Solo Female Travel in Milan

Located in the northern region of Lombardy in Italy, Milan exudes style, sophistication and charm. Known globally for its high-end fashion and shopping, with districts such as Via Montenapoleone and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II being among the world's oldest shopping malls, the city is a hub for fashion enthusiasts. However, Milan isn't just for the sartorially savvy; it's also a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks. The iconic Duomo di Milano, a stunning gothic cathedral, and the Santa Maria delle Grazie, which houses Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, are just two of the city's rich architectural gems. Furthermore, Milan is renowned for its exciting food scene, theater, parks, and the influential annual Milan Design Week. Its vibrancy and elegance make it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Travel rating

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Is Milan worth visiting solo?

Safety:Safe

Milan is generally safe for solo female travelers. It's a bustling, cosmopolitan city with an efficient public transportation system. Street crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in tourist-heavy locations or on public transportation, but violent crime is relatively rare. As a female traveler, it's advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone late at night in less crowded areas, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.

Transport:Easy

Traveling around Milan is relatively straightforward and convenient. The city is well-organized, offering multiple modes of transport, including buses, trams, and a comprehensive metro system. Both main tourist attractions and off-the-beaten-path spots are accessible by public transport. Although occasionally crowded during rush hours, the efficiency and frequency of services make it a viable option for navigating the city. Biking is also an option favored by locals due to Milan's flat terrain. Furthermore, English signs and information are commonly seen, making it easier for non-Italian speakers. However, as with any city, caution should be practiced during peak hours to avoid pickpocketing.

Things to do:Interesting

Milan offers a multitude of activities that cater to a solo traveler's interests. From the stunning architecture of The Duomo, to the variety of world-renowned museums and art galleries such as the Pinacoteca di Brera, it's a delight for art lovers. Take time to admire The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci at Santa Maria delle Grazie. Fashionistas can find joy in the high-end shopping district, Quadrilatero d'Oro, while gastronomy enthusiasts can treat themselves to exquisite Italian cuisine and wines. Despite being highly urbanized, Milan also offers beautiful gardens and parks for a calm retreat, such as Parco Sempione. While navigating the city is fairly easy, interacting with locals could be a tad bit challenging due to language barriers.

Food:Excellent

The food scene in Milan is simply superb and extremely diverse. You can find an exquisite blend of traditional Italian cuisine and contemporary culinary developments, offering a variety of choices for every palette. There is something for everyone, from fresh pastas and pizzas to seafood, vegan options, and delectable pastries. The quality of the ingredients is always top-notch, and dishes are prepared with great attention to detail. Plus, the variety of wines available is a treat for wine lovers too. For the gastronome traveler, Milan would be paradise!

Budget:Moderate

Milan, as one of the fashion capitals and most developed cities in Italy, has a lot to offer but it doesn't come cheap. Normal priced, non-designer clothes, food, transportation and entertainment are generally more expensive compared to other Italian cities. However, budget-friendly options are available if you plan ahead. Look for shared accommodations or budget hotels, avoid eating in tourist areas, use public transport instead of taxis, and take advantage of free attractions. Remember though, that the overall cost can still add up, particularly if you want to experience Milan's fashion and nightlife.

Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.4 /5

based on 24 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.5/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.2/5

Solo travel experience

Milan was my first solo journey, I didn't speak Italian, and I had never been to Italy before. I often got lost, but always found a place to eat. I felt very safe in this city and would recommend it to any woman wanting to explore and eat amazing food. The city gave me a lot of confidence and reminded me that I could face this world alone.

Posted: January 18, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I stayed in Milan for 3 days alone in November and I really enjoyed it there. I walked or took the subway everywhere and felt safe all the time. However, I did not go out at night, so I am not sure how safe it is there after dark, but other than that, I would recommend this place. Beautiful architecture and a lot to see.

Posted: December 3, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Great place for solo travelling if you love walking around, sightseeing, shopping and great food! There are female-only hostels available in the central of the city - very close to all must-see places.

Posted: November 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I spent 2 days in Milan and felt really safe. The city is very vibrant, even at night. It's really easy to get around using public transportation. I had a hotel near the central station and I never used a taxi. It was truly a wonderful time.

Posted: October 20, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

My first solo trip was to Milan and I absolutely loved it. I spent there 3 days, one day I went on a trip to Lake Como, and the next to Turin. I felt safe and didn't have any problems. Language was not a problem, I mainly communicated in English and understood Italian.

Posted: October 17, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Andreea

Andreea

Romania

Solo travel experience

As a gelato lover I want to recommend you this place in Milan: Viel🍦So delish! 🥰 Maybe you are a gelato lover too, haha! Of course the city itself was a vibe and as a solo traveler I felt safe and mesmerized by the architecture, art in general, green spaces, kind and curious people. 😁 #bellaitalia

Posted: October 5, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Gülis

Gülis

Turkey

Solo travel experience

I think it was a good city to solo travel to, my host was very nice and she took me to hidden spots around the city. There were some sketchy guys sometimes but overall it was a safe experience, and the city that time of the year was amazing.

Posted: July 24, 2023
Things to do: 4/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

I didn't like Milan. It's really a boring city, besides the cathedral there is nothing to do there, unless you like fashion and spending money.

