2 Days in Milan : The Perfect Itinerary

Last Updated on: 1st February 2025

Milan, the second-largest city in Italy after Rome, offers a striking contrast to the Eternal City; you’ll notice the contrast as soon as you visit. While Rome is steeped in ancient history and serves as a living museum of Italy’s rich past, Milan exudes modernity as the country’s financial hub and global capital of fashion and design. This unique blend of contemporary flair and timeless charm makes Milan an essential stop for anyone exploring Italy.

In fall of 2024, my husband and I did a long Europe trip beginning in the South of France and then diving into the wonders of Italy. For our Italian adventure, we chose Milan as our base, where we spent two unforgettable days exploring the city’s vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and culinary delights. This two-day itinerary offers a glimpse into everything Milan has to offer and will help you make the most of your time in this stylish and modern city.

What makes Milan special? Milan is best gateway to Italy. With its excellent high-speed train connections, you can easily travel to other iconic cities like Venice, Florence, Rome, and Naples in just a few hours. Milan is not just a destination—it’s the perfect starting point for an unforgettable Italian adventure, seamlessly blending world-class attractions with unparalleled accessibility.

How many days should you spend in Milan?

Milan is a bustling metropolis in Northern Italy, offering a delightful blend of culture, fashion, and nearby scenic escapes. The time you spend here depends on how much of the city – and its surroundings – you wish to explore.

If you want to explore the Milan city, 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time. This gives you ample time to visit the city’s iconic landmarks –Duomo di Milano, Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, and the charming Parco Sempione, while saving some time to discover Milan’s trendy neighborhoods and indulge in some world-class shopping.

If you plan on exploring nearby destinations like Lake Como, Turin (Torino), or Verona—each easily accessible from Milan, plan on adding another extra day to your Milan Itinirary.

How to get to Milan?

As Italy’s second-largest city and the financial and fashion capital, Milan boasts excellent connectivity both within Italy and across Europe. You can easily fly into one of Milan’s major airports – Malpensa Airport or take a train to Milano Centrale

From our experience, the train network is the most efficient way to get around Italy, especially with the high-speed trains. These trains seamlessly connect Milan to key Italian cities such as Venice, Florence, Rome, and Naples. Additionally, Milano Centrale offers direct services to several European destinations, including Paris, Zurich, and more, making it a perfect starting point for both domestic and international travel.

Where to stay in Milan

When it comes to choosing the best neighborhoods to stay in Milan, Centro Storico and Brera are two of the most favored areas – Both are centrally located, putting you just steps away from Milan’s top attractions, shopping, and dining spots. You’ll have more time to explore and less time spent on commuting.

For first-time visitors, staying in Centro Storico places you right in the heart of Milan’s most iconic sights. From the awe-inspiring Duomo and the opulent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II to the historic La Scala Opera House, everything you’ll want to see is within walking distance. The area is a perfect blend of Milan’s rich history and high-end shopping, with luxury hotels and historic buildings lining the streets. If you love being close to the action, this is the place to be.

We stayed at The Couper Sant’Andrea, a cozy yet chic boutique hotel that made our stay unforgettable. Its central location gave us plenty of time to explore nearby shops and restaurants, and it was just a short walk to the Duomo for our tour. Our room had an industrial chic vibe with upscale furnishings, creating a stylish and comfortable retreat. The highlight was the balcony overlooking the bustling streets of Milan – the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Known for its artistic charm, Brera is Milan’s bohemian heart, with narrow cobblestone streets, enchanting art galleries, and cozy cafes lining the way. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re seeking a blend of Milanese culture and laid-back elegance.

However, if you’re craving a bit more excitement, head to Navigli. This neighborhood is a hotspot for vibrant bars, bustling restaurants, and an eclectic art scene. It’s one of Milan’s most energetic and lively areas, perfect for those who enjoy a night out. Even if you don’t choose to stay in Navigli, I highly recommend visiting the area during your trip. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail along the picturesque canals or soaking in the lively atmosphere while exploring the art galleries, Navigli radiates a youthful energy that you won’t want to miss.

Getting around Milan

The city is very walkable, allowing you to explore many neighborhoods on foot. We would easily clock 20000 steps in a day.

For longer distances, the Milan Metro is the fastest way to get around, with its extensive underground network connecting key areas of the city. Additionally, Milan offers an efficient system of buses and trams, making it easy to navigate the city and reach your destination quickly.

Now let’s get to the itiniary – Everything you can do in 2 days in Milan

Day 1 – Duomo di Milan, Shopping at Vittorio Emanuele II and Brera neighborhood

9 AM – Tour the Duomo di Milan

On your first day in Milan, make sure to wake up early to visit the iconic Duomo di Milano. The Duomo is one of the largest and most intricate cathedrals in Europe, and its towering spires, detailed facades, and intricate carvings are nothing short of breathtaking.

Construction of Milan’s Duomo began in the 14th century and took over six centuries to complete, with work frequently interrupted by shifts in power and political turmoil. It wasn’t until the 19th century, under Napoleon’s influence, that efforts to finish the cathedral were significantly accelerated.

As a result of its long construction period and the involvement of various architects, the Duomo’s architecture is a fascinating mix of styles, combining elements of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Neoclassical design, making it difficult to categorize into a single era.

