Comprehensive Travel Guide to Milan
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Milan
2. Getting to Milan
3. Where to Stay in Milan
4. Getting Around Milan
5. Top Attractions in Milan
– Duomo di Milano
– Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
– Sforza Castle
– The Last Supper
– Teatro alla Scala
– Brera District
– Navigli Canals
6. Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
– Monumental Cemetery
– Leonardo da Vinci’s Vineyard
– Bosco Verticale
– Fondazione Prada
7. Day Trips from Milan
– Lake Como
– Bergamo
– Turin
– Franciacorta Wine Region
8. Milan for Foodies
– Must-Try Dishes
– Best Restaurants
– Street Food and Markets
9. Cultural Experiences
– Opera and Ballet
– Theatre and Performances
– Art Galleries and Exhibitions
10. Shopping in Milan
– High-End Shopping
– Vintage and Thrift Stores
– Bookstores and Markets
11. Seasonal Events and Festivals
– Spring in Milan
– Summer in Milan
– Autumn in Milan
– Winter in Milan
12. Tips for Traveling in Milan
– Safety and Health
– Budgeting and Money
– Language and Communication
– Etiquette and Customs
13. One-Day Itinerary in Milan
14. Conclusion
15. Additional Information
– Working Hours, Address, Phone, Website, Pictures, Maps, Prices
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Introduction to Milan
Milan, known as the fashion and design capital of the world, is a city that seamlessly blends historical heritage with modern innovation. As Italy’s second-largest city, Milan boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, from its iconic cathedral to world-renowned art collections. This guide will provide all the information you need to make the most of your visit to Milan.
Getting to Milan
By Air
Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
– Location: 50 km northwest of Milan
– Phone: +39 02 232323
– Website: www.milanomalpensa-airport.com
– Transportation: Malpensa Express train, shuttle buses, taxis
Milan Linate Airport (LIN)
– Location: 7 km east of Milan
– Phone: +39 02 232323
– Website: www.milanolinate-airport.com
– Transportation: Urban buses, taxis
Orio al Serio International Airport (BGY)
– Location: 45 km northeast of Milan
– Phone: +39 035 326323
– Website: www.orioaeroporto.it
– Transportation: Shuttle buses to Milan Central Station
By Train
Milano Centrale
– Address: Piazza Duca d’Aosta, 1, 20124 Milan
– Phone: +39 89 20 21
– Website: www.trenitalia.com
– Connections: High-speed trains, regional trains, metro lines M2 and M3
Milano Porta Garibaldi
– Address: Piazza Sigmund Freud, 20124 Milan
– Phone: +39 89 20 21
– Website: www.trenitalia.com
– Connections: Regional trains, metro line M2
By Bus
Lampugnano Bus Station
– Address: Via Natta, 20151 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 480391
– Website: www.flixbus.com
– Connections: FlixBus, Eurolines
By Car
Driving to Milan is convenient, especially if you plan to explore the Lombardy region. However, be prepared for limited parking and traffic restrictions in the city center.
Where to Stay in Milan
Luxury Hotels
Armani Hotel Milano
– Address: Via Manzoni, 31, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 8883 8888
– Website: www.armanihotels.com
– Price: From €500 per night
Bulgari Hotel Milano
– Address: Via Privata Fratelli Gabba, 7b, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 805 8051
– Website: www.bulgarihotels.com
– Price: From €700 per night
Boutique Hotels
Room Mate Giulia
– Address: Via Silvio Pellico, 4, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 808 95411
– Website: www.room-matehotels.com
– Price: From €200 per night
The Yard Milano
– Address: Piazza XXIV Maggio, 8, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 894 15707
– Website: www.theyardmilano.com
– Price: From €250 per night
Budget Accommodations
Ostello Bello
– Address: Via Medici, 4, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 3658 2720
– Website: www.ostellobello.com
– Price: From €35 per night for dormitory, €100 for private room
Madama Hostel & Bistrot
– Address: Via Benaco, 1, 20139 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 3675 1027
– Website: www.madamahostel.com
– Price: From €25 per night for dormitory, €80 for private room
Vacation Rentals
Airbnb and Vrbo offer a wide range of apartments and homes for rent across Milan. Prices vary depending on location, size, and amenities, but options can be found to suit all budgets. Visit www.airbnb.com and www.vrbo.com for listings.
Getting Around Milan
Metro
Milan Metro
– Website: www.atm.it
– Ticket Price: Single ticket (€2), day passes available
– Map: Available on ATM website and at stations
Trams
Milan Tram Network
– Website: www.atm.it
– Ticket Price: Single ticket (€2), day passes available
– Map: Available on ATM website and at tram stops
Buses
Milan Bus Network
– Website: www.atm.it
– Ticket Price: Single ticket (€2), day passes available
– Map: Available on ATM website and at bus stops
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis
– Phone: +39 02 8585 (Radio Taxi)
– Website: www.radiotaxi8585.it
– Price: Starting fare (€3.30), additional charges per km and time
Uber
– Website: www.uber.com
– Price: Varies by distance and time, generally cheaper than taxis
Bicycles
BikeMi
– Website: www.bikemi.com
– Price: Subscription (€4.50 per day, €9 per week), first 30 minutes free, then additional charges
– Map: Available on BikeMi website and app
Top Attractions in Milan
Duomo di Milano
– Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 7202 2656
– Website: www.duomomilano.it
– Working Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
– Price: Cathedral (€3), Rooftop (€10), Combo Ticket (€13)
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Duomo di Milano, a magnificent Gothic cathedral, is the symbol of Milan. It offers stunning views from its rooftop and houses impressive artworks. The cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete and is one of the largest churches in the world.
