3 Days in Milan 🇮🇹: The Perfect Itinerary to Best Things to Do 

 🏡 Where to Stay in Milan:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: TownHouse Galleria
• ✨ 5-Star: The Westin Palace Milan
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Dei Cavalieri Milano Duomo
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Ibis Milano Centro
• 💸 Cheap: HD8 Hotel Milano
• 🏢 Apartment: Duomo Smart Suites
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Melia Milano
• 🏩 For Couples: Dame Hotel Milano

👩‍🏫 Best Milan Guided Tours:

• Last Supper and Santa Maria delle Grazie Tour from €89 (⭐4.8/5)
• Milan Walking Tour with Last Supper from €95 (⭐4.7/5)
• Historic Milan Tour with Last Supper from €79 (⭐4.8/5)
• Milan Duomo & Last Supper Day Tour from €129 (⭐4.6/5)

3 Day in Milan Itinerary: Quick Overview

• Day 1 – Milan’s Historic Center: Start your journey at the magnificent Duomo di Milano, climbing to its rooftop terraces for breathtaking city views. Explore the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, visit the world-famous Teatro alla Scala, and end your day with traditional aperitivo in the sophisticated Brera district.
• Day 2 – Art & Fashion: Begin with Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie (book well in advance), then discover the impressive Sforza Castle. Spend your afternoon exploring the Fashion Quadrilateral, followed by a romantic evening along the historic Navigli canals.
• Day 3 – Hidden Gems & Culture: Choose between a scenic day trip to Lake Como or explore Milan’s lesser-known treasures like the Science Museum and San Bernardino alle Ossa. Conclude your Milan adventure with a memorable dinner in the modern Porta Nuova district, surrounded by the city’s futuristic skyline.

Day 1: Explore Milan’s Historic Center

Morning: Cathedral Complex

First Stop: Duomo. The cathedral’s 135 spires pierce the morning sky, creating an unforgettable silhouette against the rising sun. A skip-the-line ticket costs €20 ($22) for both the cathedral and rooftop access.

Rooftop Experience. Walking among the forest of spires, I discovered intricate marble statues and gargoyles that you simply can’t appreciate from ground level. The panoramic views stretch across the city to the distant Alps on clear days. Plan for about an hour up here to truly soak in the atmosphere.

Milan Cathedral Interior. The vast nave with its 52 gigantic pillars feels like stepping into another world. I was particularly moved by the stunning stained glass windows and the mysterious red light above the altar. This isn’t just another European church – it’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that took nearly six centuries to complete.

Galleria Magic. Just steps from the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II beckons with its soaring glass ceiling and mosaic floors. I love watching locals and tourists alike spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck – though I suggest doing this early before the crowds gather.

Coffee Break. My favorite morning ritual here is sipping an espresso (€1.50/$1.70) at the historic Camparino bar, watching Milan’s fashion elite hurry past. While prices in the Galleria are higher than elsewhere in Milan, the atmosphere is worth every euro.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Purchase Duomo tickets online at least one day in advance
• Arrive before 9 AM to avoid the longest queues
• Choose the elevator option if visiting in summer
• Bring a water bottle – there’s a fountain near the Duomo’s left side
• Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered

Best Activities

Skip-the-Line Milan Walking Tour with Last Supper: Experience Milan’s highlights on this comprehensive walking tour, including the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and guaranteed access to da Vinci’s Last Supper. Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see all major attractions efficiently.

Duomo di Milano & Museum Entry – Check availability of tickets

Afternoon: Theater District

Teatro alla Scala. I started my afternoon cultural journey at Milan’s legendary opera house. The theater’s museum offers an intimate glimpse into the world of opera, with its collection of costumes and musical instruments. My advice is to time your visit around 2 PM when the crowds thin out.

Art Treasury. Next, I wandered to the Pinacoteca di Brera, just a short walk away. This magnificent gallery houses over 400 masterpieces, including works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Mantegna. I found myself mesmerized by Hayez’s “The Kiss” and Bellini’s haunting “Pietà”.

Pro Tips:

• Book your Brera tickets online to skip the 15-minute entry window restriction
• Visit on the first Sunday of each month for free admission
• The gallery closes at 7:15 PM, but last entry is at 6:00 PM

Hidden Gems. Walking through the charming Brera district, I discovered countless art studios and boutiques tucked away in narrow cobblestone streets of Milan. The neighborhood’s artistic soul comes alive in the afternoon, with local artists often working in their studios with doors wide open.