There’s so much to see and do in the Duomo complex that you could easily spend a whole day around it, but I recommend focusing on are the terraces and interior.

To make the most of your visit, purchase your tickets in advance and get there early in the morning to beat the crowd. You can choose from various ticket options, including entry to the cathedral, the archaeological area beneath the Duomo, and a ticket to the rooftop terrace ( or the combo ticket)

The interior of the Duomo is impressive, with its vast space, stunning frescoes, intricate stained glass windows, and lifelike statues. While beautiful, it shares similarities with other grand churches in Italy, so you’ll only need about 10-15 minutes to take it all in.

After visiting the cathedral, head to terrace for spectacular panoramic views of Milan’s skyline, including a close-up look at the cathedral’s stunning spires and intricate details. The view stretches all the way to the Alps on a clear day, making it a perfect spot for photos. You can either take the stairs or elevartor to get to the top.

After soaking in the views, be sure to head over to the Museo del Novecento, which offers a fantastic perspective of the Duomo from a different angle while showcasing modern art.

Lunch at Obicà Mozzarella Bar

After your time at the Duomo, treat yourself to a meal at Obicà Mozzarella Bar, a delightful restaurant with views of the Duomo. We loved their fresh mozzarella and unique pizzas.

It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal while gazing at Milan’s majestic cathedral. 

3 PM – Go Shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

No trip to Milan is complete without some shopping, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the place to be. Located just a short walk from the Duomo, this iconic shopping gallery is one of the oldest in the world. It’s glass-vaulted ceilings, beautiful mosaics, and luxury boutiques create an unforgettable shopping experience. Whether you’re looking to splurge on high-end fashion, accessories, or souvenirs, the Galleria has something for everyone.

6 PM – Explore the Brera neighborhood and get Dinner at Osteria Da Fortunata

After a day of sightseeing, take some time to explore the charming Brera neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets, art galleries, and quaint cafes. It’s the perfect spot to soak in Milan’s artistic atmosphere.

After a quick stroll through the neighborhood make your way to Osteria Da Fortunata, a delightful, family-run spot that truly captures the essence of Milanese dining. What makes this restaurant so special is the window into the kitchen where you can watch women expertly handcrafting fresh pasta right before your eyes. The homemade pasta is absolutely phenomenal, with rich, authentic flavors that you can only find in a traditional Italian kitchen. Don’t miss out on their tiramisù, it’s the perfect sweet ending to your meal. 

Day 2 – The Last Supper, Dinner and Drinks in the Navigli District

On your second day in Milan, visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie Church to marvel at the The Last Supper painting – one of the most famous paintings in the world.

10 AM- Visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie Church

Painted in the late 15th century, this iconic masterpiece depicts the powerful moment when Jesus shares his final meal with his disciples. The painting’s intricate details and emotional depth have captivated visitors for centuries, making it a must-see during your Milan trip.

To preserve the artwork, visits are offered in 15-minute time slots, with a limited number of 25 guests per slot, so be sure to book your tickets well in advance as they tend to sell out quickly. Tickets cost €15 for adults, and entry is free for children. If securing tickets proves challenging, you can also opt for a guided tour, which will not only grant you access to the painting but also offer you deeper insights into its history and significance.

Brunch at Penelope A Casa

Looking for perfect brunch experince in Milan? head to Penelope A Casa. It offers a delightful setting where you can dine surrounded by vibrant flowers and a beautifully curated interior. The ambiance is effortlessly charming, with cozy, vintage furniture and a fresh, garden-inspired vibe that makes you feel like you’re dining in a sunlit, floral haven.

The menu is filled with fresh, wholesome dishes that perfectly complement the relaxed, yet refined atmosphere. Definitely one of our favorite spots in Milan.

3 PM – Tour the Pinacoteca di Brera

If you are an art enthusiast like us, visit the Pinacoteca di Brera for a captivating experience. Located in the heart of the Brera district, this renowned art gallery houses an impressive collection of Italian masterpieces, including works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Piero della Francesca. The museum’s elegant rooms and tranquil atmosphere allow you to fully appreciate the beauty and depth of each piece, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in Milan’s rich artistic heritage.

Explore the Navigli neighborhood and get dinner

End your 2nd day with dinner and drinks in one of our favorite areas of the city, the Navigli District. Navigli District is home to Navigli Canals. Yes, Milan has canals too – not just Amsterdam and Venice.

The canals were originally used for irrigation and transporting goods into the city but now its more of lively spot by the water to to grab dinner & drinks.

You’ll find a mix of trendy bars, classic trattorias, and upscale restaurants offering everything from Italian tapas to innovative cocktails. Some of the best spots in the area include Osteria del Gnocco Fritto for authentic Emilia-Romagna cuisine and Al Pont de Ferr, a Michelin-starred gem known for its creative approach to traditional Milanese dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail by the water or indulging in delicious Italian fare, the Navigli District offers the perfect setting to unwind and soak in Milan’s nightlife.

If you’re planning to explore more of Italy, don’t miss out on my other blog posts about Florence and Rome, where I dive into the charm and treasures these iconic cities have to offer. 

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