Milan, the capital of fashion and design, is one of the most fascinating cities in Italy.
With its mix of history, art, culture, and cuisine, it offers a unique experience to visitors. If you only have three days available, here is a perfect itinerary in Milan to make the most of your time and discover the wonders of the Lombard capital.
Day 1 for tourists in Milan: exploring the historic center
- Duomo of Milan: start your Milan adventure with a visit to the Duomo, the Gothic cathedral that is the symbol of the city. Admire the decorated facade and climb to the terrace for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: a few steps from the Duomo, you will find this elegant shopping gallery. Stroll under the glass dome, visit the luxury boutiques, and stop for a coffee in one of its historic cafes.
- Teatro alla Scala: continue towards the famous Teatro alla Scala, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Even if you do not attend a performance, it is worth visiting the attached museum to discover the history of the theater and admire the costumes and stage objects.
- Castello Sforzesco: in the afternoon, head to the Castello Sforzesco, a majestic fortress that houses numerous museums and art collections. Stroll through its courtyards and visit Parco Sempione, a green oasis perfect for a relaxing break.
- Dinner in Brera: end the day in the Brera district, famous for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. Choose one of the many typical restaurants to enjoy Milanese cuisine, such as risotto alla Milanese or cotoletta.
Day 2 for tourists in Milan: art and shopping
- Pinacoteca di Brera: start the second day with a visit to the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of the most important art museums in Italy. Admire masterpieces by artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio, and Hayez.
- Fashion Quadrilateral: if you love shopping, you cannot miss the Fashion Quadrilateral. This exclusive area includes Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni, where you will find the boutiques of the greatest Italian and international designers.
- Museo del Novecento: in the afternoon, visit the Museo del Novecento, located in Piazza del Duomo. This museum offers an extraordinary collection of 20th-century Italian art, with works by artists such as Boccioni, Modigliani, and De Chirico.
- Navigli: for the evening, head to the Navigli, one of the liveliest areas of Milan. The canals, designed by Leonardo da Vinci, are surrounded by restaurants, bars, and cafes. Enjoy an aperitif along the Naviglio Grande and then dine in one of the many restaurants in the area.
Day 3 for tourists in Milan: culture and relaxation
- Santa Maria delle Grazie and The Last Supper: start the third day with a visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie, the church that houses Leonardo da Vinci’s famous fresco, The Last Supper. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as visits are limited.
- Museum of Science and Technology: continue the day with a visit to the National Museum of Science and Technology “Leonardo da Vinci.” This interactive museum is ideal for all ages and offers a vast collection of models, machines, and inventions by Leonardo.
- Parco Sempione and Arco della Pace: in the afternoon, return to Parco Sempione for a relaxing walk. Visit the Arco della Pace, a neoclassical monument that celebrates the European peace of 1815. Enjoy a break in one of the park’s cafes.
- Shopping in Corso Buenos Aires: if you still want to shop, head to Corso Buenos Aires, one of the longest shopping streets in Europe. Here you will find a wide range of stores, from major international chains to local boutiques.
- Dinner in the Isola district: end your trip to Milan with a dinner in the Isola district. This emerging area is known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant culinary scene. Choose one of the many trendy restaurants for a unique dining experience.
Useful tips for visiting Milan
- Transport: Milan has an efficient public transport network, including metro, trams, and buses. Buy a daily or weekly ticket to move comfortably around the city.
- Museum hours: many museums and tourist attractions are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. Always check opening hours and book tickets online when possible.
- Food and drink: Milan is famous for its aperitifs. Take advantage of happy hour offers in bars, where with the cost of a drink you will have access to a buffet of snacks. Do not forget to try typical dishes such as risotto alla Milanese, ossobuco, and panettone if you visit during the Christmas period.
Milan is a city that offers a perfect balance of history, culture, fashion, and cuisine. With this 3-day itinerary, you can discover its main attractions and have an unforgettable experience.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, a fashion lover, or a foodie, Milan has something to offer everyone. Have a great trip!