Cultural Break. I ended my art tour at the Bottega Brera, where I found unique art books and designer souvenirs. The shop, located in the Palazzo di Brera’s courtyard, perfectly captures Milan’s blend of culture and sophistication.

Best Activities

Brera District and Pinacoteca Tour: Discover Milan’s artistic heart in the Brera district, exploring its charming streets and the renowned Pinacoteca featuring masterpieces by Italian artists. Ideal for art enthusiasts and culture lovers.

Evening: Aperitivo in Brera District

Sunset Scene. As the golden hour bathes Brera’s cobblestone streets, I’ve discovered that 6:00 PM marks the perfect time to begin your aperitivo adventure. The district transforms into a sophisticated social hub, with well-dressed Milanese heading to their favorite spots.

Wine Culture. N’Ombra de Vin, housed in a historic 16th-century monastery refectory, offers an exceptional wine experience with over 2,500 labels. A glass of premium wine here starts at €8, paired with high-quality charcuterie and local cheeses.

Local Favorites. La Tartina has become my go-to spot for its creative open-faced sandwiches and intimate brick-walled interior. The outdoor seating offers prime people-watching opportunities along Brera’s artistic streets.

Authentic Experience. For a true Milanese evening, I recommend starting with a classic Negroni Sbagliato or Aperol Spritz. These drinks typically come with carefully curated small plates that perfectly stimulate your appetite for dinner.

Hidden Gems. Tucked away from the main streets, Associazione Salumi e Vini Naturali boasts a secret garden and an impressive selection of 600 natural wines. Their focaccia and artisanal charcuterie boards provide an authentic taste of regional specialties.

Best Activities

Milan Food Walking Tour: Savor authentic Milanese cuisine while exploring the trendy Brera neighborhood, sampling local delicacies and learning about the city’s culinary traditions. Great for food lovers and those seeking local experiences.

Day 2: Art, Parks, and Canals in Milano

Morning: Leonardo Da Vinci Sites

Early Start. The perfect time to begin exploring Santa Maria delle Grazie is at 8:15 AM when the doors first open. The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece created between 1494 and 1498, awaits in the refectory. A maximum of 25 people can enter for each 15-minute viewing slot, making early morning visits particularly peaceful.

Booking Essential. Securing tickets requires careful planning – they’re released three months in advance and sell out within hours. Standard admission costs €15, with reduced rates of €12 for 18-25 year olds and free entry for under-18s.

Technical Marvel. Rather than traditional fresco techniques, da Vinci experimented with a dry-wall method using tempera and oil, incorporating precious details with gold and silver foils. While this innovative approach allowed for remarkable detail, it unfortunately contributed to the artwork’s deterioration over centuries.

Conservation Measures. Strict environmental controls now protect this Renaissance treasure. The viewing area maintains constant temperature and humidity, with visitors limited to small groups.

Hidden Details. I discovered that looking closely reveals da Vinci’s masterful use of perspective – the room in the painting appears to extend beyond the wall, making dinner guests feel as if they’re part of the biblical scene.

Best Activities

Last Supper and Santa Maria delle Grazie Tour: Focus on Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece with expert commentary and explore the beautiful Dominican church. Essential for art history enthusiasts and those short on time.

Milan Walking Tour: Duomo, Last Supper & La Scala – Check availability of tickets

Afternoon: Shopping and Canals

Fashion District Exploration. The Quadrilatero della Moda beckons with its prestigious boutiques and elegant storefronts. The area is a paradise for luxury shopping, with flagship stores of renowned brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace displaying their latest collections.

Hidden Gems. Wandering through Brera’s cobblestone streets, I discovered a treasure trove of independent boutiques and artisan shops. The district’s bohemian charm shines through its mix of vintage stores and contemporary fashion outlets.

Vintage Hunting. Cavalli e Nastri stands out as a must-visit spot, offering carefully curated vintage pieces from mid-20th century to present day. Their collection of dresses, blouses, and handbags provides a unique alternative to mainstream fashion.

Local Design. The area around Via Fiori Chiari comes alive every third Sunday of the month with an antique market, where about 50 vendors display everything from jewelry to modern antiques. This monthly event perfectly captures Brera’s artistic spirit.

