Do you solely have in the future in Milan? Well, don’t fear—we’ve got you coated. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers the perfect of the town, from historic landmarks to nice locations to eat. Make essentially the most of your day with us.
Milan is a metropolis the place outdated meets new, and there’s a lot to do in in the future. From Gothic cathedrals to buying streets, visiting Milan by no means disappoints.
Imagine beginning your day with the Duomo di Milano, wandering via 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 the whole lot it is advisable know to take advantage of in the future 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 in the future Milan itinerary you possibly can observe precisely or take the perfect bits and create your individual. 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 clean as doable.
Our aim is that, by the tip of this information, you’ll have the whole lot it is advisable 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 center of the town. This sq. isn’t solely a great place to begin 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 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 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 referred to as the Milan Cathedral, encapsulates the true spirit of Milan. This is the largest cathedral in Italy and the third in the world, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you may be amazed by the large nave and the sunshine filtering via the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo is not only concerning 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 perfect 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 raise will price 14 EUR.
Remember to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be coated or you may 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 raise, 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 magnificence. Opened in 1877, this shopping center isn’t solely one of many oldest but in addition 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 buying expertise. Even if buying isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window buying and soaking in the opulent environment.
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 buying, 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 via 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 purple brick citadel. This spectacular constructing is residence to a number of museums and is surrounded by the beautiful Parco Sempione, so that you get historical past and leisure in one go. Walking via these squares is like going again in time, each nook reveals a bit of Milan’s previous.
They are shut to one another, so you possibly can stroll between them. Most of those points of interest are inside strolling distance, making it simple to discover the town on foot. This tour will make it easier 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 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 recognize beautiful structure.
The opera home additionally has a museum that gives 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 among the hottest points of interest 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 be residence to the Palazzo della Banca Commerciale Italiana, a grand Nineteenth-century financial institution constructing that provides to the world’s historic attraction. Enjoy some gelato from Grom II and indulge in some people-watching as you soak in the environment.
Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
Next, let’s head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century citadel that’s a bit 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, yow will discover 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 may also stroll across the citadel’s gardens for free and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a superb place to take a seat and take in the environment.
Next to the citadel is Parco Sempione, an enormous public park the place you possibly can 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 strategy 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 it’s important to e-book in advance because it’s tremendous in style. 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 essential assortment of medieval and Renaissance artwork. The galleries, cafes, and charming streets are the right 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 skilled 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 exhibits the second Jesus tells his disciples that considered one of 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 proscribed. Tickets are offered in 15-minute time slots for about 25 individuals and value 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service price. They promote out months in advance, particularly through the summer time. So we suggest you e-book as far in advance as doable.
If you possibly can’t get tickets, an important possibility is to affix a guided tour. They usually embrace assured entry and are very informative concerning the portray. This is the best choice in case you are reserving on the final minute. Just remember that it will likely be dearer than simply getting a ticket by yourself. But, honestly, that is one thing you don’t need to miss, so we really feel it’s undoubtedly price the additional money.
Whether you e-book months forward or choose for a guided tour, seeing The Last Supper is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Brera District
Art lovers and people who need to expertise the bohemian facet 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 center 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 possibly can have a cultural overdose in one go.
As you stroll round Brera, you’ll discover streets full of artwork studios and small retailers. The vitality is nice, and it’s the right place to take a seat again and really feel the inventive facet 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 energetic environment, and it has many eating places that go well with all tastes.
For correct Italian meals, go to Casa Fiori Chiari the place you possibly can have a lightweight pizza crust with high quality substances. If you like an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has a wonderful 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 wonderful 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 looking for natural choices, Bioesserì has natural pizzas made with stone-ground flours and naturally leavened dough. A terrific alternative for health-conscious eaters who don’t need to surrender on taste.
Another good one is U Barba Bottega Genovese, which serves DOC Ligurian delicacies. Here you possibly can attempt pesto-seasoned testaroli and Ligurian focaccia. Whatever you’re in the temper for, Milanese or one thing totally different, Brera has all of it.
