you have a dog or like playing Frisbee/jogging on the weekends.

Cittą Studi: a bit off the center, but it is an affordable area- near the university. The buildings are typical block apartments usually but there is allot of green and park areas. You will need a scooter, transportation is a bummer from that area.

Naviglio: the old canals and cobble stone streets are very charming. There is a lively cafč and pub culture, especially in the summer. The buildings are usually called 'ringhiera' characterized by long balconies connecting each apartment. The weekend markets could prove to be a burden or a blessing- depending on what you think of Sunday markets.

All of these areas are quite easy to get to Linate airport for national traveling and easy to get to Cadorna station for the Malpensa express.

If you want to live in Suburbia, there are areas like:

Arese, Milano 2, Milano 3, and San Felice, that all offer apartment complexes. Some are closed communities. You will need a car.

Credits:

Article: Kitty Ryan
Photographs: C. Abernethy

After many years traveling the world, Kitty Ryan settled in Milan 10 years ago. She is a freelance writer and consultant.

Any reprints of this article or use of any other material or photographs found in Milanostyle.com require permission from the author. Please contact us for instructions on how to request the proper authorization.

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