Things To Do
in Milan

Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. It seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and La Scala opera house. Renowned for its high-end shopping districts and dynamic nightlife, Milan attracts visitors from around the globe.

Culinary delights and art museums further enhance the city's allure, making it a diverse destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Milan
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the spectacular Duomo di Milano, where you can explore the cathedral and climb to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the city.

afternoon
:

Head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping galleries, for lunch and some shopping, followed by a visit to the Sforza Castle to explore its museums and gardens.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner in the Brera district, known for its charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, and finish the night with a performance at La Scala.

day 2
Day 2: Art and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera to admire masterpieces of Italian art, then stroll through the nearby Botanical Garden of Brera for a peaceful break.

afternoon
:

Explore the contemporary art scene at the Fondazione Prada, followed by lunch at a nearby trattoria to taste local dishes.

evening
:

Head to Navigli, the historic canal district, for a relaxed evening with aperitivos along the water, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza Margherita$8
🍷Glass of Wine$5
Coffee$2
🍽️Mid-Range Restaurant Meal$20
🚇Metro Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Vibrant fashion and shopping scene
  • Diverse culinary offerings
  • Can be expensive for dining and accommodations
  • Heavy traffic and pollution
  • Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas
  • "Buongiorno" - Good Morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank You
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse Me

Places to Visit in Milan

Visit one of these nice places.

Duomo di Milano

Capture the stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details of Milan's iconic cathedral.

Castello Sforzesco

Photograph the historic castle and its beautiful surrounding gardens, especially during sunset.

Navigli Canals

The picturesque canals lined with colorful buildings and vibrant nightlife make for perfect photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Milan

Milan offers a rich culinary experience with a blend of traditional Italian dishes and innovative cuisine. From local specialties to street food, there's something to satisfy every palate.

Milan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Risotto alla Milanese

A creamy risotto flavored with saffron, giving it a distinct golden color and rich taste.

Must-Try!

Cotoletta alla Milanese

A breaded veal cutlet, fried to perfection, often served with a side of arugula.

Panettone

A sweet bread loaf originally from Milan, typically enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Porta Genova

A vibrant market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and local street food.

Street Food in Navigli

Explore food trucks and stalls offering artisanal sandwiches, gelato, and local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Milan experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, averaging highs around 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with spring and autumn being the wettest seasons, so visitors should be prepared for occasional showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Well

Milanese take pride in their appearance; dressing well is important, especially in social settings.

Greeting Customs

A friendly 'Buongiorno' (Good Morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good Evening) is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Manners

It is polite to wait for the host to begin the meal and to keep your hands on the table during dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Milan is generally a safe city for tourists; however, it is important to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas where pickpocketing can occur. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be cautious when using ATMs. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts.

Tipping in Milan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

While not obligatory, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to explore parks and outdoor attractions.

Summer

Hot and humid weather can be expected, with many outdoor festivals and events taking place.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors create a pleasant atmosphere for sightseeing.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the festive atmosphere, especially around Christmas, is enchanting.

Nightlife Guide

Milan at Night

Milan's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone from chic bars to lively clubs. The Navigli district is particularly popular for its trendy bars and canalside aperitivo spots, where locals and tourists gather to socialize. For a more upscale experience, the Brera district boasts elegant cocktail bars and dance clubs, while the Porta Romana area offers a mix of traditional and contemporary venues. Live music and DJ sets are prevalent, making the city a hub for nightlife enthusiasts.

Hiking in Milan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parco della Spina Verde

Located just outside Milan, this park offers scenic trails and beautiful views of Lake Como.

Monte Resegone

A popular hiking destination featuring various trails with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Milan by plane.

Malpensa Airport (MXP)

Located approximately 50 km northwest of Milan, Malpensa is the main international airport serving the city, offering numerous flights to destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Milan is a highly walkable city, particularly in the central areas where most attractions are located within a short distance. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones, making it easy to explore on foot. Public spaces like Sempione Park provide a pleasant environment for walking, while the compact layout allows visitors to experience the city’s charm without relying heavily on public transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Milan attracts a large number of young professionals, especially in fashion, design, and technology sectors.

Students

With several prestigious universities, Milan is home to a vibrant student population that adds to the city's dynamic culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Football)

Milan is home to two of Italy's most successful football clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan, making soccer a popular sport among locals.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity in Milan, with several professional teams and a strong following among fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Milan can be congested, particularly during rush hours. The city is served by an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and a metro system, making it easy to navigate without a car. The metro is efficient and the preferred choice for many locals, while biking is also encouraged in designated lanes, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Milan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Milan offers various vegetarian options, from pasta dishes to vegetable risottos.

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants provide gluten-free pasta and pizza options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Italy boasts a high-quality healthcare system, and Milan is home to several reputable hospitals and clinics. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 112, and many healthcare providers speak English. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to healthcare services.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide