by Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is a city full of history, culture, and style. Whether you’re strolling through the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or enjoying a delicious aperitivo by the canals of Navigli, Milan offers a blend of experiences that can make your trip unforgettable. But to make the most of your travel, having the right credit card can make your experience smoother and even more rewarding.
With 2025 right around the corner, I’ve been diving into the best credit cards to use while traveling in Milan. From earning points on every purchase to unlocking VIP airport lounges, the right card can add incredible value to your trip. In this guide, I’ll walk you through my top picks for credit cards that are best suited for traveling to Milan, taking into account factors like earning potential, travel benefits, and foreign transaction fees.
Why Does Your Credit Card Matter for Milan Travel?
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to understand why your choice of credit card matters when traveling to Milan. There are several key reasons:
- Foreign Transaction Fees: Many credit cards charge foreign transaction fees, typically ranging from 2% to 3%. These fees can add up quickly, especially when you’re spending in a different currency. The right card can help you avoid these charges, which is a huge benefit when spending in Milan.
- Rewards on Spending: Milan is a city that will tempt you to shop—whether it’s high-end boutiques, designer fashion, or local artisan goods. If you choose the right card, you could earn valuable points or cashback for every purchase you make, allowing you to redeem them for travel, dining, or even statement credits.
- Travel Perks and Protections: Travel cards often come with built-in protections like travel insurance, rental car coverage, and access to airport lounges. These benefits can save you money and give you peace of mind during your Milan trip.
With that in mind, let’s explore the top credit cards for traveling in Milan in 2025.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
I’ve used the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card for several years, and it’s consistently one of my top recommendations for any international travel. Here’s why it’s a great fit for Milan:
Why I Love It:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: One of the best features of this card is that it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. This means you can use it freely in Milan without worrying about extra costs.
- Earn Points on Travel and Dining: You’ll earn 2x points on travel and dining, and in Milan, dining is a huge part of the experience. From pasta and pizza to fine dining, this card rewards you handsomely for meals out. Plus, you’ll earn 1x points on all other purchases.
- Generous Sign-Up Bonus: If you’re new to the card, there’s often a sign-up bonus (usually 60,000 points or more), which can be redeemed for $750 in travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program. This is a fantastic way to get more value out of your trip.
- Travel Insurance and Protections: The card comes with travel protections, such as trip cancellation insurance, car rental insurance, and baggage delay coverage—perfect for any mishaps that might happen during your Milan trip.
Downside:
- The annual fee of $95 isn’t the lowest, but with the rewards and protections, it more than justifies the cost.
2. American Express® Gold Card
If you love food (and let’s face it, who doesn’t when you’re in Milan?), the American Express® Gold Card could be an ideal choice. The benefits of this card align well with Milan’s culinary scene.
Why It’s Great:
- 4x Points on Restaurants: This is the standout feature for me. You’ll earn 4x Membership Rewards® points on dining worldwide, which means that every meal in Milan—from casual trattorias to fine dining restaurants—earns you more points for future travel or purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, the American Express® Gold Card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, which is a must for international travel.
- $120 Dining Credit: In addition to the points you earn on dining, this card gives you up to $120 in annual dining credits when you use it at select restaurants (check the terms to see if Milan restaurants qualify). It’s a great way to offset some dining costs during your stay.
- Premium Travel Protections: With purchase protection, travel insurance, and rental car insurance, the American Express® Gold Card offers solid travel protections.
Downside:
- The annual fee is $250, which is a bit higher than the Chase Sapphire Preferred. However, if you dine out a lot (and in Milan, you probably will), the rewards can easily outweigh the cost.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is another solid option for travelers heading to Milan, offering simplicity without sacrificing value.
Why I Recommend It:
- 2x Miles on Every Purchase: This card is a great all-around choice because it offers 2x miles on every purchase. Whether you’re shopping at Milan’s high-end fashion stores or grabbing a gelato by the Duomo, you’ll be earning miles on all your spending.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Once again, there are no foreign transaction fees, which is a big plus when traveling in Italy.
- Flexible Travel Rewards: The miles you earn can be used to offset travel expenses like flights, hotels, or car rentals, giving you flexibility when booking your next adventure.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit: This card offers up to $100 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which will speed up your airport experience, especially if you’re traveling back home from Milan.
Downside:
- The annual fee is $95, which is more reasonable than some premium cards but still something to consider.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
If you’re looking for a luxury credit card that offers extensive travel benefits, the Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best in the game.
What Sets It Apart:
- 5x Points on Flights and Hotels: You’ll earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, and on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. This is ideal if you plan to book your flight to Milan or a luxurious hotel stay.
- Access to Airport Lounges: One of the standout features is access to Amex’s extensive network of airport lounges, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass lounges. This can make your travel experience much more comfortable, especially if you’re flying in or out of Milan Malpensa Airport.
- Extensive Travel Protections: The Platinum Card® offers elite-level travel insurance, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, car rental coverage, and more.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Like the others, this card doesn’t have foreign transaction fees, making it perfect for international use.
Downside:
- The annual fee is hefty at $695. However, if you’re someone who values luxury travel perks, this card can more than justify the cost, especially if you frequent premium airport lounges and travel in style.
5. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card is another great option that provides solid rewards on travel-related expenses.
Why It’s Worth It:
- 3x Points on Travel (Including Gas and Transit): You’ll earn 3x points on travel, including gas stations, public transportation, and even airfares. If you’re exploring Milan’s outskirts or using public transit, this is an easy way to rack up points.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Once again, this card is free from foreign transaction fees, which will help you save money during your Milan trip.
- Redeem Points for Travel: You can redeem your Citi ThankYou® Points for travel bookings or transfer them to airline partners for flights.
Downside:
- The annual fee is $95, which is manageable, but not as low as some other options.
When it comes to choosing the right credit card for traveling in Milan, it’s important to remember that your decision should be based on your personal spending habits and what benefits you value the most. If you’re someone who enjoys indulging in Milan’s world-class dining scene, then the American Express® Gold Card could be your best bet. With 4x Membership Rewards® points on dining worldwide, this card rewards your culinary adventures in Milan, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or treating yourself to a gourmet dinner. It’s an excellent way to rack up points while savoring the finest Italian cuisine.
For those who are looking for a more comprehensive travel experience, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card stands out. It offers a great combination of flexibility, travel rewards, and travel protections, including trip cancellation insurance and rental car coverage. Plus, its 2x points on travel and dining ensure you’re always earning rewards for your Milan adventures. With no foreign transaction fees, it’s a solid, all-around choice for maximizing your spending on flights, accommodations, and meals.
And for those seeking luxury perks, the Platinum Card® from American Express offers unmatched benefits. Access to exclusive airport lounges, 5x points on flights, and premium travel protections make this card perfect for travelers looking for a more elevated experience. Whether you’re relaxing in a lounge before your flight or enjoying VIP treatment at Milan’s top hotels, this card takes your travel to the next level.
No matter which card you choose, make sure it aligns with your preferences and travel goals, so you can make the most of your time in Milan. Enjoy all that this vibrant, stylish city has to offer—whether it’s the chic boutiques, the rich history, or the delightful food. Milan is waiting!
