When visiting or living in Milan, choosing between taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber and Free Now) depends on your personal preferences, budget, and circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to help you decide which option is better for you: For more information please visit Taxi from and to Milan airport

1. Availability and Convenience

  • Taxis: Taxis in Milan are generally easy to find at designated taxi stands or by hailing them on the street, especially in central areas or near major attractions. However, during peak times, it might be harder to find a taxi quickly.
  • Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Free Now are available through apps, offering a convenient option to call a ride at any time. These services can sometimes be more accessible during busy times since they don’t require you to find a physical taxi stand.

Verdict: Ride-sharing services tend to be more convenient if you’re outside central areas or during peak times, as they can come to your exact location.

2. Cost

  • Taxis: Taxis in Milan use meters, with rates regulated by the local government. The base fare starts around €6.00 to €7.00, with additional costs based on distance and time. There are often surcharges for night rides, holidays, and luggage.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber in Milan mainly operates with Uber Black, which is more premium and expensive than regular taxi services. Free Now, however, offers both standard taxis and ride-hailing options, which can sometimes be cheaper than Uber, depending on demand.

Verdict: Traditional taxis are typically more affordable than Uber Black. Ride-sharing can be more economical during off-peak times or when using budget ride-hailing services like Free Now.

3. Payment Options

  • Taxis: Most taxis in Milan now accept both cash and card payments, but some may still prefer cash. It’s always good to confirm payment options before starting your ride.
  • Ride-Sharing: Payment for ride-sharing services is entirely cashless, with automatic payment through the app, making it more convenient if you don’t want to handle cash or card payments during the trip.

Verdict: Ride-sharing services win in terms of convenience for cashless, seamless payments.

4. Language and Communication

  • Taxis: Some taxi drivers may not speak fluent English, though this varies. Communication can sometimes be a challenge for non-Italian speakers.
  • Ride-Sharing: Using ride-sharing apps removes the language barrier, as all communication regarding location, destination, and payment is handled through the app interface. However, not all drivers may speak English fluently, though the need for interaction is minimal.

Verdict: Ride-sharing apps offer an easier experience for non-Italian speakers due to the app-based communication.

5. Service Quality and Comfort

  • Taxis: Service quality varies widely with taxis. Some might be old and less comfortable, while others are modern. Generally, taxis in Milan are reliable and safe, but you may not always get the same level of service.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and other ride-sharing services often provide a higher standard of comfort, especially if you’re opting for premium services like Uber Black. Cars are usually well-maintained, and drivers tend to focus more on providing a good customer experience.

Verdict: For comfort and service quality, ride-sharing services (especially Uber Black) tend to offer a better experience than taxis.

6. Regulation and Licensing

  • Taxis: Taxis in Milan are heavily regulated by the government, ensuring drivers are licensed, insured, and follow strict guidelines. This makes them a reliable and safe option.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber Black operates legally in Milan but with fewer cars available compared to taxis. Other ride-hailing services, such as Free Now, partner with local taxi drivers or licensed drivers, ensuring similar safety standards.

Verdict: Both options are regulated and safe, but taxis are more strictly monitored by local authorities.

7. Environmental Impact

  • Taxis: The Milan taxi fleet is increasingly becoming greener, with hybrid and electric vehicles becoming more common. However, many taxis still run on gasoline.
  • Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing services also have hybrid and electric options, and they tend to offer more flexibility in selecting eco-friendly rides.

Verdict: Ride-sharing may offer more environmentally friendly options, depending on the service.

8. Flexibility and Customization

  • Taxis: With taxis, you can’t pre-book or customize your ride in advance. It’s a first-come, first-served service, and you may not be able to choose specific features like car type or additional services.
  • Ride-Sharing: Ride-sharing apps offer flexibility in terms of ride type (economy vs. luxury), scheduling rides, and tracking the vehicle’s exact location.

Verdict: Ride-sharing apps provide more flexibility, with customization options that taxis cannot match.

Conclusion: Which Option is Better?

  • Taxis: Better if you prefer a regulated, straightforward service, don’t mind the occasional language barrier, and want an immediate ride in busy, central locations. They’re also more affordable than premium ride-sharing options like Uber Black.
  • Ride-Sharing: Better if you prioritize convenience, prefer cashless transactions, or want a more comfortable, higher-end experience. It’s also a good option if you’re outside central Milan or need to pre-book a ride.

Overall, taxis may be the more practical and budget-friendly option for quick, everyday trips, while ride-sharing services provide a smoother, more convenient, and sometimes more comfortable experience.