When I first stepped out of Milano Centrale station, the energy of the city hit me in a way I didn’t expect. The station itself feels like a palace, with high ceilings and dramatic stonework, and then you walk outside and suddenly you’re in the middle of Milan’s rhythm. People stride by in perfectly tailored coats, scooters weave around taxis, and the smell of espresso drifts out of the little cafés tucked beside the grand facades.
I had always thought of Milan as a place for fashion shows and business trips, the kind of city you rush through on the way to Lake Como or Florence. But standing there with my suitcase, I realized this was a destination worth slowing down for. Milan has layered the historic heart with its Gothic cathedral, quiet courtyards hiding behind heavy wooden doors, and lively neighborhoods that only come alive at sunset when everyone gathers for aperitivo.
That’s why I put together this guide to the best things to do in Milan. Whether you’re stopping in for a single day or planning a longer stay, I’ll share the places that stood out to me, the little details that made me fall for the city, and the practical tips that will make your trip smoother.
Quick Facts About Milan
Before diving into the sights, let’s cover a few basics that helped me settle into the city.
Language
Italian is the official language, but I found that in most tourist areas especially around the Duomo, hotels, and restaurants in the center people spoke enough English to help me out. Still, a simple “grazie” or “buongiorno” went a long way. Locals seemed to appreciate even the smallest attempt, and it made interactions feel friendlier.
Currency
Like the rest of Italy, Milan uses the Euro (€). Card payments are common almost everywhere, but I was glad to have a bit of cash for small bakeries, gelato shops, or buying tram tickets at older kiosks. ATMs are widely available, though many charge fees, so it’s better to withdraw a bit more at once.
Best time to visit:
Milan can feel different depending on when you go. I loved being there in spring, when café terraces filled up with people after work and the evenings were warm enough for wandering. Autumn is another sweet spot, with crisp air and fewer crowds compared to the summer rush. July and August can be hot and sticky, and many locals leave for holidays, so some restaurants and shops close. Winter has its charm too, especially in December when the Christmas markets light up Piazza Duomo but you’ll need to bundle up.
Airports:
Milan has three airports, which confused me at first. Malpensa (MXP) is the main international hub, about 50 minutes from the city by train. Linate (LIN) is smaller and much closer, just a quick taxi ride to the center, while Bergamo (BGY) is popular with budget airlines and connects easily by shuttle buses. I learned the hard way to double check which airport I was flying from. It can save you a lot of stress.
Transport:
Getting around Milan is straightforward once you get the hang of it. The metro is clean and reliable, and trams crisscross the city in a way that makes sightseeing easier. Tickets are cheap, but you do need to validate them before riding either by tapping at the metro turnstiles or stamping on the tram. I picked up a 48 hour transport pass, which ended up saving both money and time since I wasn’t fumbling with single tickets every ride.
The Highlights of Milan
Duomo di Milano (Cathedral & Rooftop)
The Duomo is impossible to miss; it dominates the center of Milan with its forest of marble spires and intricate carvings. I remember walking into the square for the first time and just standing still, trying to take in the sheer size of it. Inside, the stained glass windows flood the space with colored light, and if you look closely, you’ll notice small details like ancient sundials and statues that feel almost hidden in plain sight.
For me, the rooftop was the true highlight. Climbing up between the spires, I felt like I’d stepped into a stone garden in the sky. From up there, you can see the Alps on a clear day and trace the city streets radiating out below. My biggest tip is to book your ticket online ahead of time, especially if you want the lift, which saves your legs for later wandering. I also loved visiting late in the afternoon when the sun softened the marble into a golden glow and the crowds had thinned.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right next to the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and even if you’re not planning to shop, it’s worth walking through. The soaring glass dome makes it feel more like a cathedral of fashion than a shopping arcade. I found myself lingering here, coffee in hand, just watching the steady flow of Milanese life. There’s a quirky tradition hidden underfoot: in the mosaic floor you’ll find a bull, and locals spin on its testicles for good luck. I laughed when I saw the worn out spot where thousands of feet have turned over the years. Of course I gave it a try too.
Leonardo’s Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie
Nothing prepares you for seeing The Last Supper in person. It’s not just the size of the painting but the feeling of being in the small refectory where it has survived wars, humidity, and centuries of visitors. Because only a handful of people are allowed inside at each time slot, the experience feels intimate, almost hushed. I booked my ticket months in advance through the official Cenacolo Vinciano website, and I’m glad I did. If you find everything sold out, don’t panic, guided tours often include guaranteed entry, and that’s how many travelers manage to see it at the last minute.
