Milan is a city that welcomes every type of traveler—from those visiting for a quick work trip to guests planning an extended stay. When searching for accommodation, you’ll often come across terms like short term stay, short stay apartments, long stay apartments, long term stay apartments, and traditional hotels in Milan. Each option brings its own advantages, depending on how long you plan to be in the city and what kind of lifestyle you prefer while traveling.
Whether you’re here for fashion week, a business conference, study abroad preparations, or simply to enjoy the culture, food, and architecture, choosing the right type of accommodation sets the tone for your entire experience. This guide explores the differences between short-term and long-term apartments, compares them with hotel stays, and helps you decide which option best suits your travel needs.
Why Milan Is Ideal for Both Short and Long Stays
Milan is one of Italy’s most dynamic cities. It offers world-class transport, international events, stunning landmarks, and a vibrant local atmosphere. This blend attracts a wide range of visitors:
Business travelers needing flexibility
Students staying for semesters or internships
Families seeking comfortable spaces
Tourists wanting quick access to landmarks
Digital nomads moving between European cities
Because of this diversity, Milan provides an equally wide range of accommodation options.
Short Term Stay in Milan: Flexibility and Convenience
A short term stay is perfect if you’re visiting for a few days or a couple of weeks. Short stays are especially popular with travelers attending events, business meetings, or weekend getaways.
Benefits of Short Stay Apartments
Short stay apartments offer a more home-like approach to travel. Many guests appreciate:
More space than a hotel room
A kitchen for preparing quick meals
Privacy and a relaxed atmosphere
The ability to live like a local
Convenient locations close to transport
Short stay apartments are ideal for travelers who prefer flexibility and comfort without committing to a long lease or sacrificing convenience.
These apartments are commonly found in well-connected areas such as Porta Venezia, Navigli, Brera, Porta Romana, Isola, and near Fiera Milano.
Long Stay Apartments: Perfect for Extended Trips
For visitors staying multiple weeks or months, long stay apartments or long term stay apartments provide the stability and functionality needed for day-to-day life.
Why Long Term Stay Apartments Are Popular
Long-term apartments offer significant advantages:
Fully equipped kitchens for regular cooking
Laundry facilities ideal for extended stays
Separate living and sleeping spaces
Cost efficiency over long periods
A comfortable environment for work, study, or family routines
People who choose long-term stays often include remote workers, exchange students, business travelers on extended assignments, and families relocating temporarily.
Milan has several neighborhoods ideal for long-term living, including Bicocca, Città Studi, CityLife, and areas along metro lines M1, M2, and M3 for easy city access.
Hotels in Milan: Comfort, Service & Central Locations
Traditional hotels in Milan remain a strong choice for short visits, quick business trips, or travelers who prefer full-service comfort.
Many guests pick a Milan hotel because it offers:
Daily housekeeping
Reception and concierge services
On-site breakfast or dining
Central locations near popular attractions
Smooth check-in and check-out
Hotels, especially those in the Duomo, Brera, and Milano Centrale areas, are great if you want to stay where the action is. For shorter trips, a hotel Milano can be the most convenient option.
When Hotels Make the Most Sense
Choose a hotel if:
You’re in Milan for a short visit
You prefer structured amenities
You plan to spend minimal time cooking
You enjoy having on-site staff for assistance
Hotels tend to be more suitable for quick trips, while apartments are usually better for stays longer than a week.
Short Stay vs Long Stay: What’s Best for You?
Choosing between a short-term or long-term apartment depends on your itinerary and lifestyle.
Choose a short stay apartment if:
Your trip lasts several days to a couple of weeks
You want extra space compared to a hotel
You prefer preparing some meals yourself
You're attending an event or expo
You want a relaxed, homelike environment
Choose a long term stay apartment if:
You’re in Milan for work or study
You plan to stay for several weeks or months
You need a fully equipped home
You want cost-efficient long-term comfort
You need stable Wi-Fi and workspace for remote work
Choose a hotel if:
You prefer convenience over space
You’re staying only a few days
You want daily services
You want to remain in the city center
Each option has its strengths, and Milan caters to all of them.
Best Neighborhoods for Different Types of Stays
Milan’s districts are diverse, allowing you to tailor your stay based on your plans.
Short-term trips: Duomo, Brera, Navigli, Porta Venezia
Business travel: Porta Nuova, Fiera Milano area
Long-term stays: Bicocca, Città Studi, CityLife, Porta Romana
Flexible stays: Isola, Porta Garibaldi, Sempione
Each area provides great transport options, cafés, shops, and unique atmospheres suited for different lengths of stay.
Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Stay in Milan
When selecting your accommodation, consider:
Proximity to public transport—metros M1, M2, and M3 are key
Whether you need cooking and laundry facilities
How much space you need for work or family
Your exact length of stay
The pace of the neighborhood—quiet vs lively
Balancing these factors will help you choose the perfect stay for your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're booking a short term stay, exploring short stay apartments, settling into long stay apartments, or planning an extended trip with long term stay apartments, Milan offers accommodation that fits every lifestyle. If your priority is convenience and amenities, hotels in Milan, including any Milan hotel or hotel Milano, provide effortless comfort. If you prefer more personal space or a home-like environment, apartments are an excellent choice.
No matter how long you stay, Milan welcomes you with culture, elegance, and unforgettable experiences.
FAQ
Are short stay apartments better than hotels in Milan?
Short stay apartments offer more space and flexibility, while hotels provide convenience and services. It depends on your travel style.
What is the best option for a long-term stay?
Long term stay apartments offer kitchen facilities, laundry access, and cost efficiency—ideal for extended trips.
Are hotels in Milan family-friendly?
Yes, many Milan hotels offer family rooms, connecting rooms, and central locations perfect for sightseeing.
Which areas are best for long stays?
Bicocca, CityLife, Porta Romana, and Città Studi are excellent for long-term living.
