Do you solely have at some point in Milan? Effectively, don’t fear—we’ve you lined. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers the very best of the town, from historic landmarks to nice locations to eat. Profit from your day with us.
Milan is a metropolis the place previous meets new, and there’s a lot to do in at some point. From Gothic cathedrals to buying streets, visiting Milan by no means disappoints.
Think about beginning your day with the Duomo di Milano, wandering by way of the Brera District, and ending your day with an aperitivo by the canals of the Navigli District. Whether or not you’re an artwork lover, fashionista or foodie, Milan has one thing for everybody. Let this be your information to navigating Milan’s cultural, historic, and fashionable wonders.
Why Us?
We’ve been to Milan a number of instances and people journeys allowed us to dig deeper and discover out what makes Milan particular and most significantly what’s value seeing, doing and consuming.
On this information, we’ll cowl every little thing you want to know to benefit from at some point in Milan (whether or not you’re staying in a single day or simply visiting for the day).
We’ll begin with an in depth at some point Milan itinerary you’ll be able to comply with precisely or take the very best bits and create your individual. Then, we’ll cowl some logistics, like getting across the metropolis, the place to remain (if you happen to’re overnighting), and another tricks to make your journey as easy as potential.
Our objective is that, by the tip of this information, you’ll have every little thing you want to plan an unbelievable day in Milan.
Begin Your Day at Piazza del Duomo
Begin your Milan journey by planning to go to Piazza del Duomo, the guts of the town. This sq. just isn’t solely a great start line but in addition a doorway to a few of Milan’s most lovely sights. Get there early to benefit from the sq. with out the crowds as a result of because it will get later and later, the place actually fills up.
The centerpiece of Piazza del Duomo is the gorgeous Duomo di Milano, Italy’s greatest Gothic cathedral, which took six centuries to construct. This magnificence is roofed in statues and gargoyles, which is spectacular, however be sure to don’t miss exploring the rooftop terraces for a panoramic view of Milan.
Only a stone’s throw away from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of many world’s oldest and most gorgeous buying malls. This elegant construction, with its glass and iron roof, homes high-end boutiques and charming cafes, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely morning stroll.
Visiting the Duomo di Milano
Visiting the Duomo di Milano, also called the Milan Cathedral, encapsulates the true spirit of Milan. That is the largest cathedral in Italy and the third on the planet, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you’ll be amazed by the massive nave and the sunshine filtering by way of the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo is not only concerning the inside. The rooftop terraces supply a distinct view of the town and of the cathedral itself. The main points, the statues, and the spires are higher seen from up shut. For the very best expertise, e-book the primary entry to the terraces to keep away from these pesky crowds. The steps to the rooftop will price 9 EUR and are fairly a exercise, and the elevate will price 14 EUR.
Keep in mind to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be lined or you’ll be denied entry. A lightweight scarf and a protracted costume or pants will do the trick.
Whether or not you’re taking the steps or the elevate, it’s value it for the views and to see Milan from above.
Exploring Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Simply steps away from the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II invitations you to a world of luxurious and class. Opened in 1877, this shopping center just isn’t solely one of many oldest but in addition one of the vital lovely on the planet. Its glass and iron roof, together with the gorgeous mosaic flooring, make it a feast for the eyes.
Contained in the Galleria, you’ll discover high-end designer shops like Prada, Versace, and Louis Vuitton, providing an opulent buying expertise. Even when buying isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window buying and soaking within the opulent environment.
Don’t overlook to partake within the native custom of spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck. And if you happen to’re within the temper for a culinary deal with, Ristorante Galleria has been serving glorious meals for over 50 years. Whether or not you’re right here for the buying, the structure, or the meals, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit spot.
Morning Stroll By means of Historic Squares
When you’ve seen the Piazza del Duomo, take a stroll by way of Milan’s historic squares. These squares are lovely and stuffed with historical past. Begin with Piazza della Scala, the place the well-known La Scala Opera Home is situated.
Then head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century purple brick fort. This spectacular constructing is dwelling to a number of museums and is surrounded by the stunning Parco Sempione, so that you get historical past and rest in a single go. Strolling by way of these squares is like going again in time, each nook reveals a chunk of Milan’s previous.
They’re shut to one another, so you’ll be able to stroll between them. Most of those sights are inside strolling distance, making it simple to discover the town on foot. This tour will allow you to get to know Milan higher and gives you loads of photograph alternatives.
