What is Coworking?

Coworking is a modern work arrangement where professionals from different companies and industries share a common workspace. Rather than working from home or renting a traditional office, coworkers use flexible desk spaces in professionally managed environments. These spaces combine the structure and amenities of an office with the flexibility and community aspects that appeal to freelancers, remote workers and small teams. As business English teacher and regular EasyMilano contributor Robert Dennis explores in here, Milan has embraced this global trend enthusiastically, with dozens of coworking spaces now scattered throughout the city, from the traditional business districts of the centre to the creative neighbourhoods of Navigli and NoLo.

Who Is Coworking For?

Coworking spaces in Milan cater to a diverse range of professionals. They’re particularly popular among freelancers who want to escape isolation, digital nomads seeking a productive environment during their stay in the city, and remote workers employed by international companies. Startups and small businesses find coworking ideal because it provides professional facilities without long-term commitments. Expats new to Milan especially benefit from the instant community and networking opportunities these spaces offer, making it easier to establish professional connections in a new city. Consultants, creatives, tech professionals and entrepreneurs form the core demographic, though you’ll find everyone from digital marketers to HR specialists working alongside each other.

How Coworking Works

The coworking model is straightforward and flexible. You typically choose a membership plan that suits your needs, which could range from a day pass to a monthly or annual membership. Most Milan coworking spaces offer online booking systems where you can reserve your spot in advance. Upon arrival, you check in at reception, choose your workspace (if you have a flexible desk membership), and connect to the WiFi. Many spaces use apps or member portals where you can book meeting rooms, register for events and connect with other members. Access is usually granted through key cards or digital codes, and many locations offer 24/7 access for full-time members, accommodating different work schedules and international time zones.

Typical Setup and Services

Milan’s coworking spaces generally feature open-plan areas with hot desks (first-come, first-served seating), dedicated desks (your own permanent spot) and private offices for teams. Standard amenities include high-speed internet, printing and scanning facilities, kitchen areas with coffee and tea, and communal lounges. Most spaces provide ergonomic chairs and standing desk options, meeting rooms with video conferencing equipment, phone booths for private calls, and secure lockers for personal belongings. The aesthetic varies from industrial-chic converted warehouses to sleek modern office environments, but comfort and functionality are priorities across the board. Many locations also feature outdoor terraces, which are particularly popular during Milan’s pleasant spring, early summer and autumn months.

Average Costs in Milan

Prices depend on location, design style, services and membership type:

• Hot desk: €150–€350/month
• Dedicated desk: €300–€500/month
• Private office: starting at €600–€800/month
• Day pass: €20–€35/day

Premium areas such as Porta Nuova and Duomo tend to be more expensive. More affordable options are found in Lambrate, Bicocca, Bovisa and neighbourhoods with emerging creative hubs.

Extras and Add‑Ons

Beyond the basic membership, Milan coworking spaces offer various additional services often include:

• Meeting room rental: €15–€50/hour
• Event space rental: €50–€200
• Mail handling / business address: usually €20–€60/month
• Virtual office packages: €50–€100/month
• Specialist support: accounting, legal, marketing or startup mentoring via partner networks

Beyond Coworking

Many Milan coworking spaces have evolved beyond simply providing desks to become genuine business support ecosystems. Several locations are connected to startup incubators and accelerators, offering mentorship programs, pitch practice sessions and connections to investors. Spaces like PoliHub (connected to Politecnico di Milano) and Talent Garden Calabiana campus in the redeveloped Scalo Milano area in Porta Romana specifically cater to tech startups and provide access to business development resources. Regular workshops on topics like business regulations, tax compliance for freelancers, marketing strategies and funding opportunities are common offerings. The community managers at these spaces often act as connectors, introducing members to potential collaborators, clients, or advisors. For expats navigating the Italian business landscape, this support network can be invaluable in understanding local regulations, finding accountants who speak English, and learning about visa requirements for self-employment.

