Milan, Italy: the city that effortlessly joins the new, such as luxury fashion, with the glorious days of the past, like the timeless Milan Cathedral. If you will be exploring Milan city and you are wondering what to do in this vibrant Italian metropolis, you’ve landed in the perfect spot!
Quick Facts
Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region, Italy’s most important economic center as well as one of the world capitals of fashion.
Centuries ago, this area was settled by the Gauls, around 6th century BC, but it witnessed several invasions and eventually fell under the dominion of the Roman Empire in the 12th century.
Following independence, Milan was ruled by the influential Sforza family, known for their grand Sforza Castle at the city’s heart. At times, it came under French rule, even serving as the capital of the French Empire in Italy during the 18th century Napoleon invasions.
Milan was unified with Italy in 1860. During World War II, the city was heavily damaged by bombs and as a result of the destruction Milan became a city of skyscrapers, having the tallest building in Italy with 231 meters-high.
Itinerary
Milan, referred to as Milano in Italy, is a big city with a diverse number of attractions and things to see. While the Cathedral area is a must-visit, there’s so much more to discover throughout the city. Our guide will help you make the most of a day in Milan, highlighting the iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral, the shopping center and the historic Sforza castle.
If you’re planning to explore Italy extensively, we recommend reserving accommodation in Milan to travel to a great next stop, Como Lake.
Let’s get into our itinerary for a one day trip to Milan!
1. Croissant at Pavé
What better start to your day in Italy than with a freshly baked croissant, or as local North Italians call it, a Brioche.
If you arrive in Milan city by train, within a mere 10 minutes walk you will find Pavé, located in via Felice Casati. This charming coffee shop proudly claims its place among Milan’s best, and while I have not tasted all the pastry shops in the city, I can say this one is definitely outstanding! (It was a recommendation of a Milanese friend, obviously).
Feel free to opt for the classic pairing of a croissant and an espresso, or be bold and choose one of the other amazing pastries Pavé has to offer. Either way, you will start this Milan tour with a smile on your face!
2. Duomo: Milan Cathedral
There is no way you have not been dreaming of seeing with your own eyes the incredible Milan Cathedral. Even with the big crowds and the city’s fast pace this architectural masterpiece will hold your attention.
While its construction began in the 14th century, the Cathedral took 6 centuries to be completed, with the contributions of several artists including the legendary Leonardo da Vinci. The facade was built twice, and the magnificent doors we can see today are 20th-century additions.
However, the Duomo’s splendor isn’t confined to its exterior, believe it or not, the inside is equally stunning. I cannot recommend enough to make a full visit to the Duomo complex, which includes admission to the archeological site (the ruins of the cathedral built in the 4th century), and the terrace, where you can marvel at the details of the pinnacles and the cathedral museum.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 10.00am to 4.10pm
Ticket price: 28€ for adults and 14€ for visitors under 18 years old, for the ticket including the archeological site, terrace, and cathedral museum.
It is highly recommended to book in advance, as tickets usually sell out a couple of days before. Buy your tickets here.
3. Vittorio Emmanuele II Gallery
Italian: Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele
Right after Milan Cathedral, you will discover the city’s second most iconic spot. With these two landmarks sharing the same square, you can already picture the crowd you will face.
Dating back to 1861, Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II stands as Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery. In this splendid arcade, you will find the top Italian luxury stores such as Prada and Gucci, alongside elegant restaurants and cafes, creating the charm ambiance Milan is known for.
Did You Know? To partake in one of Milan’s oldest traditions, head to the central octagon of the Gallery. Look for the bull mosaic on the floor (representing the coat of arms of Turin) and spin around three times on one foot. Milaneses believe this brings good luck. Well worth trying!
Entrance: free, open 24/7
4. Lunch: the Real Cotoletta alla Milanese
Within a short 10-minute walk from Vittorio Emmanuele II Gallery, you will find a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Milanese dishes. At Trattoria Burla Giò you can taste the famous Cotoletta Milanese, a tender veal cutlet coated in crispy breadcrumbs and fried in butter, as well as the classic risotto alla Milanese, along with many other local delicacies.
Fortunately, you don’t have to choose between the classics, as the restaurant offers a fixed-price menu with a first and a second dish, starting at just 12€.
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday from 12.00am to 2.30pm and Thursday to Saturday from 12.00am to 2.30pm and 7.00pm to 10.30pm
5. Fashion District
Italian: Quadrilatero della Moda
The luxury shopping spree continues in Milan’s fashion district. When planning the things to do in Milan, a visit to Monte Napoleone is a must. This street is considered the third most expensive street in the entire world, offering a wide array of designer stores. But don’t worry, you don’t need to make any purchases to feel like a millionaire! Simply wander through the streets and immerse yourself in Milan’s luxurious ambiance.
