Do you solely have at some point in Milan? Well, don’t fear—we have now you lined. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers the most effective of the town, from historic landmarks to nice locations to eat. Make probably the most of your day with us.
Milan is a metropolis the place outdated meets new, and there’s a lot to do in at some point. From Gothic cathedrals to purchasing streets, visiting Milan by no means disappoints.
Imagine beginning your day with the Duomo di Milano, wandering by means of the Brera District, and ending your day with an aperitivo by the canals of the Navigli District. Whether 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 trendy 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 price seeing, doing and consuming.
In this information, we’ll cowl every little thing that you must know to profit 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 observe precisely or take the most effective bits and create your personal. Then, we’ll cowl some logistics, like getting across the metropolis, the place to remain (should you’re overnighting), and another tricks to make your journey as easy as attainable.
Our objective is that, by the tip of this information, you’ll have every little thing that you must plan an unimaginable day in Milan.
Start Your Day at Piazza del Duomo
Start your Milan journey by planning to go to Piazza del Duomo, the guts of the town. This sq. will not be solely an excellent place to begin but additionally 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 beautiful Duomo di Milano, Italy’s largest Gothic cathedral, which took six centuries to construct. This magnificence is roofed in statues and gargoyles, which is spectacular, however ensure you don’t miss exploring the rooftop terraces for a panoramic view of Milan.
Just a stone’s throw away from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of many world’s oldest and most beautiful purchasing 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, often known as the Milan Cathedral, encapsulates the true spirit of Milan. This is the most important cathedral in Italy and the third in the world, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you’ll be amazed by the large nave and the sunshine filtering by means of the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo is not only in regards to the inside. The rooftop terraces provide a special view of the town and of the cathedral itself. The particulars, the statues, and the spires are higher seen from up shut. For the most effective expertise, e book the primary entry to the terraces to keep away from these pesky crowds. The stairs to the rooftop will price 9 EUR and are fairly a exercise, and the carry will price 14 EUR.
Remember to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be lined or you’ll be denied entry. A light-weight scarf and a protracted gown or pants will do the trick.
Whether you’re taking the steps or the carry, it’s price it for the views and to see Milan from above.
Exploring Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Just 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 will not be solely one of many oldest but additionally one of the vital lovely in the world. Its glass and iron roof, together with the beautiful mosaic flooring, make it a feast for the eyes.
Inside the Galleria, you’ll discover high-end designer shops like Prada, Versace, and Louis Vuitton, providing an expensive purchasing expertise. Even if purchasing isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window purchasing and soaking in the opulent ambiance.
Don’t neglect to partake in the native custom of spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck. And should you’re in the temper for a culinary deal with, Ristorante Galleria has been serving glorious meals for over 50 years. Whether you’re right here for the purchasing, the structure, or the meals, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit spot.
Morning Stroll Through Historical Squares
Once you’ve seen the Piazza del Duomo, take a stroll by means of Milan’s historic squares. These squares are lovely and stuffed with historical past. Start with Piazza della Scala, the place the well-known La Scala Opera House is positioned.
Then head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century pink brick citadel. This spectacular constructing is dwelling to a number of museums and is surrounded by the beautiful Parco Sempione, so that you get historical past and rest in one go. Walking by means of these squares is like going again in time, each nook reveals a chunk of Milan’s previous.
They are shut to one another, so you’ll be able to stroll between them. Most of those sights are inside strolling distance, making it straightforward to discover the town on foot. This tour will assist you get to know Milan higher and gives you loads of picture alternatives.
Piazza della Scala
Piazza della Scala is a captivating sq. that homes the world-famous La Scala Opera House. This historic theatre, relationship again to 1778, has seen performances by a few of the biggest artists in the world. A go to to La Scala is a should, whether or not you’re an opera fanatic or just respect beautiful structure.
The opera home additionally has a museum that provides excursions, supplying you with a deeper perception into its wealthy historical past. Be certain to e book your tickets in advance, as La Scala is likely one of the hottest sights in Milan. If you’re fortunate, you would possibly even catch a rehearsal or a efficiency.
While you’re in 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 realm’s historic appeal. Enjoy some gelato from Grom II and indulge in some people-watching as you soak in the ambiance.
Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
Next, let’s head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century citadel that’s a chunk of Milan’s historical past. Built by the Duke of Milan, it’s been modified over the centuries and now has a number of museums inside. You can go to the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Museum of Applied Arts, the Museum of Egyptian Art, and the Museum of Prehistory and Protohistory. Here, you’ll find items like Michelangelo’s final work, the Rondanini Pietà.
The ticket is included in the go to, and it prices €5. It’s a good suggestion to purchase tickets on-line to keep away from the strains. You can even stroll across the citadel’s gardens for free and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a superb place to sit down and absorb the ambiance.
Next to the citadel 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 Pace. It’s additionally a pleasant technique to get to the Porta Nuova District, which is a superb place to loosen up earlier than persevering with your Milan journey.
