Milan (Milano in Italian) is the capital of Lombardy and Italy's second-largest city, with around 1.4 million residents. It uses the euro (€), the language is Italian, the time zone is Central European Time (UTC+1), and it is a safe, walkable city best visited from April to June or September to October. Below is everything you need before you go — currency, language, tipping, safety, emergency numbers and connectivity.
~3.2 million (metro area)
CEST (UTC+2) in summer
Type C/L plugs
What currency does Milan use?
Italy uses the euro (€). ATMs are widely available throughout Milan — the most cost-effective way to get cash is usually to withdraw from a bank ATM with your debit card. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most restaurants, hotels and shops, though some smaller trattorias and markets still prefer cash. Contactless payments are widely accepted. For a full breakdown, see our guide to prices in Milan.
What language do they speak in Milan?
The official language is Italian. In tourist areas, hotels and larger restaurants, English is spoken to a reasonable standard. Outside the centre it is less common — knowing a few basic Italian phrases is appreciated. See our language guide.
Do you need to tip in Milan?
Tipping is not obligatory in Italy. In restaurants, a coperto (cover charge, €1.50–€3 per person) is standard and already included in the bill. If service has been exceptional, a small tip (€2–5) is appreciated but not expected. In taxis, rounding up the fare is common.
Is Milan safe for tourists?
Milan is a safe city for tourists. The main concerns are pickpocketing in busy areas (around the Duomo, on the metro) and unlicensed taxi drivers at airports. Keep bags close, stay aware in crowds, and only use official white taxis.
Good to know: EU travellers can use their EHIC/GHIC card for public healthcare. For everyone else, travel insurance covering medical costs is strongly recommended. See our travel advice page.
What are the emergency numbers in Milan?
Is there free Wi-Fi in Milan?
Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and increasingly in cafés and restaurants, and the city provides free public Wi-Fi in some areas. EU visitors keep their home data plan at no extra charge thanks to roaming rules. Non-EU visitors should check roaming rates or buy a local SIM on arrival, available from phone shops and some supermarkets.
Where is Milan and what is it known for?
Milan is Italy's undisputed economic capital — home to the Milan Stock Exchange (Borsa Italiana), the headquarters of most major Italian corporations, and a global centre for fashion, design and publishing. It sits in the Po Valley at 120 m above sea level, with the Alps visible on clear days. The city is roughly equidistant from the great northern lakes: Como (50 km), Maggiore (80 km) and Garda (140 km) — all popular day trips from Milan.