milan travel brochure project

MILAN TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget

My Milanese friends are proud of their city, and they have every reason to. Milan is one of the greatest cities in Europe, with its intricate Duomo and an even more elaborate history. My other Italian friends, however, describe it as a little bit “un-Italian.” I couldn’t understand what that meant prior to our trip.

Upon arrival in Milan, however, we sensed it right away. Milan was our eighth destination in Italy, and it seemed inherently different from the other cities we set foot in. We couldn’t put a finger on it at the time; it just felt different. But different is not a bad thing.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING MILAN

Milan is considered Italy’s second city. But in various points of history, it was the capital of the Western Roman Empire (286–402), the Duchy of Milan (1395–1796), and the Kingdom of Lombardy Venetia (1815–1859). It has also been devastated several times: in 452, when Attila the Hun invaded; in 539, when the Goths recaptured the city after a long siege; and more recently, during World War II, when it was a target of many Allied bombings. The city was rebuilt and got back on its feet in the decades that followed.

Today, while Rome remains the capital of modern-day Italy, Milan serves as the nation’s financial, commercial, and industrial center. And oh, it’s also one of the world’s fashion capitals.

Perhaps this is why Milan feels divergent. It’s easy to imagine the whole of Italy the way it is portrayed in Hollywood films — romantic, rustic, laid-back. It’s where you could see yourself living la dolce vita . But that’s not always the case. While the other Italian cities put their old towns, frayed buildings and bygone-era treasures front and center, Milan generally feels very contemporary. Sure, heritage sites abound in parts, but the atmosphere is relatively modern. Like most business hubs and global cities, Milan is a living, breathing, bustling metropolis, home to over 8.2 million (including the surrounding municipalities).

Here are other things you need to know:

• Location : Milan is the capital of Italy’s Lombardy region. Coordinates: 45°28′01″N 09°11′24″E.
• Time Zone : UTC+1 (Central European Time). Rome is 7 hours behind the Philippines, Singapore or Malaysia; and 8 hours behind Japan. However, daylight saving time is in effect from the last Sunday of March until the last Sunday of October, which puts it at UTC+2, only 6 hours behind PH, SG, and MY.
• Language : Italian. Most signs have English translations.
• Currency : Euro (EUR, €). €1 is roughly USD 1.18, SGD 1.61, PHP 57.23 (as of August 2020)
• Modes of Payment : Many establishments accept credit cards, but most still prefer cash.

WHERE TO STAY IN MILAN

Best areas to stay in milan.

Milan is composed of nine boroughs, each made up of several districts (quartiere). As in any other major tourist destinations, the closer you are to the center of the city, the higher the costs.

I asked my friends living in Milan for the best areas for tourists to stay, and these are their recommendations depending on your budget.

These districts are located near main points of interests so accommodation rates are generally expensive:

• Centro Storico, the city’s historic core. It covers the Duomo di Milano and the surrounding blocks. Expect big hordes of tourists.
• Porta Nuova, the new Milan. It’s a modern, fashionable district with lots of dining and shopping options.
• Brera, dubbed artists’ neighborhood. Close to both the Centro Storico and Porta Nuova. Close to Sforza Castle and Sempione Park.
• Central Station Area, the blocks fronting Milano Centrale, best for those whose itinerary involves visits to other destinations in Italy.

On the other hand, the following districts may not be centrally located but very accessible. These are also relatively budget-friendly:

• Chinatown, near Garibaldi Station, Sempione Park, and Porta Nuova. Lots of Italian and Asian restaurants and fast food.
• Porta Venezia, best known for the 19th century gate, a long shopping street called Corso Buenos Aires, and diverse ethnic communities.
• Citta Studi, the student quarter. Probably the most affordable part of the city because it caters mostly to students. Close to the central station but far from the historic center.

Of course, there are exceptions. If you’re lucky, you can find relatively inexpensive apartments even in the city center.

Here are other options!

TOP MILAN HOSTELS

Here are the top hostels in Milan, as scored by Agoda customers.

• Ostello Bello Grande. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ostello Bello. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Babila Hostel & Bistrot. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hostel Colours. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Combo Milano (Navigli). Check Rates & Availability! ✅

We were able to snag the last room at New Generation Hostel Brera in an area between Brera and Porta Nuova, close to metro stations. From here, most of the stops on our itinerary were easily accessible on foot and by metro.

TOP BUDGET HOTELS & APARTMENTS

Here are the top apartments and budget hotels in Milan, as reviewed and ranked by Agoda guests.

• Bronzino House. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Teodora B&B. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Monocase Milano. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Room Inn. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Ai Suma Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Serendipity Apartments – Duomo. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Milan Hotels!

HOW TO GET TO MILAN

Milan is primarily served by two airports: Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) and Milan Linate Airport (LIN) .

• Malpensa Airport (MXP) , the largest airport in the region and the second busiest in Italy (next only to Rome Fiumicino Airport. It’s 60-90 minutes away from the city center, depending on your mode of transportation.
• Linate Airport (LIN) , smaller airport in the Milan metropolitan area, serving mostly European airlines. Located east of the city center, it can be reached after a 45-minute bus ride.

However, two nearby airports may also used to conveniently reach Milan: Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY) in Bergamo and Parma Airport .

Malpensa Airport to Milan City Center

The Malpensa Airport has two passenger terminals that are far apart, so make sure you know which one your flight will be using. Aside from the taxi, you have two main public transportation modes to choose from:

• By Train: Both terminals have a railway station. Both the Malpensa Express and Trenitalia (Regionale Trenord) can take you to the city center. Travel time: 54 minutes. Fare: 13€.
• By Bus: An Autostradale bus leaves for Milan city center every 15-20 minutes from 6am until around midnight. Travel time is 50-60 minutes. Fare: 8€, one-way; 14€, roundtrip.

Linate Airport to Milan City Center

Unlike Malpensa, Linate Airport does not have its own train station. The best way to reach the city from here is by bus. Here are your options:

• Air Bus: Bus bound for Milano Centrale (Piazza Luigi da Savoia) every 30 minutes from 6:30am-11:30pm. Travel time: 25 minutes. Fare: 5€.
• Starfly: Runs from Linate Airport to Milano Centrale every 20-30 minutes from 6:10am-11:30pm (6:30am-10pm on weekends). Travel time: 25 minutes. Fare: 5€.
• Bus 73 or X73: This is the cheapest but slowest option. These are public urban buses (ATM) that can take you to San Babila metro station (close to the Duomo). Buses are plenty; there’s one every 10 minutes from 6:05am to 12:55am. But there isn’t much space for luggage. You can purchase a ticket on the bus. Travel time: roughly 50 minutes. Fare: 2€.

Milan has two main railway stations. Both located within the city center, these are not too far apart: only 5 minutes by metro or 20 minutes by foot. Regardless, it’ll be best to know which station is closer to your hotel.

• Milano Centrale , as the name suggests, is the central station. It lies northeast of the city center. It is Europe’s largest railway station. (It’s also the grandest of all the stations I have seen.) It is the primary gateway for international tourists because most trains crossing the border use this station.
• Milano Porta Garibaldi , situated north of the city center, it is Milan’s busiest station as far as commuter traffic is concerned. Trains operating here are mostly domestic.

From Other Italian Cities

If you’re on a bigger tour around Italy, you can easily reach Milan from Florence, Venice, Rome, and other Italian cities by train. There are multiple trains a day.

There are two high-speed train companies in Italy: the state-owned Trenitalia and the privately owned Italo. Both use dynamic pricing (much like airlines). This means that fares are not fixed. They change over time. If you don’t have fixed plans yet, you can book on the same day, but expect to pay more for your seat.

Usually, the fare is between €35 and €45. But you can find fares that are as low as €14.90 if you book way in advance.

From Other European Cities

If you’re coming from other cities in Europe, the fast option is usually flying. But railway options are also available. There are day trains and overnight trains, depending on where you’re coming from.

• PARIS TO MILAN. You can take the high-speed train (TGV) to Milan. Travel time: 5h40; Full fare is 113€, but you can score cheap tickets if you book in advance.
• NICE TO MILAN. You can board the TER/SNCF train, which entails a transfer in Ventimiglia at the French-Italian border. Travel time: 5 hours, 20 minutes. You can also catch a Thello train, which can take you directly to Milan. Travel time: 4 hours, 50 minutes. Fare: as low as 15€.
• MONACO TO MILAN. From Monte Carlo, you can take the direct Thello train to Milano Centrale. Travel time: 4 hours, 30 minutes. Fare: as low as 15€. Another option is the TER/SNCF train, which makes a transfer in Ventimiglia.
• ZURICH TO MILAN. Take a EuroCity train to Milan. Travel time: 3h26. Full fare can go as high as 80€ but advance reservation can go as low as 29€.

Search for Train Tickets Here!

How to get around milan.

Milan is generally flat, so it’s easy to get from Point A to Point B on foot. For short distances, we usually walked. We even tried it to get from Porta Nuova to the Duomo. It’s also a great way to see the city and discover a local cafe or shop.

By Public Transportation

For medium and long distances, you can rely on Milan’s public transportation system, which is run by an agency called ATM (Azienda Trasporti Milanesi). It operates a network of buses, trams, and metro.

To help you navigate, download the ATM Milano Official App ( Apple iOs | Google Android ). Then, on the journey planner, enter your destination and it will tell you what route to take to get there and how much to pay.

Milan’s public transportation system is fully integrated, which means one ticket can be used on multiple transportation options. For example, you can use the bus and then the tram using the same ticket. How much to pay depends on how many zones you will be crossing. Milan’s map is divided into nine fare zones. The city center is in a zone called Mi1-Mi3.

But don’t worry; the city center, where most of the attractions are located, is within the same zone (Mi1-Mi3).

How much is the fare?

The minimum fare is 2€. Each fare zone you cross incurs an additional 0.40€.

Here are the types of ticket you can purchase:

• Single ticket: 2€ (valid for 90 minutes)
• 24-hour ticket: 7€
• 3-day ticket: 12€
• Carnet (booklet with 10 single tickets): 18€

A single ticket is valid for 1 metro ride, 1 suburban train ride (within the urban area only), and unlimited tram and bus rides within 90 minutes of your ticket’s validation. To be clear, once you have used it to take the metro, you cannot use it again for another metro ride but you can still take as many bus or tram rides as you like within 90 minutes of your ticket’s validation.

How to validate tickets?

The validity period of your ticket starts as soon as you validate your ticket. Here’s how to validate:

• Bus / Tram: Insert your ticket into the box (usually yellow or orange) which will stamp the date and time.
• Metro: Validate it at turnstiles as you enter the station. Even if you’ve used the same ticket on a bus or tram before, you must still validate it on the metro.

You should keep your ticket throughout the duration of your journey. Do not lose or damage it. Spot checks are done sometimes. If you’re caught without a validated ticket, you will be fined.

Where to buy tickets?

Single tickets are available at ticket machines at metro stations.

The other tickets and passes can be purchased at authorized tobacco shops (tabacchi, usually with a capital T sign), bars, and newspaper stands.

By Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Bus

If you like getting comfortable aboard a sightseeing bus, you can also do so in Milan. CitySightseeing Milano’s HOHO bus has three lines scribbled around the city and can take you to key attractions like the Sforza Castle, Scala Theater, and the Basilica of Saint Ambrose.

As usual, there is free wi-fi access and a multilingual audio guide which will give you information about each stop. Available in 24-hour and 48-hour versions. You can book in advance with Klook!

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

MILAN TOURS

Free milan walking tour.

We booked with Walkabout Tours . For roughly 3 hours, a guide will take you around Milan’s historic center, stopping at some interesting structures along the way. Because it’s a guided tour, you’ll have a better appreciation of each site. Note that it’s a sightseeing tour, so you won’t be stepping inside most of the stops (with a few exceptions). If you wish to enter, you may return to those after the tour.

Here are a few of the key stops:

• Duomo di Milano, the city’s most iconic landmark. More info below.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a massive shopping arcade and the oldest shopping mall in Italy.
• Church of San Nazaro in Brolo, constructed in 382 and houses some relics of the Apostles.
• Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa, another ancient church best known for its walls filled with real human skulls from the medieval times.
• Statale University (University of Milan), one of the largest in Europe and has a long, colorful history.
• La Scala Theater, one of the world’s most important ballet and opera venues.
• Merchants Square, built in the 13th century. It was the center of Milanese life at the time.
• Business Square (Piazza Affari), fronting the Palazzo Mezzanotte building, the headquarters of the Italian Stock Exchange.

It’s FREE, in theory. But you are expected to tip the guide. How much you should tip depends on how much you liked the tour. I usually tip 5€ to 10€. But I add more if the tour is exceptional.

Although it is free, you are encouraged to register beforehand. You can do that here .

Operating days: Monday-Sunday Meetup point: Duomo Square, in front of the 900 Museum. Look for a YELLOW umbrella. Meetup times: 10:00 am Daily (Additional 3pm tour on Saturday) Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Duomo di Milano

The Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) took several centuries to finish construction and is the largest church in the country. Simply put, it is beautiful with its Italian Gothic style. Groundbreaking began in 1386 under the supervision of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo. You’ll see the various influences and styles, and even personal vision of the many architects that took on the project of building the cathedral throughout the centuries.

Many parts of the cathedral are open to tourists. Inside you’ll find baptisteries, crypts, an archaeological area, and a museum. The rooftops are also accessible by lift and by stairs. But entrance fees are collected for some of them:

• Duomo (Cathedral) Hours open: Daily, 8am-7pm Entrance fee: 3€
• Rooftops Hours open: Daily 9am-7pm Stairs access: 10€ Elevator access: 14€ Fast-track/skip-the-line elevator access: 23€
• Crypt of St. Charles Hours open: Monday-Friday 11am-5:30pm, Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday 1:30pm-3:30pm FREE entry
• Duomo Museum & Church of St. Gottardo in Corte Hours open: Thursday-Tuesday, 10am-6pm Closed: Wednesdays Entrance fee: 3€
• Archaeological Area (Baptistery of San Giovanni Alle Fonti) Hours open: Daily 9am-7pm Entry: Duomo Pass Lift Required
• Archaeological Area (Baptistery of St. Stephen) Hours open: Daily 9am-6pm FREE Entry

You can save a bit by purchasing combination tickets.

Although it’s possible to be mesmerized by it on your own, joining a tour will make you appreciate the details of this mammoth of a church, its history, and its architecture.

✅ JOIN A GROUP TOUR!

Milan Food Tour

Italy isn’t just about its beautiful architecture, art, and history, the country is also a foodie haven. And the same is true for Milan. Walk around the Brera District to eat some of the best food in the city. Your guide will interject tidbits and insights about the food you are eating. Some of the food you’ll sample are risottos, cream rolls, and parmigiana.

✅ RESERVE A SLOT HERE!

Da Vinci Tour

If Bernini had Rome and Michelangelo had Florence, Leonardo Da Vinci had Milan. The renowned Renaissance man spent 17 of his most productive years in Milan. You can see some of his masterpieces throughout the city, including the following:

• Sforza Castle – which houses Da Vinci’s frescoed ceiling of Sala delle Asse.
• Santa Maria delle Grazie – a church and convent, where you can find the Last Supper.
• Pinacoteca Ambrosiana – which showcases various sketches Leonardo da Vinci.

You can do your own independent tour of these sites. For more info, check out the information about the individual attractions here .

But for a better understanding and more insights about Da Vinci’s life in Milan and his masterpieces, consider joining a guided tour. If you book with Klook, you also get fast-track access to the Last Supper , one of the most famous artworks of Da Vinci.

Lake Como Tour

Lake Como is another destination in the Lombardy region. But because it’s only 1.5 hours away, Milan is the usual jumpoff point for many visitors. If you’re staying in Milan, you can visit Lake Como on a day trip.

In Lake Como, you’ll see the stunning villas and gardens while cruising the lake. Get a glimpse of how the elite lived during your trip. If the views look familiar, then you might have seen it while watching Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. After the cruise, you’ll visit the quaint town of Bellagio. This part of the tour will take you back in time as you walk on its cobblestone streets and old buildings.

It is possible to visit Como by public transportation. The most convenient way to reach the town is by train. You can catch one from Milano Centrale and alight at Como S. Giovanni Station. Alternatively, you can board a train departing from Milano Cadorna and get down at Como Nord Lago.

For convenience, you can also book a tour via Klook.

La Scala Theater Museum

Opened in 1778, La Scala Theater is one of the most significant ballet and opera venues in the world. For operatic artists, being able to perform here is the ultimate goal. Housed in the same building is a museum that showcases the greatest artists and performances that graced the theater. You’ll also see valuable memorabilia.

You can purchase a ticket to the theater museum in advance via Klook!

Navigli is a neighborhood south of the city center and was named after a network of interconnected canals. It also has a number of churches including two basilicas: Basilica di San Lorenzo and Basilica Sant Eustorgio.

But nowadays, the area is most popular as a nightlife destination with restaurants, bars, and clubs along the canal. A great way to experience the magic of this district is by joining a food and wine tour, which will introduce to you some regional wines and local appetizers and the stories behind them. It’s a great way to spend the evening in Milan!

✅ JOIN THIS TOUR!

Other Milan Attractions

Here are other places to visit in Milan.

• Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) – a 15th-century citadel that has been transformed into a complex of museums and art galleries!
• Sempione Park , a landscaped parkland next to the Sforza Castle with stop-worthy structures like the Arco della Pace (Arc of Peace).
• Poldi Pezzoli Museum – This elegant mansion houses a private gallery that showcases beautiful pieces by Mantegna, Botticelli, and Guardi, among others.
• Galleria d’Arte Moderna – If you are interested in art, this gallery has artworks from the 18th and 19th centuries by masters like Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Édouard Manet.
• Cimitero Monumentale – This attraction has a history that dates back to 1866.
• Santa Maria Presso San Satiro – This church near the Piazza del Duomo has beautiful interiors.

For more details and other options, visit this page: PLACES TO VISIT IN MILAN!

DAY TRIPS FROM MILAN

Aside from Lake Como, other destinations in Italy and neighboring countries can be easily accessed from Milan. If you have limited time to explore the country, you can visit any of these on a day tour.

We created a separate post for it here: DAY TOURS FROM MILAN!

SAMPLE MILAN ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 4-day 3-night Milan itinerary that you can use to make your own. We indicated a cost breakdown and a total budget estimate at the end.

We didn’t include the airfare in the total budget because the fare depends highly on where you’re coming from. Also, many travelers visit Milan as part of a grander Euro trip. In that case, you can simply insert this into your bigger European or Italian itinerary.

DAY 1 – ARRIVAL & PORTA NUOVA 01:00 pm – Arrival at Milan Airport 01:30 pm – Lunch, 10€ 02:30 pm – Bus to city center, 8€ 03:30 pm – Buy 3-day pass, 12€ 03:50 pm – Transfer to hotel 04:15 pm – Hotel check-in, freshen up 05:30 pm – Metro/tram to Porta Nuova 06:00 pm – Explore Porta Nuova 07:00 pm – Dinner, 15€ 08:00 pm – Walk around 09:00 pm – Metro/tram to hotel 09:30 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 2 – DUOMO & NAVIGLI 09:00 am – Tram/metro to Duomo 09:20 am – Take exterior photos of Duomo 10:00 am – Free Walking Tour, tip: 5€ – Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II 01:30 pm – Lunch, 10€ 02:30 pm – Duomo Tour with Fast Track Lift Access, 25€ 05:30 pm – Tram/metro to Navigli 06:00 pm – Walk around 07:00 pm – Dinner, 20€ 09:00 pm – Tram/metro to hotel 09:30 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 3 – ALL ABOUT DA VINCI 07:00 am – Metro to Arco della Pace 07:30 am – Parco Sempione 09:00 am – Sforza Castle, 10€ 11:00 am – Lunch, 10€ 12:00 nn – Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie), 15€ 02:00 pm – Tram to Duomo 02:30 pm – Bibilioteca/Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, 15€ 05:00 pm – FREE TIME, buy souvenirs 07:00 pm – Dinner, 15€ 09:00 pm – Tram/metro to hotel 09:30 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 4 – DEPARTURE 08:30 am – Pack up 10:30 am – Early check out, leave bags – Settle tourist tax, 12€ 11:00 am – Early lunch, 10€ 12:00 pm – Leave for airport/station, 2€ + 8€ Bus fare if going to the airport

If you’ll spend 35€ per night per person on accommodations, this itinerary will set you back around EUR 330 (USD 389, SGD 532, PHP 18,900) per person excluding airfare, travel taxes and shopping expenses, but including a bit of allowance to make up for possible incidental purchases and price movements.

If you really want to see LAKE COMO or any other Italian destination, you can replace DAY 3. If you have more days, you can simply add a day and squeeze it in.

Again, we didn’t include airfare in the computation because it highly depends on where you’re coming from. Many Milan visitors are also on a larger Euro trip and arrive from another European city.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Find a hostel that allows you to cook or heat your food. This way, you don’t have to eat out for each meal! You can hit the grocery and shop for ingredients and prepare your own.
• Avail of FREE entry to museums. Some museums allow free access on specific days and time. For example, although the Sforza Castle grounds are open to everyone at no cost, the museum requires an entrance fee. But if you show up at 2pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month (as of this writing), you can enter for free. Schedules may change though so please double check.
• Join FREE Walking Tours. There are a number of FREE guided tours in Milan. Yes, it’s FREE but the guides rely on tips so if you like their service, feel free to give them an amount that you think is fair.
• Don’t dine anywhere near touristy spots. These overpriced restaurants cater primarily to unsuspecting tourists. Walk for 10 minutes or so into the deeper alleys and you’ll find small cheaper places where locals eat.
• Tap and fountain water is potable. They’re safe to drink. It’s just a matter of taste for most people.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MILAN

Do i need a visa to visit milan.

Italy is part of the Schengen agreement. If you’re a Philippine passport holder, you will need a Schengen Visa to visit Milan. If Italy is the only country you are going to visit or if you’re traveling to multiple countries but staying in Italy the longest, you will need to apply for a visa via the Italian Embassy.

For more information about how to get a visa from the Italian Embassy, READ: ITALIAN SCHENGEN VISA!

Is Milan safe?

But like any big cities, there are some areas where you should be extra careful. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams exist so keep an eye on your belongings and don’t let your guard down.

What scams are common in Milan?

• String bracelet scam. A random person will approach you and give you a a bracelet and tie it around your wrist. They will claim it’s a gift, but you’ll find out soon enough that it comes with a steep price. Don’t accept anything from strangers, especially at touristy spots!
• Pickpocketing. Most common at touristy places and crowded public transportation. Make sure you keep your wallet in hard to reach parts of your body/clothes and always be vigilant.
• Overcharging restaurants. In many Italian cities, it is normal to be served bread after taking a seat at a table and be charged for pane e coperto , which is totally legal. But some establishments will also serve appetizers or drinks that you didn’t order that you might immediately assume complimentary, but will show up on your bill later. Hence, when picking a restaurant, check online reviews first.
• Helpful stranger scam. This usually happens when you’re using the ticket machines at the metro or train station. Because it can be a bit confusing to figure out how it works at first, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the ticket vendo. Sometimes, a random good samaritan will offer a helping hand, but they’re usually after your money. If it happens, be wary, mind your valuables, and politely say no. If they insist, walk away.

When is the best time to visit Milan?

Like in other countries in Europe, high season is from the summer months of June to August. This is when the crowds are at their thickest and prices at their highest. If you want fewer people, this isn’t the best time to visit.

How much is Milan tourist tax? Is it included in hotel bookings?

It’s often NOT included in the booking and has to be settled upon hotel check-in or check-out.

What is the tipping policy in Milan?

Tipping is not expected in Milan. It is appreciated but not really expected.

At restaurants, the “tip” usually takes the form of something else (service charge, bread, etc.) and is already included in the bill. No need to tip more unless you really enjoyed the service.

At hotels, you can tip €1 per bag for porters or €1 per day for hotel chambermaids.

In taxis, tips are not expected.

Is tap water in Milan safe to drink?

What type of power plug / socket is used in milan.

2020 • 8 • 28

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Home » Europe » Italy » Milan

EPIC MILAN Itinerary! (2024)

This Milan itinerary will help you plan a memorable visit to Italy. This ancient, charming city will capture your heart as well as your imagination.

Milan is the European capital of fashion, and it is known for its imposing architecture, rich history, and religious attractions. However, there are many other aspects of this northern Italian city that draw in visitors from around the world each year!

From its mouth-watering cuisine to its picturesque street corners and its vintage boutiques, there are many unique facets to this city. Whether you’re trying to decide what to do in Milan for three days or staying a month, this itinerary will make sure you hit all of the city’s highlights. Explore the best of Milan’s celebrated art, history, and fashion with this Milan itinerary!

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Best Time To Visit Milan

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Milan has a humid subtropical climate. It has four distinct seasons with a large range in temperature fluctuation due to its location inland from the coast. If you’re planning a trip to Milan, here’s a quick look at the different seasons!

The summer months (June – August) produce the warmest temperatures. If you’re looking for higher temperatures and sunshine, this is the best time to travel to Milan.

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Heading into Fall (September – November) the summer heat retreats and the city is much more enjoyable in terms of temperature and humidity. This is Milan’s wettest season of the year.

Milan can get quite cold and foggy during the winter months (December – February). Sunshine levels drop to two hours per day, but with it, rainfall also lessens!

Springtime (March – May) in Milan produces mild temperatures. Rainfall is common, especially in April. The daytime temperatures start to climb up, but at night the air cools down again and can still get pretty chilly. If you’re trying to decide when to visit Milan, this is a great time!

With a Milan City Pass , you can experience the best of Milan at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Whether you’re spending one day in expensive Milan or staying far beyond a day trip, you’re going to want to stay in a location that will make your visit as convenient as possible. This sprawling city is full of culturally rich neighborhoods, and there are plenty of great areas to stay in Milan!

The Centro Storico Neighborhood of Milan contains the city’s historic center. This is where you’ll find Milan’s main attractions, including the Duomo Cathedral, La Scala Opera House, and the city’s main Piazza.

This lively neighborhood is the best place to stay in Milan for first-time visitors, or people seeing Milan in a day or two. It is close to many of the city’s highlights and a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and museums.