Startups

For startups, Milan’s coworking spaces offer an affordable and flexible alternative to traditional office leases. Early-stage companies can start with hot desks and scale up to private offices as they grow, without the burden of long-term contracts or substantial upfront investments. The collaborative environment naturally facilitates customer discovery, beta testing, and partnership opportunities, as you’re surrounded by potential users and collaborators. Many startup-focused spaces organise demo days, networking events and introduction sessions with venture capital firms and angel investors. The professional appearance of meeting clients in a well-appointed coworking space rather than a bar lends credibility to young companies. Additionally, being part of a startup community provides emotional support during the inevitable challenges of building a business, and founder peer groups often form organically within these spaces.

Scaling Business

As businesses grow beyond the startup phase, coworking spaces in Milan continue to offer value through flexibility. Rather than committing to a fixed-term office lease, scaling companies can easily adjust their space requirements month by month, adding desks or private offices as they hire new team members. This is particularly useful for companies experiencing rapid growth or seasonal fluctuations. Many spaces offer multiple private offices, allowing growing teams to maintain access to the coworking community and amenities while having a dedicated space for focused work and confidential discussions. The networking opportunities remain valuable at this stage as well, with potential for partnerships, B2B sales, and talent recruitment from within the coworking community. Some businesses maintain a coworking membership even after establishing their own office, using it as a satellite location or for specific team members who prefer the coworking environment.

Flexibility

Flexibility is perhaps the most significant advantage of coworking. Unlike traditional office leases that require multi-year commitments, most coworking memberships operate on a monthly basis, allowing you to scale up, down, or relocate as your needs change. This is ideal for expats who may be in Milan temporarily or whose plans are uncertain. Part-time packages let you access the space only on days you need it, perfect for people who split time between client sites, home and coworking. The ability to work from different locations within a coworking chain provides variety and convenience, and many Milan spaces are part of international networks, offering reciprocal access in other cities. If you travel frequently for work, you’re not paying for an empty office while you’re away. This adaptability extends to work hours as well, with 24/7 access meaning you can work early morning, late evening, or weekends according to your own schedule and time zone requirements.

Disadvantages

Despite their many benefits, coworking spaces aren’t perfect for everyone. Noise and distractions are common complaints, as open-plan environments with many people can make difficult to  concentrate, especially during phone calls or video conferences. Privacy is limited when you’re working at hot desks or in shared areas, which can be problematic for confidential work or sensitive client discussions. While community is often cited as a benefit, the social aspect can feel forced or overwhelming for introverts, and attending networking events may feel like an obligation. Costs can add up quickly once you factor in extras like meeting rooms, printing and dedicated desks, potentially approaching the cost of a small private office. The aesthetic and culture of coworking spaces don’t suit everyone, and some professionals prefer the formality of traditional office environments. Storage can be an issue if you have specialised equipment or simply like to keep personal items at your workspace. Finally, during peak hours, popular spaces can feel crowded, with potetial difficulty in finding available desks or meeting rooms.

Is Coworking Right for You?

Coworking has become an integral part of Milan’s professional landscape, offering expats and international professionals an ideal balance of flexibility, community and professional infrastructure. Whether you’re a freelancer seeking structure and social connection, a startup needing affordable space to grow, or a remote worker requiring a productive environment away from home, Milan’s diverse coworking ecosystem has options to suit various needs and budgets. The networking opportunities, business support services and flexibility are particularly valuable for newcomers navigating a new city and establishing themselves professionally. While coworking isn’t perfect for everyone (and alternatives exist) the model’s popularity in reflects its genuine value for modern work styles. As you settle into life in Milan, visiting several spaces to find the right fit for your work style, budget, and preferred neighborhood will help you make the most of what this dynamic work arrangement has to offer.

Coworking Spaces in Milan

There is an enormous number of coworking spaces in Milan! The following selection is a representative sample of places and organisations that provide coworking facilities in the city. If you are looking for a specific coworking location, researching this constantly-changing sector online will help you find exactly the type of space you require.

Talent Garden Calabiana

One of Milan’s most established coworking spaces, Talent Garden Calabiana is located in the former railyard area of Scalo Milano, close to the Prada Foundation and the Winter Olympics Village. This large space caters particularly to digital professionals, tech startups and creative industries. It offers hot desks, dedicated workstations and private offices, along with excellent event spaces for workshops and networking. The community is highly active with regular events, masterclasses, and a strong focus on innovation and digital skills.

