Do you solely have at some point in Milan? Properly, don’t fear—we’ve got you coated. Our One Day in Milan Itinerary covers the very best of town, from historic landmarks to nice locations to eat. Benefit from 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.
Think about 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 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 fashionable 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 pieces you might want 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 possibly can comply with precisely or take the very best 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 easy as doable.
Our purpose is that, by the top of this information, you’ll have all the pieces you might want to plan an unimaginable 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. isn’t solely an excellent 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 gorgeous 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.
Only a stone’s throw away from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of many world’s oldest and most gorgeous 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 most important cathedral in Italy and the third on the earth, and it’s a masterpiece of Gothic structure. As you enter, you can be amazed by the large nave and the sunshine filtering by way of the stained-glass home windows.
The Duomo is not only in regards to the inside. The rooftop terraces supply a unique view of town and of the cathedral itself. The main points, the statues, and the spires are higher seen from up shut. For the very best expertise, ebook 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 carry will value 14 EUR.
Keep in mind to decorate accordingly. Your shoulders and knees have to be coated 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 carry, 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 magnificence. Opened in 1877, this shopping center isn’t solely one of many oldest but in addition one of the crucial lovely on the earth. Its glass and iron roof, together with the gorgeous 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 opulent 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 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 procuring, 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 by way 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 positioned.
Then head to the Castello Sforzesco, a Fifteenth-century pink brick citadel. 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 rest in a single go. Strolling by way 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 possibly can stroll between them. Most of those sights are inside strolling distance, making it simple to discover town on foot. This tour will aid you get to know Milan higher and gives you loads of photograph 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 few of the biggest artists on the earth. A go to to La Scala is a should, whether or not you’re an opera fanatic or just recognize gorgeous structure.
The opera home additionally has a museum that provides excursions, supplying you with a deeper perception into its wealthy historical past. You should definitely ebook your tickets upfront, as La Scala is without doubt one of the hottest sights in Milan. For those who’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 also be dwelling to the Palazzo della Banca Commerciale Italiana, a grand Nineteenth-century financial institution constructing that provides to the realm’s historic appeal. 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 citadel 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’ll be able to 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 traces. You can even stroll across the citadel’s gardens free of charge and benefit from the views. The courtyard is a good place to take a seat and take in the environment.
Subsequent to the citadel is Parco Sempione, a giant 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 Tempo. It’s additionally a pleasant solution 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. This can be a must-see, and you need to ebook upfront because it’s tremendous common. We are going to cowl that intimately under.
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 right place to get misplaced in Milan’s inventive soul. Think about reserving a strolling tour to discover the Brera District in-depth and acquire insights from knowledgeable guides.
Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Final Supper
Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage web site and residential to one of the crucial well-known work on the earth, The Final 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 certainly one 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 offered in 15-minute time slots for about 25 individuals and value 15 Euros plus a 2 Euro service payment. They promote out months upfront, particularly through the summer time. So we advocate you ebook as far upfront as doable.
For those who can’t get tickets, an incredible choice is to hitch a guided tour. They usually embody assured entry and are very informative in regards to the portray. That is the best choice in case you are reserving on the final minute. Simply bear in mind that it will likely be dearer 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 ebook months forward or go for a guided tour, seeing The Final Supper is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise.
Brera District
Artwork lovers and people who wish 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 possibly can have a cultural overdose in a single go.
As you stroll round Brera, you’ll discover streets crammed 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 aspect 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 legendary for its good meals and vigorous environment, and it has many eating places that swimsuit all tastes.
For correct Italian meals, go to Casa Fiori Chiari the place you possibly can have a lightweight pizza crust with top of the range elements. For those who want an even bigger meal, Locanda alla Scala has a wonderful 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 selection for sampling native favorites corresponding to yellow rice, cutlet, mondeghili, and cassoeula. These hearty dishes supply a real style of Milanese delicacies.
If you’re in search of 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 wish to surrender on taste.
