Welcome to Milan – Italy’s pulsating heart of fashion, art, and gastronomy. This 7-day itinerary is crafted to immerse you in the Milanese spirit, letting you experience its grand historical sights, cutting-edge design, and culinary excellence. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, fashionista, or food lover, Milan promises an unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Historic Center
Morning: Greet the Monumental Duomo di Milano
Start your adventure in Milan’s iconic center – the Piazza del Duomo. The Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), a remarkable example of Gothic architecture, takes center stage. Take your time to admire its intricate facades and spires. Venture inside to explore its vast interiors or climb up to the terrace for a panoramic view of Milan.
Afternoon: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Lunch
Step into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, boasting impressive glass and iron arcades. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the refined cafes here, indulging in Milanese specialties.
Evening: Scala Opera House
Conclude your day with a visit to the prestigious La Scala Opera House. If possible, book tickets for an evening performance, or opt for a tour of its museum and the auditorium.
Day 2: Art and Culture
Morning: Pinacoteca di Brera
Discover Italian art at the Pinacoteca di Brera. Home to a vast collection of Italian masterpieces, the gallery offers works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Modigliani, set within the stunning Brera Palace.
Afternoon: Sforza Castle
Walk through the Sempione Park to reach the Sforza Castle. Explore the castle’s museums, including the Museo d’Arte Antica and the last sculpture Michelangelo worked on, the Rondanini Pietà.
Evening: Navigli District
Spend your evening at the vibrant Navigli District. Known for its buzzing nightlife, the area is perfect for a relaxing dinner by the canal and exploring local boutiques.
Day 3: Fashion and Design
Morning: Fashion Quadrilatero
Immerse yourself in the world of high fashion by visiting the Fashion Quadrilatero, the globe’s most prestigious shopping district, hosting boutiques from luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, and Versace.
Afternoon: Fondazione Prada
For a contemporary twist, explore the Fondazione Prada, showcasing thought-provoking modern art and installations. Its gold-leaf covered ‘Haunted House’ is a must-see.
Evening: Corso Como
Conclude your day at 10 Corso Como, a multifaceted space combining art, music, design, and cuisine – a true embodiment of Milan’s modern culture.
Day 4: Milanese Cuisine
Morning: Cooking Class
Delve into Milanese cuisine with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to make traditional dishes such as risotto alla Milanese and ossobuco, guided by a local chef.
Afternoon: Brera Food Tour
Walk off your hearty lunch with a guided food tour in Brera, sampling Italian cheeses, cured meats, and wine, while learning about the local culinary scene.
Evening: Aperitivo Time
Experience Milan’s famous aperitivo culture. Head to a chic bar in the Isola district to enjoy an evening of cocktails and appetizers, immersing in the local nightlife.
Day 5: Day Trip to Lake Como
Take a break from the hustle and bustle with a day trip to Lake Como, just an hour away from Milan. Enjoy a scenic boat tour, explore quaint lakeside towns like Bellagio and Varenna, and revel in the serene beauty of the Italian lakes.
Day 6: History and Architecture
Morning: Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper
Visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie to view Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Advance booking is essential for this once-in-a-lifetime viewing.
Afternoon: Modern Architecture Tour
Explore Milan’s modern side with a tour of contemporary architecture. Visit the sleek skyscrapers in Porta Nuova, including the UniCredit Tower, and marvel at the innovative designs transforming Milan’s skyline.
Evening: San Siro Stadium
For sports enthusiasts, a visit to the San Siro Stadium, the home of AC Milan and Inter Milan, is a must. Opt for a tour or catch a match if your visit coincides with the football season.
Day 7: Leisure and Farewell
Morning: Relaxing Spa Day
Indulge in a relaxing spa day at one of Milan’s luxurious wellness centers. Rejuvenate with unique treatments and thermal baths, bidding farewell to Milan in a state of complete relaxation.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Shopping
Squeeze in some last-minute shopping at Corso Buenos Aires, one of Europe’s longest shopping streets, for affordable fashion and souvenirs.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Conclude your Milan journey with a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying exquisite Italian cuisine with views of Milan’s skyline, reflecting on a trip well spent.
From the artistic masterpieces and architectural wonders to the chic fashion districts and gastronomic delights, Milan offers an enriching blend of experiences. This 7-day itinerary ensures you capture the essence of this magnificent city, leaving with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Accommodations in Milan
Choosing the right place to stay is crucial for a memorable trip. Milan offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy apartments. Here are some recommendations:
- Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa: A luxurious stay in the heart of Milan, offering exquisite rooms and a top-notch spa. Ideal for those looking to indulge.
- Vmaison Brera Milano: Perfect for travelers seeking stylish and comfortable accommodations close to Milan’s top attractions.
- Château Monfort – Relais & Châteaux: A 5-star boutique hotel with a fairy-tale theme, near Milan’s fashion district.
Transportation in Milan
Navigating through Milan is straightforward with its extensive public transportation system. Here are some tips for getting around:
- The Milan Metro (Subway) is an efficient way to travel to most tourist attractions. Purchase a day pass for unlimited rides.
- Trams and Buses offer a scenic route to explore the city. Ensure to validate your ticket before boarding.
- Consider renting a BikeMi bicycle for short distances. Milan is equipped with dedicated bike lanes making it safer for cyclists.
For convenience, consider purchasing the Milan Pass, which offers free public transportation and access to several attractions.
Dining in Milan
Milan is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here’s where to savor the best of Milanese cuisine:
- For an authentic Milanese dining experience, head to Trattoria della Gloria. Don’t miss trying out the Risotto alla Milanese.
- Pasticceria Marchesi is a historic café perfect for breakfast. Enjoy their pastries and coffee in an elegant setting.
- End your day with an aperitivo at N’Ombra de Vin, a popular wine bar with an extensive selection of Italian wines.
For a memorable dining experience, book a table at Enoteca Duomo 21, offering stunning views of the Milan Cathedral alongside exquisite dishes.
Your 7-day adventure in Milan promises a blend of art, fashion, culture, and gastronomy. From the historic halls of the Duomo to the chic runways of the Fashion Quadrilateral, Milan offers an enriching array of experiences. We hope this itinerary inspires your journey through Italy’s most fashionable city, ensuring you leave with memories to last a lifetime.
