Milan
Temperature
14°
Time
11:40 PM
Milan
Milan is all about design and high fashion, so the range of shops and trendy bars can be almost overwhelming. But Milan also boasts the impressive Duomo cathedral, da Vinci’s "Last Supper" and the simple neighbourhood restaurants where no long lunch is complete without ossobuco and risotto alla Milanese. Take a lesson in elegance from the city's fashion-conscious denizens, and let the glitz and glamour of Milan overwhelm your senses.Find your trip
The cathedral is the symbol of Milan. Construction began in 1386 and was not completed until 500 years later. Duomo di Milano is a late Gothic masterpiece, made even more interesting by the fact that this style can’t be seen anywhere else in Italy. Towering over the Piazza del Duomo, the marble building is marked by 135 spires and countless statues.
Right next to the Duomo di Milano (the Milan Cathedral), you will find Italy's oldest active shopping gallery. Named after the first king of the Kingdom of Italy, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an upscale shopping arcade housing luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton as well as restaurants, bars, cafes and even a hotel. The Galleria's central glass dome has a stunning mosaic representing the continents of Africa, America, Asia, and Europe, while its floor is decorated with mosaics portraying the coat of arms of Rome, Florence, Milan, and Turin. Representing Turin is a bull, and according to the legend, if you spin around three times with your heel on the bull's genitals, it will bring you good fortune.
Cenacolo Vinciano is the home of one of the world’s most legendary and beloved works of art, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. It’s rarely possible to simply walk in and take a look though, so definitely book your visit in advance.
Milan doesn’t have as many artistic treasures as Venice and Florence, but it does not fall too far behind. The city’s foremost art museum, the Pinacoteca di Brera, showcases works by Mantegna, Giovanni Bellini, Bramante, and Caravaggio, among others.
Teatro alla Scala, opened in 1778, is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. A visit to the museum grants you a sneak peek inside the theatre itself and the glamour that goes along with it. You’ll be able to visit one of its spectacular theatre boxes overlooking the stage.
There's nothing quite like being shown around by a local, who is passionate and knowledgeable about their city. Only a local could take you around their favourite street art spots and point out all the hidden gems you would have missed otherwise. While some parts of Milan can be snooty and luxurious, giving you world class art institutions, others are filled with life by alternative contemporary artists. Get a more intimate look at Milan's art scene with a 90-minute tour — you'll be begging for more!
The Castello Sforzesco was built in the 15th by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, on the remnants of a 14th-century fortification. Until the beginning of the 20th century it was a symbol of power and the nobility used it as their residence. Today the castle houses a wide selection of cultural sights, such as museums and exhibitions.
Even if canals aren't the first thing you think about when you visit Milan, you shouldn't miss The Navigli. These canals were constructed by Leonardo da Vinci to make the building of Il Duomo and the transportation of heavy materials easier. The neighbourhood around the Navigli is today one of the most popular, filled with cafes, bars and small shops.
The cathedral is the symbol of Milan. Construction began in 1386 and was not completed until 500 years later. Duomo di Milano is a late Gothic masterpiece, made even more interesting by the fact that this style can’t be seen anywhere else in Italy. Towering over the Piazza del Duomo, the marble building is marked by 135 spires and countless statues.
Right next to the Duomo di Milano (the Milan Cathedral), you will find Italy's oldest active shopping gallery. Named after the first king of the Kingdom of Italy, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is an upscale shopping arcade housing luxury brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton as well as restaurants, bars, cafes and even a hotel. The Galleria's central glass dome has a stunning mosaic representing the continents of Africa, America, Asia, and Europe, while its floor is decorated with mosaics portraying the coat of arms of Rome, Florence, Milan, and Turin. Representing Turin is a bull, and according to the legend, if you spin around three times with your heel on the bull's genitals, it will bring you good fortune.
The Quadrilatero d’Oro district — ‘The Golden Rectangle’ — is one of the world’s most important fashion landmarks and home to Milan’s most exclusive stores. Located just north of the Duomo, is defined by the four main streets that surround it: via Monte Napoleone, via della Spiga, via Manzoni and corso Venezia. Haute couture at every step, with all the brands one can expect. On via Sant’Andrea, look out for Hermès, Armani and Chanel. Here, located in the 17th century Palazzo Bolognini, you'll find the excellent Museo di Milano. The cobbled via della Spiga is the quintessential shopping street with two Dolce and Gabbana stores, Tiffany & Co., Roberto Cavalli, Prada and lots more. Don’t miss the Armani Megastore on via Manzoni. Take a break at Cova cafe on via Monte Napoleone and do some exclusive people watching. It's a place to see and be seen. Via Monte Napoleone is home to several Prada stores, the flagship Gucci store, Pucci, Fendi and Cartier.