Porta Romana is located just outside Milan’s city center. If you’re looking to escape the more touristy areas of the city, this is a great location to stay. This classy residential quarter is full of restaurants, chic boutiques, and cafes.

This area of the city is also less expensive, so if you’re on a budget, this is a great option! It also happens to have one of Milan’s only thermal baths; the perfect attraction on a warm sunny day!

Best Hostel in Milan – Ostello Bello

Ostello Bello has all the components to make your stay in Milan as enjoyable as possible. From a free welcoming drink upon arrival to complimentary breakfast and dinner every day, this hostel has a lot of perks!

Ideally located in the city center, you’re just a short walk from all the city’s main historical attractions! 

If you prefer to stay in hostels, there are plenty of options in our guide to hostels in Milan.

Best Airbnb in Milan – Entire Flat – Duomo Square

Modern and minimalist, this one-bedroom flat is located in the heart of Milan. Less than a one-minute walk to the Piazza and Duomo di Milano, you won’t find a better Airbnb in Milan. Enjoy a well-equipped kitchen and space for four people in this charming, safe and comfortable Italian flat.

Is this amazing Milan Airbnb booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our Best Airbnbs in Milan  guide!

Best Budget Hotel in Milan – Hotel Aurelia

Hotel Aurelia is a great option for budget travelers. All rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with free toiletries.

This hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to the metro station, which will take you anywhere you want to go in the city!

Best Luxury Hotel in Milan – Château Monfort – Relais & Châteaux

Located in Milan’s historic center, Château Monfort- Relais & Châteaux is one of the most lavish hotels in Milan. Guests will enjoy a spacious room, LCD TV, a high-tech fitness center, and more!

The rooms are themed after different fairy tales and nursery rhymes. This hotel will make your trip to Milan as luxurious as possible!

Whether you’re spending two days in Milan or more, you’re going to need to figure out how to get around. Luckily, this city has a few transportation options to choose from, and they’re all easy to use, affordable, and convenient!

Azienda Trasporti Milanesi (ATM) services Milan’s public transport system. It is made up of the metro, tram, and bus systems. Tickets can be purchased from several locations including ATM points, ticket machines inside the metro stations, and at tobacconists.

The metro is the fastest way to get around. This underground system consists of four lines, easily identified by different numbers and colors. The metro runs every day from 6:00 am until 12:30 am. Milan’s tram and bus systems run above the city and are also easy to use and navigate.

Another option for transportation is to rent a bike and travel around the city on wheels! Milan is mostly flat, making bike sharing an enjoyable and practical option for transportation. Bike pickups are available across Milan and can be rented via the BikeMI app.

Milan is a very walkable city. The historical center of Milan is entirely walkable on foot, as most of the main attractions are in close proximity to one another.

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The Duomo Cathedral | Piazza Mercanti | The Royal Palace of Milan | Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II | Teatro Alla Scala | Pinacoteca di Brera | Monumental Cemetery

Spend day one of your Milan trip itinerary checking out some of the city’s most iconic and historic locations!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Duomo Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: The Duomo Catholic is the second largest cathedral in the world. It took nearly six centuries to complete and is characterized by a dazzling white facade and statues of saints and gargoyles.
• Cost: Free!
• Food recommendations: Risoelatte is a small, quiet and authentic Italian restaurant. Head here for delicious home-made Italian food and a truly local feel.

Discover the iconic Duomo Cathedral; the perfect way to start your itinerary for Milan! Learn the fascinating history and take in the beauty of this impressive gothic-style cathedral.

The Duomo is one of the world’s largest churches. This impressive Cathedral is represented by stunning gothic-style architecture and fascinating history. The construction of the church started in 1386 and finished in 1965.

Admire countless paintings, intricate statues, and beautifully stained glass windows! See the Saint Bartholomew Statue, carved with marble in 1562; this is one of the most well-known statues inside the Cathedral.

Explore the Duomo’s roof-top terrace for spectacular views of the city! Admire the city of Milan from above as you take in the breathtaking skyline!

The roof consists of a system of terraces, connected by walkways and stairs. Although general admission into the Duomo Cathedral is free, a small admission fee is required to visit the roof. It is quite a steep walk up the stairs, so know your limits before heading to the top.

No Milan itinerary would be complete without a stop at the Duomo cathedral, the magnificent symbol of Milan!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Piazza Mercanti

• Why it’s awesome: Piazza Mercanti is a charming public square in Milan located very close to the Duomo Cathedral
• Food recommendations: Peck is a great market featuring fine Italian goods such as cheeses, meats, wines, and produce. There are also prepared items such as pasta and desserts.

The Piazza Mercanti is one of the most historic and picturesque squares in Milan. This piazza houses four main medieval buildings of Milan. It has a very historic and beautiful architecture with a number of statues and monuments!

During the Middle Ages, the plaza served as the commercial and governmental center. Today, it is a charming historic area of the city and one of the most unique Milan points of interest ! It still possesses a medieval atmosphere and several of the buildings are open for guests to visit. There are also quaint Italian shops and restaurants and is considerably less busy than the nearby Duomo square.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – The Royal Palace of Milan

• Why it’s awesome: This imposing palace showcases a wide variety of changing art and exhibits.
• Cost: USD $16.00
• Food recommendations : Head to Signorvino for Italian wine and tasty finger-foods. They have prices to suit all budgets and wine to suit all palettes.

The Royal Palace of Milan was the seat of Milan’s government for centuries. Today it is a cultural center and is used to house changing expositions and exhibitions! With its large open interior, wide staircase, and sophisticated furnishings, the Royal Palace is a grandiose and iconic Milan attraction.

More than 1,500 modern and historic pieces of art and collections are on display annually. The Palace suffered heavy damage during WWII bombings, but restoration projects have renewed it to its former splendor. It is a symbol of Milan and an amazing piece of history!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

• Why it’s awesome: This stylish shopping center personifies glitz and glam. It houses high-end boutiques and restaurants.
• Food recommendations: For a lovely fine-dining experience head to the Galleria Restaurant, located in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. The staff are very accommodating and the food is excellent, as is the wine!

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest active shopping mall and an iconic Milan landmark. This four-story double arcade is located in the center of town. It was built between 1865 and 1867 and is famous for being home to some of the oldest shops and restaurants in Milan!

This large complex specializes in high-end retail. You can shop from a selection of luxury retail stores selling jewelry, books, paints, and haute couture. You’ll also find restaurants, cafes, bars, and a hotel.

Every corner reflects luxury. From the large iron-glass roof to the stunning architecture that makes up the building! Visitors can pay a small fee to explore the rooftop of the Galleria, a unique experience that provides stunning views of Milan in every direction. 

Even if only for window shopping, a trip to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II will make for a memorable experience. Sit at a cafe with a cappuccino and savor the atmosphere of this Milan attraction.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Teatro Alla Scala

• Why it’s awesome: The Teatro Alla Scala is a world-famous opera house!
• Cost: USD $30.00 – USD $280.00
• Food recommendation: Lunini is the perfect place to go for a quick bite to eat. They specialize in panzerotti, delicious pizza-dough parcels stuffed with your favorite pizza ingredients.

Experience Milan’s renowned performing arts culture with a trip to the Teatro Alla Scala! This world famous opera house has been a focal point of Milan since its construction in 1778. A rich history has been woven into its interior over the centuries. Many of Europe’s greatest opera artists and talented performers from around the world have appeared at La Scala!

From opera performances to the ballet to the orchestra, every performance given here is guaranteed to be world-class. The acoustics are amazing, the stage is impressive, and the performances offered are plentiful! If you don’t have time to see a show, you can still drop by and purchase a ticket to tour the theatre and museum. You don’t have to be an opera fan to appreciate the magnificence of this building!

Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the attached Teatrale Alla Scala Museum to see costumes, portraits, and musical instruments from the famed La Scala opera house!.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Pinacoteca di Brera

• Why it’s awesome: This famous Milan art gallery houses some of the greatest masterpieces of art from the 13th to the 20th century!
• Cost: USD $13.50
• Food recommendation : Nabucco has a large menu spanning Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Outdoor seating is available and they are child-friendly.

Discover the development of art throughout the centuries at this iconic Milan art gallery. The Pinacoteca di Brera houses masterpieces from around the world. The building itself dates back to the late Baroque period and was built on the remains of a 14th-century monastery!

The rooms are organized in a calm and thoughtful way which allows you to stop and reflect on each piece of art! Audio guides are available to rent (for a small fee) and will help you better understand and appreciate the art you are viewing.

The richness of colors and detail in even the oldest paintings are truly amazing. There is a freely exposed restoration room where guests are invited to watch art restorations in progress! There is also a courtyard and garden inside the gallery complex where guests can relax and view some of the museum’s statues. This is one of the must-see Milan attractions for anyone who appreciates art!

Day 1 / Stop 7 – Monumental Cemetery

• Why it’s awesome: Monumental cemetery is noted for its artistically detailed architecture; a rarity at most cemeteries.
• Food recommendations: Pescaria Milano is a must for sea-food fans! Fresh ingredients and large portions of food make this the perfect place to stop for a meal.

When trying to decide on places to visit in Milan, you might not think that a cemetery would be on the list. However, the Monumental cemetery stands out among typical cemeteries. Its art, sculptures, and design is truly breath-taking!

It has an abundance of tombs and monuments, which are all stunning works of art. Some of the most important Italian figures are buried here. You’ll feel more like you’re walking around an outside museum than a cemetery!

Perfect for a slow walk on a nice-weathered day. The architecture is breath-taking and the atmosphere is calm and peaceful. This is one of the most unique Milan landmarks!

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Santa Maria delle Grazie | San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore | Sforzesco Castle | Sempione Park | Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci | Navigli District

If you’re spending 2 days in Milan, here is the perfect second-day itinerary. We’ve included more iconic attractions, and added in some great places to soak in the local culture!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Santa Maria delle Grazie

• Why it’s awesome: This church contains the mural of The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci.
• Cost: The church is free to enter, a ticket to view The Last Supper cost USD $9.00
• Food recommendations: Head to Galli’s Pizza Take Away for delicious Italian pizza at an affordable price. This restaurant specializes in thin-crust pizza made with quality ingredients.

The Santa Maria delle Grazie is famous for housing the mural of The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Start your 2 day itinerary in Milan viewing this famous painting and avoid the daytime crowds.

The church was built between 1466 and 1490 and was constructed in gothic and renaissance architecture! The mural is housed directly next to the church, in the Cenacolo Vinciano building. This late 15th-century painting Is one of the worlds most significant artistic contributions! It has survived over 500 years and intensive bombing during World War II.

Although it is free to enter the church, to view The Last Supper you must purchase a ticket. It is strongly recommended that tickets be reserved in advance. Reservations can be made up to four months prior to arrival. Viewing this famous masterpiece is a must on any Milan itinerary!

Insider tip: If tickets are sold out on the day you plan to visit, don’t worry! Try purchasing them from a booking site. Like the one found here.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

• Why it’s awesome: This church possesses gorgeous and well-preserved frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings.
• Food recommendations: Head to Pizzeria Da Zero for authentic Milanese pizza. They have a large variety of pizza options, so there’s something for everybody!

A hidden gem in Milan; the church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore was built in Renaissance style architecture in the 16th-century. It was originally a female convent of the Benedictines; for daughters of noble Milanese families who decided to dedicate their lives to God!

It is known as Milan’s Sistine Chapel due to its beautiful frescoes, which completely fill the walls and ceiling inside the church. Many of these frescos were made by painters who followed Leonardo’s teachings!

Especially notable is the fresco of Noah’s Arc, where unicorns are painted in the fresco making their way onto the ship; proving once and for all that unicorns do (or did) exist!

The church is divided into two main rooms, the church itself, and the back area, which was previously the hall of the nuns. Both have beautifully stunning frescoes and are open to the public!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Sforzesco Castle

• Why it’s awesome: This large castle complex houses a collection of Milan’s best museums
• Cost: It is free to enter the castle but to enter the museums and galleries you must purchase a ticket for USD $11.00.
• Food recommendations: Da Puccini has a typical Italian restaurant atmosphere. The menu has many different offerings and the prices are reasonable.

Sforzesco Castle in Milan houses several of the city’s top museums and art collections, including Michelangelo’s last sculpture, the unfinished Rondanini Pietà. An entrance ticket will provide you with access to all of the museums and exhibits inside the castle. Learn about Milan’s rich history as you stroll through this converted medieval fortress!

The eclectic range of museums offered here will keep you entertained for hours. There’s something for everyone at the Sforzesco Castle. From the musical instrument museum to the Egyptian museum, the antique furniture, and wooden sculpture museum!

Afterward, enjoy a relaxing reprieve with nature. Behind the castle is Milan’s largest city park. Previously used as the former royal hunting grounds, today the park has beautiful ponds, towering old trees, and gorgeous views. It’s the perfect place to relax and people watch! Sforzesco Castle is a great addition to a two day itinerary in Milan and has something for all ages to enjoy!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Sempione Park

• Why it’s awesome: Large public space in the middle of Milan with gorgeous scenery, the perfect place to enjoy a nice break.
• Food recommendations: Stop by Rebetiko for tasty and traditional Greek food. This family-run restaurant has a cozy aesthetic and very friendly staff.

This large public green area is located in the heart of Milan. Soak up the serenity of nature and enjoy a quick reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. Admire the beautiful views of the city away from the busy streets! This park is adjacent to the gardens of the Sforzesco Castle.

You’ll find a good mix of locals and tourists who utilize the park for many different reasons. Take a stroll, have a picnic, go for a run, or just sit and people watch. There are plenty of food and drink outlets to purchase meals or snacks from and lots of shaded areas to enjoy!

You’ll also find lakes and bridges as well as some wildlife! Sempione Park’s picturesque setting makes it the ideal place to enjoy a nice break before carrying on with your Milan itinerary! 

Insider Tip: While you’re here, make sure to check out the Arco della Pace on the opposite end of Sforzesco Castle. It is highly photogenic and one of Milan’s top monuments!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci

• Why it’s awesome: This museum is the largest science and technology museum in Italy and is dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci.
• Cost: USD $11.00
• Food recommendations: Bebel is a cozy little restaurant where you can eat the Italian way. Enjoy an authentic meal, friendly staff, and affordable prices.

This large museum and learning center pays tribute to Italian painter and scientist, Leonardo da Vinci . It is a well organized and modern museum that showcases technology in a fun and informative way. There are many interactive exhibits and stations that you can try out your science skills! This museum is fun for all ages and perfect for the whole family!

You could easily spend all day here, so if you’re spending more than three days in Milan make sure to explore all the areas that interest you. However, if you’re only seeing Milan in two days , make sure to plan your visit wisely.

Insider Tip: Your ticket is good all day during the museums usual hours of operation; so you can leave and come back!

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Navigli District of Milan

• Why it’s awesome: Milan’s Navigli district is a vibrant area of the city filled with lots of fun activities and several picturesque canals.
• Food recommendations: Check out Rita & Cocktails for a true Milanese aperitivo experience. Cocktails are made using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the appetizers are prepared on-site be the local chef.

Milan’s Navigli district is a lively area of the city known for its gorgeous canals. These waterways were constructed in 1179 to connect Milan to the nearby lakes. Today, you can find the shores lined with trendy boutiques, local galleries, hip bars, and restaurants serving authentic Milanese cuisine!

Walk along the canals and enjoy a bit of fresh air, take a leisurely boat ride, or watch the sunset reflect it’s soft glow over the calm water.

This area of the city is a popular place for the locals to hang out too. This is also the best place to partake in an Italian aperitivo , which is the tradition of having a drink and savory snack in the early hours of the evening!

Aperitivo hour is a popular custom that originated in Milan, and the Navigli district is the best area of the city to partake in this fabulous activity! Whether you’re visiting Milan in one day or just passing through, Aperitivo hour is a must!

Ostello Bello

Ostello Bello has all the components to make your stay in Milan as enjoyable as possible. If you’re traveling through Italy after Milan, check out our guide to the COOLEST hostels throughout Italy.

• Free Breakfast
• Free City Tour

San Siro Stadium | Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio | Colonne di San Lorenzo | Piazza Gae Aulenti | San Bernardino alle Ossa

Now that we’re done covering what to do in Milan for a two day visit, if you’re spending more time in the city, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill your time. Here are some more noteworthy attractions, as well as some really cool day trips from Milan !

San Siro Stadium

• A large soccer stadium in the San Siro district of Milan, easily accessible by public transportation.
• Home of A.C. Milan and Inter Milan.
• With a seating capacity of 80,000, this is one of the largest stadiums in Europe!

If you’re a sports fan, the San Siro stadium is a must-see when touring Milan! A trip to this stadium during game day is a great way to experience the European sports culture. The atmosphere is electrifying and it’s always fun to cheer on a game with the locals who are deeply passionate about their sports teams!

If you can’t make it on game-day, you can always take a tour of the stadium. This is a great option for a more personalized soccer experience! Tours are self-guided with the aid of an audio-guide, allowing you to go at your own pace. You’ll visit areas of the stadium off limits to the general public. See the clubs, changing rooms, the mixed zone, and the tunnel where the players walk onto the ‘La Scala del Calcio’!

Take as many pictures as you’d like and don’t forget to buy some official souvenirs at the stadium shop on your way out! Drinks and food are available for purchase on game-day. This is a great addition to a three day itinerary in Milan!

Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio

• Gorgeous architecture and well-preserved frescoes
• Considerably less crowded than other churches in Milan
• Built between 379 and 386

This Romanesque style basilica is complete with an elegant courtyard and underground crypt. It is one of the oldest churches in the city, built by St Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan, in the 4th-century. The crypt houses his remains and it is free for guests to visit.

The Basilica’s crypt also contains the remains of two other saints: Saint Gervasius and Saint Protasus. All three saints are dressed head to toe in elegant attire. The church’s interior is artfully decorated but not ornate. It holds many religious relics from centuries past. 

The church has gone through several restorations and partial reconstructions. In the 12th-century, it was rebuilt in the Romanesque style. It has two red brick bell towers, one taller than the other. Entrance to the church and crypt is free but a small fee is required to enter the treasury. Although this church is not as extravagant as the other churches you’ll find in Milan, it’s still worth checking out, and would be a great addition to your itinerary in Milan!

Colonne di San Lorenzo

• A lively hang-out spot that attracts the younger population.
• 16-columns of ancient Roman ruins.
• The perfect place to start your evening before heading out to the nearby bars.

Colonne di San Lorenzo has become one of the most popular hang-out spots in Milan. Locals gather here in the hundreds, especially in summer, to drink, socialize, and have fun!

Besides being a popular hangout spot, Colonne di San Lorenzo is a place of great historical and architectural significance. One of the most striking and notable sights in the city, here you’ll find sixteen magnificent and original Roman columns that date to the 4th-century!

The Basilica di San Lorenzo is located on the opposite side of the square, a stone’s throw from the columns. This beautiful basilica is one of the oldest and largest churches in Milan. It is free to enter and is a cool place to check out while you’re here!

The Colonne di San Lorenzo is a great place in the evening to chill out and enjoy ancient architecture. There are loads of affordable bars within close proximity, including some great spots to enjoy aperitivo ! If you’re spending a weekend in Milan, this is a great place to start your night!

Piazza Gae Aulenti

• A modern development of Milan with some impressive contemporary buildings.
• Full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and buildings.
• The Piazza was inaugurated in December of 2012.

This Milan attraction offers something slightly different. Unlike the rest of the city that is steeped in overt history, the Piazza Gae Aulenti is a new development in Milan. Contemporary skyscrapers, shops, and restaurants surround this modern square.

There are fountains in the middle of the square that gives it an extra fun touch; at night they light up with different colors! They also offer a great respite to the summer heat.

At 750-feet tall, Italy’s highest skyscraper, the Unicredit Tower, can be found in this Piazza. You can climb to the top to enjoy the best panoramic views of the city!

When the sun sets, the Piazza comes alive with a show of lights, music and water. It is one of the best places to go out at night in Milan. It offers countless clubs, restaurants and trendy bars! Milan is known for its ancient buildings and structures, so If you’re a fan of modern architecture and trying to figure out what to see in Milan, this stop if perfect for you!

San Bernardino alle Ossa

• It is free to visit (donations are accepted).
• Close proximity to the Duomo Cathedral.
• The origins of the church date back to the 13th- century.

San Bernardino alle Ossa is a unique Milan attraction. It’s not large or grandiose like the other churches you’ll find in Milan; what makes it unique and fascinating is its connection to the dead!

The church is best known for its ossuary, a small side chapel filled with numerous human skulls and bones. These human bones decorate the walls of the ossuary and are exposed and viewable to the public! They are held in place with wire mesh. 

In 1210, when the cemetery ran out of space, a room was built to hold the bones, and this is where they continue to be located to this day. The San Bernardino alle Ossa is captivatingly creepy. If you’re a fan of the macabre, make sure to add this stop to your Milan itinerary!

No matter how many days you’re staying in Milan, safety is an important thing to keep in mind!

Overall, Milan is a safe city to travel to. However, it is always recommended that tourists take precautions when traveling to a foreign country, and this is as true of Milan as it is anywhere else.

Keep in mind that areas where large crowds like to congregate, pickpockets do too. Be vigilant on public transportation and in crowded areas. The main exit of the Central Station, and the area around the Piazza Duca D’Aosta are especially busy areas of the city.

A few simple precautions will minimize your chances of being pickpocketed such as carrying a money-belt and keeping your valuables hidden !

Be aware of fake taxis and only use the licensed ones, which will have a taxi sign on the roof of the car. Make sure the meter in the taxi has been turned on when you enter the vehicle and is reset.

We know you’re going to be preoccupied trying to decide what to see in Milan in two days, but if you keep your wits about you, stick to the tourist areas of the city, and try not to travel alone after dark, you should be just fine!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Milan

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Staying in town a tad bit longer? Then you should absolutely go on a road trip from Milan !

A day trip to another area of Italy can be a fun way to see more of this gorgeous country. These trips are a great addition to your Milan itinerary, and there are lots of options to choose from.

Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna: Full-Day Tour from Milan

On this ten and a half hour tour, you’ll travel by luxury coach to three beautiful areas of northern Italy. Start off with a trip to Lake Como, famous for its dramatic scenery, set against the foothills of the Swiss Alps!

Enjoy a walking tour of the city center of Como before hopping on a private boat for a relaxing cruise around the lake. Soak up the serenity of the quiet lake before visiting the charming villages of Bellagio and Varenna. Walk around the cobblestoned streets and enjoy these quaint and colorful towns!

Bernina & St.Moritz Day Tour from Milan

On this twelve and a half hour tour, you’ll travel from Milan to the luxury ski resort town of St. Moritz! Take a ride on the Bernina, one of the most scenic railway routes in Switzerland. This railway is also the steepest railway journey in the world, climbing 6,000-feet!

The rail portion of your journey begins in Tirano, Italy, a picturesque Mediterranean town in a stunning mountain setting. From there, you’ll travel up the Bernina rail to the Swiss mountain resort town of St. Moritz. You’ll have time to explore this picturesque Swiss mountain town before heading back to Milan!

Full-Day Coach Trip to Verona and Lake Garda

On this twelve-hour tour, you’ll visit the city that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet! Walk around the romantic Italian city of Verona, and visit this city’s sights on foot as you follow your guide to Verona’s top attractions. You’ll see the famous balcony where Juliet was wooed by Romeo!

And if you fall in love yourself, stay the night in a Verona hostel , treat yourself!

Next, you’ll make your way to Lake Garda for a relaxing boat cruise. Sail past the charming village of Sirmione and marvel at the medieval castle overlooking the lake. Hop-off the boat for a walk around the town of Desenzano and stretch your legs before making your way back to Milan! Shakespeare lovers will especially love this addition to their itinerary for Milan!

Cinque Terre Day Tour

On this thirteen-hour tour, you’ll visit Italy’s famous Cinque Terre villages; considered by many to be the most picturesque landscape in Italy! Spend the day exploring these five enchanting medieval villages!

Relax on a scenic train ride from Manarola to Monterosoo. Enjoy a one and a half-hour boat cruise from Monterosoo to La Spezia, where you’ll be able to admire the stunning views of the villages from the sea! This tour includes a professional guide and transportation by an air-conditioned coach. For a unique Italian experience, this day trip is a great addition to your vacation in Milan!

Franciacorta Wine Tasting and Shopping Tour

On this eight-hour tour, you’ll explore the stunning wine region of Franciacorta! Sample award-winning wines from this prestigious Italian wine region and learn the interesting process of wine production! Enjoy a light lunch made from local produce accompanied by a glass of sparkling white wine.

Admire the lush agricultural landscape; the perfect place for photo opportunities! You’ll make a stop at the Franciacorta Outlet Village to shop for bargains before returning to Milan. If you’re a wine drinker, make sure to put this trip on your Milan itinerary!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Milan itinerary.

How many days do you need in Milan?

Having 3 full days to discover Milan is ideal, as this will give you plenty of time to explore top attractions.

What should you include on a 3 day Milan itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these top places to visit in Milan! – Duomo Cathedral & Piazza Mercanti – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – Navigli District

Where should you stay for 2 days in Milan?

The Centro Storico area is the best place to stay for a short trip, putting you right by top attractions. It also offers plenty of accommodation and dining options.

Is Milan worth seeing?

Absolutely! This charming, historical city is packed with breathtaking architecture, fascinating attractions, excellent cuisine, and plenty more.

Milan is a romantic and historic city that personifies elegance and sophistication. It is renowned for its history, art, and fashion, but there are other areas of the city you can explore too!

Whether you’re looking for things to do in Milan in one day or many more, this Milan itinerary will help you discover some of the best places to visit in the city!

Travel back in time as you explore famous art galleries, palaces, and cathedrals. Soak up the Milanese culture as you stroll the streets and enjoy an Italian aperitivo ! Everywhere you look you will be astonished by how creative and attention-grabbing Milan’s attractions truly are.

From imposing architecture and giant cathedrals to extravagant shopping malls, Milan is filled with class, art, and culture. This Milan itinerary will help you make the most of your trip to this enchanting Italian city!

Have you started packing yet? If not, this is our entire packing list for Italy .

