Driving here can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors unfamiliar with the local traffic regulations.
This guide covers everything you need to know, including ZTL zones, parking, unique driving rules, and toll road usage.
Understanding Milan’s ZTL Zones
ZTL(Zona a Traffico Limitato) zones are restricted traffic areas designed to reduce congestion and pollution. Unauthorized vehicles entering these zones can face hefty fines.
Key Points:
- Where are ZTL zones? ZTL zones cover most of Milan’s city center, including popular areas like Duomo and Brera.
- Who can enter? Only residents, public transport, and authorized vehicles with a permit.
- How to get a permit? Visitors staying at hotels within ZTL areas can request a temporary permit through their accommodation.
- Enforcement: Cameras monitor ZTL access points, and fines are issued automatically.
Milan city map (area inside red line is 'Area C') 
Milan ZTL - Area C public transportations are available in the locations in red
Avoid 'AREA C'
This is a congestion charge zone in central Milan. Non-residents must purchase a daily pass (€7.50) and register their license plate before entering. More details can be found at Parclick.
It is monitored by 43 electronic gates equipped with cameras, 7 of which are reserved for public transport.
Operating Hours
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM - 7:30 PM
- Closed on Saturdays and public holidays
Who Can Enter and How?
- Electric cars can enter for free.
- All other vehicles must purchase a daily ticket (€7.50) and register their license plate at least a day before entering.
To avoid unnecessary fines and delays, check the latest rules on Comune di Milano.
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| Image: Milano Life |
Parking in Milan
Parking in Milan can be tricky, especially in the city center. There are several options available:- Best locations: Garages near Duomo, Central Station, and Porta Venezia.
- Price: Rates range from €2-4 per hour or €20-40 per day.
- Payment: Cash, credit card, or mobile apps like EasyPark.
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| public parking lot near Duomo |
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| Public parking lot of Rho Fiera Milano Exhibition Center |
Online Parking Resources
To find and book parking in advance, use these websites:
- Parclick – Offers multiple parking options around Milan, including Area C and Area B.
- Onepark – Helps locate and book parking near major areas.
- Parkimeter – Allows online reservations for parking spaces in Milan.
Street Parking
- Blue zones: Paid parking (usually €2-3 per hour).
- White zones: Free parking but limited availability.
- Yellow zones: Reserved for residents
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| cars in blue zone (paid parking) |
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| yellow zone for residents |
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| free parking street near central station |
How to Pay for Street Parking
Street parking payments in Milan can be made through several methods:
- Parking Meters: Located near parking spots. Accepts coins and credit/debit cards.
- Mobile Apps: Apps like EasyPark, MyCicero, and Telepass Pay allow users to pay via smartphone.
- Tobacconists (Tabacchi) and Kiosks: Some areas require purchasing a parking ticket in advance from authorized vendors.
To avoid fines, ensure your parking ticket is visibly placed on the dashboard, and always check the parking signs for restrictions and time limits.
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| parking meter, Image: Wanted in Milan |
Unique Driving Rules in Milan
Milan’s roads are shared with trams, cyclists, and pedestrians, which requires extra caution. Here are some unique rules:
- Tram Lanes: Cars must yield to trams and avoid driving on tracks unless necessary.
- Turn Restrictions: Some intersections restrict left or right turns, so follow signs carefully.
- Flashing Green Lights: Unlike in other countries, a flashing green light in Italy means the signal is about to turn red.
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| trams and cars share the same road |
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| some lanes are exclusively for bus and taxi (two lanes in the middle) |
Using Toll Roads in Milan
If you're planning to drive on highways (autostrada) outside Milan, you’ll need to pay tolls.
Toll Payment Methods:
- Cash: Pay at toll booths.
- Credit/Debit Card: Most booths accept cards.
- Telepass: An automatic payment system for frequent travelers.
To use Telepass, you need a registered device installed in your car, which allows automatic toll deductions without stopping. It is not usually equipped in rental cars.
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| rental car driver should take 'Carte(card)' or cash lane |
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| coins are accepted |
Additional Driving Tips
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on secondary roads, and 130 km/h on highways.
- Roundabouts: Cars inside the roundabout have the right of way.
- Alcohol Limit: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, lower than in some countries