Best Neighborhoods for Families in Milan

Milan's financial and fashion capital, offers a wealth of neighborhoods suitable for families, including expats and digital nomads. Each district presents a unique blend of history, culture, and community, along with essential amenities such as schools, parks, and family-friendly eateries. Here are eight of the best neighborhoods for families to consider when relocating to Milan.

Brera

Brera is a charming, bohemian district known for its artistic atmosphere and cobblestone streets. Families can enjoy leisure time at the Brera Botanical Garden or explore the renowned Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and offers a variety of creative workshops for kids.

Location: Historic center of Milan, north of the Duomo

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 2,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 3,000 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 450,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 650,000 EUR.

International Schools: The British School of Milan (ages 3-18, British curriculum), located in the nearby suburb of Sir James Henderson.

Where to Eat: Obicà Mozzarella Bar for casual Italian dining, or Jamaica for traditional Milanese cuisine.

Interesting History: The district's namesake, Palazzo Brera, is a historic palace that now houses several cultural institutions, including the art gallery and the astronomical observatory.

Parks: The Brera Botanical Garden is a peaceful green space in the heart of the neighborhood.

Navigli

Navigli is a vibrant and picturesque neighborhood known for its canals and lively markets. Families can stroll along the waterways, visit art galleries, or enjoy outdoor activities at the Darsena, a historic dock recently transformed into a public space.

Location: Southwest of Milan's city center

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,800 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,500 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 400,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 550,000 EUR.

International Schools: The International School of Milan (ages 2-18, International Baccalaureate curriculum), located in the nearby suburb of Baranzate.

Where to Eat: Al Pont de Ferr for traditional Milanese dishes, or Taglio for contemporary Italian cuisine.

Interesting History: The canals were designed by Leonardo da Vinci and once served as a transportation system for goods and people.

Parks: The Darsena is a popular gathering spot for locals, featuring a market, play areas, and occasional events.

Isola

Isola is an up-and-coming neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Families can enjoy local events, visit the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest) buildings, or relax at the Biblioteca degli Alberi, a unique public park and library.

Location: North of Milan's city center, near the Garibaldi train station

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,900 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,800 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 420,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 600,000 EUR.

International Schools: The American School of Milan (ages 3-18, American curriculum), located in the nearby suburb of Noverasco.

Where to Eat: Berberè for artisanal pizzas, or Deus Cafè for a family-friendly brunch.

Interesting History: The neighborhood was once an industrial area and has recently undergone significant urban redevelopment.

Parks: The Biblioteca degli Alberi is a modern green space designed for both relaxation and cultural events.

Porta Romana

Porta Romana is a residential and family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of historic and modern architecture. Families can explore the nearby Fondazione Prada contemporary art museum or enjoy outdoor activities at the Giardini della Guastalla.

Location: Southeast of Milan's city center

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,700 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,400 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 380,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 530,000 EUR.

International Schools: The International School of Milan - Lodi Campus (ages 2-18, International Baccalaureate curriculum), located in the nearby town of Lodi.

Where to Eat: Piz for Neapolitan-style pizzas, or Trattoria del Nuovo Macello for traditional Milanese dishes.

Interesting History: The neighborhood is named after the historic Porta Romana gate, one of the few remaining medieval city gates.

Parks: The Giardini della Guastalla is a popular park with a playground and a historic 16th-century building.

Citta Studi

Citta Studi is a lively and culturally diverse neighborhood, home to several universities and research institutions. Families can explore the Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci or enjoy outdoor activities at the nearby Parco Lambro.

Location: Northeast of Milan's city center

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,500 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,200 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 350,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 480,000 EUR.

International Schools: The International School of Milan - Citta Studi Campus (ages 2-18, International Baccalaureate curriculum), located within the neighborhood.

Where to Eat: Piadineria Artigianale Pascoli for delicious piadinas, or Ristorante da Oscar for classic Italian dishes.

Interesting History: The neighborhood is home to the prestigious Politecnico di Milano, one of the oldest universities in Italy.

Parks: Parco Lambro is a large urban park with various recreational facilities, including a lake and cycling paths.

Bicocca

Bicocca is a modern and eco-friendly neighborhood that has undergone significant urban renewal. Families can enjoy numerous green spaces, including the Parco Nord Milano, or visit the HangarBicocca contemporary art museum.

Location: North of Milan's city center

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,400 EUR, 3-bedroom around 2,000 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 320,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 450,000 EUR.

International Schools: The British School of Milan - Sir James Henderson Campus (ages 3-18, British curriculum), located in the nearby suburb of Sesto San Giovanni.

Where to Eat: Ristorante Pizzeria Il Gatto e la Volpe for family-friendly dining, or Osteria della Buona Condotta for traditional Italian cuisine.

Interesting History: The neighborhood was once an industrial area and is now a model for sustainable urban development.

Parks: Parco Nord Milano is a vast green space offering various recreational activities and wildlife observation.

Lorenteggio

Lorenteggio is a quiet and residential neighborhood, ideal for families seeking a more tranquil environment. The area offers numerous parks, playgrounds, and local shops. Families can also visit the nearby MUBA Children's Museum.

Location: West of Milan's city center

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 1,300 EUR, 3-bedroom around 1,800 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 300,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 400,000 EUR.

International Schools: The English School of Milan (ages 3-14, British curriculum), located in the nearby suburb of Assago.

Where to Eat: Pizzeria Spontini for classic Italian pizzas, or Trattoria La Primula for traditional Milanese dishes.

Interesting History: The neighborhood has a rich agricultural history and was once known for its numerous farms and vineyards.

Parks: Parco delle Cave is a beautiful park featuring lakes, walking paths, and various bird species.

CityLife

CityLife is a modern and innovative neighborhood, designed by renowned architects such as Zaha Hadid and Daniel Libeskind. Families can enjoy numerous green spaces, shopping areas, and cultural events. The neighborhood is also home to the CityLife Shopping District, one of the largest urban shopping centers in Italy.

Location: Northwest of Milan's city center, near the historic Fiera Milano area

Real Estate: Average rental price of a 2-bedroom apartment is around 2,200 EUR, 3-bedroom around 3,200 EUR. Average purchase price of a 2-bedroom apartment is about 500,000 EUR, 3-bedroom around 750,000 EUR.

International Schools: The International School of Milan - CityLife Campus (ages 2-18, International Baccalaureate curriculum), located within the neighborhood.

Where to Eat: Eataly for a variety of Italian dining options, or Illy Caffè for a family-friendly café experience.

Interesting History: The neighborhood was developed as part of a major urban redevelopment project on the former grounds of the Fiera Milano trade fair.

Parks: The neighborhood features numerous green spaces, including a large public park designed by landscape architect Kathryn Gustafson.

Each of these neighborhoods offers unique characteristics and amenities tailored to families. Whether you prefer a historic setting, vibrant cultural scene, or modern eco-friendly environment, Milan has an ideal neighborhood for every family.