Piazza della Scala
Piazza della Scala is an enthralling sq. that homes the world-famous La Scala Opera Home. This historic theatre, courting again to 1778, has seen performances by among the biggest artists on the planet. A go to to La Scala is a should, whether or not you’re an opera fanatic or just respect gorgeous structure.
The opera home additionally has a museum that gives excursions, providing you with a deeper perception into its wealthy historical past. You’ll want to e-book your tickets prematurely, as La Scala is without doubt one of the hottest sights in Milan. If you happen to’re fortunate, you may even catch a rehearsal or a efficiency.
Whilst you’re within the piazza, take a second to admire the large statue of Leonardo da Vinci. This sq. can also be dwelling to the Palazzo della Banca Commerciale Italiana, a grand Nineteenth-century financial institution constructing that provides to the world’s historic appeal. Take pleasure in some gelato from Grom II and take pleasure in some people-watching as you soak within the environment.
Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
Subsequent, let’s head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century fort that’s a chunk of Milan’s historical past. Constructed by the Duke of Milan, it’s been modified over the centuries and now has a number of museums inside. You possibly can go to the Museum of Historical Artwork, the Museum of Musical Devices, the Museum of Utilized Arts, the Museum of Egyptian Artwork, and the Museum of Prehistory and Protohistory. Right here, you’ll find items like Michelangelo’s final work, the Rondanini Pietà.
The ticket is included within the go to, and it prices €5. It’s a good suggestion to purchase tickets on-line to keep away from the traces. You can too stroll across the fort’s gardens without cost and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a superb place to take a seat and take in the environment.
Subsequent to the fort is Parco Sempione, an enormous public park the place you’ll be able to take a stroll or have a picnic. The park has lovely views and landmarks just like the Arco della Tempo. It’s additionally a pleasant option to get to the Porta Nuova District, which is a superb place to loosen up earlier than persevering with your Milan journey.
Noon Artwork and Tradition Tour
Because the clock strikes 12, dive into Milan’s artwork and tradition. Begin with Santa Maria delle Grazie and see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Final Supper. It is a must-see, and it’s a must to e-book prematurely because it’s tremendous fashionable. We’ll cowl that intimately under.
After The Final Supper, head to the Brera District, the inventive quarter with cobblestone streets. That is the place you’ll discover the Pinacoteca di Brera, Italy’s most essential assortment of medieval and Renaissance artwork. The galleries, cafes, and charming streets are the proper place to get misplaced in Milan’s inventive soul. Think about reserving a strolling tour to discover the Brera District in-depth and acquire insights from skilled guides.
Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Final Supper
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage website and residential to one of the vital well-known work on the planet, The Final Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Painted between 1495 and 1498, it’s 15 meters by 29 meters and exhibits the second Jesus tells his disciples that considered one of them will betray him.
Seeing The Final Supper is a must-do on any journey to Milan, nevertheless it requires some planning. Entry is proscribed. Tickets are offered in 15-minute time slots for about 25 folks and value 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service payment. They promote out months prematurely, particularly throughout the summer time. So we suggest you e-book as far prematurely as potential.
If you happen to can’t get tickets, an excellent choice is to hitch a guided tour. They typically embody assured entry and are very informative concerning the portray. That is the best choice if you’re reserving on the final minute. Simply remember that it will likely be dearer than simply getting a ticket by yourself. However, honestly, that is one thing you don’t wish to miss, so we really feel it’s positively value the additional money.
Whether or not you e-book months forward or go for a guided tour, seeing The Final Supper is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Brera District
Artwork lovers and people who wish to expertise the bohemian aspect of Milan should cease by the Brera District. Well-known for its cobblestone streets and inventive vibe, Brera is a treasure trove of galleries, cafes, and boutiques to find.
On the coronary heart of the district is the Pinacoteca di Brera, with Italy’s greatest assortment of medieval and Renaissance artwork. Inside, you’ll discover masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Titian. The Pinacoteca shares the constructing with the Brera Academy, the Braidense Nationwide Library, and the Museo Astronomico, so you’ll be able to have a cultural overdose in a single go.
As you stroll round Brera, you’ll discover streets crammed with artwork studios and small retailers. The vitality is nice, and it’s the proper place to take a seat again and really feel the inventive aspect of Milan. Whether or not you go to the Pinacoteca or simply stroll round, Brera will forged its spell on you.
Lunch Break in Brera
After the morning’s artwork and tradition, deal with your self to lunch within the Brera District. Brera is legendary for its good meals and energetic environment, and it has many eating places that swimsuit all tastes.
