When we first arrived at Cristina's place I was a little taken aback by all the graffiti and young crowds milling around the piazza there BUT Cristina assured us that Milan was considered "safe." In reality we had no problems whatsoever with people or the area and it turned out to be a great location from which to walk to (or use public transportation) to various sites we wanted to see in Milan. There are MANY choices of restaurants within a block or two of this apartment and that was really fun for us to sit outside and watch the activity. Cristina's apartment is very clean, comfortable, decorated nicely and she is very responsive to any and all communication. Overall, it was a great place to stay and I would recommend it to anyone.