The fashion capital of Italy, Milan has always been a great destination for travellers to explore. Its historical grandeur, art treasures, and culinary delights make Milan a must-visit city in Italy. With its Gothic Cathedral, chic boutiques, and world-class galleries, the city has something to offer to every kind of tourist. Whether you are visiting here for the first time or are a seasoned traveller, with so many options it can get confusing which one to pick. We have curated 3 days in Milan plan covering all the major attractions, iconic landmarks, and activities in a budget that you just cannot miss out on. Read further to know more!
Best Time to Visit
The best time to plan your trip to Milan would be during the Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) seasons. The weather is quite pleasant during these months, with fewer crowds at tourist places, making it ideal for you to explore the city. You can also enjoy outdoor activities comfortably during these seasons. Summers in Milan can be a bit humid and the winter season is usually cold and rainy, making it difficult to visit places and explore around.
Day 1: Historical and Cultural Highlights
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Your first day of 3 days in Milan should start the right way. Visit the Duomo di Milano, the renowned Gothic Cathedral which is also one of the largest churches in the world. Climb to the rooftop and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and get up close to the intricate spires and statues. Next head to the nearby Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the oldest active shopping gallery of Italy. Home to luxury shops, cafes and restaurants, this 19th-century architectural masterpiece is a must-visit on your Milan trip.
Stop over for lunch in between at some local café or restaurant. After lunch visit one of the most famous opera houses in the world, the Teatro alla Scalaz. The theatre also has a museum that offers a glimpse into the rich history by featuring exhibits like costumes, set designs and musical instruments. Next head to the Pinacoteca di Brera, a premium art gallery in Milan. This is a 17-century building that houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art including works by great artists like Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
End your day by exploring the picturesque canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci Navigli district. The area is dotted with trendy bars and restaurants. Enjoy a great dining experience or just enjoy the happy hours at any local bar. Later you can take a leisurely stroll along the street to end you day the perfect way!
Day 2: Fashion, Design and Modern Milan
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Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, your trip here cannot end without delving into the iconic fashion scenes. Head to the Quadrilatero della Moda, the most famous fashion districts of Milan that houses some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses include Prada, Gucci, Armani and many more. If you want to indulge in some high-end shopping spree this is the perfect place to be. You can also book a fashion and shopping walking tour for a guided experience through Milan’s streets.
After your retail therapy, visit the Sforza Castle, once the residence of Milan’s ruling family. This fortress houses a museum and vast collection of art include the including Michelangelo’s unfinished masterpiece, the Rondanini Pietà. Nearby the castle you can visit the Parco Sempione, a public park. Visit the Arco della Pace here, or just relax after a full day of sightseeing.
Keep the evening for visiting one of the most charming streets neighbourhoods of Milan, the Brera District. Packed with art galleries, antique shops, and cozy cafes, this district is known for its bohemian vibe. End your day by enjoying a delectable Italian dinner at one of the restaurants or just hop on to a local bar to experience the vibrant nightlife of Milan.
Day 3: Day Trips and Hidden Gems
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You cannot end your 3 days in Milan without exploring the Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Get glimpse of one of the most iconic masterpieces of Renaissance art. Located at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, this mural is one of the famous works of art in the world. Before travelling, make sure to book your tickets in advance as access is limited. You can also prebook a Last Supper and Milan Tram Tour for a hassle-free experience.
Later in afternoon, take a short train ride to the stunning Lake Como. Admire the surrounding views of mountains and charming villages. This picturesque lake is ideal for spending a relaxing day, simply enjoying the tranquil ambiance and stunning views. You can explore the town of Como, visit the gardens of Villa Carlotta or just take a boat ride on the lake.
Return to Milan during evening and enjoy your last day in the city. Head to one of the traditional trattorias to savour an authentic dinner before you leave or just stroll through the local markets for some souvenir shopping.
Different Budget-friendly Tours to Take in Milan
Walking Tours: While planning your 3 days in Milan itinerary, you can opt for any guided tours. These will take you through all the important locations and with a guide along you will get insights into the rich history of the places you are visiting. Explore Milan’s historic centers with a guided walking tour, covering key sights like the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Sforza Castle.
Food Tours: Your trip to Milan won’t be complete without exploring the delectable food options there. And food tours are the best way to do that. These tours take you through local markets, cafes and bakeries of the city allowing you try to authentic delicacies and fresh produces. Also, Milan food walking tours are a great way to know more about the culture of the city.
Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours: One of the best and cost-effective ways to explore the city is by taking a Milan Hop-On, Hop-Off tour. You will be able to cover all the major attractions in a limited period and will be able to visit places at your own pace. These buses follow different routes, make sure to check the details and maps before booking your tickets.
Day Trips: Milan also offers amazing spots to explore around the city. After covering all the major attractions, plan for short day trip to destinations like Lake Como, Bergamo or the Franciacorta wine region for the added experience.
Tips for Planning 3 Days in Milan
- It is recommended to book your attraction tickets in advance. Booking in advance saves hassle and ensures access to popular sites like the Duomo and the Last Supper, which often sell out quickly due to limited availability.
- Milan is best explored on foot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your travelling experience.
- The city has a great local transport system, from trams to buses and the metro you won’t find it difficult to commute within the city. Also get a travel card for unlimited travel.
- Take advantage of Milan’s aperitivo culture, where bars offer a complimentary buffet of snacks with your drink during happy hour.
- It’s recommended to familiarize yourself with basic greetings and respect local customs. When visiting churches, dress appropriately and follow guidelines provided.
Conclusion
With a perfect blend of culture, history, fashion and architectures, 3 days in Milan offers a tapestry of experiences. Whether it’s exploring the renowned Duomo di Milano, The Last Supper or just strolling through the fashion streets of the city, Milan offers wide array of things to do. And now that you have explored all the major places to visit and activities to indulge in, plan a trip to this magical city. Make sure to explore a wide range of tours of Milan and attraction tickets before traveling for a seamless experience.