For correct Italian meals, go to Casa Fiori Chiari the place you’ll be able to have a light-weight pizza crust with high-quality components. If you happen to want an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has an exquisite inner backyard and a menu stuffed with Italian dishes. For a lunch with a twist, Coraje has a Mediterranean and South American fusion menu, excellent for a glamorous lunch.
Italian Meals Suggestions
When in Milan, indulging in conventional Milanese dishes is a should. Trattoria del Ciumbia in Brera is a superb alternative for sampling native favorites reminiscent of yellow rice, cutlet, mondeghili, and cassoeula. These hearty dishes supply a real style of Milanese delicacies.
In case you are on the lookout for natural choices, Bioesserì has natural pizzas made with stone-ground flours and naturally leavened dough. A fantastic alternative for health-conscious eaters who don’t wish to hand over on taste.
One other good one is U Barba Bottega Genovese, which serves DOC Ligurian delicacies. Right here you’ll be able to strive pesto-seasoned testaroli and Ligurian focaccia. No matter you’re within the temper for, Milanese or one thing totally different, Brera has all of it.
When you’ve eaten, give in to the temptation of some buying in Milan’s well-known streets. Milan, being Italy’s vogue capital, provides an opulent buying expertise. Two of the very best locations to buy are By way of Montenapoleone and By way of Torino. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for high-end designer boutiques or a mixture of worldwide and native retailers, these streets have all of it.
Begin your buying on By way of Montenapoleone, a part of Milan’s vogue quadrilateral. This road is legendary for its luxurious retailers and exquisite environment. Right here, you’ll be able to see the most recent collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even if you happen to’re simply window buying, the pleasure of strolling by way of this high-end district is value it.
Then head to By way of Torino, a busy road with a extra reasonably priced buying expertise. This road is filled with worldwide manufacturers and native Italian retailers for all tastes and budgets. For fashionable vogue, souvenirs, or simply the pleasure of being within the midst of the motion, By way of Torino is the place to be.
By way of Montenapoleone
By way of Montenapoleone is the epitome of luxurious buying in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this road is dwelling to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers reminiscent of Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Strolling down By way of Montenapoleone looks like stepping right into a vogue journal, with elegant window shows and trendy customers at each flip.
This road attracts vogue fanatics and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. If you happen to’re a fan of excessive vogue, that is the proper place to seek out the most recent traits and timeless items. Even if you happen to’re not planning to purchase, the expertise of window buying in such a prestigious setting is well worth the go to.
For a break from buying, go to Pasticceria Cova, a historic café recognized for its scrumptious pastries and glorious people-watching spot. Sit again with a cappuccino and benefit from the view of Milan’s fashionistas going about their day.
By way of Montenapoleone is not only a buying vacation spot; it’s a glimpse into the glamorous world of Milanese vogue in Italy’s vogue capital.
By way of Torino
By way of Torino provides a vibrant buying expertise that’s accessible to everybody. This bustling road is a favourite amongst each locals and guests, and it’s recognized for its various vary of shops. From fashionable worldwide manufacturers to distinctive native boutiques, By way of Torino has one thing for each shopper.
As you stroll down By way of Torino, you’ll discover a mixture of fashionable vogue, equipment, and footwear. This road is ideal for these trying to replace their wardrobe with the most recent types or discover a particular reward to take dwelling. The energetic environment and fixed buzz make buying right here an thrilling expertise.
Along with buying, By way of Torino is a superb place to discover Milan’s city tradition. The road is lined with cafes and eateries the place you’ll be able to take a break and revel in a espresso or a fast chunk. Whether or not you’re on a buying mission or simply having fun with the town’s vibe, By way of Torino is a must-visit spot in Milan.
Night Leisure by the Canals
Because the day winds down, head to the Navigli District, Milan’s canals. This space is legendary for its nightlife, boutiques, and canals, so it’s the proper spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing and buying.
At night time, Navigli comes alive with bars, eating places, and reside music venues alongside the canals. Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are the 2 foremost canals within the district, with good views and a stunning environment for a night stroll.
Whether or not you wish to have a quiet dinner or expertise Milan’s nightlife, Navigli has all of it. The district has a particular mixture of historical past, tradition, and modernity that’s beloved by each locals and vacationers.
Because the solar units, the reflections on the canal waters create a magical setting that’s excellent for unwinding and soaking within the Milanese spirit, harking back to the sweetness discovered at Lake Como.
