Oh, Milano!
Imagine a place that’s not only the fashion hub of the world but also a canvas for modern art. Every day when the sky is crisp, Milano residents put on their favorite outfits and turn the streets into a badass runway.
Welcome to Milan, a city adorned with majestic Gothic cathedrals and flavors that can make your taste buds dance.
The significant allure in Milan is a beautiful blend between cobbled streets where history whispers from every corner and the chic boutiques that define Milan’s reputation.
For art lovers, occupy your day out with a few good hours at some of the country’s most recognized cathedrals that act as windows into the soul of contemporary creativity. You can’t miss the grandeur of the Gothic cathedrals either, the time machines that transport you to a different era.
At the end of the day, no visit is complete with a hearty meal. Here in Milan, the food isn’t just a treat for the eyes but also a haven for your taste buds.
Every plate here tells a story, a delicious tale of recipes passed down through generations. From saffron-infused risottos to melt-in-your-mouth ossobuco, Milan’s culinary scene is a feast you’ll always remember.
Without further ado, make the most of your visit to Milan with this comprehensive travel guide!
Milan At A Glance
According to Britannica, Milan is ranked as the richest city in all of Italy and one of the 30 wealthiest cities in Europe (reported by the Italian Social Security Institute – INPS).
Though crowded, Milan is still a relatively safe city to visit, However, pickpocketing problems are still a common sight in major crowded buses. If you drive by yourself, park your vehicle in a hotel parking lot if you don’t wanna see your windows broken when you come back.
Those who are here for shopping must be mindful of the sales-off season which usually runs from July to September and from the end of December to February with a steep discount of up to 30%.
The best time to visit Milan is from April to June and September to October with fewer crowds and less heat. However, most places in Italy have air-conditioners so it’s not the end of the world anyway.
There’s something called a pane e coperto which is a small fee in the range of €1-4 charged on top of your bill whenever you decide to dine in at the restaurant. Many people wanna waive this fee by “stand eating” rather than sitting down at an actual table.
What Is The Best Way To Get Around Milan?
The handy public transport system allows you to navigate through Milan’s iconic landmarks and its colorful neighborhoods with ease. This sprawling cityscape is supported by an extensive range of buses, trams, and metros that cater to your every travel need.
Here I will break down some of the most popular ways to get around Milan.
By Bus
The entire Milan is blanketed with up to 80 sustainable bus lines that run like clockwork from 5:30 am to 1:45 am every day, except public holidays.
The most popular bus for tourists is #94 which makes a loop around the city center. To signal the driver that you wanna get off, press the button. And don’t expect buses to halt automatically – you need to hail them like a taxi or if someone wants off at your stop. Oh, and a golden rule: validate your ticket as you board to dodge fines.
At each of the bus stops, they set up a metal pole with a signboard that mentions which buses pass by as well as the consecutive stops. The name of your current bus stop is highlighted while the other stops are listed just below that.
By Tram
Trams are the city’s charm, with 18 lines offering 33 routes, some stretching to the outskirts. The trams in Milan are the second popular way to meander through the city as they are fast with a heritage feel making the ride more fun.
By Metro
They have set up more than 100 stops peppered across the city, indicated by square signs sporting a bold “M.” The metro’s four lines guarantee swift travel, with plans for expansion in the pipeline.
To use any of those public transport, you need either a ticket or a travel card. There are four places to obtain these tickets, including the ticket store called Biglietteria, Tabacchi (a tobacco shop), a ticket machine (applied for metro only), and an ATM app.
Metro tickets must be kept with you at all times when you enter and exit the metro.
To ride the trams and buses, present your tickets to the ATM employees at the tram/bus stops or on the vehicles. The validation for a tram ride like this is 90 minutes with unlimited transfers on trams and buses.
By Milan Hop-on Hop-off Bus
For a tourist-friendly twist, there’s the Milan Hop-on Hop-off bus. This is your ticket to the city’s iconic spots without the squeeze of the subway.
Milan Hop-on Hop-off Bus tickets are available in 24, 48, and 72 hours with four different lines in one ticket. These lines are marked as A, B, C, and D.
7 Best Places To Visit In Milan
Milan Cathedral
Wondering what’s so special about a marvelous church that takes over 600 years to finish? Making a statement and beckoning attention on any given sunny day, Milan Cathedral is undoubtedly the most visited attraction in Milan.