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Are you planning to visit Milan? We can help you. At Introducing Milan you'll find updated information about what to see , where to stay , or the best places to eat .

Milan Travel Guide

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• How to get to Milan
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• Two Day Itinerary

Milan is internationally recognized as one of the world’s most important fashion capitals , but it also has a wealth of interesting museums and things to see and do .

In our Milan guide, you'll find all the necessary information to plan your stay in the capital of Lombardy and make the most of your holidays , be it for a weekend or for longer.

Tourism in Milan

Milan offers all the advantages of a large city , but it's relatively small, thus making it perfect to visit , as tourists can get to most of the city’s attractions and museums on foot .

Some of the city’s most beautiful attractions include the Duomo di Milano , an impressive Opera House , a striking castle , ancient churches, and a great variety of museums and art galleries .

For those who also want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life , you can hire a car or take the train to one of the prettiest landscapes of northern Italy, the Italian lakes . Its green hills and crystal-clear lakes make it a perfect summer destination.

Book your hotel in advance

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we suggest checking out the link below, where you'll find all types of hotels, hostels, and apartments with the best rates guaranteed. You can get up to a 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

• Hotels in Milan – Book online for the best rates guaranteed.

Other advantages are that you won't pay anything until you arrive at the hotel and you can cancel your reservation up to the day before without any fees.

Thinking of visiting other cities in Italy?

If you are planning on exploring Italy, check out our travel guides for Rome , Venice , and Florence .

top activities

The Best Free Walking Tour in Milan Discover the secrets of an Italian city that combines history, fashion and architecture in equal parts on this free walking tour of Milan .

Guided Tour of Castello Sforzesco Visit Castello Sforzesco , one of the most iconic monuments in Milan . On the tour you will discover the history of the building, and the various museums inside.

Saint Moritz Tour + Bernina Express Don't miss this  tour to Saint Moritz from Milan which includes  tickets for the Bernina Express . We'll explore the Swiss Alps on a dreamy route .

Milan Duomo Rooftop & Cathedral Tour On this tour of Milan's famous Duomo , we'll explore the Cathedral as well as go up to the rooftop to see unparalleled views of the city . Don't miss out!

Lake Garda and Verona Day Trip Live the passion of Romeo and Juliet in Verona with this Lake Garda and Verona Day Trip. During the tour, visit charmingly romantic spots such as Sirmione.

Como & Bellagio Day Trip + Cruise Two of the most beautiful towns in northern Italy are at the centre of this day trip to Como and Bellagio from Milan. Plus, we'll enjoy a boat ride.

Swiss Alps + St Moritz by Train You'll travel along one of the most fascinating train routes in the world , passing through the Bernina Strait , across the Swiss Alps and on to St. Moritz .

Lake Como Excursion On this excursion from Milan , we'll enter the Lake District , at the foot of the Italian Alps. You can visit Bellagio or Brunate .

Leonardo3 Museum Ticket Discover the world of Leonardo da Vinci , one of history's most influential artists and inventors . See unpublished reconstructions of his machines and paintings!

With your ticket to the  Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci , you'll visit the largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the famous polymath .

Navigli Canals Boat Trip On our  Navigli Canals boat trip , you'll explore a 12th-century canal system in Milan . We'll learn all about the history of the waterways with an audio guide!

Teatro alla Scala Guided Tour Explore one of the world's most famous operas , and discover its secrets as well as a great collection of costumes, instruments, and works of art.

Milan Sightseeing Bus The open-top Milan sightseeing bus is the perfect way to discover all the main landmarks around the magnificent Italian city .

Shopping Trip to Serravalle Versace, Dolce & Gabanna and Prada are just some of the brands you will find at discounts of up to 70%. Save and stay stylish in Europe's biggest mall.

Let yourself be captivated by the beautiful alpine scenery of Switzerland with this tour to Interlaken from Milan on the Green Train of the Alps .

Welcome to Milan! This comfortable bus transfer service is the best option to travel from Malpensa Airport to the city centre with ease.

San Siro Stadium Tour On this  San Siro Tour , we'll explore the  stadium that's shared by AC Milan and Inter , the two big football teams in the capital of the Lombardy region.

Milan: Walking Tour + The Last Supper Ticket Do you want to see the best of Milan in one day? On this tour, we'll see Leonardo da Vinci's  "The Last Supper"   and explore the city's most iconic monuments !

Lake Como, Lugano & Bellagio Tour This tour to Lake Como, Lugano and Bellagio from Milan we'll take you through the beautiful alpine landscapes of northern Italy and southern Switzerland .

Cinque Terre Day Trip Perched between mountains and the  Ligurian Mediterranean coast , you'll fall in love with the five UNESCO World Heritage Sites that make up  Cinque Terre !

Day Trip to Venice Canals, gondolas, palaces, history, glory... on this day tour you'll discover by boat and foot the beauty of Venice, a truly unique city.

Milan Guided City Tour Discover the charms of the capital of Lombardy on this complete guided tour of Milan. Admire the La Scala Theatre, the Duomo and da Vinci's Last Supper!

Milan Pass The Milan Pass offers you free entrance into many a variety of museums around the city and even includes unlimited public transport .

Secret Milan Bike Tour Join us on this bike tour through the lesser-known parts of Milan ! We'll cycle through areas rarely visited and to get a glimpse of the real Milanese life.

On this excursion from Milan, we'll visit Lake Como , one of the most amazing landscapes of northern Italy, and cross the border with Switzerland to Lugano .

Brera Guided Tour & Pinacoteca di Brera Ticket Works by Caravaggio, Raffaello, Tintoretto and other extraordinary artists await you in the Pinacoteca di Brera. Afterwards, you'll go on a guided tour of this

Train Trip to Venice & Verona This t rip to Venice and Verona from Milan is the perfect plan for visiting Piazza San Marco and discovering the beauty of Romeo and Juliet's city !

Astronomical Museum of Brera Ticket On this guided visit to the Astronomical Museum of Brera , you'll discover many interesting details about outer space . Discover the importance of this building!

Florence and Pisa Day Trip On this day trip to Florence and Pisa from Milan , we'll embark on a journey to the heart of Tuscany . You'll fall in love with its art, history, and culture!

Monaco + Nice Day Trip Join us for a day trip to Monaco and Nice from Milan to uncover two of the Blue Coast's most exclusive destinations full of opulence and unparalleled beauty !

Looking for plans in Lombardy? This electric bike tour of Milan will take you to explore the main charms of the city, combining sport and tourism. Let's roll!

On this excursion to Monza and the Royal Gardens , we'll tour this city in Lombardy and visit the exterior of the important neoclassical palace.

Guitars, American food , music , and a unique setting await at the Hard Rock Cafe Milan . You can have a drink, eat and enjoy some rock in the capital of fashion.

Fidenza Village Outlet Shopping Tour Huge discounts on internationally famous brands await you on this shopping tour of the Fidenza Village outlets from Milan – don't miss out!

Milan Guided Tour This Milan Guided Tour is ideal for exploring the historical centre , getting to know its main monuments and most important shopping streets

5-day Northern Italy Lakes Tour + Bernina Express Discover the lakes of Northern Italy on this 5-day circuit through the landscapes of Lombardy and Piedmont. Plus, we'll ride the Bernina Express !

Transfer from Linate Airport to Milan If you've just arrived at Linate Airport , book your convenient and hassle-free Autostradale bus transfer  and reach the city center in less than half an hour!

Lake Maggiore Day Trip Napoleon, Hemingway, Lady Dianna ... Why has Lake Maggiore captivated so many? Discover it on this day trip that includes a cruise of the Borromean islands .

Going up to the Duomo's terraces is one of the experiences you can't miss if you're in Milan. You'll get the best views of the capital of Lombardy !

Duomo Cathedral Guided Tour Planning a trip to Milan? If so, join this guided tour of Milan's Duomo Cathedral . A must-see spot in one of Italy's most stylish cities!

Como, Bellagio & Bellano Day Trip On this day trip to Bellagio and Bellano from Milan , we'll enjoy a lake cruise, explore historic villages and admire the landscape of the Pearl of Lake Como .

Last Supper Tour The Last Supper. Leonardo's masterpiece is so ingrained in our culture that a guided tour taking in the original is an essential visit in Milan.

Milan Ghost Tour When the sun sets and nightfall takes over the city, the  ghosts  come out to play. Discover the dark, haunted stories on this nighttime tour of Milan. 

Navigli Walking Tour Explore one of Milan's most beautiful districts with this Navigli Walking Tour. Discover the area's hidden charm as you walk past the unique Naviglio Grande.

Day Trip to Lugano + Bellinzona Join us as we venture past the border of Italy with Switzerland and visit Lugano and Bellinzona , two beautiful towns in canton of Ticino!

Pinacoteca Ambrosiana Guided Visit Discover one of the most iconic museums in Lombardy and learn about the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci on our  Pinacoteca Ambrosiana Guided Visit in Milan .

Monte Bianco & Courmayeur Tour Discover two of the gems of northern Italy with this full-day trip from Milan: Monte Bianco, the Italian side of Mont Blanc, and the village of Courmayeur .

Bergamo and Lake Iseo Excursion On this excursion to Bergamo and Lake Iseo , we'll visit the largest lake island in Europe, explore the most beautiful villages, and see medieval monuments!

Why read our Milan guide?

Introducing Milan is a guide created for travelers by travelers trying to help you plan your trip in the best way possible. It'll help you to get to know the most interesting places in the city , which are the most famous dishes  and the best places to stay , or even the tricks you can use to save the most money while still enjoying your trip.

All the information in this guide has been updated in July 2024, if you find anything which you think should be changed, please be sure to contact us .

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This City Is Italy’s Capital of Fashion and Finance — What to See, Eat, and Do

Here’s how to plan the perfect trip to Milan.

• Best Hotels

Best Things to Do

Best shopping.

• Best Nightlife

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Best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Rome, Florence, Venice: They’re the classic trifecta of an Italian whistle-stop tour, right? Somehow, Milan manages to fall off the itinerary, especially for a lot of first-time visitors to Italy. But if you’ve been keeping this most cosmopolitan European city in the “maybe next time, if we have a few more days” category, it’s time to redraw your travel map.

Italy’s capital of fashion and finance, Milan is rightly associated with wealth and style — its sharply dressed residents may make you want to accessorize just a wee bit more thoughtfully. But there’s nothing superficial about this city, which was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and has been a touchpoint of some of the most important events in European history. “Milan is an invigorating, bustling metropolis that resembles Berlin, Paris, and New York in its international elements,” says Nicole Bono, luxury travel and events planner with Bono Events International . “It’s very different from other cities in Italy, yet doesn’t compromise on any of its Italian style and authenticity.”

With one foot proudly fixed in an illustrious past that includes ancient ruins, majestic cathedrals, and art-filled museums, Milan is also the best place to experience anything and everything that’s modern in Italy, from innovative art and fashion to exciting new hotel openings and 20 Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some of our experts’ favorite places and experiences in the city — proof that if you miss Milan, you’re truly missing out.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Walk the roof of the Duomo. The rooftop terraces tour of the Duomo of Milan offers an up-close look at this architectural marvel and a bird’s-eye view of the city below. 
• Shop (or just gawk) along Via Monte Napoleone. Even if you can’t afford to make a purchase on one of Europe’s priciest streets, it’s fun to window-shop at Gucci, Fendi, Versace, and a host of others. 
• Eat classic Milanese cuisine. Breaded veal cutlets fried in butter, ossobuco, and risotto with saffron are some Milanese mainstays, and they taste best at a traditional eatery like Trattoria Trippa.
• Bar-hop along the Navigli. Milan’s much-loved nightlife corridor is popular for a reason. It’s still one of the best areas — in Milan or anywhere — for bar-crawling and people-watching. 
• Sleep in a stylish new hotel. A crop of new hotels, each sleeker than the next, opened in 2023 or are on tap for 2024, including one of our favorites, Casa Baglioni. They only add to Milan's collection of top-rated luxury accommodations ,

Related: 29 Most Beautiful Places in Italy 

Courtesy of Portrait Milano

Best Hotels 

Portrait milano.

Gary Portuesi , a T+L A-list travel advisor with Authentic Explorations , says this Lungarno Collection property is “one of the best new hotels we have seen open up in Italy (in 2023).” Effortlessly contemporary and design-forward, the fashion district hotel is located in the historic Piazza del Quadrilatero, and, per Portuesi, is quickly becoming “the place to be.”

Hotel Principe di Savoia

The grandest dame in a city full of them, the Principe di Savoia evokes Belle Epoque glamor. London-based luxury travel writer Nicole Trilivas calls the hotel’s Presidential Suite, with its private indoor pool, “outrageous. It’s like the ancestral penthouse of a duke with a taste for the theatrical, with working fireplaces, swirling frescoes, and mahogany and marble galore. Even the most jaded jet-setter will be impressed.”

Casa Baglioni

Portuesi says this newest Baglioni hotel “captures the highly stylized Milan of the 1960s.” With just 30 rooms and suites, many with views over the inviting Brera district, the hotel retains a homey, albeit very stylish feel. “We also love the spectacular 360 view over the city from its rooftop bar,” says Portuesi. 

Related: 22 Amazing Family-run Hotels in Italy — From Mountain Inns to Seafront Palaces

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Architecture Tour

The modern Milan skyline towers over other Italian cities, and an architect-led tour is the best way to appreciate its daring and innovative skyscrapers and urban projects. Try Guiding Architects for a private tour, which can be customized to your interests. 

Terraces of the Duomo 

Whether you get there by stairs or elevator (the latter costs a few euros more), walking among the rooftop spires of the largest church in Italy is a singular experience and a humbling lesson in engineering and ingenuity. Book an early time slot to beat the crowds, and don’t miss the Gothic, stained-glass illuminated cathedral interiors. You can buy tickets on the Duomo website . 

Teatro alla Scala 

La Scala is synonymous with performing arts in Milan, and even if you can’t take in a ballet, opera, or orchestral performance here, it’s still a thrill to see the theater interiors on a tour. Bono says a guided tour of the theatre and museum is “a must for music lovers.”

QC Termemilano

Take a spa break in a remarkable setting  — a bubbling thermal pool built amid the ruins of 6th-century brick walls. In the busy urban setting of Porta Romana, the QC day spa is a tranquil haven of water, heat, and steam. In the most Milan of manners, there’s even a sauna built into a vintage old tram car.

Related : How to Plan a Trip to Italy on a Budget, According to a Local

Via Monte Napoleone

It’s a shame to visit Milan and not pay your respects at its temples of high fashion, most of which can be worshiped on Via Monte Napoleone. If you don’t scratch your fashion itch on this very expensive stretch of retail real estate, try Corso Buenos Aires, Via Torino, or Via Dante.

“Every time I go to Milan,” says Trilivas, “I visit the flagship Fornasetti atelier, which showcases art and home goods based on the artwork of post-war Milanese artist Piero Fornasetti. It’s a whimsical dream.” A suite at the Mandarin Oriental Milan is dedicated to the artist. 

A pair of handmade Italian leather shoes is the best souvenir you can bring home from Italy, and this is a hill I’ll die on. Find them, along with exquisite accessories, at this gorgeous bottega for women’s items. There are also Velasca menswear locations in the city. 

Best Nightlife 

Sip your negroni sbagliato at this old-school bar where it was invented. Bar Basso may be resting on its historic laurels a bit and service can be indifferent, but it’s still a classic Milan watering hole for a heady cocktail or two. 

Located within the Fondazione Prada cultural complex, this cheerful bar and cafe was designed by director Wes Anderson and evokes his delightful brand of quirkiness. “It’s a must-stop after visiting the museum,” says Portuesi, “and the panini are really good!” Be sure to play a round of pinball on a vintage machine.

The two remaining canals among a former network of important commercial waterways, Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are today lined with bars and restaurants and offer Milan’s best aperitivo scene. Grande is jumping on both banks and is the more colorful of the two, while Pavese is a quieter scene.

Trattoria Trippa

Bono heads to this Porta Romana stalwart for its warm, vintage vibe and to be welcomed like a local. “The menu is filled with all the classic dishes you can enjoy in this city, such as ossobuco, risotto alla Milanese, cotoletta alla Milanese, and more,” she says. 

It may be set in Milan’s busy Chinatown, one of the largest Chinese communities in Europe, but Ronin is all about Japanese cuisine and subculture, with an izakaya bar, a Japanese grill, and private karaoke rooms. Portuesi and his team are fans of Ronin’s “Italian spin on sushi.”

Osteria Brunello

According to Portuesi, this casual, modern osteria in the buzzy Porta Garibaldi area is a wee bit upscale but worth seeking out for its “excellent wine list and amazing cotoletta Milanese and mondeghili,” a Milanese specialty of meatballs fried in butter. 

Because there are so many trade fairs and conferences in Milan, you may have to plan your trip based on hotel availability, which will be scarce when there’s a big event in town. Portuesi recommends his clients visit in May and October when the weather is pleasant, and that they avoid the Milan Fashion Weeks in February and September, as well as the Salone del Mobile (furniture fair) in April. 

Despite its northern location, Milan's summers can be sweltering, especially in July and August, when the city is also very crowded. If you can abide by cold, often rainy, foggy weather, the months of December to March (apart from Christmas and Fashion Week) will see the thinnest crowds and lowest hotel prices.

Related: The Best and Worst Times to Visit Italy

Bono’s clients often begin or end their trips to Italy at Milan Malpensa Airport, the largest international hub in northern Italy. Flights from within Europe or the U.K. may also use Linate Airport, which is closer to the city center, or Orio al Serio International Airport near Bergamo. 

From Malpensa, the Malpensa Express train connects to points in the city center and costs €13. Taxis from Malpensa to the center will cost about €110 for up to four people. 

Milano Centrale is the city’s largest railway station, with trains heading to and from the rest of Italy, as well as France and Switzerland. 

querbeet/Getty Images

From Milano Centrale station, you can access the comprehensive public transportation network of trams, buses, and subway lines that serve the city. Milan is flat and well-suited to walking or biking, but it’s big, and distances from one point of interest to another can be several miles. Taxis within the center, for example from Milano Centrale to the Duomo, run about €8-€10. As in other Italian cities, taxis in Milan cannot be hailed on the street. Instead, they wait at taxi stands, or ranks, which are generally located near tourist areas. 

We strongly recommend against driving a rental car in Milan’s congested center, where you’ll be either sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic, looking for scarce parking spaces, or dodging pedestrians, bicyclists, and rumbling trams. If you pick up a car in Milan for a longer tour in Italy, plan to head out of the city in the morning, when everyone else is headed in. 

Related: 8 Best Places to Retire in Italy, According to Local Experts

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Your Trip to Milan: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Neighborhoods to Know
• Milan's Airports
• Public Transportation
• 48 Hours in Milan
• Day Trips From Milan
• Top Things to Do
• Free Things to Do
• Shopping in Milan
• Performing Arts Guide
• Must-Try Food in Milan
• Milan's Top Restaurants
• Nightlife in Milan

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Milan, the second-largest city in Italy, is best known as Europe's capital of high fashion and design, and as a center for banking and finance. But beneath its skyscrapers and past its high-end fashion outlets, Milan is full of historic and artistic attractions. Among the most famous are its Duomo, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, Leonardo da Vinci's iconic The Last Supper painting, and the famous La Scala Opera House.  Travelers to Milan  will find a fast-paced, glamorous city with a thriving cultural scene and a top city for shopping.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit:  Milan can be very hot and humid in the summertime, and winters are moderately cold and often rainy and foggy. Snow is common during the coldest winter months. Spring and fall are generally off-seasons in Milan, except during Milan Design Week in April and Fashion Week in September or October.

Language:  Italian is the primary language spoken in Milan, though you will find that the majority of hotel and restaurant staff will speak English, as will retail staff in touristy areas.

Currency:  Like the rest of Italy, Milan is on the euro (€). No other currencies are accepted.

Getting Around:  Milan has very good public  transportation , including buses, trams, and an extensive metro system. There is no need for a rental car in Milan, especially since traffic is heavy and parking is scarce and expensive.

Travel Tip: Milan is not known for being the most affordable city in Italy, but we do have some tips for visiting Milan on a budget and some great free things to do in Milan .

Things to Do

Milan offers something for just about any traveler's interest, from world-class art museums, important landmarks, and, of course, shopping galore. The small historic center is primarily between the Duomo and Castello and offers many of  Milan's top attractions . Here is what you can expect to find:

• The church of Santa Maria delle Grazie  contains Da Vinci's famous fresco, The Last Supper . Although the building was bombed in 1943, the fresco survived. To visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site  , it is necessary to book in advance. 
• The  Duomo , or the Basilica cattedrale metropolitana di Santa Maria Nascente, is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world with an accessible rooftop  . Its much-photographed piazza is the hub and focal point of Milan. Be sure to climb the stairs or take the elevator to the top for views of Milan from the Duomo rooftop and a close look at the Duomo's spires.
• La Scala is a very famous Italian opera house seating more than 2,000 people. Built in 1778, it has a very opulent interior, which you can tour. There's also a museum. For opera-lovers, attending a performance here is a bucket-list experience.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II  is a huge glass-roofed shopping arcade lined with expensive shops, bars, and restaurants. Built between 1865 and 1877, it links the squares of the Duomo and La Scala and has mosaics with the symbols of the cities forming the newly united Italy.
• The imposing Castello Sforzesco  was originally built in the 14th century by the ruling Visconti but was destroyed and rebuilt by the Sforzas soon afterward. It became a museum complex in the 19th century and is one of Milan's major landmarks. Be sure to check out the Museo Pietà Rondanini, which houses Michelangelo's final masterpiece: the "Rondanini Pietà."  
• Other highlights of Milan include the National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci , with its vast collection showing the history of science and technology starting from Leonardo da Vinci's machines. The Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio  is the fourth-century church of Milan's patron saint. The Pinacoteca di Brera , originally started by Napoleon, is Milan's most prestigious art gallery.

Located in northwest Italy in the  Lombardy region , Milan is about 30 miles south of the Alps. It is very near the Italian Lakes region, including Lake  Como  and  Maggiore . From Milan,  Rome  is reachable on a fast train in just over three hours and  Venice  in two and a half hours.

What to Eat and Drink

Typical of northern Italy, Milan's cuisine is heavy on butter and other dairy products, as well as rice, and polenta, made from cornmeal. Two famous traditional Milanese dishes are  risotto alla milanese  (a creamy rice dish made with saffron) and  cotoletta alla milanese  (breaded veal cutlet). Milan's restaurants range from traditional, homey eateries serving hearty fare to fashionable, high-end restaurants offering modern Italian cuisine. Milan is famous for aperitivo , the Italian equivalent of happy hour, where snacks are served, often free of charge, with your before-dinner drink. As in the rest of Italy, there's a craft cocktail boom in Milan, with skilled bartenders offering original and elaborate quaffs all over the city.

Where to Stay

If you want to  stay  near La Scala, the Duomo, and shopping district, there are several top-rated historic center hotels. There are a lot of accommodations conveniently clustered near Milano Centrale train station, ranging from budget B&Bs to higher-end hotels. For more of a local feel, choose a boutique hotel or short-term rental in the Navigli district, known for its charming canals, designer and resale shops and lively nightlife scene. Ultra-modern hotels have sprung up in the Porta Nuova/Isola area, which is anchored by the innovative Bosco Verticale, two high-rise buildings with gardens and trees covering their facades.

Shopaholics will surely be tempted by the top quality clothing, footwear, and accessories that seem to be everywhere in Milan. Try Corso Vittorio Emanuele II near Piazza della Scala, via Monte Napoleone near the Duomo, or Via Dante between the Duomo and Castle for name brand and one-off designer fashions. For super high-end labels, try the area around Via della Spiga called the  Quadrilatero d'Oro . Corso Buenos Aires has many chain stores. Markets are held around the canals of the Navigli and are a great place to find used and vintage designer clothing.

Getting There

Milan has two  airports .  Malpensa , to the northwest, is a big international airport, while smaller  Linate  airport to the east serves  flights  from Europe and within Italy. Nearby Bergamo Airport also sees flights from the rest of Europe. There are direct flights to Malpensa from the U.S. cities of New York/Newark, Miami, and San Francisco.

The main  train station is Milano Centrale at Piazza Duca d' Aosta, with frequent daily links to major cities in Italy and western Europe.

Culture and Customs

While all of Italy is a little less casual than typical cities in the United States, you'll find that Milanese really do dress sharply, as if living up to the city's reputation as a fashion capital. So here, perhaps more than anywhere else in Italy, it's a good idea to try to blend in and dress a little bit less casually—try lightweight slacks and a polo shirt instead of shorts and a t-shirt, for example. In the evening, dress up a bit for dinner, and of course, if you're planning to attend an opera or concert.

Like most Italian cities, Milan is safe and violent crime is unusual. However, you should always exercise a reasonable degree of caution against pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas like the Piazza del Duomo and the Duomo itself, and even among the crowds who file through to stare at The Last Supper.

UNESCO World Heritage Centre . "Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with 'The Last Supper' by Leonardo da Vinci."

YesMilano . "Duomo Di Milano."

YesMilano . "Castello Sforzesco."

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Milan is Italy’s quiet triple threat—capital of fashion, finance, and design. Begin at the heart of the city in the Piazza del Duomo; the rest radiates outward in a mosaic of neighborhoods where history, art, and fashion overlap. Walk around the tony Brera neighborhood and peruse the shops of the Fashion Quadrilateral, literally a rhomboid dedicated to the world’s best designers. Head to Navigli for a cocktail when the sun is about to set. Wander the Isola neighborhood for homegrown designers and unique boutiques. By night, Milan’s marble and modern architecture is incandescent, so between aperitivi, make sure to stop and take it all in.

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Photo by Michelle Heimerman

When’s the best time to go to Milan?

The best time to visit is late April and May, or mid-September through October, especially if you hope for mild weather and a bit of sunshine. From November through March, the city is cold and foggy, but lovely for its tranquility. Summer months are quite hot, and city residents head out of town for long weekends and even longer vacations.