Aperitivo in Navigli
A go to to Milan wouldn’t be full with out experiencing the standard Milanese aperitivo. This pre-dinner ritual entails having fun with a drink accompanied by a wide range of gentle snacks, and Navigli is without doubt one of the greatest locations to indulge on this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars supply aperitivo promotions the place you pay a hard and fast value for a drink and revel in a buffet of appetizers. It is a excellent option to loosen up and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether or not you like a traditional spritz or a classy cocktail, the aperitivo tradition in Navigli gives a pleasant finish to your day.
As you sit on a restaurant’s outside patio in Navigli, you’ll have the prospect to soak within the vibrant environment, watch the world go by alongside the canals, get pleasure from good meals and nice drinks, and soak up picturesque views. The aperitivo expertise in Navigli is actually unforgettable.
It’s the proper option to wrap up your at some point in Milan, particularly if you happen to plan to go to Milan only for a short while.
Sensible Suggestions for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, you want to plan forward. Creating the proper Milan itinerary will benefit from your time on this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is sweet and environment friendly so you may get round simply. Save this submit to your cellphone and use Google Maps to seek out your approach round. Think about taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient option to discover extra of Northern Italy.
When in Milan:
Guide your lodging asap if you happen to plan on staying the night time as the town is pricey.
Keep close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the principle sights.
Think about the three airports in Milan: Milano Malpensa, Bergamo Orio al Serio, and Milano Linate. Milano Linate is the one closest to the town middle.
And don’t overlook tipping just isn’t anticipated in Milan because the service cost is already included within the invoice. However rounding up the invoice or leaving small change is at all times appreciated. Now you’re prepared on your day in Milan!
How one can Get Round Milan
Getting round Milan is straightforward. The primary methods are on foot, by tram, or by metro. For longer distances, the metro is the quickest and most effective. A 90-minute ticket prices €2.20, and a 24-hour ticket prices €7.60.
Milan’s public transportation community, which incorporates trams and buses, can also be nice for getting round. The tram is especially helpful for areas indirectly served by the metro. If you happen to’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you may get to the town middle and different sights by bus, tram, or metro.
You can too purchase your tickets on-line or by way of the ATM Milano app. It will prevent time and provide the greatest routes and schedules. With a little bit of planning, you’ll discover that getting round Milan is each simple and satisfying.
The place to Keep in Milan
The place you keep in Milan could make all of the distinction. For comfort and transport hyperlinks, keep within the Milano Centrale space. This space has nice connections to trains and planes, so it’s an excellent base from which to discover the town. In case you are on the lookout for extra options, be sure to take a look at our article on The 13 Finest Luxurious Resorts in Milan, Italy.
If you wish to keep nearer to the principle sights, search for motels close to Piazza del Duomo. Some good choices are:
Resort Dei Cavalieri: Near the Duomo and a subway station close by to get across the metropolis.
Resort Milano Scala: Central location and good rooms.
NH Assortment Milano President: Close to the Duomo and fashionable facilities.
Staying within the middle of Milan means you’re by no means removed from the motion and might stroll to most of the metropolis’s foremost sights.
Wherever you select to remain, e-book early, as Milan is pricey. By reserving prematurely, you’ll have extra choices and might discover a place that fits your funds and magnificence. Whether or not you need luxurious or funds, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Continuously Requested Questions
To safe tickets to see The Final Supper, it’s greatest to e-book properly prematurely or be a part of a guided tour to make sure entry. The recognition of the attraction limits tickets and makes them fast to promote out.
One of the simplest ways to get round Milan in at some point is to make use of the town’s public transportation community, such because the metro, tram, and buses, to effectively go to the principle sights.
You must keep within the Milano Centrale neighborhood or close to Piazza del Duomo for straightforward entry to transportation and main sights. Each areas are well-connected and handy for exploring Milan.
You possibly can expertise a Milanese aperitivo by visiting the Navigli District, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a drink and light-weight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping just isn’t anticipated in eating places in Milan. Service expenses are usually included within the invoice, however rounding up or leaving small change for distinctive service is appreciated.
The Final Phrase
In simply at some point, Milan provides a wealthy tapestry of experiences that mix historical past, artwork, vogue, and culinary delights. From the Gothic splendor of the Duomo di Milano and the class of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to the inventive treasures of the Brera District and the colourful nightlife of the Navigli canals, this itinerary ensures you see the very best of Milan in a single day.
Whether or not you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering the town’s appeal, this Milan itinerary gives an ideal stability of sightseeing, rest, and cultural immersion. So, pack your luggage, plan your day, and prepare to fall in love with Milan, considered one of Italy’s most enchanting cities.