What to do in Milan for 3 days

Explore Milan in 3 days with our expert guide on the best attractions, local eateries, and hidden gems. Plan your perfect Milanese getaway with must-see sights and tips for maximizing your visit.
What to do in Milan for 3 days

Milan truly stands as one of Europe’s chicest cities. Renowned for its pivotal role in fashion, industry, and football, it attracts a massive influx of visitors globally.

Don’t be misled into thinking Milan is just about shops, businesses, and sports fans. This city is also home to some architectural gems, including one of the world’s largest cathedrals!

Now, about visiting Milan—it’s absolutely marvelous but can be quite pricey. That’s probably why most travelers prefer to explore it over a short span of 2-3 days.

If you ask me what you can manage to see in Milan in just three days, I’d say you can definitely catch the highlights. Just make sure you’re well-organized and ready to follow a well-planned itinerary!

1st Day

1. Milan Cathedral

Suggested start time: 9am

Duomo di Milan

The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, is an architectural spectacle, easily one of the largest churches on the planet and the second biggest in Italy.

It was completed in the early 19th century, dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

If you’re aiming to snap a photo of its exterior, I’d suggest getting there early in the morning. The Piazza del Duomo is bustling from dawn till dusk. For a truly breathtaking view, climb up to the cathedral’s rooftops. You can book your ticket in advance to secure your spot.

2. Piazza dei Mercanti

250m from Piazza del Duomo

Piazza dei Mercanti

Just a short stroll from the main hustle, you’ll find the quaint Piazza dei Mercanti. This spot used to be the throbbing heart of medieval life, bustling with markets and city traders. Today, it’s much quieter, but definitely worth a visit to admire the surrounding buildings that echo a rich history.

3. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

230m from Piazza dei Mercanti

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Milan’s upscale shopping haven. Completed in 1877, this architectural gem features a cross-shaped layout topped with a stunning glass dome.

It houses an array of elegant shops, chic boutiques, jewelry stores, bookshops, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Even if you’re just window shopping, wandering through this gallery is an experience in itself!

4. Royal Palace of Milan

230m from Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Royal Palace of Milan, or Palazzo Reale di Milano, once served as the seat of the city’s government. Today, it has transformed into a museum hosting various exhibitions that narrate Milan’s storied past.

Both inside and out, the palace is absolutely stunning, offering views of the magnificent Milan Cathedral nearby. Admission to explore this historical treasure is 17 euros—a worthwhile investment to witness the elegance and history housed within.

5. National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci

National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci / photo: wikipedia

The National Museum of Science and Technology Leonardo da Vinci or Museo nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci‎, dating back to 1953, is Italy’s largest museum dedicated to science and technology.

It’s divided into various sections, including energy, materials, transport, and art & science. The museum houses fascinating artifacts used by legendary scientists like Galileo and Newton. It’s a fantastic visit for anyone, including families with children, and admission is just 10 euros.

Tip: Just a five-minute walk away, you’ll also find the Basilica of Saint Ambrose, a Roman Catholic church originally built in 386 and rebuilt in the 12th century. This historic site is definitely worth a detour!

6. Navigli

Navigli

Spend your evening in the vibrant Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals lined with bustling crowds, shops, eateries, and bars. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an aperitivo and unwind after a busy first day of exploring. This area really comes alive at night, offering a charming atmosphere to relax and soak in the local culture.

2nd Day

1. Pinacoteca di Brera

Suggested start time: 9am

Pinacoteca di Brera
Pinacoteca di Brera

The Pinacoteca di Brera houses one of the most impressive collections of Italian painters. Located within the historic Brera Palace, which also contains the Brera National Library and the Observatory among other institutions.

Founded in 1776 by Maria Theresa as an extension of the Academy of Fine Arts, this gallery is a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. You can either buy a ticket for self-guided exploration or book a tour for a more comprehensive experience.

2. Castello Sforzesco

650m from Pinacoteca di Brera

Castello Sforzesco
Castello Sforzesco

The Castello Sforzesco is a breathtaking 15th-century castle, one of the largest of its kind in Europe. Named after the Sforza family who once resided there, it also served as a workshop for Leonardo da Vinci during the Renaissance.

Today, the castle is home to several museums including the Museum of Ancient Art, the Prehistoric Museum, and the Museum of Musical Instruments. I highly recommend grabbing an entry ticket with an audio guide to fully appreciate the rich history and art housed within its walls.

3. Parco Sempione

200m from Castello Sforzesco

Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione and Arch of Peace

Next up, head over to Parco Sempione, a vast park that dates back to 1894. It’s the perfect spot to take a breather after a day of sightseeing. You’ll find plenty of cafes and kiosks to grab a bite or a drink.

