Is Milan Safe? 11 Things to Know Before Visiting

Planning a trip in Italy is always filled with excitement, and dreams of wandering its streets. But, it’s also vital to think about safety, of course. Making sure your visit is fun and safe is a top priority, so it’s normal to ask yourself before your trip—is Milan safe?

Whether you’re a travel pro or this is your first big solo travel trip, being careful while in Milan can help make your journey safe. After extensively traveling through Italy and Milan, I’ve learned everything you need to know to have a safe trip in Milan. I’ll teach you how to steer clear of pickpockets, find the safest spots, and know important emergency numbers for your trip!

🇮🇹 11 Milan Safety Tips + Things to Know Before Visiting

Before you visit Milan, knowing these 11 things can ensure a great trip. These tips will help keep you safe and enjoy the city fully. These will prepare you for an exciting and safe journey!

Safety tips for Milan

1. Be cautious of pickpockets. In Milan, pickpockets often target tourists. Always keep your things close. Use bags that protect your stuff from thieves.
2. Avoid leaving belongings unattended. Never let your belongings out of your sight, holding them close will reduce the risk of theft.
3. Use licensed taxis. Make sure you take official taxis in Milan. They have an emblem and a meter. Avoid cars without official taxi markings.
4. Be aware of common scams. Watch out for scams in Milan. Stay away from fake goods sellers.
5. Stay in safe areas of Milan. Pick a safe place to stay, like Brera or Duomo! These areas are safer and offer lots to do and see.
6. Familiarize yourself with emergency numbers. Know the emergency numbers for Milan before you go.
7. Be cautious of your surroundings. Always be alert. Avoid places that feel unsafe, especially at night. Trusting your instincts is key to staying safe.
8. Learn basic Italian phrases. Knowing some Italian can be very useful. It helps with asking for directions and communicating in general.
9. Have secure accomodations. Make sure you stay somewhere safe. Look for places with good security, including locks on doors and windows. Additional security options can give you peace of mind.
10. Travel insurance. Always have good travel insurance. It should cover health emergencies, trip issues, and lost items. Make sure you understand what your policy covers.
11. Respect local customs and laws. Learn about Milan’s customs and laws. Dress appropriately for religious sites. Following local rules helps everyone have a good experience.

Following these tips can make your visit to Milan safe and memorable!

Safest things to do in Milan

Doing a group tour is one of the safest things you can do in Milan! Here are some of my favorite tours to do while in Milan.

Safe Neighborhood Areas in Milan

Milan is generally a very safe city for visitors, but like any major metropolitan area, it has neighborhoods that warrant a bit more caution.

The historic center of Milan surrounding the Duomo Cathedral, as well as posh shopping and dining districts like Quadrilatero della Moda and Brera, you don’t need to be as worried about. These wealthier areas full of luxury boutiques, galleries, and pedestrian zones are well-policed and suited for carefree roaming.

Neighborhood Areas to Avoid in Milan

Use a bit more vigilance around the main railway station, Stazione Centrale. While it’s not dangerous during the day, this area can get sketchier after dark. Avoid pulling out valuables unnecessarily at night.

The neighborhoods of Quarto Oggiaro and Corvetto have higher crime rates compared to the city center, but they’re still safe to pass through when staying alert.

Getting around Milan Safely

Safety using public transport in Milan

Milan has many public transportation options that make getting around the city convenient. Here are the main options and tips for using them safely:

Metro (Subway)

• Milan’s metro has 4 lines that criss-cross the city center and outer neighborhoods
• When riding, keep belongings tucked away and be aware of your surroundings, especially when boarding/exiting
• Avoid solo travel on late-night trains when empty

Trams & Buses

• An efficient network of tram and bus routes complementing the metro
• Choose routes through well-transited areas when possible

Taxis

• Abundant metered taxis are a safe way to get around, especially at night
• Only take licensed cabs, preferably by having your hotel call one
• Avoid unlicensed taxi touts who may overcharge or be untrustworthy

Train

Milano Centrale Train Station

• Milan’s main railway station connecting the city to the rest of Italy and Europe
• Use precautions in this area, especially late at night
• Don’t linger the train station unnecessarily

I recommend booking train or a bus ticket in advance.

Common scams in Milan

Unfortunately, some common scams do target tourists in Milan. Here are some of the most prevalent ones to watch out for:

Petition Scam

• Someone will approach you with a clipboard asking you to sign a petition or donate to charity
• As you’re distracted, an accomplice tries to pick your pocket or grab belongings
• Politely decline to sign anything and keep walking

Bracelet Vendors

• Street vendors try to force brightly colored string bracelets onto your wrist
• Once on, they demand payment, using intimidation if you refuse
• Don’t allow vendors to touch you and be firm in declining

Fake Merchandise

• Vendors sell knock-off luxury bags, watches, etc. claiming they are authentic
• The merchandise is very clearly counterfeit upon closer inspection
• Only purchase goods from legitimate shops and boutiques

Taxi Overcharging

• Some taxi drivers quote low fixed rates and then demand more
• Insist on going by the meter to avoid being ripped off
• Only take licensed city cabs, not irregular gypsy cabs

The best defense in any travel scenario, including Milan, is to avoid engaging with any aggressive vendors. Politely ignore them! A cautious yet courteous attitude goes a long way in steering clear of potential scams in Milan.

Milan Emergency Numbers

It can give you peace of mind to know who to call if you have an emergency in Milan. Here are the important emergency numbers to know during your trip to Milan:

112 – For any general emergencies, you can call this number for any emergency and they will redirect your call to the right person.

118 – If you need an ambulance

113 – To reach the police

115 – For the fire department

By knowing these emergency numbers and contacts, you can get help fast if you need it! This will help keep you safe in Milan.

Is Milan Safe? FAQs

Is it safe to walk in Milan at night?

Walking around Milan at night is generally safe. No matter where you are though, stick to well-lit main roads and steer clear of deserted alleys or squares at night.

Is Milan or Rome safer?

While both are relatively safe cities, Milan is generally considered slightly safer than Rome for tourists. Rome sees more issues with things like theft and pickpocketing, and disruptive crowds particularly around major attractions.

What is the safest city in Italy?

Some of the safest major cities in Italy are Bologna, Florence, and Venice. These cities tend to have a lower crime rate than other areas. Though no city is immune to having some crime, these cities have lower rates of both violent and non-violent incidents compared to Milan and Rome.

What are the cons of visiting Milan?

While I love Milan, it definitely has downsides compared to other cities in Italy. Here are my cons of visiting Milan:

• Not as many iconic historic sights as cities like Rome or Florence
• Accommodation and dining can be more expensive, especially in the city center
• City can feel more closed off and impersonal compared to other Italian cities
• Public transport is good but can be tricky to navigate

Wrap Up: Is Milan Safe?

Whether you’re spending just one day in Milan or taking a long vaca, know that Milan is a safe place to visit. By taking proper precautions on your trip to Milan, you’re sure to have an amazing trip! Diverti!