How to get around Milan

Two airports lie astride Milan: Malpensa to the northwest, and Linate to the east. Choose which one based on where you are staying. A city-mandated fare of €90 (about US$120) gets you from Malpensa to anywhere in the city center, while the cost from Linate is based on a metered rate. Trains also run from Malpensa to Milan’s Stazione Centrale (central station) via Malpensa Express. And coach bus travel is available from both airports to the city center. Additionally, Milan is well-connected by rail regionally, nationally, and internationally. Stazione Centrale is the main hub and serves TreniItalia and TrenoNord railways, while the newly renovated Piazza Garibaldi is hub to Italo railways as well as Trenitalia and TrenoNord.

Milan has a comprehensive public transit system of buses, trams, and metro lines, and the city center is easily walkable. Taxis are prevalent and can often be hailed, but your best bet is to reserve one via taxi stand or phone.

Can’t miss things to do in Milan

Take time to visit Villa Necchi Campigli, a 1930s time capsule of Milan life, and Italian art and architecture.

Food and drink to try in Milan

Over the past few years, the quiet city has undergone a culinary and cocktail revolution. From street food, gelaterie, and pastry shops to osterias and restaurants, the scene has reinvented itself, showing off traditional recipes like risotto al milanese (a rice dish rich with marrow, accented with saffron), polenta, and cassoeula (meat and vegetable potage slow-cooked in a casserole) in often creative interpretations. A private walking tour, Savoring Milan Food , organized by AFAR’s partner, Context Travel, is led by a local chef or culinary historian who can lead you to the tasty heart of Northern Italian cuisine.

Culture in Milan

Milan is the discreet sister to gritty Rome, and it’s a city fully immersed in culture. Whether the art of the aperitivo , the spectacular art scene, or an amazing panorama of architecture that spans styles and milennia, Milan is an oasis of style, art, and architecture.

Depending on the time of year, Milanese life can be found indoors at cafés, restaurants, and cultural centers, or outdoors in an interactive catwalk of design and fashion.

The city celebrates its patron Saint Ambrogio on December 7 , and then adds a week to carnival for Carnevale Ambrosiano .

In fall and winter, the city holds court as fashion capital for its women’s and men’s fashion weeks (held at separate times).

For two days in both spring and fall, Milan’s amazing “museum homes” are open to the public for Giornate FAI (Italian National Trust) .

The mid-April Salone del Mobile turns the entire city into an indoor/outdoor party dedicated to design, and this is perhaps one of the loveliest times to visit Milan, if you can get a hotel room.

Local travel tips for Milan

• Being polite goes miles in Milan, a city built on etiquette. “Grazie” and “Piacere” (a pleasure) will be your most useful terms.
• Tipping is not required, and should be modest at most. Hotel porters and cleaning staff should be tipped. There is no need to tip taxi drivers.
• Public transportation is great but many Milanese use BikeMi, Milan’s city-organized bike-sharing initiative that anyone can sign up for—daily, weekly, or yearly.
• If you happen to hear the phrase “cortili aperti,” stop in your tracks. Milan’s very best secret courtyards, in the city center and surrounding neighborhoods, are rarely opened to the public, with a single Cortili Aperti event happening in late spring, usually with a last-minute announcement because, well, Italy.

Guide Editor

Erica Firpo is a journalist with a passion for art, culture, travel, and lifestyle. She has written and edited more than 20 books and her travel writing has appeared in Yahoo Travel, Discovery Magazine, BBC Travel, The New York Times, Travel + Leisure, Fathom, Forbes Travel, and Huffington Post.

The Complete Travel Guide To Italy's Iconic Milan

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7 reasons you should rethink carrying bear spray on your next hike, america's deadliest lake is also one of its most beautiful, quick links, why visit milan, best time to visit milan, top things to do in milan.

Milan, the fashion and financial heart of Italy , is located in its northern part. With a huge cultural legacy, gothic architecture, and bustling cosmopolitanism, Milan has always stood apart from the rest of the cities in the country. With distinct vibes, strong Swiss influence, and a concoction of ancient and modern, Milan is a city unlike any other .

People who appreciate fashion, art, cuisine, culture, and historical aspects of a country must have Milan is their bucket list. This article is an elaborated Milan travel guide providing essential information travelers should know. Experience the sophistication and elegance that Milan offers to its visitors.

Milan is the fashion capital of Europe that rose straight out of the Renaissance age, standing tall and firm. Everything about Milan is exemplary, whether it is about striking fashion, stellar architecture, or a stunning skyline. Once in Milan, visitors can enjoy the cultural profusion, authentic street food, and natural vistas. It is a must-visit city due to the following-

Milan is ruled by dictators like Napoleon, and Austro-Hungarians . The autocracy of diverse rulers gave Milan fascinating culture. Each historical period has contributed differently to Milan. Everything about Milan is spectacular, from ancient churches and palaces to renaissance buildings and boulevards.

Milan is the largest metropolitan area in Italy. Also, it boasts of being the fourth-largest economy among European cities after Paris, London, and Madrid (2018). Apart from these, the beautiful skyline with Duomo's spires and modern buildings make it awe-inspiring.

Milan celebrates Fashion Week every year, welcoming the biggest fashion designers and models in the town. It also hosts Furniture Fair. Every eye-catching aesthetic beauty visiting Milan during these festivals makes the place worth visiting. Apart from festivals and fairs, plenty of galleries and museums also showcase the aesthetic richness of Milan. RELATED: Headed To Milan? Consider These Chic Hotels First

The best season to visit Milan is from April to May and from September to October when the weather is pleasant and travelers can enjoy and explore the city. Summers can get scorching and winters chilly. So, before planning the visit, one must ensure that the weather is suitable for strolling in the city or not.

If traveler intents to visit Milan to see Milan Furniture Fair, April is a suitable time as it runs for a week in mid-April. Likewise, Milan Men's Fashion Week happens in January and Women's Fashion Week in February, the autumn festival. The spring or summer festival happens in September every year.

This is when the hotels are jam-packed, and one may need to spend some extra bucks for accommodation.

Travel-friendly And travel-unfriendly things about Milan

Travel-friendly

• Enjoyable day trips- Getting around the city and exploring easy-to-access neighborhoods offers great day trips for visitors.
• Amazing nightlife- With some of the best neighborhoods, Milan offers plenty of options when it comes to bars, clubs, and restaurants, ensuring laid-back nightlife.
• Great City Center- The Duomo is the most beautiful when it is about the city center, making the visit worthwhile.
• Shopping shenanigans- One can't miss shopping when in the streets of the fashion capital. Budget-friendly to luxurious, all types of goods can be found.

Travel-unfriendly

• Offer less than others- Even though Milan has a lot for travelers, cities like Venice, Rome, and Florence are way more interesting, with amazing sights to behold and things to do.
• Has modern touch- People visiting Italy expects picture of ancient Rome, the canals of Venice, and the hills of Tuscany. However, Milan is modern with a European touch and may ruin people coming with certain expectations.
• High prices- Being the fashion and business capital, Milan is expensive compared to other cities in Italy.
• Weather- One cannot dare to visit Milan in summers and winters as the weather is in its extreme. No one visits a place just to stay indoors!

RELATED: One Of The Most Beautiful Places In Switzerland Can Easily Be Reached From Milan, Italy

Once in Italy, whether for a day or a week, travelers should not miss some of the most outstanding places in Milan.

Duomo Cathedral And Piazza Del Duomo

Located in the city center, Duomo Cathedral and Piazza Del Duomo are Milan's must-visit places. While Duomo is the world's largest cathedral, the Piazza is the most beautiful sightseeing one has observed. Duomo took 600 years to build and can hold over 11,000 people. It is suggested to visit this place at night when the building is artistically illuminated. One can check out the entire city from the rooftop.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele And The Bull Mosaic

It is Italy's most beautiful and the oldest shopping center, with high-end housing boutiques, luxurious cafes, and whatnot. One can witness the real lavishness of the city by visiting the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and the Bull Mosaic. Those who don't want to spend or shop for luxury items can still visit it to witness the architectural magnificence. A bit of window shopping always makes the trip interesting.

Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper

Visitors can see the world-famous painting Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci in person. Since the painting is not in very good condition, only 1000 visitors are allowed in a day. Make sure to book the tickets three months in advance from the official website, which are often sold out quickly.

Museo del Novecento

For the art freaks, Museo Del Novecento is the most prominent place to witness some of the best arts of ancient Italian artists. Boasting over 400 pieces , the museum is all about ancient arts and designs. However, a section is dedicated to a few renowned international artists. The best part is that visiting the museum gives a good view of the Duomo.

Backpacking for Milan could be fun and interesting for travelers with different lifestyles as it gives glimpses of ancient and modern both at a time. Plan Milan travel in advance to make the most of the expedition.

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Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

2 Days in Milan – The Perfect Milan Itinerary + Tips

Last updated: November 21, 2022 . Written by Laurence Norah - 3 Comments

Milan is the second largest city in Italy after Rome and the capital of Lombardy. It’s well known as being the home of high-end Italian fashion designers, and many people come to Milan just for the shopping.

However, there is lots more to do in Milan than shop. The city has spectacular artworks, including one of the most famous murals in the world, Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It also has loads of museums, fantastic food, parks, churches, and cultural activities.

Milan also makes a great base for exploring the local region, with popular destinations like Lake Como, Lake Garda, Verona, and Bologna, only an hour or so away by train.

We’ve visited Milan a number of times, and today we’re going to share an idea of how to spend two days in Milan.

This guide will include a suggested itinerary for each day in Milan, as well as tips on getting around, where to stay and how to save money. We’ll also share some tips on day trips from Milan.

Table of Contents:

2 Day Milan Itinerary

This two-day Milan itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors to Milan, and those wishing to see the highlights of the city. We like to pack in a lot when we visit a city, especially on our first visit.

As always with our itineraries, we recommend using this as a basis, and adjusting it to suit your interests and travel style.

If you’re looking for more options, also check out our guide to things to do in Milan . That article includes all the attractions in this itinerary as well as a number of other places you might want to visit, especially if you have more than 2 days in Milan.

Milan Itinerary Day 1

Day one of our Milan itinerary has you visiting some of the most well-known and popular attractions in the city, starting with one of the world’s most famous artworks.

Today the attractions are all within walking distance of one another, and this day’s itinerary is set up for someone who is walking between each attraction. But do check out our guide to getting around in Milan later on in the post for other options, as Milan also has a great public transit system and taxis are also easy to get.

If you are planning to do a sightseeing bus tour , then I’d probably recommend doing it this morning so you can start with an overview of the city. I’d also plan your stops in an order that makes sense with the bus schedule.

Also a note today that if you are following our itinerary, we recommend bringing along your photo ID (for The Last Supper tickets) and to make sure that you are dressed to meet the various church dress code guidelines (shoulders and knees covered).

On with Day 1!

The Last Supper (Santa Maria della Grazie)

Leonardo Da Vinci is responsible for some of the world’s most recognizable artworks, including the Mona Lisa and the Vitruvian Man. The Last Supper is another one of his instantly recognizable works, and you’ll find it in Milan.

It’s found painted onto the wall of the dining room of the Convent of Santa Maria della Grazie, which is still a working church and Dominican convent.

As the name suggests, the mural depicts the Last Supper of Jesus with the Twelve Apostles. It freezes the moment in time when Jesus has just announced that one of the twelve will betray him, and captures the range of emotions that the apostles have to this announcement.

The first thing that strikes you when you see the artwork is the incredible sense of perspective that Da Vinci manages to convey. The painting perfectly fits with the room where it is painted, seeming to extend it into the horizon. And the whole composition is carefully crafted so all the leading lines converge on the central figure of Christ.

It’s also beautifully symmetrical, and the emotion on the faces of the various subjects seems to clearly capture how each character might have been feeling as Jesus revealed the revelation of his upcoming betrayal.

Today, the Last Supper is regarded as one of the world’s most important artworks, and certainly one of the most important that Da Vinci created.

Unfortunately, Da Vinci created the work using experimental and unfamiliar techniques. This meant that it started to decay almost immediately. Over the centuries, various restoration attempts have been made, with varying degrees of success. The end result is what you see today, and whilst it is still in the spirit of Da Vinci’s work, much of the original has been lost.

That said, it’s still quite an incredible sight and well worth seeing.

If you do want to visit the Last Supper, which we recommend, you should be aware it is a very popular attraction and you will definitely want to plan your visit in advance. This is not an attraction you can just turn up and visit.

Tickets are very limited, with only 30 visitors allowed in per 15-minute time slot. Many of those tickets are allocated to tour groups, but there is an allocation for individuals to buy tickets.

Individual tickets can be bought on the official website here . Tickets are normally released 1 to 4 months in advance, and tend to sell out quickly. The announcement for when tickets will be put on sale for upcoming months is published on the website here .

If you can’t find a ticket for the dates you are visiting Milan, your best option is to book a tour which includes the Last Supper. Tour groups have access to a separate ticket allocation, and usually have better availability as a result.

Whilst a tour is going to be more expensive, it will have the benefit of including an expert tour guide who can explain what you are seeing. There is little written information in the room itself, so having a tour guide (or guidebook) is really useful. Our guide also took us on a guided visit of the church afterwards.

We visited the Last Supper as part of this tour with Take Walks , one of our favorite walking tour companies. We’ve taken tours with them all around the world, and appreciate the knowledgeable guides and small groups.

You can check availability for their Last Supper tour here, which when we took it also included a city walking tour and a visit to the Milan Duomo.

If they don’t have availability, or you’d just like some other options, check out this list of tours on GetYourGuide for some other options.

Regardless of how you visit, make sure you turn up in advance to allow plenty of time so you can collect your ticket and store your bags, any food/water, and other larger items in the on-site lockers. All food and drinks (even bottled water) needs to be stored in the lockers and can’t be taken inside.

When we visited, we also needed photo IDs in order to collect our tickets, so we’d recommend also bringing along your passports.

Finally, don’t forget to allocate some time after your visit to look at the small museum, gift shop, and to visit the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie as well. The church is free to visit and was completed in 1497, with the apse designed by notable architect Bramante.

Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

If you have time between visiting The Last Supper and the Duomo, we recommend a stop at San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore . This church is about a five-minute walk from the church of Santa Maria della Grazie where The Last Supper is found..

This dates from 1518, and was originally part of Milan’s largest Benedictine convent. Today, the convent is where you will find the Civic Archaeological Museum, however, the church is still operational and looks much as it did when it was in use by the nuns.

The interior of the church is a vaulted nave which is divided into two parts. One of these was the area for general worship and is where the main altar is to be found. The other area was the Hall of Nuns, and was where the nuns would gather to observe mass through a grating.

Until the late 18th century, the nuns were not permitted to cross the divide into the general worship area.

The main reason you will want to visit the church is for the incredible frescoes that you will find within. These are found on both sides of the church as well as on the dividing wall, and depict a variety of religious scenes including the life of San Maurizio, the patron saint of Milan.

The church is free to visit but donations are of course welcome and appreciated. As it is a religious building, a dress code which involves covering your shoulders and knees applies. You can see more details about visiting on the website .

Note about those interested in archaeology, should also consider a visit to the adjoining Civic Archaeological Museum in the former convent. The museum covers the ancient to medieval periods, including Milan’s time as capital of the Western Roman Empire. There is an entrance fee to visit.

Starbucks Reserve Roastery

Next recommended stop is the Starbucks Reserve Roastery , which is about a 10-minute walk from the Chiesa di San Maurizio. This was Italy’s first Starbucks.

Starbucks obviously wanted to make an impact with their first Italian venue. Whilst Starbucks was originally inspired by Italian coffee culture, American coffee culture is very different. It’s clear that thought went into establishing the first Starbucks in Italy in order to bridge the divide.

We think the effort certainly paid off. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery is found in the former Milan Stock Exchange and Post Office building, which is a very impressive structure.

Inside, you’ll find a large space where you can watch the coffee roasting process from end to end, and choose from an impressive array of coffee based beverages. These range from the expected classics through to everything from pour-over coffees, coffee tasting flights, and even coffee based cocktails.

There are also other, non-coffee based drinks as well as snacks. On-site you’ll also find a store where you can purchase a range of coffee paraphernalia and Starbucks souvenirs.

The Starbucks Roastery is free to visit. Even if you aren’t a fan of Starbucks, we still recommend a quick look at the impressive exterior and interior of this historic building. You can find out more about visiting on the official website here .

Of course, if you would prefer a more traditional coffee experience, we have a recommendation for that too. There are many cafes to be found in Milan, but we would recommend Marchesi 1824 . The original store is on the same route you’ll be following, just a couple of minutes’ walk from the church.

Founded in 1824, this is one of the oldest cafes and pastry shops you can visit in Milan, and the interior of the shop is lovely. So if you are after a quick espresso pick me up and delicious pastry, this is an excellent option. There are also a few tables in the back if you need a break.

Marchesi is now owned by Prada so there is a second Milan location in the Prada store at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Duomo di Milano

Fortified with coffee, it’s time to visit one of Milan’s most impressive buildings, the Duomo di Milan or Milan Cathedral. It is about a 5 minute walk from the Starbucks Reserve Roastery to the Milan Duomo.

This massive marble construction is one of the largest cathedrals in the world, and a must-see when visiting Milan.

The Milan Duomo took almost 600 years to build, with the groundbreaking in 1386 and the building only being officially completed in 1965.

This extended building duration meant that the cathedral was built through both the Gothic and Renaissance periods, and the design draws on a variety of often contrasting architectural styles.

As you might imagine, over the period it was built the design fell in and out of fashion. Alternatively revered and criticized through the ages, we personally think that it was worth the 600 year wait to get to the finished building.

Today, the Duomo is the cathedral church of Milan and an active place of worship. It’s the third largest church in the world and the largest in Italy, and there is a lot to see here.

Inside you’ll find the world’s largest gothic vaults, statues, altars, sarcophagi and beautiful stained-glass windows. There’s also an important relic which holds what is believed to be one of the nails used in the crucifixion of Christ.

Underneath the Duomo, and accessed from inside, you’ll find the Archeological Area. This is where you can see what has been excavated of the Baptisteries of Saint John and Santa Tecla which date from the 4th century AD.

One of our favourite parts of the Duomo is the roof terrace. The roof is a large space filled with stunning gothic spires, and it was designed so visitors could come up and admire them up close. Rooftop access is possible via either stairs or an elevator.

Finally, just across the Piazza from the Duomo is the Museum of the Duomo. Here you will find a number of pieces of art and elements like statues from the cathedral.

All the areas of the Duomo require a ticket to access. Different tickets are available depending on which areas you would like to visit.

Most of the cathedral tickets include access to the cathedral, the archaeological area, and the Duomo Museum. You pay extra if you also want to visit the rooftop terraces.

Tickets can be bought  here . An option with an audioguide is available  here , or you can book a guided tour  here . The Cathedral with rooftop access is also included on the  Milan Pass .

Don’t forget that this is an active religious building, and like in most churches across Italy, a dress code applies if you wish to enter the cathedral. This generally means nothing too skimpy and that you need to have both your shoulders and knees covered. This applies for both men and women.

Note that if you are on a tight budget, you can still enjoy the lively Piazza del Duomo and the impressive exterior of this magnificent cathedral for free. It is definitely still worth seeing even if you aren’t planning to go inside.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Moments away from the Duomo, and on the same Piazza, you will find an entrance to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This is a huge glass and steel shopping mall fronted by a triumphal arch which opened in 1877.

That makes it one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, and we’d argue it’s also one of the more picturesque malls you are likely to visit.

The four-storey interior consists of a pair of intersecting glass-topped arcades. Where the streets intersect, there’s a massive glass and metalwork dome. On the ground is a beautiful mosaic floor.

If you are interested in high-end shopping, then the Galleria is definitely a good place to check out. Designer stores including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada can all be found within, alongside bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Even if you aren’t shopping on a high-end fashion budget, we’d argue the Galleria is well worth a visit. It’s free to visit, it’s right by the Duomo, and it is quite a marvel to behold.

La Scala Theatre

Just a minute’s walk from the Galleria is the Teatro alla Scala, also known as La Scala. This is one of the world’s most famous opera houses. It dates from 1778, although it has been expanded and modernised over the years.

The theatre is fully operational, so you can of course visit for a performance should you wish. There are regular ballet and opera performances, and if this is of interest you can see the schedule of performances and book tickets on the official website  here .

However, you don’t have to take in a performance to visit the theatre. There is a small museum on site, or you can take one of the hosted guided tours that the theatre runs.

Museum access gives you access to some of the boxes, so you can see the theatre itself. This is dependent of course on the rehearsal schedule, which you can check online before you visit.

Alternatively, you can take one of the guided tours. These have quite limited availability, so do book in advance if you want to do one of these. They offer tours in both Italian and English. On a tour you get to see behind the scenes of how the theatre works. They are a bit more expensive than the museum access, but you also get a much more in-depth experience.

You will want to check tour times as they are limited, and you may need to adjust this itinerary accordingly depending on the guided tour time.

You can see tour times and prices, as well as museum entry times and prices on the  museum website here . Access to the Museum is also included on the  Milan Pass .

Nighttime options

After a full day of sightseeing, you may be wondering what to do in the evening. Now you have a number of options.

Of course, you could have dinner and head back to your hotel or apartment to relax. You’ve certainly earned it. Check out some ideas for Milanese dishes to try in our guide to things to do in Milan .

In the warm weather months, there are lots of bars and restaurants with outdoor tables set up that are perfect for enjoying an aperitivo and/or meal and watching the world go by.

However, if you did want some evening entertainment there are of course plenty of options.

First, you could take an evening aperitivo tour like this . Or just head out to a local bar for a drink and to enjoy local life.

If you would prefer to sightsee in the evening, there are also evening walking tours like this , although you may want to adjust your itinerary for the day as these do revisit some of the same locations you’ve already been.

Another option would be to attend an evening performance of live music, opera or ballet. You can see some of the live performances available and book tickets here .

Milan Itinerary Day 2

For your second day in Milan, you have a few options. First, you could take a day trip out of the city. Milan is well positioned for exploring the local area, with fast train travel opening up a wealth of possibilities.

We have a number of suggestions further on in the post for day trips from the city, but one great option would be to take a day trip to Lake Como , which is just an hour north of the city.

You can also visit destinations including Verona, Florence, Bologna and even Venice from Milan.

Another option would be to indulge in a day of shopping. We’ve included shopping recommendations in this itinerary, but you are welcome to dedicate the whole day to shopping of course. For example, if you want to visit the outlet village you’d probably want to spend most of the day there.

Of course, there is still lots more to see in Milan, so here are some suggested stops for a second day in the city.

Castello Sforzesco

Your first stop on your second day in Milan is the imposing Castello Sforzesco .

This was built as the residence of the powerful family ruling Milan in the mid 15th century, and they spared no expense in making it into quite the structure.

It had to be built for two purposes, defensive and residential. Italy at the time was divided and ruled by different families, and conflicts were not uncommon. So the Castle had to be built to be highly defensive.

Presumably however, no-one wanted to live in a castle that wasn’t also aesthetically pleasing. To solve this problem, the finest artisans of the day (including Leonardo Da Vinci), were employed to ensure it was also a grand place to live and entertain.

The overall result was rather impressive. When completed, it was one of the largest fortresses in Europe, with massively thick defensive walls and towers that also happened to have interiors designed by Da Vinci and Bramante. The best of both worlds.

Today, the majority of the castle has survived, with much of it used to house a number of interesting museums. These cover a range of subjects including Renaissance art, archaeology, musical instruments, and ancient art. There’s even an unfinished marble sculpture by Michaelangelo.

You can visit the castle grounds for free, but entry to the Castle Museums is ticketed. One ticket covers all the museums within the castle. We think it offers great value considering how much it includes. Just be sure to keep your ticket within reach as you will need it as you go along to different sections of the castle.

You can spend most of the day exploring all the museums here (there is a lot here), so we’d recommend allocating at least a couple of hours here.

You can see prices and opening times here . It’s also included on the 3-day Tourist Museum Card.

Parco Sempione

Found adjacent to Castello Sforzesco, Parco Sempione offers 95 acres of park land and impressive views of the castle. In fact, it was built in 1888 specifically with the goal of giving park visitors a panoramic view of the castle, a goal we think it achieved.

After a few hours exploring the museums and grounds of the castle, the park makes for a welcome place to relax for a while. There are sculptures and ponds to admire as well as shaded lawn to relax on. You’ll also find ice-cream vendors and there are often musicians performing here as well.

If you are hungry, you might stop and grab some sandwiches or pizza and have a picnic at the park.

If you want a good view of Milan, the park is also home to the 108 meter (354 ft) high Branca tower. This panoramic viewing tower offers some of the best views of the city, and it’s also served by an elevator making it an easy viewpoint to get to.

It’s ticketed, and you can buy your ticket online in advance here .

Pinacoteca di Brera

Milan has an excellent selection of museums, covering a variety of subjects. One of our favourite art museums in Milan is the Pinacoteca di Brera, which is just a 10-minute walk from Parco Sempione.

This gallery focuses on work by Italian artists, covering the 13th century through to the 20th century. These artists include Raphael, Bramantino, Mantegana, and Canaletto, amongst many others.

There’s a fee to visit, and when we visited you needed to pre-book your ticket online in advance to visit. You can read more about opening times and prices on the official website  here .

Of course, there are many other museums to choose from in Milan depending on your interests, which you could visit instead of or as well as the Pinacoteca di Brera.

As well as the many museums in Castello Sforzesco, consider checking out:

• Museum of Science and Technology – Italy’s largest science and technology museum.
• Museo del Novecento – an art museum that focuses on 20th century art located near the Duomo.
• Pinacoteca Ambrosiana – art gallery which includes works by Da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
• Civic Archaeological Museum -covers the ancient to medieval periods, including sections dedicated to Etruscan, Roman, and Ancient Greek artifacts.
• Natural History Museum – dioramas and exhibits covering the history of the natural world. A great option if you are visiting Milan with family.
• Casa Milan Museum – The official Museum of the AC Milan football club.
• Bagatti Valsecchi Museum  – A historic house museum with Renaissance decorative arts, sculptures, and paintings.
• Triennale Design Museum  – A design and art museum found in the Parco Sempione.
• Gallerie d’Italia –  An art museum displaying Italian works from the 19th and 20th centuries located near the Teatro alla Scala.

We think you should find something to suit your interests from this selection of museums in Milan!

