What to do in Milan for a Day: How to have an Awesome Time

Thinking of visiting Milan? Perhaps as a stopover before heading out to Lake Como or the canals of Venice. If you are flying into Milan, you might be wondering whether it is worth spending any time in the city. Well, here is why you should, and what to do in Milan for a day to make the most of your visit.

I spent three weeks working in Milan, and managed to visit the sights in my downtime. These would be easy to see in one day, so here is the perfect guide on what to do in Milan for a day.

What to do in Milan for a day

Here is what to do in Milan for a day, and how to have an awesome time.

The Duomo and Terraces

If you choose only to do one thing in Milan, make it this one. The Duomo and the terraces are Milan’s number one attraction and are hyped for good reason. Many people only visit Milan to see this. The terraces open at 9 am, and it does get busy. If you want to see Piazza del Duomo without the crowds, you will want to get there first thing. The cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece, and it took many years to complete.

You can choose whether to get tickets for just the terraces or the terraces and inside, but I believe you would miss out by not going inside. Start by heading up to the terraces, and you can either take the stairs or the elevator – there is only a slight price difference. The rooftops are a sight to behold. With 135 towers and spires and over 2000 decorative marble statues, as well as stunning views over the city. Inside, you will be wowed by a huge, cavernous space and a peaceful Catholic church. If you are lucky, you might get to see a service.

Top Tip: Book ahead, particularly in busy seasons, and make sure to get skip-the-line tickets such as these to avoid having to queue.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Just across the Piazza della Duomo, you will find the incredibly impressive Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It is Italy’s oldest and most impressive shopping mall. It is filled with designer shops, cafes and restaurants. Unless you have a big budget, you might want to stick to sitting at one of the tables and having a coffee. It gets very busy in the afternoon, so if you want to skip the crowds, again, get there first thing.

Built between 1865 and 1877, and designed by Italian architect Giuseppe Mengoni. It has four distinct mosaic designs on the floor, and in particular, look out for the bull. It is said that if you spin three times on your heel on the bull’s balls, you will be granted good fortune.

Starbucks Roastery

It is not often I add a Starbucks, as something to do. However, this one is a bit special. One of five roasteries in the world, the Milan Starbucks Roastery is in the heart of the city, in the former stock exchange and main post office building.

Inside, there are many options to get refreshments, from the main bar, the dessert bar serving treats from bakery Princi, to the cocktail bars. IN the middle is the main area of the roastery, where you can see the beans being roasted and sent around in glass tubes.

L.O.V.E. Statue

This 11 metre statue stands in the middle of Piazza degli Affari, right in front of the Milan Stock Exchange. It will be a quick stop, but a fun one to see – this statue is a little controversial, of a hand holding up a middle finger. It was initially meant to be temporary, but it became a permanent fixture, symbolising a middle finger to the financial world, particularly following the 2008 economic crisis.

The title is an acronym for Libertà, Odio, Vendetta, Eternità (Freedom, Hate, Vengeance, Eternity).

Navigli – What to do in Milan for a Day

Did you know Milan also has canals? The Navigli district of Milan is famous for the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese canals, which were designed by Leonardo da Vinci! It is a perfect area to spend some time wandering around, and it really comes alive at dusk. Known for having a good restaurant and nightlife scene, so ideal to end your day by enjoying some apertifs and food.

Taking a wander along the canals really allows you to enjoy some of the beautiful architecture Milan has to offer.

Castello Sforzesco – What to do in Milan for a Day

If time allows, make sure to add Castello Sforzesco to your list of what to do in Milan for a day. This 14th-century castle was built as a fortress by the Visconti family. Before expanding and becoming the seat of the Milan Duchy in the 15th Century. It is an impressive and enormous building, and you can walk through the centre of the courtyard for free.

However, if you have a little more time, it is well worth a visit inside. Including taking the time to see the Pietà Rondanini, which is Michelangelo’s final and unfinished sculpture. It can be foind in the in the castle’s Museum of Ancient Art. 

Parco Sempione – What to do in Milan for a Day

If you walk through the Castello Sforzesco, you will come out at Parco Sempione. On a sunny day, there can be no better spot for relaxing and watching the world go by. It is the largest park in the city, and well worth taking some time out to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Arco della Pace – What to do in Milan for a Day

At the other end of Parco Sempione, you can find the Arco Della Pace, the Peace Arch. It was designed in 1807 to give Napoleon a triumphal welcome home. However, due to his fall in 1814, it was actually finished in 1838 and depicts images of his defeat, not victory.

La Scala Opera – What to do in Milan for a Day

Milan is famous for opera, and La Scala is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. If you happen to be in the city during opera season, make sure you don’t miss a chance to catch a performance. If not, then make sure to take a tour of this impressive building and museum.

Bosco Verticale – What to do in Milan for a Day

Bosco Verticale is one of Milan’s newer sights, and is also known as the Vertical Forest. This is designed as a type of sustainable residental buildings. The building has won many awards, including the 2014 International Highrise Award (DAM) and the 2015 CTBUH Best Tall Building Worldwide Award. It was also named one of the 50 most iconic skyscrapers of the last 50 years by the CTBUH in 2019.

Enjoy Traditional Milanese Cuisine

If you are in Milan, even just for a day, then don’t miss the chance to try some of the local dishes. Try either Risotto alla Milanese, which is the city’s signature comfort food. It is instantly recognisable by its rich golden colour from saffron. Creamy, indulgent and deceptively simple. Alternatively, for something a little heavier, try the local Ossobuco, slow-braised veal shank cooked until meltingly tender, traditionally served with gremolata and often paired with risotto alla Milanese itself.

