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 most effective of the town, from historic landmarks to nice locations to eat. Benefit from 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Milan is a metropolis the place outdated meets new, and there’s a lot to do in at some point.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.
Think about 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 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 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.
On this information, we’ll cowl all the things it is advisable to know to take advantage of 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 most effective bits and create your personal. 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 clean as attainable.
Our aim is that, by the top of this information, you’ll have all the things it is advisable 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 center of the town. This sq. just isn’t solely a very good place to begin but in addition 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 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 be sure 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 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. That is the most important cathedral in Italy and the third on this planet, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you can be amazed by the massive nave and the sunshine filtering via the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo is not only in regards to the inside. The rooftop terraces provide 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 most effective expertise, guide 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 raise will value 14 EUR.
Bear in mind to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be lined or you can be denied entry. A lightweight scarf and a protracted gown or pants will do the trick.
Whether or not 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
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 stunning on this planet. Its glass and iron roof, together with the beautiful 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 purchasing expertise. Even when purchasing isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window purchasing and soaking within the opulent ambiance.
Don’t neglect 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 wonderful meals for over 50 years. Whether or not you’re right here for the purchasing, the structure, or the meals, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit spot.
Morning Stroll Via Historic Squares
When you’ve seen the Piazza del Duomo, take a stroll via Milan’s historic squares. These squares are stunning and filled 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 crimson brick fortress. 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 leisure in a single go. Strolling via 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 points of interest are inside strolling distance, making it simple to discover the town on foot. This tour will enable you get to know Milan higher and offers you loads of picture 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 a number of the best artists on this planet. 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 provides excursions, supplying you with a deeper perception into its wealthy historical past. You’ll want to guide your tickets prematurely, as La Scala is among the hottest points of interest in Milan. In the event you’re fortunate, you would possibly even catch a rehearsal or a efficiency.
When you’re within the piazza, take a second to admire the huge statue of Leonardo da Vinci. This sq. can be dwelling to the Palazzo della Banca Commerciale Italiana, a grand Nineteenth-century financial institution constructing that provides to the world’s historic appeal. Get pleasure from some gelato from Grom II and bask in some people-watching as you soak within the ambiance.
Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
Subsequent, let’s head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century fortress 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 may go to the Museum of Historic 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, yow will discover 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 strains. You may also stroll across the fortress’s gardens totally free and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a good place to take a seat and absorb the ambiance.
Subsequent 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 Tempo. It’s additionally a pleasant approach to get to the Porta Nuova District, which is a good 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 guide prematurely because it’s tremendous in style. We’ll cowl that intimately beneath.
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. Take into account 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 website and residential to one of the well-known work on this planet, The Final 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 in every 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 restricted. Tickets are bought in 15-minute time slots for about 25 individuals and price 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service price. They promote out months prematurely, particularly throughout the summer time. So we advocate you guide as far prematurely as attainable.
In the event you can’t get tickets, a fantastic choice is to affix a guided tour. They usually embody assured entry and are very informative in regards to the portray. That is the most suitable choice in case you are reserving on the final minute. Simply remember that it is going to be dearer than simply getting a ticket by yourself. However, in truth, that is one thing you don’t need to miss, so we really feel it’s undoubtedly price the additional money.
Whether or not you guide 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 need 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 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 outlets. 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 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 known for its good meals and energetic 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 high-quality elements. In the event you choose a much bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has a stupendous inner backyard and a menu filled with Italian dishes. For a lunch with a twist, Coraje has a Mediterranean and South American fusion menu, good 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 wonderful alternative for sampling native favorites comparable 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. A terrific alternative for health-conscious eaters who don’t need 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 attempt 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 purchasing in Milan’s well-known streets. Milan, being Italy’s vogue capital, presents an expensive purchasing 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 outlets, these streets have all of it.
Begin your purchasing on By way of Montenapoleone, a part of Milan’s vogue quadrilateral. This avenue is known for its luxurious outlets and exquisite ambiance. Right here, you’ll be able to see the newest collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even if you happen to’re simply window purchasing, the pleasure of strolling via this high-end district is price it.
Then head to By way of 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 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 purchasing in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this avenue is dwelling to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers comparable to Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Strolling down By way of Montenapoleone appears like stepping right into a vogue journal, with elegant window shows and classy customers at each flip.
This avenue attracts vogue fans and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. In the event you’re a fan of excessive vogue, that is the proper place to search out the newest traits and timeless items. Even if you happen to’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 recognized 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 purchasing 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 presents a vibrant purchasing expertise that’s accessible to everybody. This bustling avenue is a favourite amongst each locals and guests, and it’s recognized for its various vary of shops. From in style 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 avenue is ideal for these seeking to replace their wardrobe with the newest types or discover a particular present to take dwelling. The energetic ambiance and fixed buzz make purchasing right here an thrilling expertise.
Along with purchasing, 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 luxuriate in a espresso or a fast chew. Whether or not you’re on a purchasing mission or simply having fun with the town’s vibe, By way of Torino is a must-visit spot in Milan.
Night Rest by the Canals
Because 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 night time, Navigli comes alive with bars, eating places, and reside music venues alongside the canals. Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are the 2 principal canals within the district, with good views and a beautiful ambiance for a night stroll.
Whether or not 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 beloved by each locals and vacationers.
Because the solar units, the reflections on the canal waters create a magical setting that’s good 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 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 finest locations to indulge on 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. It is a good approach to loosen up and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether or not you like a basic spritz or a complicated cocktail, the aperitivo tradition in Navigli gives a pleasant finish to your day.
As you sit on a restaurant’s out of doors patio in Navigli, you’ll have the prospect to soak within the vibrant ambiance, watch the world go by alongside the canals, get pleasure from good meals and nice drinks, and absorb picturesque views. The aperitivo expertise in Navigli is really unforgettable.
It’s the proper approach 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 Ideas for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, it is advisable to plan forward. Creating the proper Milan itinerary will take advantage of your time on this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is sweet and environment friendly so you will get round simply. Save this put up to your telephone and use Google Maps to search out your means round. Take into account taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient approach to discover extra of Northern Italy.
When in Milan:
E-book your lodging asap if you happen to plan on staying the night time as the town is dear.
Keep close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the primary points of interest.
Take into account 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 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 in your day in Milan!
Easy methods 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 the event you’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you will 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 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 pleasing.
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 a fantastic base from which to discover the town. If you’re on the lookout for extra ideas, make certain to take a look at our article on The 13 Finest Luxurious Inns in Milan, Italy.
If you wish to keep nearer to the primary sights, search for motels close to Piazza del Duomo. Some good choices are:
Lodge Dei Cavalieri: Near the Duomo and a subway station close by to get across the metropolis.
Lodge 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 lots of the metropolis’s principal sights.
Wherever you select to remain, guide early, as Milan is dear. By reserving prematurely, you’ll have extra choices and might discover a place that fits your finances and elegance. Whether or not you need luxurious or finances, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Often Requested Questions
To safe tickets to see The Final Supper, it’s finest to guide effectively 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 best 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 primary points of interest.
You must keep within the Milano Centrale neighborhood or close to Piazza del Duomo for straightforward entry to transportation and main points of interest. Each areas are well-connected and handy for exploring Milan.
You may 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 sometimes 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 presents 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 most effective 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, leisure, and cultural immersion. So, pack your luggage, plan your day, and prepare to fall in love with Milan, one in every of Italy’s most enchanting cities.