Afternoon Break. After shopping, the district offers numerous cafes for respite. The historic Bar Jamaica remains a favorite spot among artists and intellectuals, perfect for people-watching while sipping an authentic Italian coffee.

Evening: Dining by the Canals

Sunset Scene. The Navigli district transforms into a magical dining destination as the sun sets, with the historic canals reflecting the golden evening light. The best time to secure a canal-side table is between 7:00-7:30 PM, just as restaurants begin their dinner service.

Local Favorites. Il Principe dei Navigli offers refined Italian seafood in an elegant setting with wood paneling and murals. Their seafood pasta dishes and fresh fish selections range from €20-40 per person.

Hidden Gems. Osteria della Darsena, situated at Via Vigevano 1, provides an intimate dining experience with traditional Italian cuisine. Their cozy, romantic atmosphere makes it perfect for evening dining, with prices averaging €30-40 per person.

Authentic Experience. La Prosciutteria Milano Navigli offers a more casual dining option, specializing in Tuscan cuisine. Their antipasti platters and wine selection make for an excellent evening meal while watching the canal life unfold.

Pro Tips:

• Make reservations at least a day in advance for canal-side seating
• Most kitchens close by 10:30 PM
• Consider dining slightly earlier (7:00 PM) to catch the sunset over the canals
• Look for restaurants offering regional Lombardy specialties for the most authentic experience

Best Activities

Navigli Canal Boat Tour: Cruise through Milan’s historic waterways, discovering the charming Navigli district from a unique perspective while learning about its history and architecture. Perfect for photographers and romantic evening tours.

Day 3: Best Day Trips from Milan or Hidden Gems

Option A: Day Trip to Lake Como (Highly Recommended)

Getting There: Direct trains run from Milan to Lake Como, taking approximately 65 minutes. The journey itself is scenic, offering views of the Italian Alps.

Recommended Itinerary:

• Start early (7:00-8:00 AM) for a full day experience
• Visit three main places: town of Como, Bellagio, and Varenna
• Use the lake’s ferry system to navigate between locations

Best Activities

Lake Como and Bellagio Day Trip: Escape the city for a day exploring Lake Como’s stunning villages, including elegant Bellagio and historic Lecco. Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking Italian lakeside charm.

Option B: Day Trip to Bergamo (Highly Recommended)

Getting There: Located 50 kilometers from Milan, reachable in under one hour.

Key Attractions:

• Città Alta (Upper City) – medieval town with 16th-century walls
• Piazza Vecchia with its 18th-century fountain
• Historic religious monuments including the Cathedral and St Maria Maggiore

Timing: A half-day trip typically runs from 2:30 PM to 7:30 PM.

Recommendation: Lake Como is highly recommended for first-time visitors, offering stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a more diverse experience. However, if you’re interested in medieval architecture and authentic Italian culture with fewer tourists, Bergamo makes an excellent alternative.

Pro Tip: For Lake Como, take one of the first morning trains to maximize your time, as you’ll want 12-14 hours to fully experience the destination.

Option C: Explore Lesser-Known Milan Attractions

Secret Churches. The Ossuary of San Bernardino alle Ossa offers a unique and haunting experience with its chapel decorated in intricate patterns of human skulls and bones. This 17th-century ossuary provides a fascinating glimpse into Milan’s medieval history.

Underground History. The Crypt of San Sepolcro, dating back to the 11th century, served as the spiritual heart of medieval Milan. This atmospheric underground space, once admired by Leonardo da Vinci himself, features ancient stone walls and mysterious chambers.

Modern Art. The Museo del Novecento, often overshadowed by the nearby Duomo, houses an exceptional collection of 20th-century Italian art. Its spiral ramp design offers stunning cathedral views while showcasing works by artists like Giorgio de Chirico and Umberto Boccioni.

Urban Nature. The Bridge of Mermaids in Sempione Park, Italy’s first metal bridge designed in 1842, features stone mermaids and offers a peaceful spot to watch ducks swim beneath. For panoramic views of Milan, visit the 108.6-meter Branca Tower.