How to get around Milan

The centre of Milan itself is fairly compact, and you could visit a lot of what to do in Milan for a day on foot. Particularly, the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the neighbourhood of Brera, which are within walking distance.

However, for the attractions that are slightly further out, public transport in Milan is incredibly easy, as it has a very efficient and well-served metro, bus and tram network. The metro is the fastest option, with four main lines covering most tourist areas, and you can pay simply with contactless. You will also spot Milan’s traditional trams, which offer you a chance to travel on a little bit of history.

Taxis and rideshare apps are easily available in the city, but they are very expensive. So public transport is your best bet.

Where to stay in Milan

Milan’s layout makes it easy to pick a base that fits your vibe. Whether you’re after chic culture, historic sights, or canal-side nightlife. Here’s a quick guide to neighbourhoods, with options in each to suit any budget and style of traveller:

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📍 Brera – Artsy & Elegant

Brera is one of Milan’s most charming districts, with cobblestone streets, art galleries and stylish cafés. It’s central and walkable to major sights like the Duomo, yet feels a little more bohemian than the historic core.

BUDGET: Milan Eleven by Brera Apartments – Comfortable apartments within walking distance of Brera’s boutiques and bars.
MID-RANGE: Della Spiga Suites by Brera Apartments – Boutique stay with great reviews in the heart of the neighbourhood.
LUXURY: Bvlgari Hotel Milano – A five-star hotel set in an elegant 18th-century palazzo with its own private garden.

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📍 Centro Storico – The Heart of Milan

This is the historic centre around the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It is ideal for a first-time visit. Expect lively streets, iconic architecture and easy access to shops and transport.

BUDGET: Ostello Bello – Highly rated hostel with social vibes near the Duomo.
MID-RANGE: Milan Adore – Central and stylish, perfect for exploring on foot.
LUXURY: Four Seasons Hotel Milano – Elegant luxury in a historical setting, perfect for a special stay.

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📍 Navigli – Canals & Nightlife

Famous for its canals and lively evening scene, Navigli is perfect if you want aperitivo culture, bars and restaurants right on your doorstep. It’s a little south of the centre but still walkable or quick by tram.

BUDGET: Hotel Nettuno – Simple and affordable option close to the nightlife.
MID-RANGE: Hotel 22 Marzo – Comfortable mid-range hotel near canal bars and eateries
LUXURY: Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze – Stylish, contemporary stay near Naviglio Grande

How to get to Milan

There are three main airports serving Milan: Malpensa (MXP), Linate (LIN) and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). Malpensa is the largest international airport, around 30 miles from the city centre, while Linate is much closer and mainly used for domestic and short-haul European flights.

From Malpensa Airport, the Malpensa Express train is the fastest and easiest way into the city, reaching Milano Centrale or Milano Cadorna in around 40–50 minutes. Linate does not have a train station, but it’s well connected by metro and bus to the city centre.

Be aware that many budget airlines fly into Milan Bergamo (Orio al Serio), which is around 28 miles from central Milan. From Bergamo Airport, shuttle buses run regularly to Milano Centrale, or you can take a short bus ride to Bergamo train station and catch a train to Milan.

Milan is also a major high-speed rail hub, making it easy to arrive by train from other Italian cities. Venice and Florence are both around two hours away, Turin can be reached in under an hour, and Rome takes just under three hours on fast services. Most high-speed trains arrive at Milano Centrale, placing you right in the heart of the city.

Day Trips from Milan

If you have longer than one day in Milan, or want to combine with seeing some other parts of the country, there are some excellent day trips that you can do.

Lake Como – Just under an hour by train from Milano Centrale, Lake Como is famous for its stunning alpine scenery, charming lakeside towns like Bellagio and Varenna, and historic villas. It’s perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.

Bergamo – Only about 50 minutes by train, Bergamo is a hidden gem with a medieval upper town (Città Alta) full of cobbled streets, piazzas and panoramic views, while the lower town offers lively cafés and modern Italian charm.

Verona – Around 90 minutes on the high-speed train, Verona is known for its Roman Arena and Juliet’s balcony. It’s ideal for history buffs or anyone wanting a taste of romantic Italian towns beyond Milan.

Top Tips:
If you want to visit Verona, don’t miss these wonderful spots:
24 awesome things to do in Verona!

Heading to Como? Check out what to do here:
Day Trip to Lake Como: Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Visit

Turin – Just under an hour by train, Turin is a sophisticated city with elegant squares, grand cafés, the famous Mole Antonelliana, and delicious chocolate and hazelnut treats. A perfect combination of culture and gastronomy.

Is One Day in Milan Enough Time?

One day in Milan is certainly enough to see all the major sites. If you want to see the museums and beautiful galleries, and explore some of the neighbourhoods in more detail, I recommend 2-3 days to give yourself enough time.

Is Milan worth visiting?

Given the heavy hitters that Italy has to offer – Rome, Venice, Florence – Milan might not be the first choice for an Italian city break. However, I still think Milan is worth visiting. It definitely feels more local than other cities and has some amazing sites. A visit to the Duomo is worth the trip alone.

But the biggest appeal to visiting Milan is how easy it is to get to other parts of the country, making it the perfect place to include in a multi-stop tour of Northern Italy, including Lake Como, Venice and Verona. With this itinerary in mind, it would definitely be worth allocating at least one day to exploring this city.

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