While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to see some notable landmarks within the park itself. The Arch of Peace, Torre Branca, and the Triennale art museum are all worth a visit. This park isn’t just a green escape; it’s a cultural journey too!

4. Santa Maria delle Grazie

15 minutes walk from Parco Sempione

The Last Supper
The Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci in Santa Maria delle Grazie / photo: wikipedia

Santa Maria delle Grazie church is a Dominican monastery that was constructed in the 15th century. This church draws visitors far and wide primarily because it houses Leonardo da Vinci‘s renowned painting, The Last Supper, on one of its dining hall walls.

Entry to the church is free, allowing you to enjoy this masterpiece at your own pace. For a deeper understanding, I recommend booking a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide can enrich your visit with fascinating insights and historical context.

5. La Scala

25 minutes walk from Santa Maria delle Grazie

Teatro alla Scala

La Scala, or Teatro alla Scala, stands as one of the world’s most famous theaters. Since its inception in 1778, it has hosted an array of significant performances, from classical music and ballet to opera.

You can either purchase a ticket to explore its opulent interiors on your own or opt for a guided tour to get a full scoop on its rich history. Of course, if you can, catch a live performance to truly experience the magic of La Scala. Check out the current schedule to plan your visit!

6. Brera

After your day of exploring, why not spend your evening in the Brera district? This chic area, close to the historic center, offers a delightful mix of nightlife options with plenty of bars and dining spots.

Of course, if you were enchanted by the Navigli district, feel free to spend another night there—it all depends on where you’re staying! Either choice promises a memorable Milanese night.

3rd Day

1. Lake Como

Bellagio, Lake Como
Bellagio, Lake Como

You simply can’t visit Milan without taking a trip to Lake Como—it’s a must! Only an hour by car (if you decide to rent one) or 40 minutes by train, getting there is a breeze. Check the train schedules to plan your journey.

A train ride to the town of Como, the closest lakeside spot from Milan where all trains and buses converge, will cost you between 10-15 euros. Como itself is a picturesque introduction to the lake’s charms. If you’re driving, consider venturing further to enchanting towns like Bellagio and Lecco.

If you’re not up for planning the trip yourself, there’s always the option of booking an organized tour from Milan. Check out some of the top tours available for a hassle-free adventure to Lake Como:

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2. A. Shopping

Via Monte Napoleone
Via Monte Napoleone / photo: wikipedia

If you’re into window shopping and retail therapy, you’ll want to stick around for this. Otherwise, feel free to skip to option B!

Milan’s fashion heartbeat pulses strongest in the streets of Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni. Wander these chic avenues to gaze at stunning shop windows and watch the Milanese go about their upscale shopping. Who knows, you might even find a treasure or two to bring home!

2. B. San Siro

San Siro Stadium
San Siro Stadium

Alternatively, consider a visit to the iconic San Siro stadium, home to the famed football clubs AC Milan and Inter Milan.

Just keep in mind, it’s at least a half-hour journey from central Milan using public transport. You can book a tour of the stadium and its museum to dive deep into the world of Italian football.

3. Chinatown of Milan

Spending your last evening in Chinatown of Milan is a delightful way to wrap up your visit. While it’s not the sprawling Chinatown like New York’s, this charming area still promises a lovely experience. Here, you can enjoy some affordable dining and savor a variety of Asian flavors.

And just like that, we’ve come to the end of a bustling three-day itinerary in Milan, packed with exciting activities!

Tips for your first visit to Milan

tips for first time in Milan

Where to stay

For a short stay in Milan, the best place to base yourself is the historic center. You’ll be right in the heart of the action, with all the top attractions just a stone’s throw away, saving you valuable time that would otherwise be spent commuting.

Of course, staying in such a prime location usually comes at a higher price. It’s wise to book well in advance to potentially snag a more affordable deal. Alternatively, if you opt for a place a bit further from the center, make sure it’s near a metro station. Metro system of Milan is top-notch and will get you around quickly.

Here are some hotel recommendations:

Book Tours and Tickets in Advance

Booking tours and tickets in advance is a smart move. It’ll save you from the hassle of long lines, ensuring you have immediate access to the attractions and tours you’re most interested in.

Here are a few recommended ticket options:

Milan Pass Card

Buy the Milan Pass City Card

The Milan Pass City Card, available for 48 or 72 hours, is a great way to streamline your visit. It offers free public transport access, hop-on hop-off bus tours, complimentary entry to several attractions, and numerous discounts. It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the city.

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