Midday Art and Culture Tour
As the clock strikes 12, dive into Milan’s artwork and tradition. Start with Santa Maria delle Grazie and see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. This is a must-see, and you need to e book in advance because it’s tremendous standard. We will cowl that in element under.
After The Last Supper, head to the Brera District, the inventive quarter with cobblestone streets. This is the place you’ll discover the Pinacoteca di Brera, Italy’s most necessary assortment of medieval and Renaissance artwork. The galleries, cafes, and charming streets are the proper place to get misplaced in Milan’s inventive soul. Consider reserving a strolling tour to discover the Brera District in-depth and acquire insights from knowledgeable guides.
Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage web site and residential to one of the vital well-known work in the world, The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Painted between 1495 and 1498, it’s 15 meters by 29 meters and reveals the second Jesus tells his disciples that one among them will betray him.
Seeing The Last Supper is a must-do on any journey to Milan, but it surely requires some planning. Entry is restricted. Tickets are bought in 15-minute time slots for about 25 individuals and price 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service payment. They promote out months in advance, particularly throughout the summer time. So we suggest you e book as far in advance as attainable.
If you’ll be able to’t get tickets, a fantastic choice is to hitch a guided tour. They typically embrace assured entry and are very informative in regards to the portray. This is the most suitable choice if you’re reserving on the final minute. Just bear in mind that it is going to be dearer than simply getting a ticket by yourself. But, in truth, that is one thing you don’t need to miss, so we really feel it’s positively price the additional money.
Whether you e book months forward or decide for a guided tour, seeing The Last Supper is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Brera District
Art lovers and those that need to expertise the bohemian aspect of Milan should cease by the Brera District. Famous for its cobblestone streets and inventive vibe, Brera is a treasure trove of galleries, cafes, and boutiques to find.
At the guts of the district is the Pinacoteca di Brera, with Italy’s largest 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 National Library, and the Museo Astronomico, so you’ll be able to have a cultural overdose in one go.
As you stroll round Brera, you’ll discover streets stuffed with artwork studios and small outlets. The vitality is nice, and it’s the proper place to sit down again and really feel the inventive aspect of Milan. Whether you go to the Pinacoteca or simply stroll round, Brera will solid its spell on you.
Lunch Break in Brera
After the morning’s artwork and tradition, deal with your self to lunch in the Brera District. Brera is legendary for its good meals and full of life ambiance, and it has many eating places that go well with all tastes.
For correct Italian meals, go to Casa Fiori Chiari the place you’ll be able to have a lightweight pizza crust with top of the range elements. If you favor an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has an attractive 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 Food Recommendations
When in Milan, indulging in conventional Milanese dishes is a should. Trattoria del Ciumbia in Brera is a superb alternative for sampling native favorites resembling yellow rice, cutlet, mondeghili, and cassoeula. These hearty dishes provide a real style of Milanese delicacies.
If you’re looking for natural choices, Bioesserì has natural pizzas made with stone-ground flours and naturally leavened dough. An excellent alternative for health-conscious eaters who don’t need to hand over on taste.
Another good one is U Barba Bottega Genovese, which serves DOC Ligurian delicacies. Here you’ll be able to strive pesto-seasoned testaroli and Ligurian focaccia. Whatever you’re in the temper for, Milanese or one thing completely different, Brera has all of it.
Once you’ve eaten, give in to the temptation of some purchasing in Milan’s well-known streets. Milan, being Italy’s style capital, gives an expensive purchasing expertise. Two of the most effective locations to buy are Via Montenapoleone and Via Torino. Whether you’re wanting for high-end designer boutiques or a mixture of worldwide and native outlets, these streets have all of it.
Start your purchasing on Via Montenapoleone, a part of Milan’s style quadrilateral. This avenue is legendary for its luxurious outlets and exquisite ambiance. Here, you’ll be able to see the most recent collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even should you’re simply window purchasing, the pleasure of strolling by means of this high-end district is price it.
Then head to Via Torino, a busy avenue with a extra reasonably priced purchasing expertise. This avenue is stuffed with worldwide manufacturers and native Italian outlets for all tastes and budgets. For fashionable style, souvenirs, or simply the pleasure of being in the midst of the motion, Via Torino is the place to be.
Via Montenapoleone
Via Montenapoleone is the epitome of luxurious purchasing in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this avenue is dwelling to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers resembling Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Walking down Via Montenapoleone appears like stepping right into a style journal, with elegant window shows and classy consumers at each flip.
This avenue attracts style fanatics and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. If you’re a fan of excessive style, that is the proper place to seek out the most recent traits and timeless items. Even should you’re not planning to purchase, the expertise of window purchasing in such a prestigious setting is well worth the go to.
For a break from purchasing, go to Pasticceria Cova, a historic café identified 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.
Via Montenapoleone is not only a purchasing vacation spot; it’s a glimpse into the glamorous world of Milanese style in Italy’s style capital.
Via Torino
Via Torino gives a vibrant purchasing expertise that’s accessible to everybody. This bustling avenue is a favourite amongst each locals and guests, and it’s identified for its various vary of shops. From standard worldwide manufacturers to distinctive native boutiques, Via Torino has one thing for each shopper.
