Milan itinerary — 2 days
Day 1 — Milan
6 stops · ≈ 7 h 13 minGalleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a renowned 19th-century glass-covered arcade in Milan, Italy. It's situated at the heart of the city, connecting Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala. The gallery is a major attraction for tourists due to its proximity to significant landmarks like the Cathedral (Duomo) and the opera theatre.
Located in a stunning palazzo that once served as a Jesuit college and observatory, the Pinacoteca di Brera is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. This museum boasts an impressive collection of Italian paintings, with works by renowned artists such as Raphael, Tintoretto, and Mantegna. The palazzo's rich history adds to the allure of this cultural gem in Milan.
Sforzesco Castle, a magnificent medieval and Renaissance fortress, stands as one of Milan's most significant historical landmarks. Constructed between the 14th and 15th centuries primarily for defense, this impressive structure now serves as a cultural hub housing various museums. Visitors can marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, including the poignant Pieta Rondanini.
Parco Sempione is a must-visit location in Milan, known for its beautiful landscaping by Emilio Alemagna. This park offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities such as walking trails, running paths, and dog-friendly areas. It also features historic architecture like the triumphal Arco della Pace and the romantic Ponte delle Sirenette with statues of little mermaids.
When visiting Parco Sempione in Milan, be sure to explore the Arco della Pace, a neoclassical triumphal arch commissioned by Napoleon to commemorate his victories. This majestic structure is made of marble from the Swiss Alps and stands as the starting point of the road connecting Milan and Paris. Adorned with Corinthian columns and intricate reliefs depicting historical moments, it symbolizes peace and prosperity.
San Siro Stadium, also known as the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, is the home ground for both A.C. Milan and Inter Milan. It is located in the Fiera neighborhood of Milan, which offers a relaxing suburban atmosphere while still being well-connected to the city. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 80,000 people, making it the largest stadium in Italy and one of the largest in Europe.
Reserve
7If you have time left — worth it too.
Discover the wonders of aquatic flora and fauna from around the world at Acquario Civico e Stazione Idrobiologica di Milano. This family-friendly attraction offers a unique experience, with a marine biology library and a transparent gallery that immerses visitors in an underwater world filled with colorful fish of all shapes and sizes. Children will be captivated by the diverse marine life on display, while also having the opportunity to explore a beautiful winter garden.
Porta Venezia, located in the Centro Storico area, is a bustling district filled with neoclassical buildings housing chain stores along its main shopping street, Corso Buenos Aires. Families can enjoy the nearby Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli park, which features play areas and mini-train rides, as well as the Natural History Museum's collection of fossils and minerals.
Porta Nuova, located in Milan, is a modern business district that showcases futuristic architecture and design. The area features the Piazza Gae Aulenti, known for its fountains and outdoor cafes, as well as pedestrian walkways lined with fashion boutiques, trendy bars, and stylish restaurants. Notable architectural landmarks include the UniCredit Tower by César Pelli and the eco-friendly Vertical Forest residential complex with tree-covered terraces.
Isola is a trendy neighborhood known for its narrow streets filled with an eclectic array of fashion boutiques, organic food stores, and second-hand shops. Visitors can explore cozy family-owned Italian restaurants alongside stylish cafes nestled in green courtyards. Former warehouses have been transformed into lively dive bars that draw in a diverse crowd of bikers, punks, and students.
Quadrilatero d'Oro, also known as the Golden Rectangle, is a renowned luxury shopping district in Milan. It is home to flagship stores of Italy's most famous designers such as Giorgio Armani, Gucci, and Versace. The area centers around Via Monte Napoleone, Via Spiga, Via Sant'Andrea, and Via Borgospesso.
Nestled in the heart of Milan, the Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa is a captivating 13th-century Catholic church that offers a unique glimpse into history and artistry. This remarkable site features an ossuary adorned with intricate frescoes, where thousands of human skulls and bones create a haunting yet fascinating atmosphere. The chapel evokes comparisons to Paris's Cemetery of the Innocents, as it houses remains unearthed after a bell tower collapse in 1964.
Pirelli HangarBicocca is a contemporary art museum located in a former locomotive manufacturing plant, now transformed into a center for cultural projects. Situated in the artsy Bicocca district, it features changing temporary exhibitions alongside the dramatic permanent installation called The Seven Heavenly Palaces by German artist Anselm Kiefer.
- Validate your metro/bus tickets before boarding to avoid fines.
- Try to learn a few basic Italian phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
- Visit the Duomo early in the morning to avoid crowds.