Shopping at the Quadrilatero della Moda

One of the many reasons that people visit Milan is for the incredible shopping opportunities here, so on your second day in Milan you could definitely indulge in some retail therapy. Or just some wallet-friendly window shopping.

Pretty much every high-end Italian fashion label has a store in the city, so if you wanted to add to your wardrobe, Milan can definitely sort you out.

If you’re wanting to shop for high-end designer wear in Milan, then we recommend you head to the Quadrilatero della Moda , which literally translates as fashion square. It is also known as the Via Montenapoleone fashion district, This is around a 10-minute walk from the Pinacoteca di Brera.

Here you will find the highest concentration of Italian design houses and boutiques. Milan is not just about high-end fashion of course. You’ll also find stores catering to a wide range of budgets and styles. You’ll also find lots of global brands here, not just Italian ones.

If you’d like to learn more about fashion in Milan, you may also consider taking a  tour like this  with a style guide. They’ll guide you through the options and you’ll learn about the history of fashion, what a Made in Italy label means, and visit a designer’s studio.

If you are more in search of a bargain, then you might consider heading out of the city to visit the Serravalle Designer Outlet centre. With over 200 stores, including Versace, Gucci, Nike, Armani, Calvin Klein, Prada, Celine, Levis, Burberry, and The North Face, this massive shopping centre is located about an hour from Milan.

You can visit the shopping outlet by train, or you can book a convenient round trip shuttle transfer here .

Shoah Memorial

Our next recommended stop is the Shoah Memorial which is located next to the Milan Central train station. The easiest way to get here is to take the metro from the fashion district to the train station, which takes about 15 minutes. There is also a hop on hop off bus stop at Milan Central station, as well as trolleybus services you can take.

During the Second World War, millions of Jews as well as other groups deemed by the Nazis to be inferior were systematically murdered.

Milan played a role in this genocide. The Milan Centrale train station was the deportation facility for the Jews of Northern Italy. Here, they were loaded onto trains and sent to the concentration camps, where the majority of them were killed.

This took place in the underground area of the train station, which was designed for freight processing and transport. It was underground so as to avoid disruption to passenger services.

The underground location meant that processing and loading of prisoners onto the livestock freight cars could happen in secret. Once loaded, the cars were raised via elevator onto the tracks and dispatched to the concentration camps.

For decades, the underground Platform 21 was largely forgotten. However, it has now been renovated and restored as a moving public memorial, and it opened as the Memoriale Della Shoah Di Milano in 2013.

Here the visit starts with an introduction by a staff member and inside you will see the deportation platform, a railway car used for deportation, the wall of names, testimonials, and places of reflection.

There’s a fee for visiting, and you can find out more about opening hours and prices  here . It is closed on Fridays. Guided tours are normally available on weekends and it is recommended that if you wish to do a guided tour, that you book these in advance.

Be sure to check their opening dates and times before planning your visit. There is also a library and bookshop located here.

Navigli District

To finish off your second day in Milan we recommend heading to the popular Navigli District. This is in the south of the city, and is easily reached by metro, with the nearest stop being P. TA Genova FS.

It’s around a 25-minute journey from the Shoah Memorial or 20 minutes from the fashion district. There are also hop on hop off bus stops in the Navigli district.

Here, you’ll find what remains of Milan’s canal system. Originally, Milan had five canals, which were used to transport goods to and from the city. The marble used to construct the Duomo for example would have arrived by canal.

Today, only two of the canals remain, the Naviglio Grande and the Naviglio Parvese. These form a triangle that is today known as the Navigli district.

This is a very popular place to while away an evening over an aperitivo or meal. There is a huge range of restaurants and cafes to choose from, and there are also art galleries, book shops and design stores to peruse.

It is worth noting that prices in the Navigli district for food and drinks are usually a little higher than in other parts of the city due to the popularity. But it is a lovely location and we always come here for a drink and meal when in Milan.

In the spring and summer months you might also consider taking a canal cruise, which you can book  here (seasonal). A canal cruise is also included on the Milan Pass .

You can also visit the Navigli area on a guided tour like  this , and on an aperitivo tour like  this .

2 Day Milan Itinerary Summary

Here’s an overview of this two-day Milan itinerary.

• Day 1: The Last Supper, Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, Starbucks Reserve Roastery, Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, La Scala Theatre
• Day 2: Castello Sforzesco, Parco Sempione, Pinacoteca di Brera, Shopping at the Quadrilatero della Moda, Shoah Memorial, Navigli District

Map of Milan Things to Do

To help you visualise our Milan itinerary and plan your day we’ve put together this map of the attractions on each day. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

Day Trips from Milan

There is a lot to see and do in Milan itself, but the city also lends itself well to being a base for day trips to the surrounding area.

Italy has an excellent high speed rail system, so you could easily put together your own day trips. Cities and towns like Verona, Bologna, Turin and Modena can all be reached by train in under 90 minutes.

You can also get to popular destinations like Lake Como and Lake Garda easily. One of our favourite day trips from Milan is Lake Como, where you can easily hop between the picturesque lake front villages on the ferry services.

There are also a number of companies offering guided tours from Milan to nearby attractions. These normally include round trip transport and the services of a guide. Some also include extras like meals and attraction entry.

Some tours we suggest from Milan include the following.

• This full day tour  which include Lake Como, Bellagio, and Varenna, as well as a cruise on the lake
• This full day tour  which has you riding the Bernina train through the Swiss Alps and visiting the famous luxury resort St. Moritz
• This full day tour  to Lake Como, Bellagio and Lugano, which also includes a cruise on the lake
• A full day tour  to Cinque Terre from Milan
• This full day tour  to Verona and Lake Garda from Milan, which includes a boat tour on the lake
• This full day tour  to the Ligurian coast, visiting Genoa and Portofino, with a sail boat ride included

Tips for Visiting Milan

Our main tip for visiting Milan is to decide well in advance which attractions you really want to see, and look into if you need to book advance tickets or a tour.

The most popular attraction in Milan is the Last Supper, which also has the most limited tickets. So if this is on your list of attractions to see, you will definitely want to check when tickets become available on the official site so you can purchase them as far in advance as possible.

Alternatively, look into the walking tours, such as the walking tour we did which included the Last Supper. Walking tours tend to have better availability closer to the time, so this is also a good fall back option if tickets are not available on your preferred date.

Another tour which is very popular and has limited availability is the guided tour of La Scala Theatre. So again, you will want to check the official website to check when tickets become available and make a note in your diary to book them.

Other attractions tend to have better availability, but it is still worth checking which require advance ticket purchases. On recent visits to Milan, we’ve had to book in advance to visit museums like the Pinacoteca di Brera and for rooftop access to the Duomo for example.

The further in advance you book, the better your chances of securing a timeslot that works for your itinerary, and the lower the chances of disappointment.

The other thing to keep in mind when visiting Milan, as with other Italian cities, is that many of the sights are places of worship. As such, they normally have a dress code which will be enforced.

The dress code normally requires men and women to cover their shoulders and their knees. Men are also required to remove any hats.

If you are visiting Italy in the cooler months, then this dress code will probably be easy to adhere to. However, in the summer months it is very common to see visitors being turned away because they are not appropriately dressed.

If you don’t want to wear long sleeves or pants, then you might want to travel with a lightweight travel wrap so you can cover yourself when necessary, and then pack it away when not in use.

Where to Stay in Milan

Milan has plenty of accommodation options to choose from. Here are some suggested options, ordered approximately by budget from low to high.

• Ostello Bello  – if you’re looking for a centrally located budget option in Milan, this is a great option. Just 10 minutes’ walk from the Duomo, Ostello Bello offers both private and dormitory accommodation, with both dinner and breakfast included.
• Babila Hostel & Bistrot  – another well reviewed and centrally located hostel, Babila Hostel has both private rooms and dormitory style accommodation. Breakfast is included.
• Hotel Star  – an excellent value and well reviewed 3* hotel within close walking distance of the city centre attractions. En-suite rooms with breakfast available.
• Rooms Milano Duomo  – 2 minutes walk from the Duomo, this is a good 3* property with excellent reviews. Rooms are en-suite, some with city views, and come with tea/coffee making facilities
• Hotel Bristol  – If you are traveling by train, this 3* hotel is an excellent choice. It’s right by Milan central station, featuring en-suite air-conditioned rooms
• Brunelleschi Hotel  – A well rated and good value 4* hotel just moments from the Duomo and other city-centre attractions. Rooms are all en-suite, and a breakfast buffet is included.
• Matilde Boutique Hotel  – a very well rated 4* boutique hotel just a few moments walk from the Duomo. There’s a restaurant and bar on site, breakfast is included, and rooms are all en-suite.
• Room Mate Giulia  – another highly rated and centrally located 4* hotel. Rooms are modern and en-suite, and breakfast is available.
• Galleria Vik Milano  – found within the stunning Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, this well located 5* hotel offers high end accommodation. Some rooms have views of the gallery, breakfast is included, and naturally rooms are en-suite with coffee machines.

Hopefully this gives you plenty of options – whatever your budget.

How to Get Around Milan

Whilst Milan is a large city, most of the attractions that visitors will want to see can be found towards the centre, within walking distance of each other. In addition, we’ve set up this itinerary in as logical a way as possible, to minimise travel time and maximise sightseeing.

That said, you might still want to take advantage of the public transport system to get to and from your hotel, or to visit locations like the Navigli district.

The good news is that Milan has an excellent public transport system which includes an underground metro, trams, trolleybuses, and buses. There are also hop on hop off buses that cover the main visitor attractions, as well as e-scooters and bikes which can be rented via smartphone apps.

Normally we use the underground metro as we find it to be fast and cost effective, and the five metro lines cover most of the city.

To ride the public transport system, you can purchase either single use tickets, or you can buy a single day or three-day ticket. Obviously the best value will depend on how much you plan to use public transport during your stay in Milan.

Suggested Walking Tours in Milan

One of our favourite ways to explore a new city is on a walking tour. We’ve taken a lot of walking tours in cities across the world and loads of them in Italy.

• This  3 hour walking tour  offers many of the highlights of the city as well as Last Supper tickets and access to the Milan Duomo. This is the walking tour we took in Milan that included our Last Supper tickets and tour.
• There are similar tours to the above, so if that one doesn’t have availability, check out either  this 3 hour walking tour  which includes skip the line access to the Duomo and tickets to The Last Supper or  this tour  which includes the Last Supper.
• This private fashion tour  with a style guide will have you learning all about the history of fashion and visiting some of Milan’s most well-known designer stores
• This small group gourmet food tour  includes stops at a number of locations with tastings and drinks
• This evening aperitivo tour  focuses on the late afternoon tradition of aperitivo, with drinks and street food style snacks in the trendy Navigli area
• This food and walking tour  of the historic Brera district includes a number of traditional regional dishes and wines
• This 1.5 hour tour  of Cimiterio Monumentale is a good way to visit the cemetery and see some of the more interesting locations
• This walking tour of the Navigli  area includes information on the history and design of the canals and the evolution of the area
• If you prefer to see Milan at night,  this 2 hour evening tour  takes you around the historical center of Milan at night and shares stories of the city.

Hopefully you will find plenty of options for tours in Milan if that is of interest to you.

Saving Money with Milan Attraction Passes

When we visit a city, we always check to see if there is a city sightseeing pass that might save us money. These often include free or discounted entry to attractions, and also often include public transport.

The main passes that are available for Milan are:

• The  Milan Pass . This 48-hour city pass includes a hop on hop off bus, free entry to various museums including La Scala, Duomo with rooftop access, as well as the option to include public transport.
• The  Milano Card . This card includes free public transport and discounts on a number of museums and attractions. Available for 1, 2, or 3 days.
• The  Tourist Museum Card . This three day card includes access to the civic museums of Milan, which includes the 8 museums in Castello Sforzesco as well as five other museums. It’s a great value card if the museums it covers are on your itinerary.

For most visitors we think Milan Pass makes the most sense as it includes free entry to the most popular sights in Milan including the rooftop of the Duomo. It also includes the hop on hop off bus and a Navigli Canal Cruise (seasonal).

If you are more interested in public transport and visiting some sights with a discount, then the Milano Card might make more sense.

Further Reading

We’ve visited Italy many times, and have explored lots of the cities and regions that the country has to offer. Here are some more posts we think you’ll find useful to help you plan your trip.

• We have a guide to all our favourite things to do in Milan , if you are looking for more options for your time in the city
• If you’re visiting Rome we have a guide to spending  1 day in Rome , as well as guides for  2 days in Rome  and  3 days in Rome , which should help you plan your time effectively. We also have a guide to  things to do in Rome  in general.
• As well as Rome, we also have a  guide to Florence , and tips for  a day in Venice
• We also have a detailed  10 day Italy itinerary  to help you plan a trip in this wonderful country, as well as a  2 week Europe itinerary  if you’re looking to see more of the continent
• If you’re planning on visiting Milan in summer, read our  tips for visiting a European city in summer  to stay sane

And that’s it for our guide to spending 2 days in Milan! As always, if you have any questions or comments, just pop them in the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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11th September 2022 at 11:22 pm

Thanks Laurence for your super quick answer. this is very helpful and I think that will work for our first day in Milan.

We will definitely go see the La Scala opera building, but maybe we’ll skip the actual visit to the inside and spend more time in the other places that day. Will check the tour times and ask the wife what she thinks 😉 Thx again

11th September 2022 at 4:29 pm

Very helpful, wish I would have come across this information a few weeks ago. I am travelling with my family to Milan in October and have a visit scheduled for the Last Supper at 3:00pm. I don’t think I can change the time as they are mostly sold out but really like how you have itinerary layout and am wondering how you would recommend I reorganize Day 1 to adjust for this? Thx

Laurence Norah says

11th September 2022 at 4:36 pm

Thanks very much! So honestly with the availability of the Last Supper being what it is, it is often a case of just getting what you can. It’s good news that you managed to get a ticket, regardless of the time.

My suggestion would probably be to do the day in reverse, starting at the Galleria Vittorio and going in reverse through Day 1. The only question is the visit to La Scala. If you are ok just visiting the museum, then you can just do that first. However, if wanted to do a tour I believe they only run those once a day in the afternoon in English, so if that was of interest you might have to do that on your second day, or after the Last Supper, depending on what time the tour is.

Other than that though the itinerary should still work for you. Enjoy Milan, and do let us know how you go!

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Milan Travel Guide & Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting Milan, Italy

This article has been reviewed and fact-checked. We live in Italy and travel throughout the country to help you make the best choices for your trip. To provide the highest quality content, portions of this article have been written using assistive AI tools for help with spell-checking, grammar, and translation.

• When choosing accommodation in Milan, stay near the Duomo or the central train station for convenience and proximity to major attractions.
• Book tickets to see Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Last Supper painting months in advance since availability is limited.
• Avoid visiting during Milan's Fashion Week in September or the Salone Del Mobile furniture fair in April due to crowds and high prices.

Are you looking for a travel guide or planning a trip to Italy and want to make the best of your tour of Milan ? Today, we’ll give you some essential travel tips to know before you go to make your visit to Milan even more special.

As one of the world’s major fashion capitals, Milan offers fantastic shopping, dining, museums, and architecture. But it can also be an overwhelming city for first-time visitors. That’s why having a game plan is key to making the most of your Milan vacation.

Best Places to Stay in Milan

Before we get into the tips, let here are some of the best places to stay in Milan based on our experience. Hope this helps.

Things To Know Before Visiting Milan

Now, let’s learn what you need to know before travelling to Italy’s fashion and financial capital, Milan. 

Fly into Milan Linate or Malpensa Airport

Milan is served by two airports: Linate and Malpensa. Linate handles mostly domestic and intra-Europe flights and it is close to Milan’s city center. It’s only about a 15-20 minute drive or train ride into downtown.

Malpensa Airport is bigger and handles many global routes and low cost flights. But it’s situated nearly an hour outside central Milan. Upon arrival, you can take a train, bus, or taxi into the city proper. We recommend flying into Linate if possible since it maximizes your time in this fabulous city!

Take the High-Speed Train from Other Italian Cities

One easy and scenic way to reach Milan is by high-speed rail. Modern Frecciarossa and Italo trains take passengers from Rome to Milan in only 3 hours. You can also take high-speed trains from Venice, Florence, Naples, and Turin in 2-5 hours, depending on where you’re coming from.

We always try to travel by train in Italy when we can. It’s much more comfortable and environmentally friendly. Plus, you get to admire gorgeous countryside views out the window. We also do not recommend driving in Milan due to traffic and the lack of parking spaces. 

Spend at Least 2 Full Days Exploring

There are so many things to do in Milan as well as attractions to see, such as world-class shopping, the paintings of Leonardo da Vinci, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, the La Scala opera house, the Sforzesco Castle, and the Gothic Duomo Cathedral. You can take a stroll to Parco Sempione or throughout the city. Milan is a great city, you’ll want ample time to experience all that it has to offer.

It’s a very walkable city but still quite large and spread out. At the absolute minimum, we’d recommend budgeting two full days to see the top sights. If you can spare three days, that would allow you a more relaxed pace or even a side trip to charming Lake Como. Trust me, you won’t run out of great things to eat, see, and do here!

Stay Near the Duomo or Stazione Centrale

When choosing Milan accommodation , an inner city location is best to minimize travel time to key sights, however, it’s pricier. More affordable lodging options abound near Stazione Centrale or anywhere along the vital Red M1 or Yellow M2 metro lines, providing the handiest Duomo access.

The new Blue M4 also makes stops within reasonable proximity. With only a few days to experience Milan’s treasures, lengthy commutes waste precious hours better spent immersed in culture and cuisine. 

Though budget dictates hotel possibilities, proximity to those key metro routes ensures you keep commute frustration minimal and sightseeing efficiency maximal. Treat the metro map as your accommodation holy grail for an ideal stay.

Use the Metro System to Get Around or For Your Day Trips

Navigating Milan is a breeze thanks to its efficient Metro system. It consists of five color-coded lines that can take you to every must-see spot. At only €2 per ride , it’s also a super affordable way to get around.

Or you can get a 24-hour pass for €7.60 or a €13 ticket for a 3-day pass, which allows unlimited trips. You can buy these tickets at metro stations using the automatic machines or newsstands that sell tickets. 

We used the Metro constantly while exploring Milan and found it clean, easy to navigate, and reliable. Plus, it helped us avoid traffic above ground. You can also download an app that gives you all the information about the Milan Metro system. 

Be sure to take the Metro when sightseeing, and you’ll get everywhere you want to go!

Experience Riding Trams

For a taste of old Milan, ride the historical tram to see the city streets in vintage style. Some companies have refurbished 1930s trams where you can watch the changing face of Milan glide over a delicious multi-course meal paired with Italian wines.

As you relax inside the retro carriage, it’s a unique vantage point to soak up iconic sights and daily local scenes. The tram gently shuttles you through the city’s past and present charms.

Visit in Spring or Fall – Skip August

Milan gets hot and extremely humid in the summer months, and August can be brutal, with temperatures frequently topping 86+ degrees Fahrenheit or 30° Celsius . The city basically shuts down in August as locals flee to beach vacations.

We always recommend visiting in spring or fall when the weather is far milder and more comfortable for long sightseeing days. September and October have pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. 

December is also a wonderful time to visit Milan despite the chilly weather (usually around 5-7° C or  44-41° F during the day and 1-2° C or 33-35° F at night. The city is beautifully decorated for Christmas, and holiday shopping here is an exceptional experience.

Book Tickets to The Last Supper Months in Advance

This tip to book tickets in advance before visiting attractions is recommended not only for Milan but most places in Italy to save precious time queueing. Doing so means you skip lines and avoid the disappointment of long waits at ticket offices only to find the attraction you want is sold out–a common fate when demand exceeds limited capacity, like for Leonardo’s Last Supper fresco.

Milan’s Cenacolo only allows few daily visitors to protect the masterpiece, thus tickets sell out weeks in advance. If you want to see Da Vinci’s incredible fresco, we strongly advise buying your tickets immediately, as this practice guarantees both entry and the best experience.

Time Your Visit to Avoid Fashion Week and Salone del Mobile

You probably know that Milan is one of the fashion and design capitals of the world. For this reason, there are two main events that happen in Milan that draw thousands of visitors to the city every year. 

One is Fashion Week, which is usually in mid-September, and the other one is the Salone del Mobile or Furniture Fair, which is usually around mid-April.

These two events can be a lot of fun to attend, but they are also the busiest times in the cities, and during these events, hotels are booked solid for months. Also, hotel prices skyrocketed during these events.

On top of that, during those events, it is really difficult to find tables at restaurants, stores are packed, taxis are difficult to find, and so on. You get the picture!

Indulge in Some of The Local Specialty

Like anywhere in Italy, Milan has fantastic culinary treats visitors should sample, most famously the fragrant, saffron-infused Risotto alla Milanese, often served with tender, braised Veal Ossobuco shanks for a perfect pairing.

Be sure to also try the signature Cotoletta Milanese veal schnitzel, usually served on the bone per tradition. And no trip to Milan is complete without enjoying a vivid red Campari aperitif, invented in the city in 1860 and still made today with a secret recipe.

Ordering Cappuccino After Lunch is a No

Italians firmly believe milk after a morning coffee upsets digestion. So, while a frothy cappuccino may tempt your post-lunch sweet tooth, this remains an enduring cultural taboo.

Instead, opt for a macchiato or espresso to blend in with locals. The late morning cut-off time is no secret rule either–expect to get some eyes looking if you get caught cappuccino-handed past 11 am. 

Italians Are Serious About Latte 

Indeed, Italians are serious about their latte–but not in the way you may expect. Don’t make the mistake of ordering a “latte” at a coffee bar unless you literally want a glass of milk. For an espresso-based drink with milk, request a “cappuccino” for thick foamed milk or a “caffé latte” for more steamed milk than foam. 

Other options include “caffé macchiato” featuring a dollop of frothy milk or a “latte macchiato” spotlighting hot milk over just a splash of coffee. Precision is key when ordering, as Italians zealously guard their classification of coffee drinks. 

Don’t Miss an Aperitivo

Milan’s bustling nightlife is fueled by the time-honored tradition of aperitivo – complementing cocktails or wines with a smorgasbord of free nibbles to nosh before dinner… or instead. The spread sets the stage for long, happy hours hopping bars citywide, though the Navigli district stakes its claim as aperitivo central brimming with options. 

Milan Travel FAQs

Milan is the world’s fashion capital because it has the ideal platforms to promote Italian fashion globally. Milan enables Italian designers to express creativity and identity through clothing to a worldwide audience.

Milan fashion shows are by invitation only for industry insiders, VIPs, and wealthy clients.

Versatile items like oversized blazers, leather jackets, and leather shirt jackets elevate any outfit in Milan.

Milan is famous for Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, the Gothic Duomo Cathedral, and its art and architecture.

When in Milan, shop for luxury “Made in Italy” fashion brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Fendi, Valentino, Giorgio Armani, and Gucci.

Have an Amazing Trip to Milan!

Well, those are our top insider tips for an incredible visit to Milan, Italy’s fashionable Northern capital! From flying into indulging in risotto, we hope you found my advice helpful for planning your own Italian getaway.

Let us know if you have any other questions. I have so much more to share about hotels, side trips, saving money, and lesser-known local gems to uncover. For now, saluti da Milano! 

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Milan travel guide | an insider’s guide to the best of milan, italy.

The best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Milan.

Milan has always stood apart from other cities in Italy since it has a distinctively different vibe than the country’s other most famous destinations. In fact, thanks to its geographical location, Milan has a strong Swiss influence which is reflected in their work ethic and cuisine. But don’t worry because it is still a solid city — so in this Milan travel guide we’ve teamed up with some friendly locals to cover everything you need to know about visiting this dynamic city.

In this Milan Travel Guide we’ll cover what to do, what to see, what to eat, which neighborhoods to visit, and everything else you need to know about exploring this great city. 

[We’ve also written travel guides for  Amsterdam ,  Barcelona ,  Berlin ,  London ,  Paris ,  Rome , and  multiple other cities .]

How Much It Costs To Visit Milan

Milan is one of Italy’s pricier cities since it’s the country’s business and fashion capital. On the other hand, Milan has a lot of cheap transatlantic flights so you might be able to offset the city’s everyday travel expenses with cheap airfare.

We recommend budgeting €35-€60/day for travelers on a backpacker’s budget — you can easily spend more or a bit less but this is a good estimate for your average hostel-staying traveler.

• Attractions:  €10 (one paid attraction + any free sights)
• Breakfast:  €3
• Lunch:  €6
• Dinner:  €12
• Treat (dessert/beer/wine):  €2
• Transportation: €1.50 (but you can easily walk almost everywhere)
• Accommodation (Hostel via  Hostelworld ): €20-28/night or check Booking.com for hotels. 

These prices are based on what you’ll need to visit the city comfortably — they don’t include things like big nights out at the bar, club entry fees, souvenir/clothing shopping, tours, random purchases, nicer food, etc. Don’t forget to budget extra for those “non-essentials.”

How Long To Visit Milan: 2-4 Days

Unlike Rome, Venice, and Florence, Milan doesn’t have a ton of “must see” sights so you can see all the highlights in two days. That said, Milan still has plenty to offer visitors so you can easily spend a handful of enjoyable days exploring the city. There are also plenty of nearby day trips within an hour or two from Milan via the train that are worth checking out.

Therefore, we recommend spending at least two days in Milan if you want to see the highlights and three or four days if you want to travel slower or add in a day trip.

When To Visit Milan + Weather

Visitors often assume that Italy is warm year-round but that’s not the case as Milan can get fairly chilly in the winter. On the other hand, Milan does get hot in the summer months so we recommend visiting April-May or September-October for the best weather. That said, Salone del Mobile (Milan Furniture Fair) runs for a week in mid-April and all the hotels jack up their prices. 

July and August tend to be the busiest months in terms of tourism so you’ll have the fight the biggest crowds during this time. On the other hand, many locals leave the city during this time in favor of the beach-side towns. 

Important Note: Milan is built on swampy land so mosquitos can be very annoying during the warm months (i.e. make sure you have AC because you can’t leave your windows open). 

Winters can get chilly and there might even be a day or two of snow but there is more rain than snow. That said, there are Christmas markets starting in early December which are always fun to check out. Winter is also the cheapest time to visit outside of Men’s Fashion Week in January and Women’s Fashion Week in February.