Shopping in Milan is great, but when it comes to hottest deals — even locals head just across the border to Switzerland. Find the giant outlet mall with over 130 shops — FoxTown Factory Stores — only 50 km from Milan. It's a real shopper's paradise with discounts of up to 70% for fast fashion brands and big names like Gucci, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana. You can travel here by car, train, bus, book a group transfer or buy a round trip journey on Viator.
La Rinascente is Milan’s equivalent to London’s Harrods department store, where exclusive selections of fashion items for men, women and kids are on offer. Across its eight floors you will find exclusive fashion, accessories, perfumes and toys by more than 200 brands. La Rinascente is located in the heart of Milan, just a few steps away from the Duomo.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, housed within a four-story double arcade just steps away from Il Duomo, is Italy's oldest active shopping gallery. Marvel at the elaborate mosaics and stare at the domed ceilings while you go from one luxury boutique to another, and park yourself at one of the restaurants and cafes, including some of the oldest establishments of Milan such as Café Biffi, founded in 1867. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II hosts the iconic Prada store and Versace’s latest collection. In the Galleria, haute couture is in full bloom. You'll find big international names like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Armani, Borsalino, Luisa Spagnoli, Bric’s, Tod’s, Swarovski, Stefanel and Massimo Dutti as well as smaller traditional artisans like Cadè (shirts and ties since 1926), Piumelli (handmade gloves), Mejana (gorgeous fountain pens).
Sixty minutes from Milan and Bologna, Fidenza Village is home to more than 100 outlet boutiques offering savings of up to 70% on the recommended retail price of previous seasons’ collections from leading Italian and international brands.
The legendary clothing and design store is a household name in much of the world, and coming here is worth it if only to marvel at the unique creations by celebrated designer houses, all handpicked by Carla Sozzani.
Enoteca Cotti is a well-stocked wine shop in the artsy Brera neighbourhood with an original 1930s interior. Italy produces an impressive quantity of high quality wine and this wine shop stocks more than 3,000 selected labels representing every region of Italy. In addition, here you can find culinary specialities crafted in the Italian tradition.
After visiting Cotti, head down to Rossi & Grassi to find the perfect accompanying snacks. Specialising in charcuterie and umami-rich delights, Rossi & Grassi is the place to buy prosciutto San Daniele and mortadella with pistachios. They also offer their own fabulous wine selection.
The Quadrilatero d’Oro district — ‘The Golden Rectangle’ — is one of the world’s most important fashion landmarks and home to Milan’s most exclusive stores. Located just north of the Duomo, is defined by the four main streets that surround it: via Monte Napoleone, via della Spiga, via Manzoni and corso Venezia. Haute couture at every step, with all the brands one can expect. On via Sant’Andrea, look out for Hermès, Armani and Chanel. Here, located in the 17th century Palazzo Bolognini, you'll find the excellent Museo di Milano. The cobbled via della Spiga is the quintessential shopping street with two Dolce and Gabbana stores, Tiffany & Co., Roberto Cavalli, Prada and lots more. Don’t miss the Armani Megastore on via Manzoni. Take a break at Cova cafe on via Monte Napoleone and do some exclusive people watching. It's a place to see and be seen. Via Monte Napoleone is home to several Prada stores, the flagship Gucci store, Pucci, Fendi and Cartier.
Shopping in Milan is great, but when it comes to hottest deals — even locals head just across the border to Switzerland. Find the giant outlet mall with over 130 shops — FoxTown Factory Stores — only 50 km from Milan. It's a real shopper's paradise with discounts of up to 70% for fast fashion brands and big names like Gucci, Prada, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana. You can travel here by car, train, bus, book a group transfer or buy a round trip journey on Viator.
Summer temperatures tend to rise very high, so unless you thrive in smouldering heat, aim for late spring (April–May) or early fall, when temperatures are still comfortable. Of course, Milan's cuisine and cafes can be enjoyed any time of the year. Another factor to keep in mind for your trip to Milan are the sales. The summer sales start on the first Saturday of July and last until the end of August. The winter sales begin after the end of the festive season — the Epiphany on the 6th of January — and last until the end of February.
Malpensa lies approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) from downtown Milan and can be reached by bus, train and taxi. The Malpensa Express trains stop at terminals 1 and 2, depart frequently and run until late. Multiple buses and shuttles run between the airport and city centre, too. These might be a slightly cheaper option, and the only one if your time of arrival falls between after midnight and before 5am.