Castello Sforzesco
Walking toward the Castello Sforzesco, it struck me how enormous the red brick fortress is. Built in the 15th century, it has served as both a military stronghold and a residence for the ruling Sforza family. Today it houses several museums, but what I loved most was just wandering its courtyards. It felt peaceful, almost like a pause button in the middle of Milan. On my way out, I strolled straight into Parco Sempione, the city’s green lung, where locals were cycling, families picnicked on the grass, and couples lounged under the trees.
Teatro alla Scala
La Scala isn’t just an opera house, it’s a symbol of Milan’s cultural soul. I went first to the museum, which is full of costumes, portraits, and stories of the great performances that have happened there. But the real magic was stepping into the theatre itself, with its plush red seats and golden balconies glittering under the lights. Even if you don’t think opera is “your thing,” I recommend trying for a last minute ticket. I managed to grab one at the box office for a fraction of the usual price, and it was an unforgettable evening.
Navigli District (Canals & Aperitivo)
Milan might be a bustling city, but in the evening it feels like everyone takes a collective breath and nowhere is that more obvious than in the Navigli district. The canals here once served as arteries of trade, designed in part by Leonardo da Vinci, but today they’re the heart of Milan’s nightlife.
I loved sitting on a terrace with a spritz in hand, watching the light shift as the sun set behind the water. Aperitivo isn’t just a drink here; it’s a ritual. For the price of a cocktail, you’re treated to a spread of snacks ranging from simple olives and chips to full buffets of pasta, pizza, and salads. Sunset in Navigli is still one of my favorite memories of the city.
Exploring Milan’s Neighborhoods
What really helped me connect with Milan was exploring its neighborhoods at my own pace. Each one has its own mood, and walking through them gave me a clearer picture of how the city fits together.
In Centro Storico, everything feels grand. Piazza Duomo is always alive, and the elegant streets around it are lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings. It’s busy, yes, but worth experiencing the pulse of the city.
Brera is smaller in scale and full of charm. Its cobblestone lanes lead you past small boutiques, cozy wine bars, and the famous Pinacoteca di Brera. I loved coming here in the evening when the streets filled with chatter and candlelight glowed through the windows.
Heading north, Isola and Porta Nuova show a different side of Milan. Here, futuristic skyscrapers like the Bosco Verticale rise above trendy cafés and street murals. It felt younger, more experimental, and I spent hours hopping between coffee shops and independent design stores.
Chinatown surprised me the most. Just a few minutes from Parco Sempione, this neighborhood is packed with authentic restaurants, food markets, and affordable shopping. It felt less touristy and more like a slice of daily Milanese life.
And then there’s Navigli, which I’ve already mentioned for its nightlife, but by day it’s just as interesting. Vintage shops, art studios, and weekend markets make it a great place for browsing and people watching before the evening aperitivo crowd arrives.
Milan for Food Lovers
Food in Milan isn’t just about eating, it’s about rhythm. I quickly realized how central aperitivo is, and how meals are often long, unhurried affairs that balance tradition with modern flair.
One of the dishes I kept coming back to was Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron risotto that feels both simple and luxurious. Paired with a glass of local white wine, it was pure comfort. Another classic is Cotoletta alla Milanese, a breaded veal cutlet that arrives crisp and golden, often taking up the entire plate. Around Christmas, you’ll see Panettone everywhere, a sweet, fluffy bread studded with raisins and candied fruit. I couldn’t resist bringing one home. And for heartier appetites, Ossobuco, braised veal shank with gremolata, is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out.
What I loved about Milan’s food scene is how it reflects the city itself. One night I could be tucked into a rustic trattoria, eating risotto from a simple ceramic bowl, and the next I’d be in a sleek, design-forward restaurant where chefs reinterpret classics in modern ways. Milan might be Italy’s fashion capital, but it’s also a city that eats very well and with plenty of style.
Itineraries for 1–5 Days in Milan
If you only have 1 day
If you’re just passing through Milan for a single day, you can still get a real sense of the city. I’d start early at the Duomo, exploring the cathedral interior before taking the lift up to the rooftop. It’s the best way to orient yourself. You’ll see the city stretching out in all directions. For lunch, I like to stop at Luini, just around the corner, for a warm panzerotto. It’s simple, cheap, and always has a line of locals, which is a good sign.
