Milan is a vibrant city that offers a perfect mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and modern flair.
Whether you are here for world-renowned fashion, historic landmarks, or cultural sites, this itinerary will guide you through the best places and experiences Milan has to offer.
Day 1: Exploring Central Milan
Start at the Duomo di Milano
Begin your first day in central Milan by visiting the iconic Duomo di Milano, a.k.a. the Milan Cathedral. Famous for its stunning glass windows and intricate Gothic architecture, this cathedral is one of the city's main attractions.
Do not miss the opportunity to climb to the roof for a breathtaking view of the city center and Piazza del Duomo. Unlike other Duomos, Basilicas, and Cathedrals, you need a ticket to enter Duomo di Milano.
Depending on your ticket type (as of October 2024), it will cost you between €5 to €34. To avoid long lines, especially in the high season, consider booking a guided tour to save time.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Just a short walk from the Duomo, you will find the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historic shopping arcade featuring luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada.
Even if you are not in the mood to shop, this is a great place to admire the glass dome architecture and soak in the atmosphere of northern Italy. You can also grab lunch here in one of its gorgeous restaurants, some as old as 1867.
Teatro alla Scala and Piazza della Scala
After exploring the Galleria, head to Piazza della Scala, home to the famous Teatro alla Scala, or La Scala Opera House. This cultural center of Milan is worth seeing even from the outside, but if you wish to experience more, consider visiting the Theatre Museum.
The museum houses an impressive collection of opera-related paintings, busts, costumes, and other unique artifacts. A tour of the Theatre Museum is fascinating, as it grants access to areas usually closed to the public, including the elegant private boxes.
Moreover, if you are an opera or ballet fan, you can also explore La Scala by buying tickets to attend a performance during your trip. For dinner, you can enjoy a traditional Italian meal at one of the numerous restaurants around the Piazza.
Day 2: Historic and Artistic Sites
Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
On your second day, visit Castello Sforzesco, also known as Sforza Castle, in the historic center of Milan.
The castle is home to various museums and art collections, making it a great option for art lovers. If you do not want to visit the museums, you can still explore the castle's central courtyard, which is free and open to all.
Behind the castle, you will find Parco Sempione (Sempione Park), a gorgeous green space perfect for a peaceful stroll admiring nature.
On your stroll, you will also find the Arco della Pace at the entrance, a beautiful neoclassical arch worth visiting.
As you transition from this area to the next, you will be surrounded by various restaurants, perfect for lunch!
Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper
Next, head to Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, one of the most famous paintings in the world.
Make sure to book your tickets online or over the phone well in advance, as the time slots fill up quickly, and there is often limited availability. You can typically get tickets 3 months before your planned visit date.
Brera District and Pinacoteca di Brera
End your day in the Brera District, an elegant area within Milan’s Centro Storico known for its artistic charm and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, an esteemed art gallery with a collection of Italian masterpieces spanning centuries.
Be sure to stop by the 15th-century Santa Maria del Carmine church, adorned with beautiful frescoes. The district’s cobbled streets are lined with upscale food shops, chic boutiques, and sleek sidewalk cafes, creating a lively scene, especially at night.
Not only are the restaurants in Brera upscale, but they are also some of Milan's best restaurants, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a memorable dinner.
Day 3: Modern Milan and Day Trip Options
Day Trip to Lake Como
If you have extra time, consider a day trip to Lake Como, one of the most picturesque destinations in northern Italy.
It is easily accessible by train from Milan Central Station (Milano Centrale) and filled with beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and plenty of activities, from boating to sightseeing, making it the perfect place to unwind after exploring the city.
Another option for visiting Lake Como is to book a guided tour. On our visit, we booked a tour through Get Your Guide, which took us on an all-day adventure on a large tour bus.
Our tour included stops in Como, Bellagio, and Lugano, Switzerland, and we also had the opportunity to enjoy an audio-guided boat tour on Lake Como.
Our favorite stop was Bellagio, for its scenic vistas, spectacular restaurants, and delicious gelato! If possible, try Babayaga for lunch and Gelateria Artigianale for a refreshing gelato.
Navigli District
On your final day, explore the Navigli District, known for its scenic canals and vibrant nightlife. Spend your final night walking along the canals or taking a guided tour to learn about the district’s history. You can also enjoy dinner at one of the many waterside cafés.
For a more laid-back dinner experience, instead of the hustle and bustle found along the waterside, check out Buona Forchetta, just off the Navigli Grande main canal in the South part.
After you walk off your dinner alongside the canal, stop by Gelateria Amorino Navigli for a beautiful and delicious gelato!
Bonus: Sporting, Cultural, and Historic Highlights
San Siro Stadium
Football fans will not want to miss a visit to San Siro Stadium, home to Inter Milan and AC Milan. You can tour the stadium or, if you are lucky, catch a match during your visit.
San Bernardino alle Ossa
If you enjoy unusual attractions, San Bernardino alle Ossa will fascinate you. This small church is famous for its ossuary, where the walls are decorated with human bones and skulls. It is eerie and captivating, providing a unique look into Milan's history.
Colonne di San Lorenzo
The Colonne di San Lorenzo is among Milan’s rare Roman ruins, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s ancient past and standing proudly in front of the historic Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore.
These stately columns are a popular gathering spot, especially at night, where visitors can enjoy Milan’s vibrant nightlife surrounded by history.
The area around the Colonne is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a lively destination for history lovers and social explorers.
Fondazione Prada
For contemporary art lovers, Fondazione Prada is a must-visit, although located in the Porta Romana area, a bit outside the center. This modern art space showcases some of the most innovative exhibitions in Milan.
Porta Nuova
On the modern side, Porta Nuova is the new business district in Milan, characterized by sleek skyscrapers and innovative architecture.
It is a striking contrast to the historic buildings around the city and offers a look at Milan’s future. Be sure to check out the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest), a unique residential tower covered in greenery.
Final Tips for Your Milan Itinerary
Milan is a city that effortlessly balances tradition and innovation, offering visitors everything from ancient history and art to cutting-edge design and fashion.
This three-day itinerary captures the highlights of Milan’s central attractions, historic and artistic districts, and the scenic beauty of Lake Como, blending iconic landmarks with local experiences.
Whether you are exploring the intricate details of the Duomo, savoring gelato along the canals of Navigli, or marveling at art at the various museums, Milan promises a memorable journey that showcases both its past and its modern flair.
Which place are you looking forward to visit the most in Milan? Let me know in the comments below!
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