One day in Milan: A complete guide on the best things to do
The city of Milan is also connected with the image of fashion, luxury and the beautiful Italian life. For some, Milan is the prettiest city in Italy and others describe it as too chaotic and wild. However, one thing is for sure: Milan is worth a visit as there are so many things to do. Whether you decide to combine it with a trip through Italy or you’re just in a mood for a city trip – Milan should definitely be on the bucketlist. And the best part: One day is enough to explore the most important places of the city. Here, I share the best things to do in Milan and how to spend 24 hours in Italy’s fashion capital.
Tip: Milan is the ideal day trip from Lago di Como or Lago Maggiore
It’s pretty common to spend a day in Milan if you are flying into the city to start your trip through Italy. But Milan is as well an ideal day trip from nearby places, like Lago di Como or Lago Maggiore. The train connection is not only super convenient but as well a cheap offer that no traveller could turn down.
Going to Milan for just 4 Euros? Yes, you heard correctly.
From Lago di Como and Lago Maggiore you can take the train for 4-7 Euros and return in the evening. A short but intense escape to the city and a day filled with endless adventures. Plus, you are going to see a total different side of Italy.
Your route through Milan in less than 12 hours
Before you start your adventure in Milan and explore the beautiful places, it is important to understand, that visiting the city in one day does not mean you need to rush through all the attractions. Milan is the ideal city to see in just a few hours. Without a need to rush or miss out on anything. You will have plenty of time to enjoy a coffee and some lunch and still get the best impressions of the beautiful Italian metropole.
Start at the train station or your hotel
If you are doing Milan as a day trip you will arrive at the train station “Milano Cardona” or the main station “Milano Centrale”. It is best to take the stop Milano Cardona, as this is in closer distance to the city center and the main attractions. If you have spent a night in Milan, you can start of course the route from your hotel.
Obviously, starting your day trip as early as possible is the best option to avoid the crowds. Plus, you will get the best views of the city and the beautiful places. Especially the area around the dome will be super busy from midday on as many buses arrive around that time.
If you want to get some beautiful shots or just enjoy walking around on your own when exploring a new place, you should consider an early morning. And of course, seeing Milan waking up is one of a kind experience!
Visit the Duomo di Milano
First on the list is the most iconic attraction in Milan – the dome. Mainly known as the Duomo di Milano or the Milan Cathedral, this is your first stop on your day trip through the city and one of the best things to do in Milan. You might know the spectacular building from pictures or social media. It is not only the most important sight seeing stop in the entire city, but as well the best way to start your explorations. Early in the morning, you can get lucky and enjoy the incredible architecture with less people and soak up the special atmosphere.
From the Milano Cardona Train Station, the Duomo di Milano is in about 15 minutes distance. After a short walk, you will first notice the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II before you have a free sight on the dome. For some, this is one of the most spectacular religious buildings worldwide. The architecture makes the Duomo appear heroic and breathtaking. Make sure, you spend enough time on the square in front of the dome and take millions of pictures. The best time is when the sun rays comes over the top of the dome – a shot that you should never miss.
For those interesting in seeing the Cathedral from the inside: The doors open at 9 am and you will be able to get a short sneak peak inside the church. This is seen as an extra experience, but for most travellers, enjoying the view from the outside is more than enough. If you are lucky, you can listen to an Italian musician playing next to the dome. One of a kind atmosphere in one of a kind place.
Ticket Price: Around €10 for entry, €15–20 if you want to access the rooftop
Enjoy your Italian breakfast with a view on the dome
After you have taken all the photos, it is time for a typical Italian breakfast. There are multiple places close the Milan Cathedral and you can enjoy your coffee with a view on the famous building. Make sure to check the menu first, as some of the cafés and restaurants can be really pricy. There is a seat for any budget though!
While enjoying a coffee (or even a pizza for breakfast, I mean we’re in Italy) you can relax and plan the rest of your day in Milan. You will quickly notice, that sitting next to the Cathedral, enjoying the atmosphere, drinking a coffee and watching the rush of the city, is already one of the best ways to experience Milan.
It is those small moments which you will remember from your day trip to Italy’s treasure in the North.
Stroll through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II
Directly next to the Duomo you will find the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II. The attraction is known for its numerous luxury stores. Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel and multiple other brands are located in the massive hall. While the shopping might only be relevant for some, others come to enjoy the building itself. The beautiful cupola roof is an art work itself. The floor with its shiny surface looks freshly cleaned the whole day and you will walk through the Galleria with your eyes on the ceiling.
For some, the Galleria Emanuelle II is an art work of architecture, for others it is the number one shopping destination. Each traveller will find its own definition. But what is sure is, that each will leave speechless and in awe of this spectacular place. An absolute must of the top things to do in Milan.
Have a shopping tour through the main street Via Torino
If you prefer not to spend your money in luxury stores, Milan has your back. Even tough, the city is mostly known for its expensive fashion, there are regular stores as well. And it wouldn’t be Milan, if you don’t stop for some shopping. Directly on the opposite road of the Duomo, you will find the main shopping street. The Via Torino is filled with countless stores, offering some special prices for anybody. Have a stroll through the streets, watch the cable car drive by and enjoy walking around the city.
Have a pizza date for lunch
If you haven’t already had a pizza for breakfast, it is time to get your daily heaven for lunch. Again, there are many options around the Duomo di Milano. You will be able to find a good place for your budget. During summer, it is a must to sit outside. This means, you can enjoy the Italian sun on your face while waiting for your pizza. But of course, there are also cheaper options. There are many restaurants in the side streets where you can find delicious bites.
Stroll around the center
If you have some more time and want to see some hidden areas and things to do in Milan, stroll around the streets in the center. You will not only discover cute cafés and small alleys, but as well you will get a better impression of Milan itself. This allows you to experience to see the city from the local point of view.
Dare to leave the tourist paths behind and find yourself in the streets of Milan – one of the best ways to get to know a place.
Visit Santa Maria delle Grazie
If you love visiting museums, you should head over to Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. This is a perfect thing to do after your lunch. The only downside: Since tickets sell out quickly, it really need to be booked in advance. They only offer a limited amount of tickets. If you are travelling during the summer months, it could even make sense to make a reservation about a month earlier. During the winter months, you should be fine without.
The opening hour are 8:15 AM until 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays). The ticket price is around €15–20.
End your day with a typical aperitivo
Before ending your day, enjoy Milan’s famous aperitivo, an early evening tradition where drinks are served with complimentary snacks. This is a must during any trip to Italy. There are a few famous spots in the city, such as N’Ombra de Vin, stylish wine bar with a great atmosphere, or Terrazza Aperol, a rooftop bar overlooking the Duomo. But of course you can find a nice spot almost anywhere and for any budget.
More things to do during a day in Milan
Milan has an endless list of attractions and stops that you can include on your personal route through the city. While some might be focusing on arts and cultures, others are sporty.
Soccer fans can take the bus to the AC Milan San Siro Stadium. You can visit the joint museum and dive deeper into the history of the team and Italian soccer in general. If you happen to be in Milan on a rainy day, you can spend the afternoon in the Milano Archaeology Museum or visit the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. As you see, the choices are wide and you will surely find the best plan for your day in Milan.
Milan in one day: A day trip to remember
In the end of the day, you will be filled with countless new impressions and experiences. And as well, you can tick of a new city on your bucketlist. Of course, if you manage to stay longer, you can split the tour to two days or even add a few attractions. But even if you are short on time, Milan will do its very best to offer you the best insights into the Italian fashion metropole!