Orio al Serio Airport lies 50 kilometres (about 30 miles) northeast of Milan, just outside of Bergamo. Buses depart from here for Milan city centre, and the journey takes one hour. The airport has a single, busy terminal and no direct train access to Milan. Bergamo Airport is a great choice if you're flying a low-cost or planning a ski trip in the Trentino Dolomites region.
Linate Airport is situated a mere eight kilometres from Milan city centre. Buses and taxis are available to transport you to and from the airport. A taxi to Milan's main train station should take about 20 minutes and will cost you 40 euro. This airport is mainly used for domestic and short-haul international flights. The bus line 73 from Piazza del Duomo to Linate takes you there. in about an hour and costs 1.50 euro. The Linate Shuttle service runs buses from Milano Centrale every half hour and takes about 25 minutes. Tickets are 5 euro.
Italy can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport, but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.
– What does Milano mean? The etymology of the name Milan (Milano in Italian) is still uncertain. One theory holds that the Latin name Mediolanum comes from the Latin words medio (in the middle) and planus (plain). – Is it safe Milan? Milan is a very safe city, although some heavily trafficked areas attract pickpockets. Some scams are possible at the center of the Duomo where people will ask you for some money. During New Year celebrations the square in front of the Duomo becomes a joyful battlefield, where small fireworks explode everywhere. Lots of fun, but not the safest. – What does AC in AC Milan stand for? AC Milan, in full Associazione Calcio Milan, also called Rossoneri (Italian: “Red and Blacks”) is an Italian professional football. – How expensive is Milan? Prices in Milan are in like with other major European cities. Be prepared pay around €100 per night at a good hotel. You can get a decent dinner for €15 and a coffee will be somewhere between €1–2. – What can you not wear in Milan? Milan is a fashion capital, but there is no fashion police patrolling the streets. Just remember that it can get extremely hot in the summer — wear light fabrics. For going to restaurants and to churches, shorts (especially very short ones) might not be the best idea. – Is Milan a walkable city? Absolutely! There is nothing better than getting lost in the winding network of small cobbled streets and strolling down gorgeous avenues, admiring neoclassical facades, Gothic churches and modern airy constructions. Grab a seat on one of the many cafe terraces or stop for a quick espresso when you need to give your feet a little rest. – How much do I tip in Milan? Hourly wages for servers are higher than in the US, so are not expected to leave a massive tip for your meals. Leave 10–15% for outstanding service and you’re good to go. In cafes, you can round up your bill. Fancy restaurants call for more generosity, of course. – How to order coffee in Milan? You can ask for a quick espresso any time of the day. Locals call it “un caffé”. Ordering a cappuccino after 11am will mark you as a tourist — the Italians believe that drinking milk after the morning will mess with your digestion. Ask for cappuccino, caffé latte, caffé macchiato or a latte macchiato. Be warned that if you ask for “latte” — you’ll only get a glass of milk. – When are museums free in Milan? Milan’s state-run museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month. You can visit Villa Reale, Gallerie d'Italia, Casa museo Boschi-di Stefano, Museo archeologico di Milano, Museo del Risorgimento and many more institutions for free and save your money for aperitivo. – When does Milan have sales? The winter sales generally run from early January through early March, and the summer sales from early July through early September – though check online for the exact dates, which vary slightly each year and are announced about one month before. Sale prices can be up to 70 percent off the original, making it well worth a trip.
Milan’s local transport is called ATM and includes underground, buses, trams and trains. Single fare tickets and day passes can be purchased from ATM ticket offices, newsstands and ticket machines. All tickets have to be stamped on board at the beginning of every journey. You can also buy tickets and plan your trip through ATM's official app.
Taxis are usually white and can be hailed in the street or at taxi stands. These are often located outside train and underground stations. The final fare depends on the number of suitcases you have, the day of the week, and the time of day. Uber ridesharing in not very popular in Italy. Only Uber Black is available, meaning higher prices and nicer vehicles.
Summer temperatures tend to rise very high, so unless you thrive in smouldering heat, aim for late spring (April–May) or early fall, when temperatures are still comfortable. Of course, Milan's cuisine and cafes can be enjoyed any time of the year. Another factor to keep in mind for your trip to Milan are the sales. The summer sales start on the first Saturday of July and last until the end of August. The winter sales begin after the end of the festive season — the Epiphany on the 6th of January — and last until the end of February.
Malpensa lies approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) from downtown Milan and can be reached by bus, train and taxi. The Malpensa Express trains stop at terminals 1 and 2, depart frequently and run until late. Multiple buses and shuttles run between the airport and city centre, too. These might be a slightly cheaper option, and the only one if your time of arrival falls between after midnight and before 5am.