In the afternoon, I’d make my way to Santa Maria delle Grazie for Leonardo’s Last Supper. If tickets are tough to get, even seeing the church itself is worthwhile. Afterwards, a stroll through the courtyards of Castello Sforzesco gives you both history and a moment of quiet before heading to Parco Sempione behind it. When evening comes, there’s no better place to end the day than the Navigli district. Order a spritz, nibble on aperitivo snacks, and watch the sky turn pink over the canal.
Two days in Milan
With an extra day, I’d slow down and spend time in Brera. Wandering its cobblestone streets, popping into the Pinacoteca di Brera, and sitting down for coffee at one of its outdoor cafés made me feel like I was part of the neighborhood rather than just a visitor. From there, I’d continue to La Scala for a guided tour of the theatre and museum. Even if you don’t catch a performance, seeing the red velvet seats and golden balconies is worth it.
Three days in Milan
Three days gives you room for a day trip, and Milan is perfectly placed for it. My choice was Lake Como, just under an hour away by train. I spent the morning in Varenna, took the ferry to Bellagio, and ended with gelato on the lakeside promenade in Menaggio before heading back in the evening. If you’d rather stick closer, Bergamo is another wonderful option with its funicular, medieval streets, and panoramic views.
Four to five days in Milan
If you have four or five days, you can really get under Milan’s skin. Spend a morning exploring the modern skyscrapers of Porta Nuova, where glass towers stand beside tree covered balconies of the Bosco Verticale. Dedicate an afternoon to shopping or at least window shopping in the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s luxury fashion district. For something different, I loved visiting the Cimitero Monumentale, which feels more like an open air museum than a cemetery. With extra time, you can mix art, architecture, fashion, and food at a pace that doesn’t feel rushed.
Day Trips from Milan
One of the best things about Milan is how easy it is to escape the city for a day. The train connections are fast and reliable, so you can be in a completely different landscape in under an hour.
Lake Como
Lake Como is the obvious favorite, and for good reason. When I arrived in Varenna, the pastel houses spilling down to the water felt worlds away from Milan’s bustle. The ferries make it easy to hop between towns, and I loved that each one had a slightly different character.
Bergamo Alta
Bergamo Alta has a different charm. The old town sits high on a hill, surrounded by Venetian walls, and it’s perfect for wandering narrow lanes, stopping for a coffee, and soaking in views that stretch to the Alps.
Franciacorta
If you’re more into food and wine, Franciacorta is a treat. This wine region is known for its sparkling wines, and visiting a vineyard there felt like stepping into a slower rhythm. I joined a tasting where the owner explained how the bubbles are made in the traditional method, and it was the perfect counterpoint to the city’s energy.
Practical Tips
Getting around Milan is straightforward, but there are a few things I wish I had known before I arrived. First, always validate your ticket on public transport. On the metro, that means tapping through the turnstiles, but on trams and buses, you need to find the small yellow machines and stamp your paper ticket. Inspectors do check, and fines are steep if you’re caught without a validated ticket.
Like in many big cities, pickpockets can be an issue in busy areas. I felt safe throughout my stay, but I was extra cautious around the Duomo and train stations, keeping my bag zipped and in front of me.
Eating out comes with its own quirks too. Almost every restaurant adds a coperto, a small cover charge for bread and service. The first time I saw it on the bill, I was confused, but it’s standard practice in northern Italy.
My Budget Snapshot
Milan can be as affordable or as expensive as you make it. When I traveled solo, I aimed for mid range comfort and my daily spending looked something like this: around €80–150 for a decent hotel, €30–60 on meals depending on whether I stuck to casual trattorias or splurged on a fine dining spot, and another €20–40 for transport and attractions. Aperitivo was a pleasant surprise for the price of one cocktail.I often had enough food to skip dinner altogether, which balanced the budget nicely.
Final Thoughts
Milan surprised me in the best way. I had pictured it as a city of business suits and fashion shows, but what I found was a mix of history, culture, and everyday rituals that made me feel connected to the place. Climbing the Duomo, standing in front of The Last Supper, and sipping cocktails by the Navigli canals each gave me a different angle on the city.
If you’re planning your trip, I hope this guide helps you see Milan not just as a stopover, but as a destination where you can slow down, explore, and discover your own rhythm in the heart of northern Italy.