Copernico

With multiple locations across Milan (Centrale, Isola, Martesana, and more), Copernico is one of the city’s largest coworking chains. Each location has its own character but all offer professional environments with excellent facilities. Services include meeting rooms, event spaces, private offices, and hot desks. Copernico is known for its high-quality design, strong community and regular professional events. It’s popular among consultants, established freelancers, and small companies.

WeMake

Located in the Dergano district, WeMake is a fablab and coworking space focused on makers, designers and tech innovators. It features workshops with 3D printers, laser cutters, and other fabrication equipment alongside traditional coworking areas. This space is ideal for hardware startups, product designers and anyone working on physical prototypes. The community is creative and collaborative, with regular workshops on digital fabrication.

Piano C

Piano C is a women-focused coworking space in the Porta Romana area, though it welcomes all genders. It emphasises community, work-life balance and creating a supportive environment for professionals with families. Facilities include childcare options, making it a rare exception among Milan coworking spaces. Services include flexible workspaces, meeting rooms, and regular workshops on professional development, entrepreneurship, and wellness topics.

PoliHub

Connected to Politecnico di Milano, PoliHub is an innovation centre and incubator with coworking facilities in the Bovisa area. It’s specifically designed for tech startups and innovation-driven companies, offering mentorship, accelerator programs and connections to the academic and research community. Beyond workspace, members gain access to laboratories, prototyping facilities and funding opportunities. Ideal for science and technology-focused ventures.

Spaces Duomo

Part of the international Spaces network by IWG, this premium coworking space enjoys a prime location near Milan’s Duomo. It offers beautifully designed workspaces, private offices, meeting rooms and business lounge areas with a professional, upscale atmosphere. Services include reception, mail handling and access to Spaces locations worldwide. Its higher price point reflects the central location and premium positioning.

Impact Hub Milano

Impact Hub focuses on social innovation and sustainable business, creating a community of entrepreneurs, NGOs, and purpose-driven companies. Located near Cinesio metro stop, it offers coworking spaces, event venues and a range of programmes supporting social impact initiatives. Regular events cover sustainability, the circular economy and social entrepreneurship. Ideal for those wanting to connect with like-minded professionals focused on positive impact.

Base Milano

Located in the Tortona area, Base is a cultural and coworking space that blends work environments with events, exhibitions and community activities. It features indoor and outdoor work areas, meeting rooms and extensive event spaces hosting conferences, markets, and performances. The atmosphere is creative and dynamic, attracting people from the cultural creative, and tech sectors. Also includes a restaurant and bar.

Avanzi

Located in the Città Studi district, Avanzi is another social innovation-focused coworking space emphasizing sustainability and ethical business. It provides workspace along with consulting and support services for social enterprises, cooperatives and purpose-driven startups. The community is tight-knit and mission-oriented, with events focused on collaborative economy, sustainability and social impact. Includes incubation programmes and business development support.

Cowo®

Cowo® is an Italian-born coworking network founded in Milan in 2008, pioneering shared workspaces in Italy. It operates as a community-based network of independent coworking locations rather than a single central brand. Each Cowo® space offers desks, offices, meeting rooms and a friendly, collaborative atmosphere. The network now includes over 100 spaces across Italy, with several in Milan’s key districts. Cowo® promotes an open, inclusive philosophy summed up in its motto “Coworking che funziona” (“Coworking that works”). Its Milan hubs attract freelancers, small businesses and creatives seeking flexible, neighbourhood-based workplaces.

Article by Robert Dennis for Easy Milano

Robert Dennis is a writer and Business English teacher based in Milan. He has been teaching for over 30 years both in the UK and in Italy. A long-time collaborator with John Peter Sloan, Robert published Business English (Gribaudo) in 2020. The book was launched with “Il Sole 24 Ore” and sold in newsstands throughout Italy. Robert has a website for people who want to learn Business English: PayAsYouLearn.com. The site features keywords and phrases, audio and exercises to help professionals improve their language skills. A graduate in English from Oxford University, Robert is a regular contributor to Easy Milano who often writes about plays staged in English in Milan and other cultural events in the city. He is also a translator and “buongustaio” who loves Italian food! robertdennis.it