6. Brera neighborhood
Italian: Quartier Brera
Leaving the fashion district and taking a short 10-minute walk, make your way to the Brera neighborhood. Located in the heart of Milan, it is one of the city’s most vibrant districts: a labyrinth of geometrical stone streets surrounded by 18th-century buildings. Here you will discover numerous charming boutiques selling cosmetics, jewelry, and handcrafted pieces created by emerging designers and local artists.
What makes Brera truly special is the presence of Milanese residents doing their daily lives and the abundance of cozy cafes and restaurants that come to life during the Aperitivo hour.
In the Brera district, you can either get lost in the neighborhood’s authentic streets or visit one of its main attractions: the Pinacoteca Brera. This world-renowned museum hosts an impressive collection featuring artists like Bellini, Raffaello, Caravaggio, and more. It’s a cultural gem that’s not to be missed among the attractions in Milan.
7. Santa Maria del Carmine Church
Italian: Chiesa Santa Maria del Carmine
This 13th-century church, located in the Brera neighborhood, has been witness to several incidents over the centuries. Only a few years after the beginning of the construction, the church was destroyed by a fire. Nearly a century later, when the restoration was finally completed, the church’s vault collapsed and the works began once again.
Today we can admire the 18th century Gothic facade, as well as a Baroque-style presbytery created by exceptionally talented Italian artists.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 08.00am to 6.30pm
Ticket price: free
8. Sforza Castle
Italian: Castello Sforzesco
Situated in the very heart of Milan, Sforza Castle was built in the same area as the ancient Roman fortification, being the legacy of Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, who started the monument construction in the 15th century. Numerous artists decorated the castle, including Leonardo da Vinci, whose frescos can still be seen in various rooms.
The castle suffered several modifications and was staged for several battles. In the end, after the unification of Italy in the 19th century, the monument became public, and then the beautiful Sempione Park was built all around it, standing still today as the main green area of the city.
Even if you decide not to go to the castle museum, don’t miss the chance to walk in the courtyard on your way to the Arch of Peace to envision the echoes of the glory of those golden days. It’s free!
Did You Know? There is a colony of more than 60 cats living in Milan Castle. They are very well taken care of by a volunteer association. With luck, you can spot a few during your visit.
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00am to 5.30pm
Ticket price: 5€ for adults and 3€ for visitors under 25 years old
You can buy your tickets here.
9. Arch of Peace & Sempione Park
Italian: Arco della Pace e Parco Sempione
The history of the Arch of Peace dates back to the Roman period, as its origins can be traced back to a gate of the Roman walls of Milan when it was called Jupiter’s Gate. In the Middle Ages, it was adapted to become part of the city walls. In the 19th century, during the Napoleonic empire, the Arch of Peace was rebuilt by architect Luigi Cagnola, with the appearance we can see today.
Did You Know? The road where the Arch of Peace is located, which is still in use today, connects Milan to Paris through the Sempione Park crossing the Swiss Alps. It is also believed that its orientation is parallel to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
10. Aperitivo O'Clock
Our perfect day in Milan ends with an aperitivo in Wave Cocktail Bar. From the classic Aperol Spritz to premium signature cocktails, it’s the perfect spot to bring a fantastic day to a relaxing close. Your first drink will cost you 10€ including an offer of a small charcuterie board to complement your cocktail experience. You can also order panini and other typical aperitivo snacks. Cheers to a splendid day in Milan City!
Opening hours: Monday and Sunday from 6.00pm to 12.00pm and Tuesday to Saturday from 6.00pm to 01.00am or 02.00am
Transport and Moving Around
Milan is a big city, so it is advisable to use the subway (Metro ATM) and the historical tram to move around.
From other cities you can reach Milan by train:
- Florence – around 2 hours
- Venice – around 2.5 hours
- Rome – around 3 hours
Tips
Milan is the ideal starting point for a day trip to Lake Como. You can easily take a train to Como town and explore the lake without having to change your accommodation.
Summary
With its unique blend of the old and the new, Milan has something for everyone. In this one-day travel guide, we’ve shared an itinerary of Milan with details on what to do, from visiting the Milan Cathedral to exploring the shopping center, without forgetting the best things to see and places to eat (after all this is an Italy trip!).
If you have more than one day to spare in Milan, I highly recommend extending your stay in this eclectic city and discovering the secrets beyond the classics.
Seeking a day trip from Milan?
With just a 1 hour journey, you can discover the holy grail of food: Bologna
Check our travel guide about Bologna!
Bologna Bologna might not be the first city that comes to mind when you consider a visit to Italy, but let me tell you, once you’ve experienced Bologna, the only regret you’ll have is not having spent more time
I’ve been in Milan. I’m very pleased with this trip. Food is good.
A wonderful list of recommended places! I certainly feel like visiting the wonderful city of Milan, with its picturesque landscapes and incredibly beautiful and gorgeous church interiors. Great article, thanks a lot!
I liked this article so much, thanks for the important information ☺️
I liked this article so so much!!! It was quite interesting and cool.
Incredible post! That tip on the lake Como is great, I always wanted to visit it!
A lot of useful and fun information as well, keep up the good work 👏👏