Day Trip to Milan:
One Day of Perfect Itinerary
If you’re planning a day trip to Milan, you’ll be exploring a city that combines culture, history, and modernity. It may seem impossible to fit all this into one day, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can see many of Milan’s best sites. From architectural sights to world-class art to energetic neighbourhoods, this list will help you plan a packed day in Milan.
Getting to Milan
A day trip to Milan, Italy is perfect to spend visiting from many cities. Here’s how you can get there:
Milan is easily accessible by train. If you’re travelling from Florence, Venice, or Rome, the train is the fastest and easiest option. Milano Centrale, the main train station, is also one of the busiest train stations in Europe, situated close to the city centre, with access to the metro, trams, and buses.
Driving in Milan can be tricky. Parking in the city centre is limited and costly, and finding a space can be frustrating. If you want to drive, it might be better to park on the outskirts and travel by public transport.
Milan has two main airports:
Linate Airport (LIN) – Closer to the city, only 7 km away, with buses and taxis available.
Malpensa Airport (MXP) – Located 50 km from the city, with train and bus connections to the centre.
If you plan to spend 48 hours in Milan, check out this article about 2 days in Milan.
Day Trip to Milan
Morning: Explore Milan’s Heart
Start at Piazza del Duomo & Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)
Begin your day by visiting Duomo di Milano, Milan’s grand Gothic Cathedral. It’s one of the largest in the world, as well as one of the most beautifully detailed Cathedrals I’ve ever seen. From a distance, the Duomo is truly impressive—when you see the size and beauty of the Cathedral from the Piazza del Duomo, your first instinct will probably be to stare at it. The attention to detail on the Duomo’s facade, especially concerning the spires and statues, is something you could stare at for hours, it’s so fascinating.
Inside the Duomo, you will find impressive towering columns, stained glass windows, and sacred art. However, the best part is visiting the rooftop terrace. Walking around the spires of the Cathedral and looking over the entire city of Milan was easily the best part of my day trip to Milan. From the rooftop, you can see the overall skyline of the city, and if it’s a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps.
Pro tip: Get a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour to avoid the crowds. Not only will it save you time, but it will also guarantee you access to the rooftop of the Cathedral, which you won’t want to miss!
Walk to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Walk a short distance from the Duomo to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This historic shopping arcade is more than a mall; it is an architectural marvel. Built in the 19th century, with a glass ceiling and beautiful mosaics, it represents a stunning space that feels grand yet welcoming.
As you stroll through, you will find luxury stores like Prada and Louis Vuitton, but whether or not you’re there to buy, it’s worth walking through the Galleria just to soak up the ambience. The Galleria is full of history and elegance—perfect for people-watching and experiencing the historic heart of Milan. There are plenty of cafes, so you can sip a quick espresso and appreciate this beautiful space.
Be sure to take a minute to stand in the centre under the enormous glass dome. It’s said that you will have good luck if you spin on the bull mosaic on the floor, so regardless of whether you believe that or not, be sure to spin on this local tradition.
Visit Teatro alla Scala During Your Day Trip to Milan
Just a short walk from the Galleria is Teatro alla Scala, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. The building itself is worth even a small visit, even if you’re not an opera buff. The exterior facade is beautiful and Neo-Classical in style, and the theatre has seen some of the greatest performances by famous artists in history.
You can visit the Teatro alla Scala Museum, which offers an insight into the world of opera. You can see costumes, staging, and memorabilia of legendary performances. The museum is fascinating for music, theatre, and history enthusiasts, and it makes a perfect attraction while on a day trip to Milan.
If you have time and you’d like to see the opera house shine at night, check if there are any performances scheduled during your stay. Tickets sell out quickly, so if you’re interested, it’s best to book ahead of time. Seeing a performance in this legendary theatre will be an unforgettable experience!
Day Trip to Milan
Lunch: Try Milanese Cuisine and Art
After a busy morning, it’s time for lunch. Milan is home to rich culinary traditions, and there are numerous possibilities in the city centre to sample authentic Milanese dishes.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy option, you can’t go wrong with Luini’s panzerotti, a deep-fried pastry filled with mozzarella and tomato located near the Duomo. For a sit-down meal, look for places serving risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto) or cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet).
Visit Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione
After lunch, visit the Castello Sforzesco, a massive castle dating back to the 15th century that once represented Milan’s power. It now hosts a series of museums and art collections, and the courtyards are open to the public for free. The courtyards are interesting and offer a glimpse into Milan’s medieval history and architecture.
If you have time, check out the places inside the castle. They feature displays of renowned works by artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. One example is the Pieta Rondanini, which is Michelangelo’s last sculpture. There are art collections from antiquity, collections of musical instruments, and some Egyptian artefacts as well.
You will find Parco Sempione behind the castle, which is one of the largest parks in Milan. If you want to take a break after your morning of sightseeing, it’s a great place to take a stroll or for a brief rest. There are walking paths, ponds, and benches where you can take in the park’s view. You should definitely visit this park on a day trip to Milan.
