Do you solely have sooner or later in Milan? Effectively, don’t fear—we’ve you lined. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers the most effective of the town, from historic landmarks to nice locations to eat. Take advantage of your day with us.
Milan is a metropolis the place outdated meets new, and there’s a lot to do in sooner or later. From Gothic cathedrals to buying streets, visiting Milan by no means disappoints.
Think about beginning your day with the Duomo di Milano, wandering by 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 trendy wonders.
Why Us?
We’ve been to Milan a number of occasions 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 it’s essential know to take advantage of sooner or later 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 sooner or later Milan itinerary you’ll be able to comply with 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 (for those who’re overnighting), and another tricks to make your journey as clean as doable.
Our purpose is that, by the top of this information, you’ll have every little thing it’s essential plan an unimaginable 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. isn’t solely a superb start line 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 gorgeous 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.
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 earth, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you may be amazed by the massive nave and the sunshine filtering by the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo is not only concerning the inside. The rooftop terraces provide a distinct view of the town and of the cathedral itself. The small print, 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 steps to the rooftop will value 9 EUR and are fairly a exercise, and the carry will value 14 EUR.
Keep in mind to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be lined or you may be denied entry. A light-weight scarf and a protracted gown or pants will do the trick.
Whether or not you are taking the steps or the carry, 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 magnificence. Opened in 1877, this shopping center isn’t solely one of many oldest but additionally one of the crucial lovely on the earth. 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 expensive 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 neglect to partake within the native custom of spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck. And for those who’re within the temper for a culinary deal with, Ristorante Galleria has been serving wonderful 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 Milan’s historic squares. These squares are lovely and filled with historical past. Begin with Piazza della Scala, the place the well-known La Scala Opera Home is positioned.
Then head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century pink brick fortress. This spectacular constructing is house to a number of museums and is surrounded by the beautiful Parco Sempione, so that you get historical past and rest in a single go. Strolling by these squares is like going again in time, each nook reveals a bit 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 assist you to get to know Milan higher and offers you loads of photograph alternatives.
Piazza della Scala
Piazza della Scala is a captivating sq. that homes the world-famous La Scala Opera Home. This historic theatre, relationship again to 1778, has seen performances by among the best artists on the earth. 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 provides excursions, providing you with a deeper perception into its wealthy historical past. Be sure you e-book your tickets upfront, as La Scala is among the hottest sights in Milan. In case you’re fortunate, you would possibly 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 be house to the Palazzo della Banca Commerciale Italiana, a grand Nineteenth-century financial institution constructing that provides to the world’s historic attraction. 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 fortress that’s a bit 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’ll be able to 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 even stroll across the fortress’s gardens without cost and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a good place to take a seat and absorb the environment.
Subsequent to the fortress is Parco Sempione, a giant 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 strategy to get to the Porta Nuova District, which is a good place to calm down 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. This can be a must-see, and you need to e-book upfront because it’s tremendous standard. We are going to cowl that intimately beneath.
After The Final Supper, head to the Brera District, the creative quarter with cobblestone streets. That is the place you’ll discover the Pinacoteca di Brera, Italy’s most vital assortment of medieval and Renaissance artwork. The galleries, cafes, and charming streets are the proper place to get misplaced in Milan’s creative soul. Contemplate reserving a strolling tour to discover the Brera District in-depth and acquire insights from professional guides.
Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Final Supper
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage web site and residential to one of the crucial well-known work on the earth, 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, but it surely requires some planning. Entry is proscribed. Tickets are offered in 15-minute time slots for about 25 folks and price 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service payment. They promote out months upfront, particularly throughout the summer season. So we advocate you e-book as far upfront as doable.
In case you can’t get tickets, an amazing possibility is to hitch a guided tour. They typically embrace assured entry and are very informative concerning the portray. That is the best choice if you’re reserving on the final minute. Simply bear in mind that it is going to be costlier than simply getting a ticket by yourself. However, in truth, that is one thing you don’t wish to miss, so we really feel it’s undoubtedly 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 those that wish to expertise the bohemian facet of Milan should cease by the Brera District. Well-known for its cobblestone streets and creative 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 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 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 stuffed with artwork studios and small retailers. The power is nice, and it’s the proper place to take a seat again and really feel the creative facet of Milan. Whether or not 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 within the Brera District. Brera is legendary for its good meals and vigorous 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 lightweight pizza crust with top of the range substances. In case you desire an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has an attractive inner backyard and a menu filled 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 akin to yellow rice, cutlet, mondeghili, and cassoeula. These hearty dishes provide a real style of Milanese delicacies.
