The best Airbnbs in Milan, chosen by a local expert

This modern, minimalist studio suite in a historic building right on lively Corso Como has all of the modern conveniences one might need – including, among other things, a well-stocked kitchen, laundry, hair dryer, soap and shampoo – to make for a comfortable stay. The space might be small but guests won’t be tempted to linger indoors given everything going on in the neighbourhood outside. Thankfully, the suite overlooks the courtyard so street noise is kept to a minimum.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Minimalist and functional.
Location perks? This is the heart of old-meets-new Milan with lively Corso Como leading to the newly built Piazza Gae Aulenti (named for a famous female architect active on the Italian design scene in the 1950s and 1960s) as part of an urban-revitalization plan. There are great transport options from here and you are right next to Garibaldi train station while Stazione Centrale is also not far away.
Budget range? Reasonably priced for the area.
Why would a local recommend it?  This is such a strategic location convenient to two train stations and the artsy, cobblestoned Brera district as well as Chinatown, with a variety of yummy street-food options for anyone tired of pizza or risotto.  There’s even a nice, large swath of green space in the form of the “Library of Trees” right off of Piazza Gae Aulenti. This is the place for relaxing in the grass with a picnic (pick up supplies at nearby Eataly – the focaccia and panini are great) and people-watching while taking in old and new architecture. Michelle Schoenung

This flat is located in a classic Milanese “railing house,” which were typically working-class buildings centred around a courtyard that had railings or specific styles of balustrade. People lived in somewhat close quarters, socializing and hanging laundry over the railings. Today, these distinctive dwellings are much sought-after.  This particular building is right in the heart of Milan’s dynamic Navigli canal district, which is known for its plethora of bars, restaurants, funky shops, and vibrant nightlife.  This flat overlooks the building’s courtyard, tucked away from the relentless urban bustle outside. There is one room with a kitchen, table and small living area with two single day beds, and the bedroom has a queen-size bed and desk. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Vintage nonna chic.
Location perks? Right on the Naviglio Grande, this is a great position for exploring the buzzy canal district. Right outside there’s a shop selling panzerotti (savoury turnovers filled with cheese and mozzarella, and possibly cold cuts or veggies, then baked or fried; usually eaten on the go)
Budget range? Very decently priced.
Why would a local recommend it? The Navigli canal district is truly unique to Milan. Leonardo da Vinci even had a hand in designing and expanding this system of artificial canals and levees back in the late 1400s. The canals were meant to allow for the transport of goods and people in and out of Milan and for irrigation purposes. This flat sits on the largest canal, the Naviglio Grande, which actually dates back to the 1100s or 1200s. Michelle Schoenung

Style is everything in this sweet little flat near the ever-popular Navigli neighbourhood. The wall art leans on 20^th century modernism but delivers something a little more soothing and feminine, mainly thanks to the killer choice of pastel shades for the paint. We’re big fans of the living room and its row of different sized hanging lights but we’ve also got our sight’s set on that pretty bathroom, complete with rain shower and a deep, deep tub. Perfect.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? A feminised modernism.
Location perks? Browse for antiques and a few more books (you can never have too many) in the streets of Navigli.
Budget range? Right now – a real steal.

Romantic and chic, you’ll find this Airbnb just 200 meters from the central station and you can get to Duomo in only 10 minutes and Navigli in 20. This apartment is big enough to host 3 guests, featuring 1 double bed, 1 single sofa bed and a bathroom. Not only is the location perfect, but this apartment has a lovely balcony overlooking the Milan skyline and a fully equipped kitchen to make you feel right at home. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps three guests.
Mood? Minimalist vibes.
Location perks? Walking distance from Central Station and a local supermarket just 50m away to top up on wine and cheese with ease.
Budget range? Cheap and equally cheerful.

This chic apartment is located in a very desired location right in the centre of Milan, and just a two-minute walk from Milan Central station. Enjoy this modern and refined space with a beautiful balcony you can eat your Italian breakfast on. As well as complimentary coffee and a fully equipped kitchen. This gorgeous apartment may not be the cheapest on the list but if you're travelling with someone else it can become much more easily affordable.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? No frills but comfy.
Location perks? 100m from Central Station and located inside a stunning liberty-style building.
Budget range? Extremely affordable.

Wow! This apartment, in a 200-year-old building, is so brilliantly white that you might want to put some shades on. It’s also located by a naviglio, one of the canals built in Renaissance-era Milan that’s every bit as sweet as you imagine (make sure you check out the host’s pics, they’re terrific!).

Rooms? One. Sleeps three guests.
Mood? Squeaky clean aesthetic.
Location perks? The metro's nearby if needed, but the local area is also great to explore.
Budget range? Very well-priced for what's on offer.

NoLo is one of Milan’s most artistic and bohemian-feeling neighbourhoods (Londoners: think Shoreditch ten years ago) and this great loft conversion really channels the spirit of the area of town its located in. Dotted throughout the property you’ll find a treasure trove of vintage finds, plus a great use of reclaimed items. Our favourite thing: Hands down, that multicoloured kitchen.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
The mood? In appreciation of retro stylings.
Location perks? Create your own street art tour with a walk through NoLo.
Budget range? You’ll feel smug about paying this.

This Airbnb is definitely one to consider if you want to soak up the Italian sunshine during your stay in Milan. Crisp and calming, the understated decor is fantastic if you’re in need of some rejuvenation. This one-bed studio has a large terrace that overlooks its leafy neighbourhood of Brera: an area known for its chic fashion, shopping and al fresco dining.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Ideal for work and play.
Location perks? Super close to restaurants, boutiques and cafes – while La Duomo is an easy 15-minute walk away.
Budget range? Affordable but a five-night minimum to consider.

This bright, cheerful-looking two-bed apartment is a great choice for families – or a group of friends – visiting Milan. While it’s near the Navigli, and not far from the buzz of canalside bars and restaurants, it’s also away from car traffic and so pretty tranquil as a whole. Bellissimo!

Rooms? Two. Sleeps five guests.
Mood? Open-plan with cool lighting.
Location perks? Easy access to restaurants, bars and public transport all nearby.
Budget range? On the pricier end but worth it.

Another property in Brera, this is a studio with a terrace and amazing. It's located a short walk from Duomo, the Parco Sempione, the Sforzesco and Corso Como. A one-bedroom apartment in the perfect location, it will feel like a home away from home, with a fully equipped kitchen, a dedicated workspace, a TV and more.