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 previous meets new, and there’s a lot to do in at some point. From Gothic cathedrals to procuring 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 fashionable 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 value seeing, doing and consuming.
In this information, we’ll cowl all the pieces you should 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 possibly can 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 clean as potential.
Our purpose is that, by the top of this information, you’ll have all the pieces you should plan an unbelievable 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. is just not solely 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 beautiful 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 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 procuring 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 most important cathedral in Italy and the third in the world, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you can be amazed by the large 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 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 value 9 EUR and are fairly a exercise, and the carry will value 14 EUR.
Remember to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be lined or you can be denied entry. A light-weight scarf and an extended gown or pants will do the trick.
Whether you’re taking the steps or the carry, 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 stunning 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 opulent procuring expertise. Even if procuring isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window procuring 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 wonderful meals for over 50 years. Whether you’re right here for the procuring, 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 stunning 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 crimson brick fort. This spectacular constructing is house to a number of museums and is surrounded by the stunning Parco Sempione, so that you get historical past and rest in one go. Walking via 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 possibly can 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 an enthralling sq. that homes the world-famous La Scala Opera House. This historic theatre, courting 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 recognize 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 among 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 be house to the Palazzo della Banca Commerciale Italiana, a grand Nineteenth-century financial institution constructing that provides to the world’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 fort 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 traces. You can even stroll across the fort’s gardens for free and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a good place to take a seat and absorb the ambiance.
Next to the fort is Parco Sempione, an enormous public park the place you possibly can 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 option to get to the Porta Nuova District, which is a good place to calm down 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 a must to e-book in advance because it’s tremendous in style. We will cowl that in element beneath.
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 achieve insights from skilled guides.
Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage website and residential to one of the 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 in all 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 folks and price 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service price. They promote out months in advance, particularly throughout the summer time. So we suggest you e-book as far in advance as potential.
If you possibly can’t get tickets, an incredible choice is to hitch a guided tour. They typically embrace assured entry and are very informative in regards to the portray. This is the best choice if you’re reserving on the final minute. Just bear in mind that will probably 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 positively value 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 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 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 possibly can have a cultural overdose in one 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 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 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 legendary 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 possibly can have a light-weight pizza crust with high-quality substances. If you favor an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has a stupendous inside backyard and a menu stuffed with Italian dishes. For a lunch with a twist, Coraje has a Mediterranean and South American fusion menu, good 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 selection for sampling native favorites corresponding 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 amazing selection 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 procuring in Milan’s well-known streets. Milan, being Italy’s trend capital, gives an opulent procuring 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 retailers, these streets have all of it.
Start your procuring on Via Montenapoleone, a part of Milan’s trend quadrilateral. This road is legendary for its luxurious retailers and exquisite ambiance. Here, you possibly can see the newest collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even should you’re simply window procuring, the pleasure of strolling via this high-end district is value it.
Then head to Via Torino, a busy road with a extra reasonably priced procuring expertise. This road is filled with worldwide manufacturers and native Italian retailers for all tastes and budgets. For stylish trend, 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 procuring in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this road is house to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers corresponding to Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Walking down Via Montenapoleone appears like stepping right into a trend journal, with elegant window shows and trendy consumers at each flip.
This road attracts trend fanatics and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. If you’re a fan of excessive trend, that is the right place to search out the newest developments and timeless items. Even should you’re not planning to purchase, the expertise of window procuring in such a prestigious setting is well worth the go to.
For a break from procuring, 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 is not only a procuring vacation spot; it’s a glimpse into the glamorous world of Milanese trend in Italy’s trend capital.
Via Torino
Via Torino gives a vibrant procuring 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 trend, 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 ambiance and fixed buzz make procuring right here an thrilling expertise.
In addition to procuring, Via Torino is a good 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 chew. Whether you’re on a procuring 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 procuring.
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 essential canals in the district, with good views and a beautiful 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 beloved by each locals and vacationers.
As the solar units, the reflections on the canal waters create a magical setting that’s good 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 entails 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 value for a drink and luxuriate in a buffet of appetizers. This is an ideal option to calm down and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether you favor 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 outside patio in Navigli, you’ll have the prospect to soak in the colourful ambiance, 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 actually unforgettable.
It’s the right option 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, you should 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 publish to your cellphone and use Google Maps to search out your means round. Consider taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient option 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 principle 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 middle.
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 at all times appreciated. Now you’re prepared for your day in Milan!
How to Get Around Milan
Getting round Milan is simple. 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 may get to the town middle and different sights by bus, tram, or metro.
You can even purchase your tickets on-line or via 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 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 incredible base from which to discover the town. If you’re looking for extra options, 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 principle sights, look for inns 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 fashionable 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 essential sights.
Wherever you select to remain, e-book early, as Milan is pricey. By reserving in advance, you’ll have extra choices and may 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 effectively in advance or be a 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 option 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 principle sights.
You ought to keep in the Milano Centrale neighborhood or close to Piazza del Duomo for quick access 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 possibly can take pleasure in a drink and light-weight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping is just not anticipated in eating places in Milan. Service costs are sometimes 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, trend, 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 gives an ideal stability of sightseeing, rest, and cultural immersion. So, pack your luggage, plan your day, and prepare to fall in love with Milan, one in all Italy’s most enchanting cities.