Looking for a 1-day itinerary for Milan? Often used as the base point for Northern Italian destinations like Lake Como or the Dolomites, Milan is one of the most popular cities in Italy.
It reminds me a bit of New York City; it’s a major fashion hub with lots of great shopping and beautiful museums, such as the Museum of Culture. On my last trip, I stayed about three days, and while it wasn’t enough to see everything, I was able to see many of the major attractions.
Is 24 hours in Milan enough time to enjoy Milan? Let’s find out with my guide on how spend 24 hours in Milan. 2
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One Day Itinerary in Milan
24 hours in Milan is enough to see some highlights. You can try some amazing Milanese food, go shopping, and check out some of the best museums. Make sure to dress stylish but comfortable, because even the shopping malls like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, look like museums.
First Stop: Marchesi 1824
We’re in Italy, so obviously we need to start our day by drinking coffee and having some Italian pastries. Since we’re on limited time, head to Marchesi 1824 for breakfast.
It’s the most beautiful cafe in Italy, and the service is impeccable. The vibe reminds me of Italy back in the 70’s but with a more regal feel.
I spent my time people-watching because the views were phenomenal. I recommend ordering the cheesecake and the coffee-flavored Paris Brest.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Afterward, take the elevator downstairs and explore the world’s first shopping center. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of Milan’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade in the city’s heart, adjacent to the Piazza del Duomo. Fall in love with its impressive glass-domed roof, intricate mosaics, and elegant architecture. Consider shopping at one of the high-end shops, and don’t forget to keep your receipt to obtain the VAT refund later.
1 Day in Milan: Duomo di Milano
A trip to Milan is not complete without visiting the Duomo di Milano. It’s the city’s most famous cathedral, known for its breathtaking Gothic architecture. Construction began around 1386, and remains one of the most iconic buildings in Milan.
Inside, you’ll find marble floors, altars, stained glass windows, and sculptures. There’s even a museum and an archeological site inside. Consider climbing to the rooftop for a great view of the city.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper
Admire one of the world’s most famous artworks in the the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. It’s not accessible on Mondays, so plan ahead.
Tickets start at €15 for adults over 25, and children are free. Although children can visit for free, they still need a ticket. Be sure to book tickets in advance. Bookbags, suitcases, and other large bags are not allowed inside.
Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)
Sforza Castle, also known as Castello Sforzesco, is a gorgeous fortress in the northern part of the city center. It’s close to the Parco Sempione park. This landmark is a significant historical and cultural site. You’ll find a few museums inside, so history lovers will love this place. I personally fell in love with the architecture of this place.
Restaurants in Milan: Best Place to Eat in Milan
24 hours in Milan is a short amount of time, but I urge you to eat as much as you can. Each region in Italy has unique dishes, so make sure to try local Milanese food. Since its location is far from the sea, Milanese food is meat-heavy. Ossobucco is a popular local dish made of stewed meat and onions. The city of Gorgonzola is also the birthplace of the cheese of the same name, making it a great place to get authentic gorgonzola cheese.
You’ll also find vegan, Halal, and gluten-free restaurants in Milan. Here are a few of the best restaurants in Milan for lunch and dinner:
- Osteria Milanese : Local Milanese food
- Palazzo Parigi: Yummy pizza
- Ristorante Al Matarel: Traditional Milanese food
- La Colubrina: Top vegan restaurant in Milan
- Dibi221 Ristorante Africano: Senegalese Food
- Pescherie Riunite: Great for seafood
- Duomo Kebap Halal Grill Pizza Turkish: Top Halal fast food restaurant
How Many Days Should You Spend in Milan?
The hardest part of visiting Italy is deciding where and how long to stay there. Two full days in Milan is perfect if you have limited time, but three days is great if you want to spend a day getting lost. Milan is also a great base for day trips to places like Lake Como, Switzerland, and Bellagio.
Where to Stay in Milan?
Milan is a very public transportation-friendly city, so you’ll be anywhere you go, but if you want to save time, here are my suggestions. If you’re interested in shopping and fashion, I recommend staying in Duomo, Porta Venezia, and Brera. If you’re visiting Milan to enjoy all of the history and art that Milan is famous for, stay in Sant’Ambrogio, Duomo, or Porta Garibaldi. Some family-friendly neighborhoods in Milan are Porta Garibaldi and San Siro. If you’re a budget traveler, consider staying in nearby Saronno. It’s only a short train ride from Milan, but accommodation is more affordable.
Read more blogs about Italy here:
- How To Go From Milan to Cinque Terre By Train, Bus, or Car
- Top 15 Italian Coastal Towns
- Rome 3 Day Itinerary – Once in a Lifetime
- 12 Day Rome Itinerary: Rome, Venice, Cinque Terre
- Where To Stay in Cinque Terre: Best Hotels and Villages
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