Posted: July 12, 2023
Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I went on a solo trip to Milan, Italy, and it was amazing! It was my first time travelling alone, I didn't speak the language nor did I know Italy well, but I had a great time there. I often got lost, but I always managed to find a place to eat, which was amusing. I felt really safe in the city and I would certainly recommend it to all women who want to explore and enjoy delicious food. This journey gave me a lot of confidence and reminded me that I am a strong woman who can handle anything on her own!

Posted: July 1, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

This was my second time in Milan and i was somewhat dissappointed. Since i had been once before i had already seen all the touristy sites and felt like the city didnt have that much more to offer (however i was on a tight budget so i didnt go out to eat and stuff, which would probably be very fun). But a nice city overall! Felt very safe all the time☀️

Posted: June 30, 2023
Things to do: 3/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 3/5
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Local tips

Daniela

Daniela

United Kingdom

Milan in pretty safe but petty crime is surging, so be always aware. Do not show jewellery or watches and always keep an eye on your bag while using metro. Taxis are safe. Metro is safe during the day. I also use it at night but in the centre. I’d avoid going to suburbs at night. The Navigli area, despite being very popular, is too crowded and please a young vibe.

Posted: February 8, 2024
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Sara

Sara

Italy

It's a pretty safe place to visit (obviously it depends from the areas) and very clean! The metro is the best way of transportation in my opinion, the are a tons of them till midnight and it brings you basically everywhere there are things to see fast. It is pretty busy and safe, but pay attention and keep your belonings safe from pickpokets because there are many of them! Avoid eating near tourists attractions (like Duomo or Castello) better and cheaper restaurants are probably just a few minutes away with public transport

Posted: July 8, 2023
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Here are my local suggestions of things to do: - The Duomo, of course, not only for visiting, but also to climb to its top. - Castello Sforzesco, a castle in the city center that also serves as a museum. It houses the beautiful Pietà Rondanini by Michelangelo Buonarroti. This is one of my favorite places in the city. - Ambrosiana Library & Pinacoteca: one of the oldest public libraries in the world, and home to a beautiful collection of art, including works by Leonardo Da Vinci, Caravaggio, Botticelli, and Raphael. - Pinacoteca di Brera: home to many important works of art, from the Renaissance to modern art. - Cimitero Monumentale, a historic cemetery. Don't miss this place, it's also completely free. It's unique, like an open-air museum. - Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio: one of the oldest churches in Milan, a jewel of Romanesque art. - Other churches worth visiting: Santa Maria in San Satiro, San Lorenzo, San Bernardino alle Ossa (decorated with human bones), San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore (few know about this place, although it's really amazing, it's entirely decorated with frescoes). - The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci (book in advance).

Posted: December 1, 2022
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Food: Milan is very diverse, therefore you can find different restaurants from all over Italy. For something typically local, I recommend finding a Trattoria specializing in food from Lombardy. Something we also love is aperitivo (very popular in the Navigli area), where you order a drink and you can help yourself to free food from a charming buffet. Nightlife: I recommend the Navigli area and Arco della Pace for bars, where you can have a drink and feel the atmosphere of the city. The most popular nightclubs are located on Corso Como/Moscova and usually offer commercial/home music. Attractions: You must see the Duomo cathedral square (you can also go inside or to the top of the cathedral) and walk around the nearby shopping streets. Sforza Castle and potentially other museums such as Pinacoteca di Brera, the museum of science and technology or The Last Supper (reservation in advance) Things to do: It's worth doing a day trip to Lake Como with a lake cruise. It's also worth visiting other popular cities (Turin and Bologna) for day trips.

Posted: December 1, 2022
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Meet locals in Milan

Meet local women in Milan who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Ioana

Ioana

About Me

Hello ladies, my name is Ioana and I am a product developer and entrepreneur. Copenhagen, it has been my home for the past 9 years, I am engaged here but I have to travel to Milano for a some period. I love meeting people, I love food, cultures, music and life in general. I am a creative person with a true passion for philosophical discussions.

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Aidana

Aidana

About Me

Heyy! I'm a first-year master's student based in Milan. Ds student, gym girlie and an ielts tutor, ig @aydonaryder

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Stay with locals in Milan

Stay with local women in Milan who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Daniela

Daniela

Milan

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hello! I’m a latina living in Europe :) I love to travel and meet new people. I love love to share a cup of coffee or go hiking with an interesting person! 🤭

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Victoria

Victoria

Milan

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I’ll go with the short story: I’m from Milan, I live in Rome, I’ve been a producer organising commercials, music video, films, series and photo shoots for years now I’ve decided to stop organising other people’s art and start valuing my own vision, I started shooting in analogic and now it’s what I love and what I am.

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Upcoming visitors to Milan

Connect with upcoming visitors to Milan who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Sanja

Sanja

About Me

Hello! I'm Sanja and I am 27. Always been curious about the world, loved languages and different cultures, and exploring them. Traveling is a big passion, and I love to randomly walk around and explore. It's so adventurous and exciting when you find something randomly!

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Katharina

Katharina

About Me

Hi! I am Kathi and I love travelling, meeting new people and while doing so not spending thousands of euros but still feeling safe. I have been living in Munich for the last 7 years, so I can definitely tell you a lot about this city ;) I am moving in May, so I can only host until end of April though. I speak german, english, french and some spanish and italian.

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