Do you solely have at some point in Milan? Nicely, don’t fear—we have now you lined. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers one of the best of 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Milan is a metropolis the place outdated meets new, and there’s a lot to do in at some point.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 procuring streets, visiting Milan by no means disappoints.
Think about beginning your day with the Duomo di Milano, wandering by means of 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 price seeing, doing and consuming.
On this information, we’ll cowl all the things it’s worthwhile to know to benefit from 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 one of the best bits and create your personal. Then, we’ll cowl some logistics, like getting across the metropolis, the place to remain (when you’re overnighting), and another tricks to make your journey as clean as potential.
Our aim is that, by the tip of this information, you’ll have all the things it’s worthwhile 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 guts of town. This sq. shouldn’t be solely a superb place to begin 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 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 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 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 referred to as the Milan Cathedral, encapsulates the true spirit of Milan. That is the largest cathedral in Italy and the third on the planet, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you may be amazed by the large nave and the sunshine filtering by means of the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo isn’t just in regards to the inside. The rooftop terraces provide a special view of town and of the cathedral itself. The main points, the statues, and the spires are higher seen from up shut. For one of the best 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.
Keep in mind to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees should be lined or you may be denied entry. A lightweight scarf and a protracted costume 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 shouldn’t be solely one of many oldest but additionally one of the vital lovely on the 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 procuring expertise. Even when procuring isn’t in your agenda, the Galleria is an ideal place for window procuring and soaking within the opulent environment.
Don’t overlook to partake within the native custom of spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck. And when you’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 procuring, the structure, or the meals, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-visit spot.
Morning Stroll By Historic Squares
When you’ve seen the Piazza del Duomo, take a stroll by means of 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 situated.
Then head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century purple brick fortress. This spectacular constructing is residence to a number of museums and is surrounded by the stunning Parco Sempione, so that you get historical past and leisure in a single go. Strolling by means of 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 sights are inside strolling distance, making it straightforward to discover town on foot. This tour will provide help to get to know Milan higher and offers you loads of picture alternatives.
Piazza della Scala
Piazza della Scala is an enthralling sq. that homes the world-famous La Scala Opera Home. This historic theatre, courting again to 1778, has seen performances by a number of the best artists on the planet. A go to to La Scala is a should, whether or not you’re an opera fanatic or just respect 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 sights 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 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 allure. Get pleasure from some gelato from Grom II and bask 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 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, 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 strains. You can too stroll across the fortress’s gardens totally free and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a superb place to take a seat and take in the environment.
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 lovely 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 superb place to chill out 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 it’s important to guide prematurely because it’s tremendous common. 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 vital assortment of medieval and Renaissance artwork. The galleries, cafes, and charming streets are the right place to get misplaced in Milan’s inventive soul. Contemplate reserving a strolling tour to discover the Brera District in-depth and achieve insights from skilled 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 vital well-known work on the 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 considered one of them will betray him.
Seeing The Final Supper is a must-do on any journey to Milan, however it requires some planning. Entry is proscribed. 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 prematurely, particularly throughout the summer season. So we advocate you guide as far prematurely as potential.
In the event you can’t get tickets, an amazing 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 if you’re reserving on the final minute. Simply remember that will probably be costlier than simply getting a ticket by yourself. However, honestly, that is one thing you don’t wish 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 wish to expertise the bohemian facet 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 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 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 right place to take a seat again and really feel the inventive facet of Milan. Whether or not 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 within 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 high-quality substances. In the event you desire an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has a lovely 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 superb selection for sampling native favorites similar to yellow rice, cutlet, mondeghili, and cassoeula. These hearty dishes provide a real style of Milanese delicacies.
In case you are in search of natural choices, Bioesserì has natural pizzas made with stone-ground flours and naturally leavened dough. A terrific selection for health-conscious eaters who don’t wish to surrender 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 totally different, Brera has all of it.
When you’ve eaten, give in to the temptation of some procuring in Milan’s well-known streets. Milan, being Italy’s vogue capital, gives an expensive procuring expertise. Two of one of the best locations to buy are By way of Montenapoleone and By way of Torino. Whether or not you’re in search of high-end designer boutiques or a mixture of worldwide and native retailers, these streets have all of it.
Begin your procuring on By way of Montenapoleone, a part of Milan’s vogue quadrilateral. This road is known 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 when you’re simply window procuring, the pleasure of strolling by means of this high-end district is price it.
Then head to By way of 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 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 procuring in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this road is residence to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers similar 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 road 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 right place to search out the most recent developments and timeless items. Even when you’re not planning to purchase, the expertise of window procuring in such a prestigious setting is definitely worth the go to.
For a break from procuring, 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 isn’t just a procuring 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 gives a vibrant procuring expertise that’s accessible to everybody. This bustling road is a favourite amongst each locals and guests, and it’s recognized for its various vary of shops. From common 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 stylish vogue, equipment, and footwear. This road is ideal for these trying to replace their wardrobe with the most recent types or discover a particular reward to take residence. The energetic environment and fixed buzz make procuring right here an thrilling expertise.
Along with procuring, By way of 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 chunk. Whether or not you’re on a procuring mission or simply having fun with 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 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 within the district, with good views and a beautiful 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 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 standard Milanese aperitivo. This pre-dinner ritual entails having fun with a drink accompanied by quite a lot of gentle snacks, and Navigli is among the greatest locations to indulge on this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars provide aperitivo promotions the place you pay a hard and fast value for a drink and revel in a buffet of appetizers. This can be a good approach to chill out and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether or not 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 prospect to soak within the vibrant environment, watch the world go by alongside the canals, take pleasure in good meals and nice drinks, and absorb picturesque views. The aperitivo expertise in Navigli is actually unforgettable.
It’s the right approach to wrap up your at some point in Milan, particularly when you plan to go to Milan only for a short while.
Sensible Ideas for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, it’s worthwhile to plan forward. Creating the right Milan itinerary will benefit from your time on this metropolis. Milan’s public transport is sweet and environment friendly so you will get round simply. Save this submit to your cellphone and use Google Maps to search out your manner round. Contemplate 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:
- Ebook your lodging asap when you plan on staying the night time as 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 town heart.
And don’t overlook tipping shouldn’t be anticipated in Milan because the service cost is already included within the invoice. However rounding up the invoice or leaving small change is all the time 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 most effective. 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. In the event you’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you will get to town heart and different sights by bus, tram, or metro.
You can too purchase your tickets on-line or by means of the ATM Milano app. This can 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.
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 town. In case you are in search of extra options, ensure to take a look at our article on The 13 Greatest Luxurious Lodges 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 essential 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 funds and elegance. Whether or not you need luxurious or funds, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Steadily Requested Questions
To safe tickets to see The Final Supper, it’s greatest to guide properly prematurely 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 at some point is to make use of town’s public transportation community, such because the metro, tram, and buses, to effectively go to the principle sights.
You need to keep within the Milano Centrale neighborhood or close to Piazza del Duomo for simple entry to transportation and main sights. 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 take pleasure in a drink and lightweight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping shouldn’t be 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 at some point, 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 inventive treasures of the Brera District and the colourful nightlife of the Navigli canals, this itinerary ensures you see one of the best of Milan in a single day.
Whether or not you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering town’s allure, this Milan itinerary supplies 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.
