Do you solely have sooner or later in Milan? Well, don’t fear—we’ve got you coated. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers the most effective of 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Milan is a metropolis the place outdated meets new, and there’s a lot to do in sooner or later. From Gothic cathedrals to purchasing streets, visiting Milan by no means disappoints.
Imagine 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 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.
In this information, we’ll cowl all the pieces you’ll want to 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 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 (for those who’re overnighting), and another tricks to make your journey as clean as attainable.
Our objective is that, by the top of this information, you’ll have all the pieces you’ll want to 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 town. This sq. is just not solely an excellent place to begin but additionally a doorway to a few of Milan’s most stunning 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.
Just a stone’s throw away from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of many world’s oldest and most gorgeous 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, also called 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 by way of the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo isn’t just concerning the inside. The rooftop terraces provide a distinct view of town and of the cathedral itself. The particulars, the statues, and the spires are higher seen from up shut. For the most effective expertise, guide 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 elevate will price 14 EUR.
Remember to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be coated or you may be denied entry. A lightweight scarf and an extended costume or pants will do the trick.
Whether 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
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 is just not solely one of many oldest but additionally one of the crucial stunning in the world. Its glass and iron roof, together with the gorgeous 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 opulent purchasing expertise. Even if purchasing isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window purchasing 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 for those who’re in the temper for a culinary deal with, Ristorante Galleria has been serving wonderful 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 way of Milan’s historic squares. These squares are stunning and stuffed with historical past. Start with Piazza della Scala, the place the well-known La Scala Opera House is situated.
Then head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century crimson 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 one go. Walking by way of 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’ll be able to stroll between them. Most of those points of interest are inside strolling distance, making it simple to discover town on foot. This tour will provide help to get to know Milan higher and offers 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 among 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 admire gorgeous structure.
The opera home additionally has a museum that provides excursions, providing you with a deeper perception into its wealthy historical past. Be certain to guide 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 huge 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 realm’s historic appeal. 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 fortress 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, you 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 traces. You can even stroll across the fortress’s gardens for free and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a superb place to take a seat and absorb the environment.
Next to the fortress is Parco Sempione, an enormous public park the place you’ll be able to take a stroll or have a picnic. The park has stunning views and landmarks just like the Arco della Pace. It’s additionally a pleasant method 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 guide 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 creative 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 proper place to get misplaced in Milan’s creative 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 crucial 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 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 folks 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 guide as far in advance as attainable.
If you’ll be able to’t get tickets, an important choice is to hitch a guided tour. They usually embody assured entry and are very informative concerning the portray. This is the most suitable choice if you’re reserving on the final minute. Just bear in mind that will probably be costlier 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 value the additional money.
Whether you guide months forward or decide 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 creative 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 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 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 full of artwork studios and small outlets. The vitality is nice, and it’s the proper place to take a seat again and really feel the creative facet of Milan. Whether 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 in the Brera District. Brera is known 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’ll be able to have a lightweight pizza crust with fine quality substances. If you like a much bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has a lovely 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 selection 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. An important selection 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 attempt 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 vogue capital, gives an opulent 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 vogue quadrilateral. This road is known for its luxurious outlets and exquisite environment. Here, you’ll be able to see the newest collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even for those who’re simply window purchasing, the pleasure of strolling by way of this high-end district is value it.
Then head to Via Torino, a busy road with a extra inexpensive purchasing expertise. This road is stuffed with worldwide manufacturers and native Italian outlets 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 purchasing 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. Walking down Via Montenapoleone appears like stepping right into a vogue journal, with elegant window shows and classy consumers at each flip.
This road attracts vogue fanatics 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 proper place to seek out the newest developments and timeless items. Even for those who’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 wonderful people-watching spot. Sit again with a cappuccino and benefit from the view of Milan’s fashionistas going about their day.
Via Montenapoleone isn’t just a purchasing 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 purchasing 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 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 kinds or discover a particular reward to take house. The energetic environment 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 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 you’re on a purchasing mission or simply having fun with 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 known for its nightlife, boutiques, and canals, so it’s the proper spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing and purchasing.
At evening, Navigli comes alive with bars, eating places, and dwell music venues alongside the canals. Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are the 2 essential canals in the district, with good views and a stunning 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 liked 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 sweetness 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 among the greatest locations to indulge in this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars provide aperitivo promotions the place you pay a hard and fast worth for a drink and revel in a buffet of appetizers. This is an ideal method to loosen up and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether you like a basic spritz or a classy cocktail, the aperitivo tradition in Navigli supplies 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, take pleasure in good meals and nice drinks, and take in picturesque views. The aperitivo expertise in Navigli is really unforgettable.
It’s the proper method to wrap up your sooner or later in Milan, particularly for those who plan to go to Milan simply for a short while.
Practical Tips for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, you’ll want to plan forward. Creating the proper Milan itinerary will take advantage of your time in this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is nice and environment friendly so you will get round simply. Save this submit to your telephone and use Google Maps to seek out your manner round. Consider taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient method to discover extra of Northern Italy.
When in Milan:
Book your lodging asap for those who plan on staying the evening as town is dear.
Stay close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the primary 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 town heart.
And don’t neglect tipping is just not 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 essential 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 indirectly served by the metro. If you’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you will get to town heart and different points of interest by bus, tram, or metro.
You can even purchase your tickets on-line or by way 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 simple and fulfilling.
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 town. If you’re looking for extra ideas, make 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 lodges 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 lots of the metropolis’s essential sights.
Wherever you select to remain, guide early, as Milan is dear. By reserving in advance, you’ll have extra choices and might discover a place that fits your finances and elegance. 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 greatest to guide properly 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 greatest method to get round Milan in sooner or later is to make use of town’s public transportation community, such because the metro, tram, and buses, to effectively go to the primary 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’ll be able to take pleasure in a drink and lightweight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping is just not 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 sooner or later, 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 class 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 you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering town’s appeal, this Milan itinerary supplies 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.