Milan, Italy-5-day-itinerary

Milan, Italy: A 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City Centre

  • Morning: Arrive at Milan Malpensa (MXP) or Linate (LIN) airport. Take a train or bus to the city centre.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the iconic Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral), a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
    • Explore the adjacent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Italian cuisine at Trattoria Milanese, a local favourite.

Day 2: Art, History, and Fashion

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Castello Sforzesco, a 14th-century castle that houses several museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art.
    • Explore the nearby Parco Sempione, a beautiful park with gardens and walking paths.
  • Afternoon:
    • Head to the Pinacoteca di Brera, a museum showcasing an impressive collection of Italian art.
    • Visit the famous Via Montenapoleone, known for its high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Don Lisander, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Italian cuisine.

Day 3: Leonardo da Vinci and Canals

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Museo Poldi Pezzoli, home to an impressive collection of art and artefacts, including works by Leonardo da Vinci.
    • Explore the charming Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals and historic buildings.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided boat tour along the Navigli canals.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Madia, a restaurant serving traditional Lombardy dishes.

Day 4: Royal Palace and Teatro alla Scala

  • Morning:
    • Visit the Palazzo Reale, the former royal palace of Milan, which now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
    • Explore the nearby Piazza della Scala, home to the famous Teatro alla Scala opera house.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of Teatro alla Scala (book in advance).
  • Evening: Attend a performance at Teatro alla Scala, or enjoy dinner at Cracco Peck, a renowned restaurant with stunning views.

Day 5: Shopping and Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs or exploring local markets.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the iconic Corso Como, known for its trendy shops and cafes.
    • Head to the airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation

Consider staying in the city centre, close to major attractions. Some top-rated options include:

  • Hotel Principe di Savoia: A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and a prime location.
  • Aparthotel Oro Blu: A stylish aparthotel offering spacious rooms and a convenient location.

Transportation

  • Milan has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Buy a rechargeable ATM (Autolinee Trazione Milanesi) ticket for easy travel.
  • Consider purchasing a Milan Tourist Card, which grants access to public transport, attractions, and discounts.

Things to Know

  • Milan is a fashion-forward city; dress stylishly and comfortably for your travels.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the local cuisine, including risotto alla milanese, panettone, and osso buco.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Tips

  • Book tickets and tours in advance to avoid long queues and availability issues.
  • Explore the city’s many museums and galleries on Tuesdays, when admission is often free or reduced.
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets at Torre Velasca, a skyscraper with panoramic views.