If you’re on the lookout for natural choices, Bioesserì has natural pizzas made with stone-ground flours and naturally leavened dough. An incredible 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 completely 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 trend capital, provides an expensive buying expertise. Two of the most effective 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 trend quadrilateral. This road is legendary for its luxurious retailers and delightful environment. Right here, you’ll be able to see the most recent collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even for those who’re simply window buying, the pleasure of strolling by this high-end district is value it.
Then head to By way of Torino, a busy road with a extra inexpensive buying expertise. This road is filled with worldwide manufacturers and native Italian retailers for all tastes and budgets. For fashionable trend, 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 house to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers akin to Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Strolling down By way of Montenapoleone appears like stepping right into a trend journal, with elegant window shows and classy consumers at each flip.
This road attracts trend lovers and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. In case you’re a fan of excessive trend, that is the proper place to seek out the most recent traits and timeless items. Even for those who’re not planning to purchase, the expertise of window buying in such a prestigious setting is definitely worth the go to.
For a break from buying, go to Pasticceria Cova, a historic café identified for its scrumptious pastries and wonderful 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 trend in Italy’s trend 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 identified for its various vary of shops. From standard 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 trend, equipment, and footwear. This road is ideal for these seeking to replace their wardrobe with the most recent types or discover a particular reward to take house. The vigorous environment and fixed buzz make buying right here an thrilling expertise.
Along with buying, By way of Torino is a good 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 chew. 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 evening, Navigli comes alive with bars, eating places, and stay 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 cherished 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 wonder 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 includes having fun with a drink accompanied by quite a lot of gentle snacks, and Navigli is among the finest locations to indulge on this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars provide aperitivo promotions the place you pay a set value for a drink and revel in a buffet of appetizers. This can be a excellent strategy to calm down and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether or not 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 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 really unforgettable.
It’s the proper strategy to wrap up your sooner or later in Milan, particularly for those who plan to go to Milan only for a short while.
Sensible Suggestions for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, it’s essential plan forward. Creating the proper Milan itinerary will take advantage of your time on this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is nice and environment friendly so you will get round simply. Save this put up to your cellphone and use Google Maps to seek out your means round. Contemplate taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient strategy to discover extra of Northern Italy.
When in Milan:
- E book your lodging asap for those who plan on staying the evening as the town is dear.
- Keep close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the principle sights.
- Contemplate 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 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!
Tips on how to Get Round Milan
Getting round Milan is simple. The principle methods are on foot, by tram, or by metro. For longer distances, the metro is the quickest and best. 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 be nice for getting round. The tram is especially helpful for areas circuitously served by the metro. In case you’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you will get to the town heart and different sights by bus, tram, or metro.
You can even purchase your tickets on-line or by the ATM Milano app. This may prevent time and provide the finest 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 amazing base from which to discover the town. If you’re on the lookout for extra solutions, make certain to take a look at our article on The 13 Greatest 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 trendy facilities.
Staying within the heart 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 dear. By reserving upfront, you’ll have extra choices and might discover a place that fits your price range and magnificence. Whether or not you need luxurious or price range, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Regularly Requested Questions
To safe tickets to see The Final Supper, it’s finest to e-book properly upfront or be 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 sooner or later 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.
It’s best to 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’ll be able to 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 isn’t anticipated in eating places in Milan. Service prices are usually included within the invoice, however rounding up or leaving small change for distinctive service is appreciated.
The Final Phrase
In simply sooner or later, Milan provides a wealthy tapestry of experiences that mix historical past, artwork, trend, and culinary delights. From the Gothic splendor of the Duomo di Milano and the magnificence of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to the creative 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 or not you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering the town’s attraction, this Milan itinerary offers an ideal steadiness of sightseeing, rest, and cultural immersion. So, pack your baggage, plan your day, and prepare to fall in love with Milan, considered one of Italy’s most enchanting cities.