As you stroll down Via Torino, you’ll discover a mixture of fashionable style, equipment, and footwear. This avenue is ideal for these trying to replace their wardrobe with the most recent types or discover a particular present to take dwelling. The full of life ambiance and fixed buzz make purchasing right here an thrilling expertise.
In addition to purchasing, Via Torino is a superb place to discover Milan’s city tradition. The avenue is lined with cafes and eateries the place you’ll be able to take a break and luxuriate in a espresso or a fast chunk. Whether you’re on a purchasing mission or simply having fun with the town’s vibe, Via Torino is a must-visit spot in Milan.
Evening Relaxation by the Canals
As 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 purchasing.
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 fundamental canals in the district, with good views and a stunning ambiance for a night stroll.
Whether you need 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 cherished by each locals and vacationers.
As the solar units, the reflections on the canal waters create a magical setting that’s excellent for unwinding and soaking in the Milanese spirit, harking back to the wonder discovered at Lake Como.
Aperitivo in Navigli
A go to to Milan wouldn’t be full with out experiencing the normal Milanese aperitivo. This pre-dinner ritual includes having fun with a drink accompanied by a wide range of gentle snacks, and Navigli is likely one of the greatest locations to indulge in this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars provide aperitivo promotions the place you pay a hard and fast value for a drink and luxuriate in a buffet of appetizers. This is an ideal technique to loosen up and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether you favor a basic spritz or a complicated cocktail, the aperitivo tradition in Navigli offers a pleasant finish to your day.
As you sit on a restaurant’s out of doors patio in Navigli, you’ll have the possibility to soak in the colourful ambiance, watch the world go by alongside the canals, get pleasure from good meals and nice drinks, and take in picturesque views. The aperitivo expertise in Navigli is actually unforgettable.
It’s the proper technique to wrap up your at some point in Milan, particularly should you plan to go to Milan simply for a short while.
Practical Tips for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, that you must plan forward. Creating the proper Milan itinerary will profit from your time in this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is sweet and environment friendly so you may get round simply. Save this submit to your telephone and use Google Maps to seek out your means round. Consider taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient technique to discover extra of Northern Italy.
When in Milan:
Book your lodging asap should you plan on staying the night time as the town is pricey.
Stay close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the primary sights.
Consider the three airports in Milan: Milano Malpensa, Bergamo Orio al Serio, and Milano Linate. Milano Linate is the one closest to the town heart.
And don’t neglect tipping will not be anticipated in Milan because the service cost is already included in the invoice. But rounding up the invoice or leaving small change is all the time appreciated. Now you’re prepared for your day in Milan!
How to Get Around Milan
Getting round Milan is straightforward. The fundamental 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 in a roundabout way served by the metro. If you’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you may get to the town heart and different sights by bus, tram, or metro.
You can even purchase your tickets on-line or by means of the ATM Milano app. This 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 straightforward and pleasurable.
Where to Stay in Milan
Where you keep in Milan could make all of the distinction. For comfort and transport hyperlinks, keep in the Milano Centrale space. This space has nice connections to trains and planes, so it’s a fantastic base from which to discover the town. If you’re looking for extra strategies, be sure that to take a look at our article on The 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Milan, Italy.
If you need to keep nearer to the primary sights, look for resorts close to Piazza del Duomo. Some good choices are:
Hotel Dei Cavalieri: Close to the Duomo and a subway station close by to get across the metropolis.
Hotel Milano Scala: Central location and good rooms.
NH Collection Milano President: Near the Duomo and trendy facilities.
Staying in the middle of Milan means you’re by no means removed from the motion and might stroll to most of the metropolis’s fundamental sights.
Wherever you select to remain, e book early, as Milan is pricey. By reserving in advance, you’ll have extra choices and might discover a place that fits your funds and elegance. Whether you need luxurious or funds, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Frequently Asked Questions
To safe tickets to see The Last Supper, it’s greatest to e book nicely in advance or be part of a guided tour to make sure entry. The reputation of the attraction limits tickets and makes them fast to promote out.
The greatest technique 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 primary sights.
You ought to keep in the Milano Centrale neighborhood or close to Piazza del Duomo for easy accessibility to transportation and main sights. Both areas are well-connected and handy for exploring Milan.
You can expertise a Milanese aperitivo by visiting the Navigli District, the place you’ll be able to get pleasure from a drink and lightweight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping will not be anticipated in eating places in Milan. Service prices are usually included in the invoice, however rounding up or leaving small change for distinctive service is appreciated.
The Last Word
In simply at some point, Milan gives a wealthy tapestry of experiences that mix historical past, artwork, style, 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 most effective of Milan in a single day.
Whether you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering the town’s appeal, this Milan itinerary offers an ideal stability of sightseeing, rest, and cultural immersion. So, pack your baggage, plan your day, and prepare to fall in love with Milan, one among Italy’s most enchanting cities.