The Good and Not-So-Good Things About Milan

• Laidback Nightlife: Milan has a few great neighborhoods that come alive at night so you’ll be able to find a bar, restaurant, or club that fits your style. 
• The Duomo and the City Center: The center of Milan is beautiful — especially the Duomo. 
• Great Daytrips: Milan is well-connected to the rest of northern Italy so reaching other towns and areas is fast thanks to the train. 
• The Shopping: Of course there is shopping. Pretty much anything you can imagine can be found in Milan — especially luxury goods. 
• Cheap Flights Into Milan: Milan tends to have a lot of cheap transatlantic flights so you can often some really solid fares. 
• Not a “Must-See” City: We wouldn’t put Milan on a list of the “top” cities in Italy. Don’t get us wrong, we liked Milan but Rome, Florence, Venice, Sienna, etc. are arguably more interesting cities to visit. So, we say keep Milan for your second trip to Italy or spend a day or two there if you’re flying in/out of Milan.
• Not Old-World Italy: When people picture Italy they think of ancient Rome, the hills of Tuscany, and the canals of Venice… but Milan feels a bit more like a European New York. It’s not necessarily a bad thing but it takes some people by surprise.
• The Prices: Milan is the business and fashion capital of Italy so you’re not going to find a lot of cheap prices. Yes, there are some deals to be found (many of which we cover in this guide) but you need to seek them out. 
• Hot Summers and Cool Winters: It can get toasty in the middle of summer and there will be some cold days in the winter.

Milan’s Best Neighborhoods

Milan has a number of unique neighborhoods so you can always find an area to stay that fits your travel style — from vibrant and cosmopolitan life to quiet and laid-back. Furthermore, Milan is a fairly compact city so getting from one neighborhood to another is a quick walk or easy subway/tram ride away. 

Duomo & City Center

At the heart of Milan, you’ll find the Duomo cathedral and we’d consider anything within close proximity to be considered the city center. Milan is fairly compact so the city center is where you’ll find most of the shopping, museums, and plenty of restaurants. Naturally, it does attract a lot of visitors so prices are elevated and quality meals can be tougher to find. 

Brera Neighborhood

It’s easy to see why people fall in love with the Brera neighborhood. It has long been the artistic heart of Milan thanks to its Renaissance-style architecture and lovely cobblestone streets. These days prices are risen (like they always do) but there are still plenty of independent boutiques, small shops, and streets lined with sidewalk cafes. It’s certainly one of Milan chicest and romantic area.

Navigli Neighborhood

We also love the Navigli Neighborhood as it’s one of the hippest and most youthful parts of Milan so you’ll find plenty of great nightlife options here. The canals that run through the area are lined with bars and restaurants but some can be a little expensive. As you move inward into the neighborhood you’ll find plenty of locals enjoying the area’s fun shops and budget-friendly bars/restaurants. We suggest visiting on a weeknight as it’s a popular spot for cool locals relaxing after work — but on the weekend it’s mostly tourists. 

Ticinese & Porta Romana Neighborhoods

In the southern part of Milan, you’ll find the residential neighborhoods of Ticinese and Porta Romana. The Ticinese has a bohemian vibe thanks to its large student population and the Porta Romana is home to many of the city’s wealthiest and most fashionable residents. Both neighborhoods are fairly lowkey with a mixture of hip bars, dive bars, restaurants, vintage shops, and nightlife geared toward the locals at every income range.

Isola Neighborhood

Visit the Isola neighborhood in the northern part of the city to experience the modern and futuristic Milan. Here you’ll find modern skyscrapers and plenty of trendy bars, cafes, galleries, and other nightlife. It’s an interesting area to check out as it was once a working-class and industrial area that is now dotted with ultramodern buildings — so it’s an interesting mix. You’ll also find a lot of street art in the neighborhood.

If you only visit one part of the neighborhood we recommend heading to Corso Como — which is a street that’s home to some of the best nightlife in the city. 

Milan’s Top Sights and Attractions

Milan only has a handful of “must-visit” attractions but between those sights, the shopping, the fun restaurants, the neighborhoods, and day trips, there is plenty to keep you entertained. Here is a list of the best things that Milan has to offer:

Duomo Cathedral and Piazza del Duomo

The Duomo Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo is easily the best thing to check out when you’re in Milan. Located in the very center of Milan, the Duomo attracts thousands of people (and pigeons) every day.

The Piazza is beautiful and 100% worth checking out but it’s always crowded with people — including lots of pickpockets so watch your stuff. We recommend visiting at night as well since the Duomo Cathedral and the surrounding building are beautifully illuminated. Most of the bars and restaurants on the square are expensive but that shouldn’t be too surprising. 

And, of course, you have to visit the Duomo — which is one of the world’s largest cathedrals in the world (it can hold more than 11,000 people inside!) and it took over 600 years to complete. But our favorite thing about the Duomo is seeing the city from the Duomo’s roof.

The standard admission to visit just the cathedral is €3.50. The ticket lines will be insanely long so expect to wait well over an hour (in full sun) if you’re buying tickets at the ticket office (or you can arrive around 30 minutes before opening). However, you can skip the ticket lines by purchasing your tickets online for a specific timeslot (but we recommend buying them a bit in advance since they can sell out). Buy ticket directly from the Duomo Website .  

Tickets to visit the cathedral and the rooftop are €17 (elevator to the roof) or €13 (stairs to the roof). There is also a “fast track” ticket for €25 that includes everything and it gives you access to an even faster line. 

You can also visit just the rooftops for €10 (stairs), €14 (lift), or €23 (fast track ticket w/ lift access).

• See On Google Maps
• Visit The Official Website

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Covered Shopping Center ( Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II )

Right next to the Duomo you’ll find Italy’s oldest and most beautiful shopping center. Built in 1867, this impressive covered arcade now houses luxury cafés and high-end designer boutiques.

Don’t have an Amex Black Card? Don’t worry, the Galleria is still worth visiting for the architecture and window shopping. 

Ohh and be on the lookout for a mosaic of a bull on the floor because its good luck to put your foot on the bull’s testicles and spin around. You can’t really miss all the people 

Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper

The Last Supper is one of the most famous paintings in the world and it’s also one of the hardest paintings to actually see in-person. Why? Because the painting isn’t in very good condition so they only allow around 1000 people a day to see it. Furthermore, tour guides and ticket resellers snatch up many of the tickets so there aren’t many tickets left over for regular folks.

Tickets go on sale about three months in advance and they’re often sold out within a few days of going on sale. 

Full price tickets are €12 and you can buy them from the official website (they also offer a few English tours every day for a few Euros extra). You can also sometimes score last-minute walk-up tickets each morning. 

The easiest way to see the Last Supper is by booking a third-party guided tour. The museum only allows licensed tour guides to give tours so that’s a positive thing but tours start around $50.

The Last Supper painting is located in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.

Museo del Novecento

Opened in 2010, the is features around 400 pieces of twentieth-century art from mainly Italian artists but there are a few international artists there as well (Warhol, Kosuth, Lichtenstein, Buren, etc.). 

As an added bonus, the museum offers some really nice views of the Duomo. Admission is €10.

Sforza Castle ( Castello Sforzesco )

After you’ve spent some time exploring the area around the Duomo, make the leisurely walk to the Sforza Castle (there is lots of shopping along the way). 

Originally built in the 15th century, Sforza Castle has long been one of the largest citadels in the world. These days it houses multiple smaller museums with works from Vinci and Michelangelo and a beautiful courtyard. The castle grounds are free to visit but tickets to visit the museums are €10 (you can also buy a multi-day pass if you want to take your time).

Budget Tip: There is free entry every first and third Tuesday of the month after 2 pm.

Sempione Park ( Parco Sempione ) and the Branca Tower

Sempione Park is the largest park in Milan and it makes a great spot to escape the heat and bustle of the city. You can find both sunny and shaded areas so it’s a popular place for a nice picnic.  

There is also a giant tower in the park that you can pay to go up to get panoramic views of Milan. 

Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science & Technology

The Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science & Technology is the largest science and technology museum in Italy and it features exhibits that span everything from transportation and energy to Da Vinci’s inventions. There are a lot of interactive exhibits so this is a nice spot for kids as well. Admission is €10.

• Visit The Official Website 

Pinacoteca di Brera Fine Art Gallery

For one of the best collections of Italian paintings head to the Pinacoteca di Brera. The building, which is a work of art on its own, houses an impressive collection spanning over 36 rooms. The museum also has a beautiful garden filled with sculptures. There is also a painting restoration lab where you can see paintings being expertly restored. Admission is €12.

Scala Opera House & Piazza della Scala

The Scala Opera House is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and it has hosted some of the most well-known operas and ballets for over 200 years. So, if you’re a fan of opera, you might want to catch a show. Tip: You can score 25% off last-minute tickets if you visit the box office an hour before the show starts. 

We took a guided tour of the Scala and it was honestly really bad — but that might have been the fault of the guide.

Across the street from the Opera House is the Piazza della Scala and it’s a nice spot for people watching. 

Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio (Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio)

While the Duomo gets a bulk of the attention, the 4th-century Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio is still worth a visit if you’re looking for something peaceful and away from the crowds. 

• See on Google Maps
• Visit the Official Website

One of our favorite neighborhood in Milan is the Brera. This lovely and artistic heart of Milan is famous for its Renaissance-style architecture, cute cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The Brera is filled with upscale shopping and dining options but it really comes to life at night when the sidewalk cafes fill up with people enjoying life. So spend some time strolling around and watch the world pass by at a sidewalk cafe. 

Naviglio Grande Canal & The Navigli Neighborhood

One of our favorite parts of Milan is the Navigli Neighborhood — specifically the Naviglio Grande Canal. The canal dates back hundreds of years but these days its one of the hippest spots in Milan. The canal is lined with dozens of bars and restaurants so the area gets packed with people enjoying the nightlife.

Nabbing a seat outside is always tough but it’s worth the fight as its the best spot for people watching in Milan. 

You can walk to the canal from central Milan but easier to take the trolly. 

Milan Central Train Station

Opened in 1931, the Milan Central Train Station was commissioned by Mussolini to showcase the power of his regime. And, thanks to its towering walls, its still Europe’s largest train station by volume. So, if you’re traveling through the station, take a few moments to marvel at the grandiose nature of the interior and exterior of the station.

We suggest arriving early since it might take you a while to find your train simply because the station is so large. The station is also a hotspot for pickpockets. 

Retail Therapy

Milan arguably has the best shopping in all of Europe — especially when it comes to clothing. There are a handful of long shopping streets with international brands, small boutiques, and just about every luxury brand has shops here.

• The main shopping area is called the Q uadrilatero Della Moda (sometimes called the Quad d’Oro ) is an upscale shopping area that many people consider it the best shopping area in the world. See The Area on Google Maps .
• For international chain stores head to the streets of Corso Buenos Aires  and on  Corso Vittorio Emanuele II  in the center of the city. 
• The Brera Neighborhood has small boutiques and other artsy shops. See On Google Maps .
• The Navigli Neighborhood has a lot of independent and funky shopping options. See On Google Maps

Looking to score a deal on designer brands like Prana and Fendi? Head to one of the DMAG outlet stores where you can score some solid deals on designer Italian and international brands. See Locations On Google Maps

Budget Tip: Luxury goods are often a bit cheaper in Italy than in N. America since you can get a refund on the tax if the item costs more than €155.

AC Milan San Siro Stadium

AC Milan is one of Europe’s best soccer teams so seeing a game is always a fun experience. The stadium can hold more than 80,000 people so the atmosphere on gameday is truly amazing.

Ride An Old Trolly

Milan has a nice series of trolleys that let you quickly and easily cross the city. Many of the trolleys are modern but there are still a handful of older-style cars.

San Bernardino alle Ossa

This church that dates back to 1210 is famous for its small chapel decorated with numerous human skulls and bones. It’s both interesting and creepy so it’s worth stopping in if you’re in the area. 

Take A Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to see a city is through taking a walking tour. Personally, we’re fans of free (aka tip-based) tours. Here are a few popular free walking tour companies: 

• Strawberry Tours
• Walkabout Tours
• Frog Walking Tours

Where & What To Eat in Milan

Milan has no shortage of places to eat ut in this guide we’re going to focus on local favorites and budget-friendly restaurants.

But before we look at where to eat, let’s take a look at local dishes that you might want to order. 

• Coffee: Most locals order an espresso in the morning. Some might get a cappuccino or other milk-based coffee drink. Note: Milk-based coffee is seen as a breakfast drink so you might get some weird looks if you order a cappuccino, caffé latte, caffé macchiato, etc after lunch.
• Risotto: The region surrounding Milan is famous for risotto so be sure to seek out a traditional restaurant that makes risotto alla Milanese.
• Polenta: R isotto may reign supreme in Milan but their polenta is also famous throughout Italy. 
• Ossobuco: Milan is famous for their Ossobuco — a cross-cut veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine, and broth. It is often served with risotto alla milanese .
• Cotoletta alla Milanese: The cotoletta alla Milanese is basically an Italian version of schnitzel. Very tasty. 
• Minestrone Milanese: Take a break from the hearty cotoletta alla Milanese  and gelato with some Minestrone Milanese (i.e. vegetable soup).
• Negroni Sbagliato: One of my favorite drinks it the Negroni. But in Milan they have a Negroni Sbagliato (which translates to  Negroni Mistake ). Legend has it that a barman in Milan mistakenly used sparkling wine instead of gin and the drink become a local hit.

Ok, let’s take a look at some awesome places to eat!

Trattoria Milanese

Looking for a traditional Milanese restaurant that’s loved by locals? Look no further than Trattoria Milanese. This place is an old-world institution (it’s opened in 1933) with great waiters and better food. Trattoria Milanese is a popular spot so expect a wait. 

You can’t visit Milan without stopping at Luini for their panzerotti — which are fluffy fried dough half-moons stuffed with tomato, mozzarella, and other fillings (they’re kind of like a small calzone). And at under € 3/each, it’s no wonder why this place alllllways has a long line of people waiting to get their hands on these tasty treats but the line moves quickly. 

The locals know that De Santis is the place to get the best sandwiches in Milan — and the prices are very reasonable. The staff is super friendly and they have a nice selection of local beer to boot. Don’t worry if there is a line as it’s worth the wait. I’m getting hungry just thinking about this place.

Volemose Bene

            View this post on Instagram                     Happy birthday Maritinoooo???????????????? A post shared by Marina Ferioli (@marina.ferioli64) on May 19, 2019 at 2:18pm PDT

Here is another one of Milan’s best Roma restaurants. They’re known for generous servings of classic dishes — we recommend the cacio e pepe. Yumm. This spot is always busy but that’s a good thing. 

When it comes to great homemade pasta at reasonable prices, it’s hard to beat Miscusi. This multi-location restaurant is one of those places where you’ll be happy to eat at multiple times on your visit to Milan.  

There is a reason Piz is one of the most popular restaurants in Milan — their wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are delicious and very affordable. And they offer you a free drink and a bit to eat while you wait in line. And you’ll probably be offered a free shot of something when you’re leaving. Expect a bit of a wait (especially on Friday and Saturday) but it’s worth it. You’ll probably want to eat here twice. 

Gino Sorbillo

This place proves that you can get excellent pizza in Milan so this is another spot for pizza lovers to check out. It’s also near the Duomo — so it bucks the trend of bad pizza places in the area. 

Pizzeria Spontini

Another local favorite pizza place that’s been around since 1953! Ohh yeah. However, the pizza here is served by the slice and the slices a thicker than the standard Neapolitan pizza you usually find in Italy. This is a much more casual spot so it doesn’t have a ton of charm but the pizza is great. By the way, Pizzeria Spontini is located by the train station so it’s a nice place to eat when you’re on the move. 

Pizzeria Piccola Ischia

This kitchy pizza restaurant serves up tasty wood-fired, thin-crust pizza. It’s a bit outside the city center but it’s worth stopping in if you’re in the area. 

Piadineria Artigianale Pascoli

Take a break from pasta and pizza with these tasty flatbread sandwiches and local beer. The service is quick, the prices are very affordable, the quality is great, and there are a ton of options to choose from. 

You’ll have a tough time finding a more delicious fried panzarotti in Milan. These sandwiches come filled with multiple different ingredients and there are plenty of vegetarian options as well. They also have a solid beer selection. And, the prices are affordable and the owners are super friendly. 

We’re always seeking out the craft beer scene wherever we travel and Berbere is a nice spot to try some beer and they have quality pizza as well. They have two locations but there Isola location is a hipster favorite (so book ahead of you want to snag a table). 

Giulio Pane e Ojo

Giulio Pane e Ojo was recommended by multiple people when we visited Milan and it’s a great place for traditional Roman-style Italian dishes. This place is popular with the locals and in-the-know tourists so reservations are recommended during busy times. 

Il Brutto Anatroccolo

Il Brutto Anatroccolo, which translates to “The Ugly Duckling”, is a local favorite that’s off the well-trodden tourist path. This menu, which consists of simple yet good traditional dishes, changes almost daily so the food is always fresh. The prices are also very affordable but it’s located a bit outside the center of the city. 

Il Brutto Anatroccolo fills with locals daily so you might have to wait for a table. 

Pasta Fresca da Giovanni

A great no-frills and lunch-only restaurant that makes quality homemade pasta and affordable prices. They have a small menu but everything is great and the service is friendly. It’s popular with locals so it does get a bit busy. 

Trattoria da Pino

This no-nonsense trattoria might not be fancy and they might cram people in, but it’s one of the few spots in the city center that serves up authentic Italian dishes at affordable prices. This place is very popular with the local lunch crowd so expect a bit of a wait for a table. Note: They’re only open for lunch (12-3).

This small traditional 1960s Milan themed restaurant makes awesome pasta, has top-notch service, and is popular with the locals. It feels like you’re dining in an Italian grandmother’s house who hasn’t updated their kitchen in over 50 years. Love it. 

Bomba Niko Romito

            View this post on Instagram                     “Bomba di Niko Romito” Place: Piazza XXV Aprile 12 Price：2,50€ #milan#milanofood#milano#food#milanotoday#milanofoodporn#travel#foodphotography#foodporn#foodie#foods A post shared by @ ppapapss on Dec 4, 2018 at 7:33am PST

Bombas are doughnut-like pastries filled with either sweet or savory fillings. These make a nice on-the-go breakfast or lunch option. 

PaninoLab makes some solid panini sandwiches as well as a nice selection of wine and cocktails. They’re also open late so its a nice place to grab something to eat as you’re exploring the Navigli neighborhood. 

La Ravioleria Sarpi

This hole-in-the-wall takeaway Chinese takeaway has Milan buzzing thanks to their handmade dumplings. And, at 4 dumplings for €3, these are very affordable. This spot attracts a crowd but the line moves quickly. 

Kebab Shops

Kebabs are always great options for quick, tasty, filling, and cheap meals. There are a number of places to get a decent kebab in Milan but here are a few favorites. 

• Meydan Kebap Pizza Grill: You can find decent kababs and Greek/Turkish food throughout Milan but Meydan is a local favorite thanks to their fresh ingredients and quick service. They also have pizza but you can find better pizza elsewhere.  See On Google Maps
• NUN: Nun is one of the best-rated kebab spots in Milan and they specialize in vegan and vegetarian options (but they still have meat options). See On Google Maps
• Vero Sapore Greco: Located near the Duomo, this slightly-hidden Greek restaurant serves up authentic and delicious kebabs and other Greek dishes at reasonable prices.  See On Google Maps
• Anatolia Kebab & Pizza Milano: Yet another well-loved kebab joint serving up great quality dishes at affordable prices. The staff is super friendly and they keep their shop clean — which isn’t always a given. See On Google Maps

Burger Spots

Sometimes you just want a burger so here are a few solid burger joints that you might want to check out. 

• Al Marcado : Al Marcado is often said to have the best burger in Milan. It’s a little more expensive but the quality is top notch. See On Google Maps . 
• Burger Wave : Burger Wave is a chain restaurant that serves a quality burger at a solid price. See On Google Maps . 
• Cow Burger : Another solid burger spot with a lot of choices. See On Google Maps .
• TheLab: Yet another excellent burgers place with great beer and solid prices. It’s a bit outside the center so it’s more of a place to eat if you’re already in the area. See On Google Maps .

Cheap Eats & Aperitivos

            View this post on Instagram                     #apericena A post shared by Fabio Lenea (@fabiolenea) on Nov 24, 2018 at 11:12am PST

One of the best ways to eat cheaply in Milan is to partake in an aperitivo — which is basically an Italian version of happy hour that typically runs from about 6pm-10pm. However, many aperitivos in Milan are accompanied by a huge free buffet meal.

So how does it work?

Basically, you order a drink (which might be slightly more expensive than normal) and then you’re free to partake in free food that the bar puts out. Sometimes the food is little bites to eat but at other places it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet of simple, yet tasty, food (i.e. pasta, cheese, salad, cured meats, fresh bread, desserts, etc.).

In general, the best place to enjoy an aperitivo  is in the Bera or Navigli neighborhoods because there are multiple bars so its fun to do an aperitivo crawl. 

Best Sweets, Desserts, & Pastries in Milan

You certainly won’t have trouble finding a sweet treat or tasty pastry in Milan. Below are a few of our favorite spots:

• Iginio Massari: Soo good. This place is truly a sweet tooth’s heaven. It’s near the Duomo so it’s always pretty crazy here. Just about everything is delicious and beautiful to look at. It’s not cheap but whatever. See On Google Maps
• Pasticceria Marchesi: This dessert spot is an institution in Milan. Yes, it is expensive and touristy but these folks have been making some of Milan’s best goodies for the city’s well-to-do crowd since 1824. It’s now partially owned by Prada so you know it’s fancy. They have three locations in Milan. See On Google Maps
• Pasticceria Martesana Milano Cagliero: Yet another truly excellent pastry shop/cafe in Milan. We recommend any of the cannolis, tarts, or chocolates (but you can’t go wrong with anything). See On Google Maps  
• Pavè: This hipster place makes excellent pastries (both sweet and savory), desserts, and coffee so it’s a popular breakfast spot. The staff is nice and the prices are reasonable. See On Google Maps
• G. Cova & C.: It might not be fancy “old school” Milan (although it has been around since 1930) but this centrally located patisserie makes a wide range of tasty baked goodies and coffee. They also make light dishes if you’re looking for something other than a sweet treat. See On Google Maps
• Il Massimo del Gelato: This off the beaten path gelato shop is widely considered to make the best gelato in Milan. Go here. Go twice. They have a ton of flavors (there are eight different kinds of chocolate so that’s telling you something). Expect a line but it’s worth the wait. See On Google Maps
• Gelateria della Musica: This is another off the beaten path gelato shop that is another contender for the best gelato in Milan and they have a ton of unique flavor combos. Expect a line at the popular times but it moves quickly. They’ve expanded to three shops but the original is in the Navigli neighborhood. See On Google Maps
• Cioccolatitaliani: The top-quality gelato train keeps on rolling along at Cioccolatitaliani. They’re located right in the middle of the tourist area so service isn’t the best but the quality is still solid. See On Google Maps
• Ciacco: This centrally located gelato has a ton of flavors. They’re always busy thanks to their location but it’s worth stopping in if you’re in the hood. See On Google Maps
• Gelato Giusto: Another excellent gelato place in Milan. See On Google Maps

Best Coffee Shops in Milan

You can’t visit Italy without having some a few coffees every morning. But here’s the thing… you can pretty much get a good espresso at just about every bar, restaurant, or pastry shop. Tip: If you just want an espresso, order at the bar and you’ll pay less. 

That said, if you’re looking for something a little more high-end or  are a few local favorites and more specialty spots:

• Cofficina Ticinese 58: This hole-in-the-wall coffee shop is one of the best in Milan for coffee aficionados. They make great espresso, pour overs, and milk-based coffee drinks. The shop is super cute but it’s not very large so there are only a few seats. See On Google Maps
• Orsonero: This hip coffee shop feels like something you’d find in Brooklyn or Portland and they back up the image with excellent specialty coffee. They have beans you’ll not find elsewhere in Milan. Try the cappuccinos. This is a small shop so there are only about three or four tables. See On Google Maps
• G. Cova & C.: The coffee here is easily way above average for Milan (not as good as other “specialty” shops) but it’s a great spot with delicious pastries. It’s also a nice place to sit for a bit as there are multiple tables. See On Google Maps
• Taglio: Taglio is a super cool restaurant but they have an excellent coffee bar that makes some mean coffee. Their restaurant is pretty high-end so it’s certainly not a budget place but it’s a nice place to stop for some coffee. See On Google Maps
• Cova Montenapoleone: Cova Montenapoleone is one of Italy’s oldest pastry shops so they make a ton of tasty treats but they also make some solid coffee as well. It’s very old-school and classy so it’s certainly isn’t hip. See On Google Maps
• Caffè Napoli: Cafe Napoli has a few locations around Milan — including one near the Duomo. We recommend trying the espresso with cream as it makes it sweeter and creamier. They have a few pastries but this is more of a traditional espresso bar. See On Google Maps

Best Hostels in Milan

Here’s the deal — Milan attracts a lot of luxury and business travelers so there aren’t as many hostels here than you’d find in other European cities. But, Milan does have a handful is truly great hostels (Ostello Bello is one of the best-rated hostels in the world) so that’s great news. A bed in a highly-rated hotel will cost anywhere from about  €20-€ 50 /night  with an  average around  €30 /night so we’d say prices are a bit above average. Check out Hostelworld to see the city’s full hostel inventory and to check current prices.

Here’s a list of the best-rated hostel:

• Ostello Bello Grande
• Ostello Bello
• Madama Hostel & Bistrot
• Queen Hostel  
• Meiniger Milano Garibaldi  
• Hostel Colours  
• Atmos Luxe Navigli  
• Babila Hostel  

Getting Into and Around Milan

Alright, let’s take a look at getting into Milan and how to travel around the city. 

The main airport in Milan is Malpensa (MPX) so there is a good chance you’ll arrive/depart from here. Getting from the airport to Milan is easy via the Malpensa Express Train which takes about an hour and runs between the train station and the airport. The Malpensa Express runs around every 30 minutes. Tickets cost €13 via the Official Website or you can buy them at the station.