Once you’ve eaten, give in to the temptation of some buying in Milan’s well-known streets. Milan, being Italy’s vogue capital, gives an expensive buying expertise. Two of the perfect locations to buy are Via Montenapoleone and Via Torino. Whether you’re trying for high-end designer boutiques or a mixture of worldwide and native retailers, these streets have all of it.
Start your buying on Via Montenapoleone, a part of Milan’s vogue quadrilateral. This road is legendary for its luxurious retailers and exquisite environment. Here, you possibly can see the newest collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even should you’re simply window buying, the pleasure of strolling via this high-end district is price it.
Then head to Via 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 stylish vogue, 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 buying in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this road is residence to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers akin to Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Walking down Via Montenapoleone seems like stepping right into a vogue journal, with elegant window shows and classy customers at each flip.
This road attracts vogue lovers and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. If you’re a fan of excessive vogue, that is the right place to seek out the newest developments and timeless items. Even should you’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 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.
Via Montenapoleone is not only a buying vacation spot; it’s a glimpse into the glamorous world of Milanese vogue in Italy’s vogue capital.
Via Torino
Via Torino gives 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 numerous vary of shops. From in style 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 stylish vogue, equipment, and footwear. This road is ideal for these trying to replace their wardrobe with the newest types or discover a particular present to take residence. The energetic environment and fixed buzz make buying right here an thrilling expertise.
In addition to buying, Via Torino is a superb place to discover Milan’s city tradition. The road is lined with cafes and eateries the place you possibly can take a break and luxuriate in a espresso or a fast chunk. Whether you’re on a buying 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 right spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing and buying.
At evening, Navigli comes alive with bars, eating places, and reside music venues alongside the canals. Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are the 2 predominant canals in the district, with good views and a beautiful environment 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 standard Milanese aperitivo. This pre-dinner ritual includes having fun with a drink accompanied by a wide range of mild snacks, and Navigli is among the finest locations to indulge in this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars provide aperitivo promotions the place you pay a set worth for a drink and luxuriate in a buffet of appetizers. This is an ideal strategy to loosen up and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether you like a traditional spritz or a complicated 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 possibility to soak in the colourful environment, 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 really unforgettable.
It’s the right strategy to wrap up your in the future 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, it is advisable plan forward. Creating the right Milan itinerary will take advantage of your time in this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is nice and environment friendly so you may get round simply. Save this put up to your telephone and use Google Maps to seek out your approach round. Consider 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:
Book your lodging asap should you plan on staying the evening as the town is dear.
Stay close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the principle points of interest.
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 isn’t anticipated in Milan because the service cost is already included in the invoice. But rounding up the invoice or leaving small change is at all times appreciated. Now you’re prepared for your day in Milan!
How to Get Around Milan
Getting round Milan is straightforward. The predominant 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 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 points of interest by bus, tram, or metro.
You may also purchase your tickets on-line or via the ATM Milano app. This will 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.
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 an important base from which to discover the town. If you’re looking for extra ideas, be sure to take a look at our article on The 13 Best Luxury Hotels in Milan, Italy.
If you need to keep nearer to the principle 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 may stroll to lots of the metropolis’s predominant sights.
Wherever you select to remain, e-book early, as Milan is dear. By reserving in advance, you’ll have extra choices and may discover a place that fits your finances and magnificence. Whether you need luxurious or finances, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Frequently Asked Questions
To safe tickets to see The Last Supper, it’s finest to e-book effectively in advance 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.
The finest strategy to get round Milan in in the future is to make use of the town’s public transportation community, such because the metro, tram, and buses, to effectively go to the principle points of interest.
You ought to keep in the Milano Centrale neighborhood or close to Piazza del Duomo for quick access to transportation and main points of interest. Both areas are well-connected and handy for exploring Milan.
You can expertise a Milanese aperitivo by visiting the Navigli District, the place you possibly can get pleasure from a drink and lightweight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping isn’t anticipated in eating places in Milan. Service fees are usually included in the invoice, however rounding up or leaving small change for distinctive service is appreciated.
The Last Word
In simply in the future, Milan gives 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 magnificence 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 perfect of Milan in a single day.
Whether you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering the town’s attraction, this Milan itinerary gives an ideal steadiness of sightseeing, leisure, 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.