Day Trips in Milan
Milan is an industrious working city where finance and fashion reign. With its vibrant magnetism and fast-paced kinetic energy, the hustle and bustle of Milan is exactly what makes it shine! Chic and distinctly sophisticated, Milan offers an exciting taste of modern-day Italy. From incredible food to unbeatable luxury shopping, these day trips in Milan serve up that classic Italian magic with a decidedly contemporary twist.
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Is it Worth it to Go to Milan for One Day?
Milan is absolutely worth a stop in your travels, even if it’s just for a day! With interesting history, iconic works of art, incredible food and fashion to die for, Milan is full of enchanting experiences and magical moments.
Can Milan be Seen in a Day?
While you really need a few days to experience all that Milan has to offer, you can hit the highlights in just one day. Do your research in advance and prioritize your must-do’s in order to optimize your time and get the most out of your visit.
Where Can I Go for One Day in Milan?
There is a myriad of ways to experience Milan. From historic and cultural sites to colorful neighborhoods and some of the best shopping in the world, you’ll have plenty of options for your day in Milan. Choose from the following curated itineraries or tailor your day to fit your personal needs and interests.
One Day in Milan: For Fashionistas
Along with New York, Paris and London, Milan is internationally recognized as one of the most influential fashion capitals of the world. Home to famous luxury brands like Georgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Versaci, Milan is a fashionista’s paradise!
If high-end designer brands are on your wish list, be sure to check out Via Montenapoleone in Milan’s Quadrilatero della moda (fashion district). This upscale shopping street is the third most expensive street in the world and boasts ready-to-wear fashion, exclusive shoe designers and luxury jewelers. Or, if boutique shopping is more your speed, head to the bohemian Brera district, where you’ll find incredible artisan shops selling stylish items from head to toe.
No fashion-lover should leave Milan without a visit to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s the world’s oldest active shopping mall. Here you’ll find high-end shopping and tempting eateries as well as spectacular Renaissance Revival architecture. If fashion is your top priority, consider planning your visit during Milan’s bi-annual fashion week. The city hosts exclusive shows by internationally renowned fashion houses. Though fashion shows are often invite-only, you’ll spot cutting-edge street style, enjoy unique Fashion Week events and revel in the contagious energy that sets Milan Fashion Week apart.
One Day in Milan: For Foodies
Milan may be revered for its trend-setting fashion scene, but you’ll find more than great shopping in this multi-faceted metropolis.
For a true foodie experience, head to the bustling Navigli district, situated along Milan’s very own captivating canals. Built in the 12th century, the canals were once the backbone of Milanese economy. Nowadays, trendy Navigli Canal offers gorgeous water views, gourmet food and a plethora of quirky and inviting bars and clubs. To experience the best of the district, plan your visit around aperitivo, when you’ll join the locals for happy hour and enjoy the lively nightlife scene.
For dinner, indulge in authentic Milanese and Lombard cuisine at a local favorite like Antica Trattoria Della Pesa. This historic Italian restaurant has been in operation since 1880 and serves traditional fare including a delectable Ossobuco. This Lombard specialty consists of slow-braised veal shanks served with vegetables, white wine and broth. Buon appetito!
One Day in Milan: For History Buffs
When it comes to history, Milan tends to be overlooked in favor of ancient heavy hitters like Rome, Venice and Florence. But as one of the oldest cities in Italy, Milan packs a historical punch all its own. Dating back to the 4th century, Milan was originally settled by the Celtic Insubres in 400 AD and was later conquered by the Romans in 222 BC.
For a one-day tour of Milan’s historical highlights, begin your day with a guided tour of the breathtaking Duomo di Milano and Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. I recommend investing in the skip-the-line access to Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic masterpiece The Last Supper. Allow time to climb the Dome for extraordinary views of the incredible spires, gothic architecture and haunting gargoyles of the Duomo’s spectacular terraces.
Afterward, head for Sforzesco Castle. It’s a 15th-century citadel that now houses several prominent museums. They include the Museum of Ancient Art and the Pinacoteca de Costello Sforzesco, a popular art gallery containing more than 1,500 historic works of art.
If you worked up an appetite climbing the Dome, opt for a delicious meal at the historic Biffi Café. It’s located in the octagonal center of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. One of the oldest restaurants in Milan, Biffi Café opened its doors in 1867. It quickly established itself as a cultural hub for the day’s most illustrious musicians, composers and artists.
One Day in Milan: For Honeymooners
Classically romantic cities like Rome and Venice are an obvious choice for honeymooners. But Milan offers an opulent sense of romance that often flies under the radar.
For an ideal honeymoon itinerary from Milan to Florence, check out our blog post here!
For a magical day in Milan, start with a stroll through the picturesque Parco Sempione in the historic city center. Walk hand in hand as you enjoy the lush greenery, glittering ponds and impressive architecture of the Arca della Pace. Built in 1838 under Napoleon’s short-lived rule, the neoclassical “Arch of Peace” boasts all the beauty and romance of the monument it was modeled after – the iconic Arc de Triomphe of Paris.
Afterward, head for the Piazza del Duomo, where you’ll discover the staggeringly dramatic Duomo di Milano. For maximum romance, view the sunset from the Duomo’s terrace. You’ll marvel at the extravagant spires and gargoyles and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. For an extra dash of Milanese romance, sip cocktails at the Duomo’s rooftop bar as the sun dips over the horizon.
For a dramatic end to your day in Milan, dress to the nines and take in a performance at La Scala Opera house. Built in 1778, this opulent theater has hosted the debuts of great composers like Giuseppe Verde and Giacomo Puccini. To guarantee your seats, purchase your tickets online up to four months in advance. Tickets are not inexpensive, but upper-level seats are often released to the public on short notice at a steep discount.
Ready for a Day Trip in Milan?
Whether you’re flying into Milan Malpensa Airport or dedicating a day of your Italian itinerary to this marvelous modern metropolis, Milan has something for every kind of traveler. If you’re ready to explore the contemporary side of Italy, contact us below to find out how!