There is also a Malpensa Shuttle Bus and the taxi has a fixed fare of €90.

The Linate Airport handles mainly domestic flights and its reachable via an Airport Bus and a City Bus which both take around 30 minutes. A Taxi will run you around €30. 

Stazione Centrale Train Station

The Stazione Centrale Train Station is a sight to behold and it handles all the train traffic for Milan. It is a huge station so give yourself a little extra time to navigate your way to the train. You can buy train tickets directly from the automated machines or you can skip the hassle by buying tickets online at ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine .

The Metro & Tram

Milan isn’t a huge city so if you’re staying in central Madrid you might not use the Metro very often. That said, the Metro is fast, efficient, and affordable. The metro runs from about 6 am to a little past midnight. Tickets cost €1.50 each or you can buy a set of 10 for €13.80, or you can buy unlimited day passes (24-hours for €4.50 or 48-hour for €8.25).

Milan’s tram network is extensive and riding it is a fun way to travel since you get a show while you ride. Tickets are the same as the Metro and the tram runs from around 4:30 am to a little after 2 am.

Tickets can be purchased via self-service machines, some newsstands, and from a handful of ATM ( Azienda Trasporti Milanesi ) Service Centers around the city. Visit The Official Website

Exploring the city by bike is always fun (and a little scary). Milan has a public bike share system called BikeMi ( visit the official website ) for cheap short-term rentals. They’re even starting to offer pedal-assist bicycles to make it even easier. 

There are also free floating bicycle sharing services provided by Mobike   and  Ofo — these services are nice because you unlike the bikes with a smartphone app and you just leave it on the sidewalk when you’re done. 

More Milan Travel Tips & Resources

Rick Steves Free Audio Walking Tour: Rick Steves has a great free self-guided audio walking tour of the Duomo and the surrounding neighborhood. We used it when we visited and found it interesting. Check it out here .

Insure Your Trip: We’re big fans of buying travel insurance in case anything goes wrong. We recommend  World Nomads since they’re affordable and have solid coverage. 

Get A Good Guidebook: A guide book is a cheap investment for your trip — we’re big fans of Lonely Planet and Rick Steves for the budget crown. These books also come with self-guided walking tours which we always find helpful.

The Best Nightlife in Milan: The best nightlife (bars, restaurants, clubs, etc) are generally found on Corso Como , Brera Neighborhood , and the Navigli Neighborhood (mainly around the canals). Of course, you can find great other places in Milan but the areas above have the highest concentration of options. 

Free Museum Days: All the civic museums in Milan are free on the first Sunday of the month. 

Dress To Impress In The Clubs: Milan is the fashion capital of Europe so you’ll need to dress well if you want to make it past the doorman in many clubs. And expect to pay a premium. Of course, there are more casual nightlight options.

No Need to Tip: Your tip is already included in your bill so don’t feel like you need to leave anything extra. 

Pickpockets At the Duomo: The Duomo is the most popular tourist attraction so it’s also the most popular spot for pickpockets.

Day Trips from Milan

Thanks to Milan’s excellent rail connections, Milan has a number of solid day trips that are within a 30 minute to around a three-hour train trip. Another great thing about Milan is that it’s surrounded by natural beauty like lakes and mountains.

Travel Tip: We suggest booking your train tickets online so you can skip the ticket machines and the long ticket window lines at the train station. You can book tickets from ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine and have the e-tickets sent to your phone (so no need to print). 

One of the most popular day trips from Milan is the beautiful Lake Como (there is a reason the rich and famous have loved spending summers here for hundreds of years). This pristine lake is only about a 30-minute train ride from Milan so getting there is quick, easy, and will cost less than €15 round trip. There are a number of guided tours to Lake Como but it is pretty easy to explore on your own with minimal planning.

There are multiple towns on Lake Como (notably Varenna. Bellagio, and Como) and they’re all connected by a water ferry.

This blog post from Wander Wisdom did a nice job of explaining the best way to plan your day trip, where to go, how to use the ferry, etc.

Lake Maggiore

The next great lake day trip is Lake Maggiore — which is the second largest lake in Italy. On the lake, you’ll find a handful of beautiful small towns and lovely islands (both of which are dotted with beautiful old villas) that are a joy to explore. Getting to Lake Maggiore is also fairly simple — just take the train to either Cadorna or Porta Garibaldi . The trip will take between 60-90 minutes and cost about €14 round trip. Once you’re there, there is a water taxi that connects the small towns and islands. 

Here’s an excellent article from Sher She Goes about visiting Lake Maggiore.

Can’t get enough time on the water? Then head to Lake Garda. Admittedly, we’d probably pick Lake Como or Lake Maggiore if we were limited on time but Lake Garda still offers a lovely experience. Like the other lakes, you’ll find small towns surrounding the lake — each with something to offer visitors. There are a ton of hiking and outdoor activities, a cable car that hoists you high above the lake, and even a castle to explore.

Getting to Lake Garda from Milan isn’t too complicated. You simply take a train to the towns of Desenzano and Peschiera (those are the only two towns with a station) and then you can take a bus or ferry to the other towns on the lake. 

Here’s an excellent article from The Crowded Planet about what to see and do in Lake Garda. 

We recommend booking your train tickets via  ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine to book your e-tickets.  

Turin is a chic and metropolitan city — in fact, it’s often called the Paris of Italy thanks to its beautiful architecture. And it’s only about a 60-90 minute train ride from Milan so it makes an easy day trip. 

To be honest, you can easily spend a day or two in Turin. You’ll love the royal palaces of Stupinigi and Venaria, the city’s Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture, grand boulevards, lots of great old-school cafes, and the city is set at the base of the Alps.

The train between Turin and Milan is a high-speed train so we recommend booking as early as possible for the best price. Check  ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine to book your e-tickets.

Bologna is another popular day trip that’s only about an hour train ride from Milan. And, it’s a fairly small town so you can see much of what it has to offer in a day. Bologna is a beautiful city to simply stroll around but you’d be really missing out if you didn’t make food the main theme of your trip.

Solo Sophie has a nice guide for visiting Turin in a day if you want to learn more.

The train between Bologna and Milan is a high-speed train so we recommend booking a few days in advance for the best price. Check ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine to book your e-tickets.

Verona, which seems to be most famous for being the home of Romeo and Juliet, is a beautiful and vibrant medieval town. You’ll find plenty of charm, cobblestone streets, and not a lot of tourists (well, except for Juliet’s balcony). Verona is a romantic town with plenty of old-world charm and lots of nice sidewalk cafes and restaurants. 

Our Sweet Adventures has a nice guide to visiting Verona that we found helpful. 

The train journey from Milan to Verona takes just under 2 hours and will cost between €13-€23 each way. Check ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine to book your e-tickets.

Florence needs no introduction as it’s one of Italy’s best and most popular cities. And, to be honest, you should spend a couple of days in Florence, but it’s only about a 90-minute ride from Milan so it can still be a day trip. 

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance so there is art everywhere — both in the museum and in the streets. In the middle of the city is the Duomo Cathedral but we loved simply walking through its streets. We also loved eating in Florence as we had some of our best meals here. 

Here’s our Florence Travel Guide if you want to learn more about what to see and where to eat in this great city. 

The train between Milan and Florence is a high-speed train so you’ll pay a premium if you book last minute — expect to pay €26-€54 each way depending on when you book your tickets. Check ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine to book your e-tickets early. 

Make a quick journey to the stunning hill town of Bergamo for its medieval charm and cobblestone streets. In fact, Bergamo is actually two cities (an upper and lower city) that are connected by a walking trail and funicular. There are also beautiful 400-year-old city walls that you can walk along. And, of course, be sure to sample some local dishes. 

The train ride between Milan and Bergamo takes around an hour and will only cost around €6. Check ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine to book your e-tickets.

Honestly, we wouldn’t recommend doing Venice as a day trip but it’s certainly possible thanks to the high-speed train. The train takes about 2.5 hours and will cost you between €21-€45 each way. 

As we mentioned before, Venice is best seen at night once the crowds have gone home so try staying overnight if possible. But, for all your die-hard travelers, you can see all of Venice’s highlights in a full day so be sure to get the early train into the city.

We recommend booking your tickets at least a few days in advance if you want to get the best price. Book them ItaliaRail or a third-party website like Omio or TrainLine .

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is another stunning part of Italy that can be a day trip from Milan but we think it deserves at least two full days to explore. The main attraction of Cinque Terre is the five small fishing villages and the hiking trails that connect them. These towns get overrun with visitors so it’s best experienced after everyone leaves around 5 pm. 

The train from Milan to the five villages of Cinque Terre takes three+ hours so that also makes this a less-than-ideal day trip. Check Omio or TrainLine to see ticket prices and times. 

See our Cinque Terre Travel Guide for everything you need to know about visiting this magical part of Italy.

More Europe Travel Tips

Milan is normally a quick stop on a bigger journey through Italy and beyond so here are some more articles to help your travels.

• Rome Travel Guide
• Florence Travel Guide
• Italy Train Guide
• Best Travel Backpacks
• Europe Packing List
• How To Pick Travel Insurance
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Visiting Milan? Explore with this handy Milan travel guide

Things to do in Milan Milan Travel Guide

Situated in northern Italy, Milan is the capital of Lombardy, the second-most populous city in Italy and the financial heart of the country. A city steeped in history and a cultural legacy that is as much ancient as it is modern, Milan is an Italian city unlike any other. Come experience the elegance and sophistication that Milan has to offer.

Rich Cultural Heritage Milan's history is grand. Having spent large portions of its history under different rulers, including the Caesars, Napoléon and the Austro-Hungarians to name a few, Milan has a fascinating culture that has manifested itself beautifully. The contributions of each historical period still stand to this day, equally admired by those who live here and those who see it only once. There are ancient churches from the 4th century that still stand at the city gates, great Gothic architecture with the Duomo the greatest of them all, Sforza's grand palaces, splendid Renaissance buldings and boulevards and squares from Napolean's rule. A Modern Metropolis Milan may not be the Italian capital, but within its boundaries lies the center of the biggest establishments in Italy. Milan saw Italy's largest post-war development and transformed itself into a city with the largest metropolitan area in Italy and the third-largest economy among European cities (after Paris and London), becoming the wealthiest non-capital European city in the process. The skyline of the city has also seen a tremendous transformation with the Duomo's spires sharing the sky with stunning modern buildings designed by the best 21st-century architects – Daniel Libeskind, Massimiliano Fuksas, Norman Foster and Cesar Pelli to name a few. Aesthetic Capital Of The World Milan may not deserve the attention that the other romantic cities of Italy get. The streets of Milan may not be loaded with tourists like the canals of Venice or the roads of Rome do. But every year, the Milan Fashion week and the Furniture Fair ensure that all eyes chasing aesthetic beauty in these fields invariably turn to Milan. The city streets are lined with flagship fashion and design studios —CappelliniKartell, Versace, Armani, Valentino. Milan also boasts of many galleries & museums, including private establishments such as Fondazione Prada and Armani Silos.

Milan Travel Guide

Dotted with remarkable gothic architecture and gifted with a legacy of art and history, Milan is more than just a fast-paced metropolitan city waiting to be discovered. With its carefully preserved traditions and exemplary pieces of art, Milan is a vibrant city experience that has a lot to offer. Whether you’re someone who is an art enthusiast, or someone who appreciates fashion or food — there is something for everyone who wishes to explore the city’s treasure trove with passion. With as many as six million visitors every year, Milan continues to promise an experience that is unlike any other.

Why Visit Milan?

Apart from being the art and fashion capital of Europe, Milan paved its way through a painstaking past before it rose straight out of the Renaissance age. Today, Milan is a vibrant, modern city that flaunts its cutting-edge fashion, stellar architecture, and beautiful skyline. A walk down its cobbled-stone streets will brief you through its history. But Milan is definitely not all art. Explore its rich countryside, sample its authentic street food, or lounge around in the lap of nature.

Top Things To Do in Milan

When we say there's something new that crops up in the city every week or so, we are not exaggerating! Milan never ceases to surprise and has something to keep everyone of all ages occupied. Here are the top picks you cannot miss out in Milan , regardless of whether you're in the city for a day or a week.

Milan Essentials

Language Italian

Time zone GMT +2

Country Code +39

Socket Type C/F/L

Currency Euro (€)

Milan Trip Planner

All you need before you book your tickets and zip your bag!

Travel Tips

Weather in milan.

Milan is blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year. Here’s what you should be looking out for before you book your tickets. You can check the weather here .

Milan in Spring

Spring in Milan is a great time to visit if you’re looking for something that is placed right before the peak seasons kick in. While the day time during this season tends to get warm, it is occasionally chilly at night. If the fluctuation doesn’t bother you, spring is a great season to witness the city in all its glory.

Milan in Summer

Brace yourself for months of sweltering heat and a flock of crowd at every attraction in Milan, because the peak season witnesses an upsurge in the number of tourists. Milan witnesses a lot of locals leaving for their holidays during this season, so don’t be surprised to run into more tourists than actual Italians!

Milan in Autumn

Just as spring, the temperatures get a little nippy but the overall experience of the city tends to remain enjoyable. Expect high to average fluctuation in temperature during the day before it gets cooler in the nighttime. Make sure you’re well armed with an umbrella if you plan to visit in September, as this season witnesses occasional showers as well!

Milan in Winter

Pull out your overcoats an wrap yourself up tight if you plan to visit Milan during the wintertime. The temperatures plunge low during this season, so make sure you sign up for this only if you’re ready to brave the cold. However, despite that, Milan is not completely unbearable and one can make the most of the city comfortably even in this weather.

Milan Daily Budget Planner

You can choose to explore Milan on a budget, or take the luxurious route; both offer a great travel experience. Depending on how you'd like to go about your Milan visit, you can budget your trip. Here's a summary of an approximate per day expense in Milan.

Milan on a Budget - €47 per day Midrange spending in Milan - €108 per day Luxury vacation in Milan - €248 per day Use this tool to further budget your Milan trip .

Since Milan, Italy is a part of the Schengen Area , tourists from anywhere other than Europe will require a Schengen visa to visit this country. A passport or travel document is valid for three months with an appropriate Schengen visa. One can apply for various types of visas in Milan, some of which include single-entry, multi-entry, and transit visas. If you’re planning to visit a single Schengen country, it is advisable to book your visa via the country’s embassy. Or, if Milan is one of your main destinations, you can get your visa at the embassy in your country.

Currency & ATMs in Milan

With so much to do around Milan, it is best to have a loaded pocket and a handy ATM card to go around and enjoy the most of what it has to offer. The currency in Milan is the Euro (EU). Euro bank notes are available in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 denominations.

There are numerous money exchange facilities easily available throughout the city. Milan is dotted with a number of ATMs, but it is advisable to withdraw your cash from an authorised ATM attached to a bank for security purposes. It is best to keep in mind that withdrawing money from a debit card will involve a much lesser fee than credit card withdrawals. Keep a pocket converter at hand for speedy transactions.

Here’s a trusted exchange calculator you can use to check the current exchange rate of euro to your home currency.

Tipping in Milan

Tipping in Milan is not usually a matter of concern as the bill comes included with ‘coperto’ or service charge. However, feel free to display your happiness by occasionally tipping the staff if you’re content with the services. Cab drivers, housekeeping, as well as luggage handlers are often tipped in Milan, but only if you find that it is necessary to do so.

How to Save Money in Milan

It is a common myth to think that a foreign trip costs only a fortune. With a little bit of prudence and planning, it is possible to survive on a budget in Milan. Here’s how you can go about making the most of your trip without compromising on luxury:

1. Use Hop on Hop Off buses Getting around the city can get expensive if you’re constantly falling back upon cars and cabs. A regular cab ride from the airport to Milan central can cost you as much as $100.

Renting a private vehicle can also turn out steep if you’re a smaller group. Get yourself a Hop on Hop off pass instead, which can take you through the best attractions in the city. The pass also allows you to pick your boarding points and allows you to hop on unlimited times based on your pass validity. Besides this, Milan is also home to five railroad stations and four subway lines, making it a hub for those looking for a budget travel.

2. Buy a City Pass The Milan pass and the Milan card are two handy travel passes that can help you cut down on unnecessary expenditure during your trip.

Equipped with tickets to attractions, public transport, hop on hop off buses as well discounts, these passes are tailor-made not just to save money, but also time. Save yourself the trouble of standing in long queues with Milan Pass and Milan Card, which allow you to skip the lines and head straight into the striking monuments of the city. With discounts as much as €250 on dining, tours, and shopping, having a pass can help you club your favourite activities under a single umbrella.

4. Plan Your Trip Wisely Refer to websites of museums and historical places to know more about their entry fee. Group discounts are available for certain large groups if booked in advance. On some days, museums and other attractions also have days with a free entry. Try to revolve your trip around these days to curb expense on tickets. Also try to include places like churches, that have no entry fee, into your itinerary to have a balance.

5. Hostels versus Hotels Sure, a hotel equals luxury, but luxury can cost a fortune. If you’re looking for ways to drastically cut down your expenses, picking a hostel instead of a hotel could do the trick.

Several backpacking hostels around Europe cater to travellers who are on a budget. Apart from cost cutting, staying in a hostel acquaints you to the culture of the city, allows you to meet like-minded people, and grants you the independence you require. In fact, a hostel can also cut down your expenses if you choose to pick a dormitory instead of a room of your own.

Day Trips from Milan

Milan , Italy’s fashion capital is teeming with options to do, see and eat ; pulling in millions of tourists from around the world year round. Once you've climbed the roof of Milan's Duomo , elbowed your way through to get a peek of Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper and tasted atleast 5 flavours of gelato from the umpteen street vendors around Milan, you can hop out of the city to experience a little more of the Italian country and culture. Milan is so beautifully located that you can visit the Swiss Alps or go to Venice from the city in just a day and be back by night! We have perfectly curated day trips from Milan that you can just plug and play, so choose your pick and waltz out of the city for a day.

Milan Itineraries

Milan has witnessed history no less than the next Mediterranean metropolis. However, it has made it a point to embrace the future and look good while doing it. The city also has a sweeping gustatory palate that will have you yearning for more. One might wonder if it’s possible to sample the best of Milan in a day ot two. We assure you, with the help of our specially curated itineraries, one and two days in Milan can be magical!

24 Hours in Milan

Every city on the planet has it’s own “thing”, as we call it. New York has opportunities, Rome has romance, Paris has culture, Barcelona has warmth, and likewise, Milan has pizzazz. However, it has made it a point to embrace the future and look good while doing it. The city also has a sweeping gustatory palate that will have you yearning for more. One might wonder if it’s possible to sample the best of Milan in a day. We assure you, with the help of our specially curated itinerary, one day in Milan can be magical! Since Milan is fairly popular among tourists, this guide will help you find your way to the best of Milan with minimal hassle. Fasten your seatbelts for this power-packed one day in Milan is going to be worth it all.

Here's how you can spend a day in Milan

2 Days in Milan

Here our handcrafted 2 Day Itinerary In Milan .

Milan Hop On Hop Off Tours

Often titled the fashion capital and design capital of the world, Milan is one of the most picturesque cities in the world. The confluence of art, history and culture makes it a popular tourist destination. There are several must-see locations in the town, including the Duomo di Milano , Sforza Castle, Sant’ Ambrogio and many world-famous restaurants and cafes. The legendary Leonardo Da Vinci masterpiece, The Last Supper , can be seen housed in the Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie. The best way to experience this gorgeous city is the Milan Hop on Hop off bus tour. This incredible bus route network will allow you to visit nearly every attraction that Milan has to offer. Witness the beauty of Milan from your vantage point on top of these eye-catching double-decker buses.

Milan Pass and Milano Card

But Milan is not all just art and history; it is a vibrant modern city with the best culinary experiences and entertainment venues. It also hosts two of the world’s most famous football teams ‘AC Milan’ and ‘Inter Milan’. The home of the biggest Fashion Houses in the world- Versace, Prada, Valentino and more, Milan is the ideal mix of the old and new. The best way to explore this large city is through travel passes.

The Milan Pass and the Milano Card are two great travel passes that will help you save on time and money as you explore Milan. The travel cards offer free tickets to attractions, free public transport, free hop-on hop-off bus tours and discounts on tickets and experiences. All these benefits help you save up to 30% on your travel costs in Milan.

These passes have been designed to help you keep the expenses down while you explore and experience Milan with ease. In this post, we will go through the details of each card, outline the difference between the cards and offer tips on how you can purchase these cards and get the most value for money.

Getting Around in Milan

Bus, trains, trams, or metro — public transport forms an integral part of Milan’s connectivity. Milan’s fantastic transportation system connects each and every corner of the city. However, it is only natural to find yourself intimidated with the system — so, here’s how you can get around Milan by its public transport:

• Milan Subway : The subway in Milan has four lines. Each line has a different colour and numbers. You can make transfers between the following stops: Cadorna, Centrale, Duomo, Loreto, Porta Garibaldi, and Zara. The Subway trains in Milan run from 6 AM to 1 AM on a regular basis.
• Milan Railways : With a scenic rail route by its side, Milan’s Lago Maggiore and Lago di Como are the two most easily accessible stations in the city. This train also takes you past smaller towns such as Cremona, Pavia, and several others during the course of its journey.
• Bike rentals : Bike sharing is also one of the most important ways to traverse around Milan. Pick up and drop a bike as per your convenience. Affordable and economic, these bikes require a registration on BikeMi website before you can start riding as per your will.

Where to stay in Milan

Choosing the right neighbourhood to stay in the city is necessary for several reasons. Whether it is to stay close to the culture, or to be accessible to the attractions — there should always a good reason before finalising your locality.

• Pick Centro Storico if you don’t mind a lot of crowd or are looking for a glamorous experience.
• Brera is for those who wish to experience fashion first hand.
• Porta Nuova is perfect for those wishing to go through the wonders of ‘New Milan’.
• Chinatown is perfect for those travellers who don’t mind walking and are looking for something on a budget.

Centro Storico

• Secondo Pensiero
• NH Collection Milano President
• Baglioni Hotel Carlton
• Ciak Hostel

Porta Nuova Isola

• Heart Milan Apartments
• Hotel Cervo Milano
• NH Collection Milano Porta Nuova
• Hotel Windsor Milano
• Hotel Principe di Savioa
• Bulgari Hotel Milano
• Palazzo delle Stelline
• Carlyle Brera Hotel
• Mandarin Oriental
• Ostello Bello Grande
• Ming Hao Hotel
• Hotel Mozart
• Babila Hostel & Bistrot
• B&B Hotel Milano Garibaldi

Dining in Milan

Apart from being one of the most affluent cities of Europe, Milan has also been sought after for its iconic Milanese dishes that have been attracting tourists since centuries. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip to Milan:

1. Risotto alla Milanese The delicious risotto finds it roots way back in Milan. Rice, cheese, beef, butter, white wine, and saffron are combined and baked together to form a delicious regional speciality. The staple risotto is often served alongside other Milanese food, and makes for an important part of their dinner.

2. Ossobuco The word ‘ossobuco’ is Italian for ‘bone with a hole’; referring to the marrow hole of a cross-cut veal shank This particular delicacy combines meat, tomato, onion, greens, and carrots and is often eaten with a bread or risotto alongside. This sumptuous traditional dish is considered to be one of the regional favourites of the people.

3. Piadina A distant cousin of the famous Quesadilla, the Piadina is a thin Italian flatbread that is enjoyed with meat and cheese. The bread, which is flaky as well as crunchy. is a local lunch time favourite that you simply shouldn’t miss out on!

4. Cotoletta alla Milanese A signature dish of the city, Cotoletta alla Milanese is traditionally prepared with a veal cutlet, but you can find chicken variations of the same. The dish consists of a breaded "bone-in" veal cutlet, fried in butter, and cannot be missed when in Milan!

If you have pizza and pasta on your must-eat list on your trip to Milan, you’re going to be surprised at the variety the city has to offer. With a delectable spread unlike any other city in Italy, you can’t get around Milan without sampling from some of their innovative restaurants. If you’re wondering where to start, here are some of the most sought after restaurants that you should be heading to without further ado:

Pasticceria Marchesi

If breakfast and desserts make your day, consider giving Pasticceria Marchesi a shot if you’re around. The legendary Marchesi dates back to 1821 and is also one of the oldest pastry shops in Milan. Take their aromatic cappuccino or an espresso on the go, or munch on a sumptuous brioche — there’s a lot to pick from if you’re craving sweet or savoury! Directions

Trussardi alla Scala

There’s nothing like a night of luxury, and if you’re a fan of caviar, head to Trussardi alla Scala for the best caviar in Milan. Relish high-end Italian as well as French cuisine presented with a twist and complemented with airy, contemporary interiors. Trussardi alla Scala promises an upscale dining fit for a king! Directions

Trattoria Madonnina

Take a break from the trendy hotspots of Milan and hop into Trattoria Madonnina for a taste of tradition and culture. Feel at one with the Milanese way of living with their authentic Italian interiors and rustic decor. Ask for a Milanese stew and their famous homemade desserts for an experience to cherish. Directions

La Gelataria della Musica

What is a trip to Italy without tasting its famous gelato? Whether you’re wandering about on a hot day or not, grab a cone and take a stroll alongside the canals of Milan. A unique feature about this restaurant is that it names all its ice cream after famous musicians! Find the nearest one

Festivals in Milan

Milan hosts a plethora of festivals that are neither considered traditional, nor religious. With an interesting mix of cultures and celebrations, Milan has everything beginning from good food, to dancing as well as large parties. Not only is Milan one of the most cosmopolitan cities of the world, it is also one of the four fashion capitals of Europe, making it the home of the thriving fashion industry. Here are a few festivals you should plan your trip around to get the most of this city:

• Italian Grand Prix : An annual sporting event that is held in the first week of September, Italian Grand Prix attracts a huge deal of crowd every year and is perfect for adrenaline junkies. The event features a great deal of thrill coupled up with racing.
• Milan Fashion Week : Although not a festival, people from around the world find themselves swarming around Milan for the iconic fashion week that is held in September. The event includes a nationwide celebration of the city’s textile and fashion industry. So, whether you bag a seat or not, make sure you visit around this time to experience the fashion capital at its best.
• Carnival Ambrosiano : A funfair of night-long partying and pomp, Carnival Ambrosiano takes place on the first Saturday of Lent. The carnival is a real treat for the entire family with its parade of floats, workshops, concerts, and other interactive events.
• Furniture Fair/Salone del Mobile Milano A quirky festival which is held in April, the Furniture Fair or Salone del Mobile Milano in Milan showcases one of the largest trade fair of its kind. Browse through contemporary furniture and its designs from around the world along with other home furnishing items.

Milan Culture

Italians are generally regarded friendly and helpful to tourists from around the world. However, it is always best to keep in mind certain etiquettes to avoid giving offence or avoiding the encounter of an unpleasant experience.

• Try not to be loud and talk loudly in public as Italians dislike disruptive behaviour and expect the public to behave politely.
• It is advisable to dress decently while wandering around the town. Try not to overdress or underdress and stay casual throughout your visit.
• Acknowledge people as you enter into a shop or a bar. Say ‘buongiorno’ or ‘buona sera’ as a gesture of kindness. Despite that, Italians are not usually chatty and can get uncomfortable with long conversations.
• While seated in a public place, do not put your feet up a chair. Italians consider this action as a rude and impolite. Walking barefoot in Milan is widely accepted in open spaces such as big parks as well as beaches.

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What is the best way to travel to Milan?

The best way to get to Milan is by air. The city has two main airports, Malpensa and Linate, which are both well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world. If you're flying into Malpensa, you can take the express train into the city center, and if you're flying into Linate, there are buses that run regularly into the city. If you're coming from other parts of Italy or Europe, you can take the train or bus into Milan.

What are the best things to do in Milan?

There is plenty to see and do in Milan! Some of the city's most popular attractions include the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper. If you're interested in art and culture, Milan is home to many museums and art galleries, including the Pinacoteca Brera and the Museo del Novecento. For something a little different, you can also visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper is located, or take a tour of San Siro, home of AC Milan and Inter Milan.

What are the best places to eat in Milan?

The food in Milan is some of the best in Italy! You can find all kinds of delicious dishes in the city, from traditional Lombard specialties to pizza and pasta. Some of the city's most popular restaurants include Trattoria della Pesa, Da Giacomo, and Luini Panzerotti.

What is the weather like in Milan?

Milan has a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in July is about 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average temperature in January is about 39 degrees Fahrenheit.

What is the best time to visit Milan?

The best time to visit Milan is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. However, Milan is a great city to visit year-round, and there are always events and attractions to enjoy.

What should I pack for my trip to Milan?

Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, as you will do a lot of walking in Milan. If you are visiting in the summer, pack light clothing and sunscreen. In the winter, pack warm clothing and a scarf.

What's the best way to travel within Milan?

The best way to get around Milan is on foot. The city center is relatively small, and many of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. If you need to travel further, you can take the metro, bus, or tram. Taxis are also available, but they are generally more expensive than other

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Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Milan Travel Guide

With massive urban sprawl and a reputation for being the cold Lombard capital, Milan doesn’t feel like a quintessentially Italian metropolis, but with settlers from all over the country making their home here, visitors will find all of Italy in one city.

Known as a centre of fashion, finance and football, Milan is indisputably the country’s most stylish city. Trendy bars and boutiques rub shoulders in the back streets, while on the busy thoroughfares mighty towers signal the city’s superior economic clout. Milan is also the home of two big football clubs, A.C. Milan and Inter Milan, who share the historic San Siro stadium.

As the epicentre of Italian fashion and interior design, there is certainly a buzz about the city. International fashionistas, designers, supermodels and paparazzi descend upon Milan twice a year for its spring and autumn fairs. Many high-end designers still use the city’s trusted producers and it remains one of the best places in the world to shop.

Despite the air of modern flair, there is a rich history here too. Cut through the modern metropolitan bustle, and you will stumble across countless impressive churches and palaces. Start with the breath-taking Duomo di Milano in the city centre, a colossal Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in the world. Then there’s the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, which houses Da Vinci’s restored Last Supper painting, and survived bombing raids in WWII.

There is plenty to see near the Duomo too, including the city’s fabled opera house, La Scala, and Sforza Castle, a grand medieval fortress. Nearby is Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an ancient and glamorous arcaded shopping gallery.

Not all of Milan’s aesthetic appeal lies in the historic centre. The pretty Navigli area in the south has become popular for its many bars and restaurants, as has the chic Brera district and lively university quarter.

Meanwhile, former industrial areas are undergoing urban renewal schemes, such as the old Fiera area, which includes new apartments, a park, a contemporary art museum and a trio of futuristic skyscrapers. It’s bold reinvention like this which reminds us that Milan is truly Italy’s most dynamic city.

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Famous for fashion and football, Milan also features a magnificent mix of traditional and modern architecture, making it an essential Italian destination

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Featured hotels, hotel principe di savoia.

David Beckham, Ben Affleck and Sophia Loren are among the celebrities to have graced this top-notch luxury hotel. With all the hustle and bustle of a large hotel, but the attentive service of a boutique, the swimming pool, spa and impressive bar make Principe Di Savoia one of Milan’s more fashionable stays.

Magna Pars Suites

If you want to spend the night as a supermodel might, then these huge stylish suites in a converted perfume factory are just the ticket. Located in the fashionable Forcella district, which is awash with designers in fashion week, this suite-only hotel has every mod con.

TownHouse Galleria

Just a stone's throw from the Duomo, this is Europe's first 7-star hotel. It offers guests an in-room coiffeur and spa service, free Wi-Fi, and a fully stocked minibar that is refurbished daily. They offer a choice of contemporary suites overlook the Galleria. Exclusive and opulent, it gives guests serious bragging rights.

Hotel Lancaster

Located near the calm of Parco Sempione, this simply furnished, art nouveau hotel is a good budget option. The rooms are clean, while staff are friendly and helpful. It is also outside the congestion charge zone, so a good choice if driving. We suggest asking for a room with a balcony for a fantastic view.

LaGare Hotel Milano Centrale

Built for the Milan Expo in 2015, this sparkling 4-star stay has much more to offer than its superb location near Central and Porta Garibaldi stations. Sleek sleeping quarters make the most of muted colours and Murano glass, while its rooftop bar, world-class wellness centre and sublime spa are further reasons not to leave.

If you're prepared to sacrifice location for affordability, without cutting corners on style, then opt for this design hotel in Via Tortona. The rooms are minimalist, slightly retro and futuristic, almost stark. Although it may not appear comfortable, it’s certainly a place you'll enjoy talking about.

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Must Know Tips For Visiting Milan Italy

Here are my important tips for visiting Milan, an amazing destination in northern Italy.

Milan isn’t as quaint and charming as Florence or Venice. But it’s a vibrant and exciting modern city, the thriving finance and fashion capitol of Italy.

It’s a key piece of the Italian puzzle. And you can’t help but be dazzled by Milan’s art, architecture, historic sites, and culinary specialities.

These Milan tips will help you make the most of your Milan visit and help you plan your time in Milan.

I give you the good stuff — the lowdown on how to see the best things in Milan in the best way. Plus, I cover practical tips and information.

With these must know tips and some advance planning, you can have the best and most efficient visit to Milan. You can skip lines, avoid mistakes, and not waste precious time or miss something important.

Tips For Visiting Milan

Here’s what you need to know before traveling to Milan:

1. Leonardo’s The Last Supper

One of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous paintings is in Milan — The Last Supper . Yes, in Milan, not in the Louvre . And Leonardo’s fresco is Milan’s #1 attraction.

The Last Supper is one of the world’s most iconic paintings, found on the back wall of the refectory in Santa Maria delle Grazie. No Leonardo painting is so familiar, save for the Mona Lisa . The church is one of 51 UNESCO landmarks in Italy .

Painted by Leonardo, the billboard size painting is a Renaissance masterpiece. It shows the moment when Christ reveals that one of his apostles will betray him.

You’ve got to be organized and reserve in advance to see this quasi-restored, yet still beautiful, masterpiece. Advance reservations are mandatory.

I’ve written a complete guide to everything you need to know about seeing The Last Supper — what to expect, how to get tickets, and an analysis of the painting itself.

Click  here  for a ticket and guided tour of  The Last Supper . You can also buy a  combined ticket for  The Last Suppe r and the Duomo .

the flamboyant Gothic Duomo in Milan

2. Visiting the Duomo

The Duomo is the nickname for Milan Cathedral, a world renowned edifice. Built over 600 years beginning in 1368, the Duomo is Milan’s flamboyant Gothic masterpiece with 135 marble spires.

It’s the fourth largest church in the Europe, second in size in Italy only to St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome .

READ : Guide To the Most Beautiful Churches in Italy

Morning is the best time to visit the Duomo, before the masses arrive and the pigeons get antsy. Get there at 8:00 am.

Piazza del Duomo

3. Duomo Tickets

When it comes to buying your Duomo tickets, you have a lot of options, depending on your interests and budget. You can buy individual tickets to each Duomo-related site or combined tickets with a fast track option.

The archaeological area and crypt of the Duomo are free to visit. You just need a Duomo ticket. There are many types of tickets — tickets to the duomo, the duomo museum, the rooftop, the duomo lift.

The rooftop is the most popular. I’ll discuss that below. Click here to check the prices on the official website.

You can also buy tickets from a reseller, which can be valuable if they sell out. Click here to pre-book a ticket for the cathedral and the rooftop. Click here to book a ticket + guided tour of the duomo.

If you don’t buy a ticket online, you’ll need to arrive early. Your shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the Duomo.

the Duomo rooftop terrace

4. The Duomo Rooftop

The Duomo’s truly spectacular and unmissable feature is its rooftop terrace. It can be reached either via a staircase or an elevator, as I mentioned above.

But, even after the elevator, you’ve got to plod up some narrow steep steps. And the elevator is one way. You have to hoof it back down.

From the rooftop, you have an excellent view of the details of the intricate stonemasonry, especially the fanciful gargoyles that serve as drains. You can see the panorama of the entire city before you. It’s especially nice at sunset.

Click here to book a ticket for just the rooftop terrace. Click here to book a guided tour of the duomo with rooftop access.

gallery in the Brera Museum

5. Don’t Skip the Brera Museum

The Brera Art Gallery is Milan’s premiere museum, hone to some of the best art in Italy . For most Italy tourists, the Brera Museum is an off the beaten path rarely visited hidden gem in Milan, with no crowds.

With scores of masterpieces, the Brera Museum may be Europe’s most underrated museum. It’s definitely one of the world’s best small museums .

The Brera museum mesmerizes art lovers, art historians, and art critics. It boasts top shelf Renaissance and Baroque art by the likes of Caravaggio, Raphael, Bellini, Rubens, Piero della Francesca, Tintoretto, and Andrea Mantegna.

But the Brera isn’t just Renaissance art works. It also has an impressive collection of modern art by the likes of Picasso, Modiglianai, Braque, de Chirico, and Morandi.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting the Brera Museum . Click here to purchase a ticket to the Brera. Click here to book a 2 hour guided tour of the beautiful Brera neighborhood and the museum.

6. Leonardo da Vinci Trail

Are you fascinated with Leonardo Da Vinci? Leonardo lived in Milan for almost 20 years and is considered a beloved adopted son. In Milan, Leonardo produced some of his greatest works and enriched the city with his versatile genius.

If you’re wondering where to find the art of Leonardo in Milan, here’s my guide to the Leonardo trail on Milan .

It takes you back in time to discover works created by Leonardo or places dedicated to him — from the transcendent The Last Supper to the technical musings of the Codex Atlanticus .

READ : Top Masterpieices To See in Milan

Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pieta in Castle Sforza

7. Michelangelo in Milan

Milan is also home to one of Michelangelo’s most famous sculptures, the Rondonini Pieta . It’s Michelangelo’s last and unfinished work.

Michelangelo likely intended it for his tomb, which is located in Florence’s Basilica of Santa Croce . He shows the dead Christ as an emblem of suffering. The sculpture was discovered in Michelangelo’s studio after his death at 89.

The pieta is housed in Sforza Castle, one of Milan’s most historic landmarks. The castle is a splendid example of Renaissance architecture, the product of mercenary-turned-politician Francesco Sforza. It was the former seat of the Dukes of Milan.

The Castle courtyards are free. Entry to the museums is € 5. You can also book a  tour of Castle Sforza and the  Pieta  for the full scoop.

Castle Sforza

8. What To Do in Milan

Milan is a true “choose your own adventure” kind of city. There’s possibilities for every interest type — whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, sport lover, or fashion fiend.

I’m a culture vulture. If you are too, here’s my guide to the must see sites and attractions in Milan .

9. Visting La Scala

Opened in 1778 and last renovated in 2002, La Scala is one of Italy’s finest opera houses. It can fit 2,000 people at once. Many of the world’s most famous singers have appeared on its stage. La Scala hosts operas, ballet, and concerts.

If you want to take in a performance, click here for the opera website to see what’s currently playing and/or buy tickets. You can buy tickets at the La Scala box office, online, or at another box office nearby in the Piazza del Duomo Metro station.

the theater in La Scala

Tickets don’t come cheap. But you can get cheaper tickets (25% discount) one hour before the show (if it’s not sold out).

Or, there’s a “gallery” section above the luxury boxes called the “loggione.” You’ll find cheaper seats there.

If you want to tour La Scala, you can also book a guided tour or DIY a visit. Keep in mind that there are times when the theater is in us, so you won’t be able to see the theater on your museum visit.

Check at the ticket window before you buy your ticket to make sure you can see the theater itself. There’s usually a sign up outside the museum entrance indicating whether the theater is in use.

Click here to book a ticket for La Scala online.

10. Milan As A Base For Day Trips

Milan makes a great base for day tripping in Italy’s northern Lombardy region. You can head to the Italian Lake District — Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore. You can visit the towns of Turin, Bergamo, Brescia, Sirmione, and Mantua .

If you’re ambitious, you can even day trip to the Veneto region. There, you can visit Verona, Venice, Treviso, Padua, and Ravenna . But I’d advise spending more time in Venice .

READ : Guide To the Scrovegni Chapel in Padua

Here are some links to some of the most popular tours from Milan:

• a 12 hour guided day tour from Milan to Lake Garda and Verona
• a 14 hour guided day tour from Milan to Venice
• a 10 hour guided tour to Lake Como
• a 1 4 hour guided tour to Cinque Terre
• a 5 hour half day tour to Bergamo

11. What To Eat in Milan

Milan has literally thousands of cafes, eateries, restaurants, and pizzerias — from tony to casual, traditional to innovative. Avoid any restaurant that has photos of food.

Happy hours starts around 6:30. You’ll get snacks (olive, salami, bread, etc.) with your Negroni cocktail before dinner. A lot of great restaurants are clustered on Via Dente.

The traditional Milanese specialities are hearty fare — risotto, veal cutlets, osso buco, pappardelle pasta in mushroom sauce, deep fried meatballs, polenta, and meat filled ravioli. Piadinas, which resemble quesadillas, are also popular.

Tipping isn’t essential in Milan, but is appreciated. In cafes, you can just leave the spare change from your bill. Some restaurants will include a service tip in the bill. Here’s a guide to some of Milan’s best restaurants .

Milan is also a great place to take a food tour. This 3 hour guided food tour covers the Brera district. This 4 hour guided food tour lets you sample Milanese cuisine, cheeses, and wine. This 3 hour guided tour gives you a taste of Milanl’s street food.

12. When To Visit Milan

Like most cities in Europe, it’s best to visit Milan in shoulder season (spring and fall). The summers are hot, crowded, and more expensive. Plus, some of the shops and restaurants shut down in August.

Don’t assume Milan is sunny and warm year round. Because it’s in Northern Italy, the winters can be very cold and foggy. But there are plenty of indoor attractions to keep you busy when the weather is subpar.

Also try not to plan your visit on a Monday. Monday is a terrible sightseeing day in Milan. Many of the museums are closed.

13. How To Get Around Milan

Milan has a comprehensive system of public transportation in Milan. There are buses, trams, and even a subway.

Tickets are available at newsstands and metro stations. Validate your ticket before you get on board.

But Milan is easy to explore on foot. Milan has many pedestrian friendly zones. And the majority of Milan’s must see sites are clumped together in the centro historico , radiating from the Piazza del Duomo. But some aren’t.

If you have any mobility issues, the downside is that some sites are poorly connected and far from the stops. Therefore, walking distances in the summer can be hot and uncomfortable. And you will still have a fair bit of walking once you get off public transport.

You can also hail a taxi. They’re typically white or yellow. You can hail them on the street or at a taxi stand.

There are other fun ways to get around Milan too. You can take a 3 hour Segway tour , take a 3.5 hour bike tour , or ride the  hop on hop off bus .

detail of the Leonardo Monument

14. Milan Card

I’m not much of a fan of city cards and never buy them myself. Usually, they’re overpriced and only worth it if you are blitz-visiting attractions.

But the Milan Card gives you a big bonus — unlimited access to all means of public transport. You also get either free or discounted access to museums, tours, restaurants, tourist attractions, and the airport bus. Plus, you get skip the line access at Milan’s most popular attractions.

There are three versions of the Milan City Pass. One day costs 11 €, two days 17 €, and three days 19.50 €. Click here to purchase the Pass. Then download their app and activate it with the code that you receive via email.

15. How Long To Stay in Milan

I think 2 days is a fair amount of time to explore Milan. If you’re using Milan as a base for day tripping, you can definitely stay much longer.

If you’re not a lover of art and architecture, one day in Milan might be enough. See a few major sites and call it a day. To help you along, here’s my 1 day itinerary for Milan .

16. Dress To Impress

In Milan, unlike other Italian cities, you may want to dress to impress. Milan is very fashion forward.

That’s not to say you need to don high heels and fancy cloths. But you should take the term “smart casual” seriously. Avoid sweatpants, flip flops, or leggings if possible.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my tips for visiting Milan. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides:

• 5 day itinerary for Rome
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 10 day itinerary for Italy’s classic cites
• 7 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 10 day itinerary from Milan to Rome
• 1 week itinerary from Venice to Milan
• 30 beautiful towns in Italy
• 100+ Italy bucket list experiences
• Tips for visiting Italy
• Historic landmarks in Italy

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Last Updated on August 27, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Top 19 travel tips for visiting Milan

From when to drink coffee to when never to visit, you'll be a seasoned expert in no time with these top travel tips

Sure, it’s got a bit of a reputation, but don’t be intimidated by Milan. Anyone who loves great restaurants , Instagram-worthy buildings and at least a bit of shopping will have an absolute blast in Milan, but to save you the stress, there are a few things you should know before you go.

Our Milan experts have rounded up all the best tips and tricks to make you an expert in all things Milan living, from what time to drink coffee and the best negroni you can order to how to make sure you get to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in the flesh. Here are our top travel tips for visiting Milan. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍝 How to eat like a local in Milan 🍕 Where to eat the best pizza in Milan 🚆 How to navigate public transport in Milan 📍 The best things to do in Milan 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Milan

Liz Humphreys is a writer based in Milan. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Travel tips for first-time Milan visitors

1.  no need to leave extra.

This one might be a shock if you’re visiting Milan from a country with a big tipping culture, but here in Milan, it’s not a thing. Tips aren’t expected, as the city has a pretty good hourly wage (we know, unheard of, right?), so keep your coins for another negroni later on. 

2.  Consider avoiding August

August might seem like a good month to live out your Italian dreams, but if you’re considering it, be warned – Milan gets seriously, swelteringly hot in August. But that’s not the only reason to make a plan for another month, as a fair few shops and restaurants shut down this month while the Milanese go on their holidays. Best not risk it, we say. 

3.  Plan ahead to see Leonardo

If getting a glimpse of Leonardo da Vinci’s  The Last Supper  is on your list, but you haven’t made reservations months in advance, all hope is not lost. Even if online reservations show no tickets are available, try calling the ticket hotline, as some are kept aside for phone callers. Another option is to book a guided Milan tour that also includes a visit to the painting, as these are sometimes more likely to have spots left.

4.  Travel by tram

Though many trams have been modernised, for a unique experience, the  ATMosfera  lets you ride a 1930s tram on a sightseeing trip through the city while enjoying a multicourse dinner with wine. It is a very romantic way to catch a glimpse of Milan’s past inside while peering at the present right outside the windows.

5.  Never order a cappuccino after lunch

Italians are convinced that drinking anything with milk after the morning will hamper digestion. So, to blend in, order that cappuccino (or other coffee drinks with milk, see below for more on that) only before 11am, or risk looking like a foreign fool.

6.  We take latte literally

If you want a coffee with milk, make sure you order a cappuccino (more foam) or caffé latte (less foam), a caffé macchiato (espresso with a little milk), or a latte macchiato (hot milk with a little coffee) instead of just a “latte” – or you’ll only get a glass of milk. If you just want an espresso, order “un caffé” to avoid strange looks.

7.  Enjoy an aperitivo

No visit to Milan is complete without partaking in the pre-dinner (or instead-of-dinner) tradition of  aperitivo. B asically, cocktails are served with all manner of free nibbles, often a buffet with enough food to constitute a meal. Though the Navigli neighbourhood is home to many bars offering  aperitivo , you’ll find it served throughout the city – so go ahead, sample a few different kinds.

8.  Try a Negroni sbagliato

While a classic Negroni – gin, Campari and sweet vermouth – is always a good idea, when in Milan, don’t miss the chance to sample a Negroni  sbagliato , literally a Negroni “mistake.” It was born at Bar Basso in the ‘70s when a bartender added sparkling wine to a Negroni instead of gin, and you can still try it there (amongst other places).

9.  Head away from the Duomo at night

Though several of the major sights you’ll want to see will be around the Duomo area, for a cooler nightlife experience, venture out to some of the more local haunts in such neighbourhoods as Isola, Porta Venezia or Navigli. You’ll get away from the tourists, save money and likely have more fun.

10.  …and even during the day

After exploring the Duomo, the Galleria and La Scala, take a bus or tram out to some of the farther reaches of Milan for truly unique museums that never feel as crowded as the centre city attractions. Fondazione Prada, Pirelli HangarBicocca and MUDEC are all housed in interesting buildings and feature permanent and rotating exhibitions worth your time.

11.  Watch out for Salone

Though arriving during the Milan Furniture Fair, called Salone del Mobile – which runs for six days in mid-April – can be super fun as there are loads of parties and events happening, the city becomes super crowded and expensive. Hotels jack up their prices to stratospheric levels and get booked up months in advance. Ditto during Milan Fashion Week. Unless you’re a diehard furniture design fan, it may be a better idea to visit at a time when the city’s a bit more relaxed.

12.  Visit museums for free

On the first Sunday of each month, all of Milan’s civic museums – including Museo del Novecento, Sforza Castle museums, Galleria d’Arte Moderna, Casa Museo Boschi di Stefano and MUDEC, among others – offer free admission. Though they tend to be more crowded then, it’s still a good chance to squeeze in some more culture without spending a cent.

13.  Head up high

Milan boasts loads of vantage points where you can enjoy prime views of the city skyline. The rooftop of the Duomo, Torre Branca inside Parco Sempione and the terrace on the seventh floor of the Rinascente department store are fabulous places to get an eyeful. Prefer a drink with your vistas? Try the Radio Rooftop Bar or Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant.

14.  Wear your snazziest shoes

The Milanese take their footwear very seriously. Women may want to bring a pair or two of high heels to wear out at night – or even during the day if they dare. (You’ll see plenty of locals traipsing effortlessly along the cobblestones wearing stilettos.) Men can often get away with cool sneakers. If you catch the locals checking out your shoes, you’ve probably done well.

15.  Go to La Scala on the cheap

Even if you’re not an opera-lover, catching a performance at Teatro alla Scala is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The problem is, not only are tickets super-pricey, but they sell out months and months in advance. However, if you visit the box office an hour before a show starts, any leftover or returned tickets are sold at a 25% discount – perhaps not cheap, but definitely worth the splurge.

16.  Embrace discount fashion

Yes, many of the clothes, shoes and accessories on sale in Milan are through-the-roof expensive – after all, this is the home of Prada and Versace. But if you just can’t bear to visit this fashion town without a purchase, head over to DMAG outlet. You’ll find three locations showcasing discounted Italian and international luxury brands, so perhaps you can head home with those Miu Miu boots you’ve been eyeing after all.

17.  Shop outside the fashion district

You’ll want to window shop and stroll in Milan’s premier fashion area, Quadrilatero della Moda. But for fun and unique purchases, head north of the Duomo to the pretty Brera district. You’ll find appealing boutiques, galleries and design stores where shopping doesn’t feel like it will bankrupt you.

18.  Plan around the sales

If you’re a serious fashion fiend, consider timing your Milan visit to coincide with one (or both!) of the two yearly sales ( saldi ) periods. The winter sales generally run from early January through early March, and the summer sales from early July through early September – though check online for the exact dates, which vary slightly each year and are announced about one month before. Sale prices can be up to 70 percent off the original, making it well worth a trip.

19.  Get out of town

If you need an escape from Milan’s urban hustle, there are some fabulous destinations just a train ride away. Bergamo, less than an hour by train, boasts a lovely medieval hilltop old town, while the Italian Lakes – Como, Garda and Maggiore – are also close by (half an hour, an hour-and-a-half and an hour by train, respectively) and offer some of the most romantic settings in all of Italy.

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Official Tourist Information Office of the City of Milan and YesMilano

The perfect place to plan your stay in the city

In Milan , at Via Mercanti 8, opposite the Palazzo della Ragione, is the Official Tourist Information Office of the City of Milan and YesMilano , a space that provides visitors with a guide to discover and experience the city of Milan at its best.

Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on weekends and holidays from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., the Office is the ideal place to quickly gather all the information you need to plan your visit to Milan and your stay in the city.

Also available via its online website, it offers a range of services for every need, from luggage storage to tourist tax , as well as information on scheduled exhibitions and the complete calendar of events not to be missed, from fashion to art, from sport to music. There is no shortage of travel tips for a sustainable visit , recommendations for iconic museums, theatres and monuments and, of course, restaurants where you can enjoy typical Milanese dishes. 

Via dei Mercanti, 8, 20121 Milano MI, Italia

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