Milan Italy

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Milan, Italy

Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is a must-visit destination for any traveller. From its stunning architecture to its world-class museums, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, Milan has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places to visit, activities to do, where to eat, where to stay, things to know, transportation options, tips, and other interesting facts about this amazing city.

Places to Visit

Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

  • The iconic Duomo, a stunning cathedral that took nearly 600 years to complete
  • Explore the adjacent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls

Castello Sforzesco

  • A medieval castle turned museum, housing art and cultural exhibits
  • Relax in the beautiful surrounding park, Parco Sempione

Teatro alla Scala

  • One of the most famous opera houses in the world, offering guided tours
  • Catch a performance if you can, but book tickets well in advance

Santa Maria delle Grazie

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring Leonardo da Vinci’s famous fresco, The Last Supper
  • Book tickets in advance to avoid long queues

Brera District

  • A charming neighborhood filled with narrow streets, boutiques, and art galleries
  • Visit the Brera Academy of Fine Arts, a historic art school
  • Explore the picturesque canals, reminiscent of Venice
  • Enjoy the lively nightlife, with many bars and restaurants

Activities

Take a Stroll along the Canals (Navigli)

  • Admire the beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere
  • Stop for a drink or meal at one of the many bars and restaurants

Shop at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

  • Browse high-end boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops
  • Relax in the beautiful courtyard, surrounded by stunning architecture

Visit the Museums

  • Pinacoteca di Brera: featuring Italian art from the 14th to 20th centuries
  • Museo Poldi Pezzoli: showcasing a collection of Renaissance art and furnishings
  • Casa Museo Boschi Di Stefano: exploring modern and contemporary art

Take a Food Tour

  • Sample traditional Milanese dishes, such as risotto alla milanese and ossobuco
  • Learn about the history and production of Italian food and wine

Attend a Football Match (Calcio)

  • Catch a match at the San Siro Stadium, home to AC Milan and Inter Milan
  • Experience the electric atmosphere and passionate fans

Where to Eat

Traditional Milanese Cuisine

  • Trattoria Madonnina: serving classic dishes in a cozy atmosphere
  • Osteria del Treno: offering traditional cuisine with a modern twist
  • Ristorante Cracco: Michelin-starred restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients

Pizzerias

  • Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo: serving authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas
  • Pizzeria Lievito: offering gourmet pizzas with unique toppings

Cafes and Bars

  • Caffè Greco: historic cafe serving coffee, pastries, and cocktails
  • Bar Magenta: trendy bar with a wide selection of craft beers
  • Camparino: iconic bar serving the classic Italian aperitif, Aperol Spritz

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • Hotel Principe di Savoia: five-star hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch service
  • Grand Hotel et de Milan: luxurious hotel with a beautiful courtyard and excellent location

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel Spadari: stylish hotel with modern rooms and a great breakfast buffet
  • Hotel Cavour: comfortable hotel with a relaxing atmosphere and good value for money

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Ostello Bello: hostel with dorms and private rooms, plus a lively common area
  • Airbnb apartments: affordable options in various neighborhoods throughout the city

Things to Know

Language

  • Italian is the official language, but many Milanese speak English, especially in tourist areas
  • Learn basic phrases like “grazie” (thank you) and “per favore” (please)

Currency

  • Euro is the official currency
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, but have some cash for smaller purchases

Weather

  • Milan has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters
  • Pack accordingly, with light clothing for summer and warm layers for winter

Safety

  • Milan is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure

Transportation

Airport Transfers

  • Malpensa Express: train connecting Malpensa airport to central Milan
  • Bus services: available from both Malpensa and Linate airports

Public Transportation

  • Metro: efficient underground network with three lines (M1, M2, M3)
  • Bus and Tram: extensive network of buses and trams covering the city
  • Bike-Sharing: Milano Bike is a convenient way to get around the city

Taxi Services

  • Available at taxi ranks or bookable in advance
  • Be aware that some taxis may not accept credit cards

Tips

Buy Tickets in Advance

  • Book tickets for popular attractions, such as the Duomo and Teatro alla Scala, to avoid long queues

Explore Beyond the Tourist Areas

  • Venture into lesser-known neighborhoods, like the Brera District or Navigli, for a more authentic experience

Learn Some Italian Phrases

  • Show respect for the local culture by learning basic phrases and attempting to communicate in Italian

Don’t Forget to Try the Local Food

  • Indulge in traditional Milanese dishes, such as risotto alla milanese and ossobuco
  • Visit local markets or food shops to sample artisanal products

Other Interesting Facts

Fashion Capital

  • Milan is home to some of the world’s most famous fashion designers and houses
  • Attend a fashion show or visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II during Fashion Week

Football (Calcio)

  • Milan is passionate about football, with two major teams: AC Milan and Inter Milan
  • Catch a match at the San Siro Stadium for an unforgettable experience

Art and Culture

  • Milan has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and exhibitions
  • Attend a performance at the Teatro alla Scala or visit the Brera Academy of Fine Arts

Final Tips

Plan Ahead

  • Book tickets and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons
  • Research and plan your itinerary to make the most of your time in Milan

Be Prepared for Crowds

  • Popular attractions can be very crowded, so be prepared for long queues and busy streets
  • Take breaks and rest when needed to avoid exhaustion

Enjoy Yourself!

  • Milan is a vibrant and exciting city, so relax, enjoy yourself, and soak up the atmosphere!
  • Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or assistance – they’re known for their hospitality!