One other good one is U Barba Bottega Genovese, which serves DOC Ligurian delicacies. Right here you possibly can 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, presents an opulent procuring expertise. Two of the very 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 legendary for its luxurious retailers and delightful environment. Right here, you possibly can see the most recent collections from Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even if you happen to’re simply window procuring, the pleasure of strolling by way 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 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 procuring in Milan. As a part of the Quadrilatero della Moda, this road is dwelling to flagship shops of main luxurious manufacturers corresponding to Dior, Hermès, and Valentino. Strolling down By way of Montenapoleone appears like stepping right into a vogue journal, with elegant window shows and trendy consumers at each flip.
This road attracts vogue fans and celebrities from across the globe, drawn by its upscale ambiance and unique boutiques. For those who’re a fan of excessive vogue, that is the right place to seek out the most recent traits and timeless items. Even if you happen to’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 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 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 presents 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 fashionable vogue, equipment, and footwear. This road is ideal for these seeking to replace their wardrobe with the most recent types or discover a particular reward to take dwelling. The vigorous environment and fixed buzz make procuring right here an thrilling expertise.
Along with procuring, 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 possibly can take a break and luxuriate in a espresso or a fast chew. 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 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 dwell music venues alongside the canals. Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese are the 2 essential canals within the district, with good views and a stunning 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 liked 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, paying homage to the wonder 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 without doubt one of the greatest locations to indulge on this pleasant custom.
In Navigli, many bars supply aperitivo promotions the place you pay a set worth for a drink and luxuriate in a buffet of appetizers. This can be a good solution to loosen up and socialize whereas sampling native delicacies. Whether or not you favor 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 out of doors patio in Navigli, you’ll have the possibility 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 really unforgettable.
It’s the right solution 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 Suggestions for Visiting Milan
For an ideal day in Milan, you might want to plan forward. Creating the right 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 publish to your telephone and use Google Maps to seek out your means round. Think about taking a day journey to close by locations like Lake Como for a budget-friendly and time-efficient solution to discover extra of Northern Italy.
When in Milan:
- Guide your lodging asap if you happen to plan on staying the night time as town is pricey.
- Keep close to Milano Centrale or Piazza del Duomo to get round simply and to the principle sights.
- Think about 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 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 all the time appreciated. Now you’re prepared on your day in Milan!
Easy methods to Get Round Milan
Getting round Milan is simple. The primary 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 also be nice for getting round. The tram is especially helpful for areas in a roundabout way served by the metro. For those who’re staying close to Milano Centrale, you will get to town heart and different sights by bus, tram, or metro.
You can even purchase your tickets on-line or by way of the ATM Milano app. This may 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 gratifying.
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 incredible base from which to discover town. If you’re in search of extra ideas, ensure that to take a look at our article on The 13 Greatest Luxurious Motels in Milan, Italy.
If you wish to keep nearer to the principle sights, search for resorts 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 fashionable facilities.
Staying within the heart 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, ebook early, as Milan is pricey. By reserving upfront, you’ll have extra choices and may discover a place that fits your price range and elegance. Whether or not you need luxurious or price range, Milan has one thing for everybody.
Continuously Requested Questions
To safe tickets to see The Final Supper, it’s greatest to ebook properly upfront 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 town’s public transportation community, such because the metro, tram, and buses, to effectively go to the principle sights.
It’s best 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’ll be able to expertise a Milanese aperitivo by visiting the Navigli District, the place you possibly can take pleasure in a drink and lightweight snacks earlier than dinner.
No, tipping isn’t anticipated in eating places in Milan. Service expenses 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 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 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 very best of Milan in a single day.
Whether or not you’re visiting for the primary time or rediscovering town’s appeal, this Milan itinerary gives an ideal stability of sightseeing, rest, and cultural immersion. So, pack your baggage, plan your day, and prepare to fall in love with Milan, certainly one of Italy’s most enchanting cities.