Dubbed as one of the largest Catholic churches in the world, this spectacular masterpiece is more than just a holy shrine. This, a time capsule where times stand still, has turned into a symphony of carved spires, intricate towers, and captivating stained glass windows.
Even a brief contemplation from the outside is enough to capture your curiosity and snag away some camera shots. For a better glimpse, head inside and be truly in awe at the talking of time.
The entrance to Milan Cathedral is absolutely free! Venture in and you’ll encounter treasures like archbishop sarcophagi and the golden Trivulzio Candelabra. For a small fee with online tickets, you can explore the rooftop – trust me, the panoramic views will leave you breathless. The fee is mostly for the use of the elevator if your fitness level doesn’t agree. However, note that the wait time to reach the top can be intense!
Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is not just a shopping mall – it’s a whole palace where your credit cards may cry to sleep but your heart will be wired with happiness.
Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a dreamy paradise where every single corner and boutique store seems as if it’s stepping out of a fairy tale.
Gaze up and be amazed at the glass-vaulted arcades glimmering above, allowing sunlight to come through an octagonal glass dome. But it’s not just about high-end boutiques like Versace and Gucci. You’ll also find Italy’s oldest cafes and restaurants here. It’s a living testament to Milan’s fashionable past, and trust me, even window shopping here is an experience to remember.
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II
Just five minutes away from Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II is another stellar spot where both luxury and budget-friendly shopping share a common ground.
Here, they call it Milan’s living room, connecting Piazza Duomo and San Babila metro station. From luxury brands like Louis Vuitton to popular fast fashion stops, it’s a treat for every style seeker.
When the sun beams down, Corso Vittorio comes alive with cinemas and buzzing bars. It’s the perfect spot for a vibrant night out after catching a film.
Naviglio Grande
Canals aren’t just for Venice and Amsterdam. Take a leisure walk to Naviglio Grande and immerse in the tranquil escape just steps from the city center.
Bustling yet peaceful, Naviglio Grande is filled with life and a mecca of charming shops, eateries, and bars to keep you occupied when the sun is blaring down out there. When the sun is out, Naviglio turns into a hotbed of local revelry which is just perfect to call it a day.
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
With the talk of art and serenity, the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie emerges as a blissful getaway from Milan’s hustle. Though lesser known compared to Milan Cathedral, the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie has nothing to envy the heavyweights at all. Its unassuming facade is a beautiful blend of Gothic and Renaissance that hides a treasure: Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic Last Supper mural.
Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
Trust me, this is not just a place for families with kids. Leonardo da Vinci not only testified his talent in arts but also in his inspiring practices and innovations in science and technology.
Sitting on an expansive footprint of 50,000 square meters, the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology is ranked as one of the largest science and technology museums in all of Europe. History and science buffs will have a whale of a time checking out a wide range of exhibitions, digital installations, and interactive workshops.
Corso Como
A modern concept yet shielded by a touch of art, Corso Como is a dining and shopping concept brimming with chic restaurants, hip boutiques, and vibrant nightclubs.
Corso Como is a short car ride away from the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. Right here, local talents come together, forming a serene yet sprawling art hub selling their nice collection of luxury goods, home decor items, and tasty bites.
It’s a playground for both locals and tourists. This trendy strip might not be huge, but it has a charm that’s all its own. Grab a seat, sip a coffee, and enjoy some top-tier people-watching!
Milan Must-Eats: 3 Traditional Staples You Cannot Forget
Panzerotti
What is a Panzerotti, you may ask?
Imagine a turnover dough that’s like a cousin to calzone! Stuffed with everything from tangy tomatoes to oozy cheese, these pockets of delight are fried to golden perfection, reminding you of a donut.
Pizzeria Spontini
Fluffy and fresh, this incredible version could rival any cheese lover’s dream. Get ready for your palate to be spoiled with a thick and soft string of melted mozzarella! Dine in or dine out, this Pizzeria Spontini is proud to win over any thick-crust anti-fans.
Cotoletta alla Milanese
Thinly pounded, breaded, and fried to perfection, this iconic dish isn’t a stranger in Milan. Treat your palate to a tender veal cutlet, dressed in a crunchy breadcrumb coat and fried in butter. It’s not just food, it’s an art form in every bite.
Is Milan Worth A Visit?
Absolutely! Beyond the glitz of fashion and the allure of posh dining spots, Milan is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a history buff, or just seeking adventure, this city’s got you covered. What are you waiting for? It’s time to pack your curiosity and appetite, and let Milan weave its spell on you!