Milan Centrale is Milan’s main railway station and one of the city’s busiest transport hubs. Opened in 1931, it’s known for its grand façade and rich interiors. The streets around Piazza Duca d’Aosta are busy with commuters, tourists, and airport shuttles.
Key takeaways
- The Milan Centrale area is usually OK at night, but it’s a major station—petty theft is more common than in quiet areas.
- Stay on bright, busy streets, keep valuables out of sight, and watch for distraction tricks in crowds.
- The metro often runs until around 00:30; later than that, night buses and licensed taxis are the safest ways to get around.
Crime and safety in the Milan Centrale area
What to watch for
As of 2026-02-01, the main risk around Milan Centrale is petty theft: pickpocketing, bag snatching, and phone theft. The station and nearby streets are crowded, and travelers often have luggage or a phone in hand. Serious violence is less common, but it can happen anywhere, so it’s best to avoid quiet, dark streets late at night.
Why stations feel less comfortable late at night
Big stations bring together lots of people, luggage, and waiting time. Later in the evening, the crowd thins out and some side streets get quiet. That makes quick theft easier.
Security around the station
Inside the station and at the main entrances, you’ll often see security staff and police, including the railway police (Polizia Ferroviaria). National and local agencies also run joint efforts to improve safety in major stations, including Milan Centrale.
Getting around at night
Milan Centrale stays active late because of long-distance trains and airport links. For getting around after dark, these options are usually the safest:
- Metro: Milan’s metro often runs until around 00:30. Check last-train times in the ATM app or on station notices, since schedules can change.
- Night buses: After the metro closes, ATM runs night lines (routes marked with “N”) and replacement buses on key routes.
- Licensed taxis: Use the official taxi rank outside the station or book through a taxi app/phone service. Skip anyone offering “cheap rides” on the street.
- Uber: Uber runs in Milan, but rides are handled by professional drivers (NCC) and, in some cases, taxi partners. Always match the plate and driver details in the app before you get in.
Where to be extra cautious at night
The area is safest on the busiest routes: Piazza Duca d’Aosta, Via Vittor Pisani, and the main roads toward Porta Nuova and Repubblica. Be more careful in places that are quiet, cut off, or poorly lit, such as:
- small side streets and underpasses right around the station late at night
- spots where people are hanging around but few shops are open
- parks or dark corners where it’s easy to be approached or distracted
If you’re unsure, take a taxi for the last part—especially if you’re alone or carrying luggage.
Practical safety tips (especially for tourists)
- Wear your bag in front in crowds, and keep your phone zipped away when you’re not using it.
- Split valuables: keep one payment card separate from your wallet, and store your passport securely (a hotel safe is often best).
- Watch for distraction scams: someone bumping you, asking for directions while getting close, or offering “help” at ticket machines.
- Plan your route first so you’re not standing outside with your phone out, looking lost.
- If something feels off, step into a hotel lobby, busy café, or back inside the station and ask staff or police for help.
Police presence and emergency contacts
In Italy, the emergency number is 112 (police, medical, and fire). Around Milano Centrale, you can also look for the Polizia Ferroviaria office inside the station if you need help or want to report theft.
Nightlife near Milan Centrale
You’ll find hotel bars, casual pubs, and late-night dining around Centrale. For a bigger “night out” scene, Porta Nuova/Isola and the Navigli district are popular and easy to reach by metro or taxi.
Note: If you were planning on visiting the Terrazza Gallia rooftop bar at Excelsior Hotel Gallia, the hotel has announced it is closed for maintenance until February 3, 2026.
Overall safety assessment
Milan Centrale can be a handy base for an evening out, and many people pass through it safely every night. Treat it like any big transport hub: stay alert, keep valuables secure, stick to bright and busy streets, and use taxis or night buses when it’s late.
FAQs
Is the Milan Centrale area safe at night?
Usually yes, especially on the main streets and near the station entrances. The biggest risk is petty theft in crowds or on quiet side streets late at night.
What safety precautions should I take at night?
Keep valuables out of sight, avoid distraction scams, and stay on well-lit routes. If you’re carrying luggage or traveling solo, consider a licensed taxi for the last part.
Are there any places I should avoid near Centrale after dark?
Avoid deserted side streets, poorly lit underpasses, and quiet corners where there are few open businesses or other pedestrians.
What transport is safest late at night?
If the metro is still running, it’s often the easiest option. After the metro closes, use night buses, licensed taxis from official ranks, or app rides with verified driver details.
What number should I call in an emergency in Milan?
Dial 112 in Italy for emergency help (police, medical, or fire services).
