Milan may be the second largest city in Italy, but its personality is second to none. It’s also the commerce and fashion capital of the country, which definitely adds to its buzzing energy. But for first timers headed to the vibrant metropolis, often the first question that comes to mind is: where should I stay in Milan? My answer is Porta Garibaldi, an area that offers visitors the perfect blend of modernity and antiquity, along with a wide range of choices for fine dining, shopping, and nightlife. It also boasts a prime position near all of Milan’s most iconic spots, whether travelling on foot or via the area’s efficient transportation network. So whether it’s your first visit to the city or your tenth, you won’t want to miss this travel guide of the Porta Garibaldi neighborhood.
What to Do in Porta Garibaldi
Porta Garibaldi and Piazza XXV Aprile
The Porta Garibaldi area features a harmonious juxtaposition of historic charm and modern architecture. In many ways, this neighborhood encapsulates the essence of Milan; a city where the past is preserved, while still embracing the future. Perhaps its most important landmark is Porta Garibaldi, a city gate built in the neoclassical style and the reason for the area’s name. It was originally built in 1825 and reconstructed shortly afterward, before being renamed in 1860 to honor Giuseppe Garibaldi – who is credited for playing a critical role in the unification of modern-day Italy. This arched city gate is located at Piazza XXV Aprile and separates the area’s two most important shopping streets: Corso Como and Corso Garibaldi. Piazza XXV Aprile is also home to Eataly and several other dining spots, which we’ll touch upon later.
Corso Como and Piazza Gae Aulenti
Milan is a shopping mecca and if you’re looking to stay in an area of the city that has some of the best boutiques, Porta Garibaldi is the spot for you. For elegant ambience, high-end shops, and outdoor dining, the pedestrian-friendly cobblestone street of Corso Como is a must-visit. Here, one can get a taste of Milanese life, like browsing the latest styles from designer brands to enjoying an aperitivo sheltered from the sun under an umbrella. A stroll down this classy block eventually leads to Piazza Gae Aulenti – a square that exemplifies Milan’s modern edge, thanks to numerous glass and steel towers encircling it.
Among these buildings is the UniCredit Tower, which is considered one of Italy’s tallest skyscrapers and an iconic landmark of Milan’s skyline. At the base of these modern towers is an array of shops, including international brands like UNIQLO, Nike, Moleskin, and even LEGO. And while this piazza is technically located in the Porta Nuova neighborhood, the boundaries between these two areas are often blurred because of their proximity to one another.
Corso Garibaldi
Another must-visit shopping block in Milan is Corso Garibaldi. Beginning at Piazza XXV Aprile and eventually weaving its way through the posh neighborhood of Brera, this street is best described as retail therapy paradise. Home to some of the city’s poshest boutiques, cafés, and restaurants, it offers plenty of historic charm, making it a favorite with tourists and locals alike. Plus, it’s a direct path to the Duomo and Castello Sforzesco, which can be reached on foot in less than 20 minutes – that is of course, if you’re not tempted to stop into every shop you pass by! If you’re looking to get a taste of Milan’s seamless mix of old and new, be sure to add Corso Garibaldi to your itinerary.
Dining in Porta Garibaldi
Visitors staying in the Porta Garibaldi area are spoiled for choice when it comes to deciding where to eat, but it always helps to have a few top recommendations!
Eataly Milano Smeraldo
First off is Eataly Milano Smeraldo; an undisputed hotspot for diners and gourmet shoppers. Conveniently situated in Piazza XXV Aprile, this place is hopping with people seeking to get a taste of the brand’s famed slow food movement, which is made possible by its ample seating capacity. Inside it features various zones, including an area that’s perfect for enjoying coffee and pastries, in addition to full-service, formal dining areas that look onto an impressive atrium. Outside, a patio spills out into Piazza XXV Aprile; the perfect place for patrons to unwind and enjoy an aperitivo all’aperto. Along with its delicious dining, they offer various events, tastings, and seminars hosted by storied brands like Turin-based chocolatier Baratti & Milano.
O’ Peperino e Milano
It’s true that Milan is famous for its risotto, osso buco, and cotoletta alla Milanese (veal cutlet), but few people visiting Italy will ever refuse pizza, regardless of where they find themselves in the country. In Porta Garibaldi, my choice is O’ Peperino e Milano; a casual restaurant that serves authentic Neapolitan pizza, including gluten-free! I’ve tried my fair share of gluten-free pizza in Italy and this is by far one of my favorites. Best of all, the restaurant is certified by the Associazione Italiana Celiachia (AIC), which is an organization that trains and certifies restaurants to offer celiacs a safe dining environment. O’ Peperino e Milano also serves other courses and Neapolitan classics like pasta e patate. With its founder a native of Naples, this place offers some of the best pizza in Milan, along with warm hospitality.
Grom
Lastly, a sweet treat is always a must and when in Italy, that often comes in the form of gelato. Despite my appreciation for artisanality, I think it’s important to give due credit to brands who are committed to quality. So when it comes to finding the best place to eat gelato in Porta Garibaldi, Grom is a clear winner. For anyone unfamiliar with the Grom chain, this is a brand that celebrates purity, avoiding the use of additives and artificial colors and flavors. With two locations in the area – Corso Garibaldi and Piazza Gae Aulenti – making this a stop on your itinerary couldn’t be any easier. And if you happen to visit during the cold, winter months, make sure to give their affogato a try!
Staying in Porta Garibaldi
A Google search of the best hotels in Milan can be overwhelming and narrowing it down to a specific neighborhood can prove equally tricky. Luckily, the Porta Garibaldi area is home to a number of great options that offer convenient proximity to the best shops and restaurants. And while they offer a reprieve from the congestion commonly found in the area around the Duomo, these landmarks are still easily accessible thanks to the local transit system. Below are some options, including the Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze, which I highly recommend after my own stay during a recent visit to Milan.
Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze
For those in search of sleek elegance that embodies the vibe of this city, Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze is a front-running, four-star hotel. Tucked around the corner from Piazza XXV Aprile, Corso Como, Eataly, and O’ Peperino e Milano, it delivers a refined, yet relaxed experience. It’s also a very short walk from the Porta Garibaldi train station; great for getting around the city. The hotel features a minimalist design, which gives it a crisp and clean aesthetic without feeling cold or impersonal.
At the center of the hotel is a serene garden oasis, visible from the lobby and a glass-enclosed solarium that adjoins the main breakfast dining room. Breakfast is a low-fuss buffet, offering everything from fresh fruit, cheese, and charcuterie to baked goods, including individually packaged gluten-free products. Guests can also enjoy gourmet dining at ANIMA, their onsite Michelin star restaurant under the guidance of multi-star chef Enrico Bartolini. Beyond dining, the Milano Verticale offers spa services and a fitness center, perfect for its health-conscious guests.
Top Rated Hotels: Where to Stay in Milan’s Porta Garibaldi
While I have not stayed at the following hotels (and therefore can’t offer a testimonial of my personal experience) these are a couple of promising options within a close vicinity to all of the amenities Porta Garibaldi has to offer.
NH Collection Milano Porta Nuova
- 4-star hotel
Tocq Hotel Milano
- 4-star hotel
Porta Garibaldi Awaits
If you’re planning to visit Milan and are searching for an area that personifies the dynamic spirit of this city, look no further than Porta Garibaldi. With its vintage yellow trams and tall skyscrapers, this neighborhood offers a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern flair. So whether you crave shopping at designer boutiques, sampling exquisite cuisine, or staying at contemporary hotels, this area has it all and is ready to be explored. Buon viaggio!