See The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie During Your Day Trip to Milan
Next, it’s time to head to Santa Maria delle Grazie – the church that houses what is quite possibly one of the most well-known paintings of all time, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
Visiting The Last Supper is an exercise in patience! There are very limited tickets to see this famous painting, and they must be booked in advance—often, many months in advance. There are only timed entries to view the painting, with only 15 minutes allowed to take in the artwork (which seems short yet feels longer when you stand in front of it).
Some guided tours also give you access to see The Last Supper as part of the tour, which helps you understand the history of the painting, its significance and why it is taken so care of. Remember, it’s fragile and requires preservation!
Day Trip to Milan
Late Afternoon: Strolling and Shopping
Stroll Through Milan’s Fashion District (Quadrilatero della Moda)
A visit to Milan wouldn’t be complete without exploring the world-famous fashion district, the Quadrilatero della Moda. This gilded district is perfect for people-watching and window shopping. As you wander the streets, like Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, you will see flagship stores from the luxury brands you know, like Prada, Gucci, and Armani.
The district is full of window displays with works of art. It’s a great spot to see fashion-forward locals and tourists. The streets themselves are beautiful, with polished storefronts and stunning architecture.
Explore the Brera District on Your Day Trip to Milan
If you’re after a completely different vibe, take a quick cab ride to the nearby Brera District, a neighbourhood with an artsy, bohemian feel. The area is filled with art galleries, independent boutiques, and charming cafes. The vibe is a refreshing change from the opulence and luxury of the fashion district, and it’s perfect for unwinding and relaxing on a day trip to the city.
Take a moment to visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Milan’s premier art galleries. The gallery boasts an impressive collection of masterpieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, featuring works by Raphael and Caravaggio. If you’re not visiting the gallery, it is still worthwhile exploring Brera. Brera is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Milan, with narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and hidden courtyards dotted with cute cafes and boutiques. Pop into one of the numerous gelaterias or cafes and enjoy an afternoon treat.
Day Trip to Milan
Evening: Aperitivo and Scenic Views
Relax at the Navigli District
As the sun starts to set, head to the Navigli District, one of the most beautiful and lively neighbourhoods in Milan. This area is known for its canals, and while the Navigli is a delightful experience during the day, it really is a magical place in the evenings.
One of the ideal ways to enjoy the evenings in Milan, especially in the Navigli area, is to participate in the local tradition of aperitivo. This is akin to happy hour, where you buy a drink (such as a Spritz, a Negroni, or a glass of wine) and enjoy complimentary snacks, including olives, bread, or other small bite-sized items.
The canals of Navigli have a variety of bars and restaurants that line the banks. Many restaurants feature outdoor seating and tables, perfect for enjoying the views and just watching life go by on the water. Look for a spot that faces west where you can watch the sunset over the canals. The atmosphere is relaxed, and whether you choose a small local bar or fancier restaurant, this is a great place to sit and enjoy time at a leisurely pace.
The Navigli District has a huge nightlife scene, so if you’re up for it, check it out after your dinner. The district has live music, art galleries, and boutique shops to get lost in the night. It’s a great way to have some fun and unwind after a day well spent in Milan!
A day trip to Milan offers a perfect blend of history, art, and modern culture. While seeing everything in just one day is impossible, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time in the city. Milan has something for every traveller, from the iconic Duomo to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper and the vibrant Navigli district.
If you have more time and want to escape the city, choose one from the 9 best day trips from Milan.
Practical Tips for Your Day Trip to Milan
Getting around
Milan has an efficient metro system that is easy to use. It connects most of the city’s top sights, so you can get there quickly. The city centre is small enough that you can walk to most places. You can walk between the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Castello Sforzesco. Wear comfortable shoes! If the distance is a little too far to walk, there are also buses and trams available.
If you are in Milan for a short time, consider purchasing a 24-hour ticket for public transportation, which allows you to use the metro and buses/trams as often as you like.
Luggage storage
If you are stopping in Milan as part of a longer journey and do not want to encumber yourself with your luggage while visiting, you can store it at Milano Centrale. The luggage storage at the train station is conveniently located, giving you the freedom to take in the sights while leaving your bags behind. Many other popular tourist destinations offer luggage storage for a fee through private companies, which are conveniently located near attractions and transit hubs.
Dress code
When visiting religious sites like Milan’s Duomo, there’s a dress code to be aware of. Shoulders and knees should be covered to enter the cathedral. If you’re visiting during warmer months, it’s a good idea to bring a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when needed. Many tourists are turned away due to inappropriate clothing, so it’s best to come prepared.
Book ahead
For attractions like The Last Supper and the Duomo rooftop, booking your tickets in advance is essential. Tickets for these popular spots can sell out days or weeks ahead, so planning early your day trip to Milan is wise.
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