Milan is Italy’s fashion and business capital, with a spectacular Gothic cathedral and a great food scene. Two days covers the highlights, and it is the easiest base for Lake Como and the northern lakes.
- Best time
- March–June and September–November
- Ideal stay
- 2 days
- Getting there
- Malpensa (MXP), Linate (LIN) or Bergamo (BGY); trains arrive at Milano Centrale
- Getting around
- Metro, trams and walking
Top things to do in Milan
Duomo and rooftop terraces
Walk among the spires for city and Alps views.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
A glass-roofed arcade with elegant shops and cafés.
The Last Supper
Leonardo’s mural. Timed entry sells out weeks ahead.
Sforza Castle and Sempione Park
Castle courtyards, museums and a large park.
Navigli canals
The best district for an evening aperitivo.
Brera
Art gallery, boutiques and quiet streets.
Sample itinerary
- Day 1: Duomo and rooftop, Galleria, Brera and an aperitivo in Navigli.
- Day 2: The Last Supper, Sforza Castle and Sempione Park, then a lake or Bergamo trip if time allows.
Where to stay
Duomo / Centro
Central and well connected.
Brera
Charming and walkable.
Navigli
Lively nightlife.
Near Centrale
Convenient for trains and airport buses.
What to eat
Risotto alla milanese, cotoletta alla milanese, panettone at Christmas and the aperitivo tradition.
Practical tips
- Book The Last Supper well in advance.
- Some shops and restaurants close in mid-August.
- The metro is the fastest way to move around.
- Plan a day trip to Lake Como or Bergamo.
Frequently asked questions
Is Milan worth visiting?
Yes, for the Duomo, The Last Supper, food and design, and as a base for the lakes.
Can you visit Lake Como from Milan in a day?
Yes. Trains to Como or Varenna take roughly an hour or less.
How do I book The Last Supper?
Book timed tickets on the official site as early as possible, as they sell out weeks ahead.
Plan your Milan trip
Build a day-by-day Italy route, then see it on the interactive map.
Open the trip builder See the map