Pro Tips:

• Visit San Bernardino alle Ossa early morning for the most atmospheric experience
• Book Crypt of San Sepolcro tickets in advance
• Bring layers for Branca Tower’s observation deck
• Most sites open Tuesday through Sunday

Evening: Farewell Dinner in Porta Nuova District

District Ambiance. Porta Nuova represents Milan’s modern soul, with its futuristic skyscrapers like Torre Pelli and Bosco Verticale creating a dramatic backdrop for your final evening. The area comes alive at night, offering a perfect blend of contemporary and traditional dining experiences.

Fine Dining. La Risotteria Italiana stands out as an excellent choice for experiencing authentic Milanese cuisine, particularly their signature risottos. For an upscale experience, Ristorante Berton offers sophisticated Italian dishes in an elegant setting.

Local Favorite. Ratanà has earned a reputation for reimagining traditional Milanese dishes with a contemporary twist. Their menu perfectly balances innovation with respect for local culinary traditions.

Hidden Gem. Biancolatte offers a more casual yet equally memorable dining experience, with their homemade pasta dishes and exceptional desserts receiving particular praise. Their price range of €10-20 makes it an excellent value option.

Practical Tips for Visiting Milan

Getting Around Milan. The city’s comprehensive public transportation system makes exploring effortless. The metro system consists of five lines (M1-M5) connecting all major attractions, running from early morning until 1:45 AM. For convenience, I always recommend downloading the ATM app for real-time updates and route planning.

Smart Budgeting. A single ticket costs €2.20 and remains valid for 90 minutes, while a 24-hour pass is €7.60. The best value comes with the 3-day pass at €13, perfect for exploring the city thoroughly. The Yes Milano City Pass includes public transport and museum entries, offering significant savings for attraction-heavy itineraries.

Transport Options:

• Single ticket: €2.20 (90 minutes)
• 24-hour pass: €7.60
• 3-day pass: €13
• Yes Milano City Pass: €45 (includes attractions)

Time-Saving Tips. Metro line M1 (red line) connects most major tourist spots, making it the most useful for visitors. During peak hours (8:00-9:30 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM), trains arrive every 2-3 minutes, while off-peak frequency is around 4-7 minutes.

Local Knowledge. Purchasing tickets from tabaccherie (tobacco shops) often proves faster than using station machines during busy periods. Remember to always validate your ticket before boarding trams or buses – controllers frequently check and fines are steep.

Safety First:

• Keep validated tickets throughout your journey
• Watch for pickpockets in crowded stations
• Use official taxi stands or ride-sharing apps at night
• Store emergency numbers in your phone

Night Travel. After metro closure at 1:45 AM, night buses operate on request. For late-night returns, I suggest using official taxi stands or reliable ride-sharing services like FREE NOW or Uber, which are widely available throughout Milan.

FAQ ❓

When is the best time to visit Milan for a perfect Italy travel experience?

The best time to explore Milan and other cities in Italy is during shoulder seasons, making your trip more enjoyable with fewer crowds. A Milan visitor can experience everything from fashion to nightlife without the summer tourist crush, and getting there through Milan Malpensa is also more pleasant during these months.

How many days in Milan is enough to see the main things to do in Milan?

A 3-day Milan itinerary allows visitors to spend time without rushing, covering central Milan and nearby. Three days in Milan is perfect for exploring highlights, including the Arco della Pace, and perhaps catching an AC Milan and Inter Milan match if you’re a football fan.

What are the must-see attractions for a 1 day in Milan itinerary?

One day in Milan should focus on the city of Milan’s core attractions, and your itinerary should include time to see major sights. The amount of time to spend at each location depends on your interests, but make Milan count by visiting at least one art gallery in Milan and exploring the streets around Milan Central Station.

How far in advance should I plan my Milan trip?

Planning your visit to Milan requires advance preparation, especially if you want to make the most of your time in Milan. Your last night in Milan should be booked well in advance, particularly if you’re planning to experience the vibrant nightlife.

What is the best way to get around Milan during a 3-day visit?

A 3-day itinerary in Milan is best experienced using public transportation, as Milan isn’t difficult to navigate. Milan is home to an excellent transit system that helps you day by exploring efficiently, whether you’re heading back to Milan center or venturing into northern Italy and Switzerland.

Is Milan worth visiting as part of a longer trip to Italy?

Milan city stands out among cities in Italy as a perfect blend of history and modernity. Your visit to Milan in 3 days can be part of a larger journey through Northern Italy, and the city serves as an excellent base for exploring the region.