– Pictures:
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
– Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 8845 5555
– Website: www.yesmilano.it
– Working Hours: 24/7
– Price: Free entrance
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. Its stunning architecture features a glass-domed roof and elegant mosaic floors. It’s a great place to shop, dine, and admire the historical surroundings.
– Pictures:
Sforza Castle
– Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 8846 3700
– Website: www.milanocastello.it
– Working Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM
– Price: Free entrance to the courtyard, museums (€5)
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Sforza Castle, a grand fortress, houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The castle’s beautiful courtyards and gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
– Pictures:
The Last Supper
– Address: Piazza Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 9280 0360
– Website: www.cenacolo-vinciano.net
– Working Hours: 8:15 AM – 7:00 PM (closed Mondays)
– Price: €15
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is one of the most famous paintings in the world. It is located in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Advance booking is required to see this masterpiece.
– Pictures:
Teatro alla Scala
– Address: Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 88791
– Website: www.teatroallascala.org
– Working Hours: Varies by performance
– Price: From €20
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Teatro alla Scala is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. It has hosted numerous legendary performances since its opening in 1778. The theater also houses a museum with a rich collection of opera memorabilia.
– Pictures:
Brera District
– Address: Brera, 20121 Milan
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Brera District is known for its artistic heritage and bohemian atmosphere. It’s home to the Pinacoteca di Brera, an art gallery featuring Italian masterpieces. The area is also filled with charming streets, cafes, and boutiques.
– Pictures:
Navigli Canals
– Address: Navigli, 20123 Milan
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Navigli Canals are a vibrant area of Milan known for its nightlife and artistic scene. The canals are lined with trendy bars, restaurants, and art studios. It’s a great place to enjoy an evening out or take a relaxing boat ride.
– Pictures:
Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
Monumental Cemetery
– Address: Piazzale Cimitero Monumentale, 20154 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 8844 3148
– Website: www.monumentale.net
– Working Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
– Price: Free entrance
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Monumental Cemetery is an open-air museum with stunning tombs and sculptures. It’s a peaceful place to explore Milan’s history and admire beautiful works of art.
– Pictures:
Leonardo da Vinci’s Vineyard
– Address: Corso Magenta, 65, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 4816150
– Website: www.vignadileonardo.com
– Working Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
– Price: €10
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Leonardo da Vinci’s Vineyard is a hidden gem located near the Last Supper. The vineyard has been restored to its original state, offering a unique glimpse into Leonardo’s life and work in Milan.
– Pictures:
Bosco Verticale
– Address: Via Gaetano de Castillia, 11, 20124 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 8837332
– Website: www.stefanoboeriarchitetti.net
– Working Hours: 24/7
– Price: Free entrance
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, is a pair of residential towers known for their lush, tree-covered facades. The buildings are an innovative example of sustainable architecture and a striking sight in Milan’s skyline.
– Pictures:
Fondazione Prada
– Address: Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 5666 2611
– Website: www.fondazioneprada.org
– Working Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
– Price: €15
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Fondazione Prada is a contemporary art and culture institution housed in a former gin distillery. It features a variety of exhibitions, installations, and events, showcasing cutting-edge art and design.
– Pictures:
Day Trips from Milan
Lake Como
– Address: Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy
– Phone: +39 031 303080 (Tourist Information)
– Website: www.lakecomo.com
– Highlights: Scenic boat tours, charming towns like Bellagio and Varenna
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Lake Como, surrounded by mountains and dotted with picturesque villages, is a popular day trip from Milan. Enjoy boat tours, visit beautiful gardens, and explore the charming towns along the lake.
– Pictures:
Bergamo
– Address: Bergamo, Lombardy, Italy
– Phone: +39 035 210204 (Tourist Information)
– Website: www.visitbergamo.net
– Highlights: Città Alta, Piazza Vecchia, Bergamo Cathedral
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Bergamo is a charming town known for its medieval architecture and stunning views. Explore the historic Città Alta, visit the beautiful Piazza Vecchia, and admire the art and architecture of Bergamo Cathedral.
– Pictures:
Turin
– Address: Turin, Piedmont, Italy
– Phone: +39 011 535181 (Tourist Information)
– Website: www.turismotorino.org
– Highlights: Mole Antonelliana, Egyptian Museum, Royal Palace
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: Turin is known for its elegant architecture and rich history. Visit the iconic Mole Antonelliana, explore the extensive collection at the Egyptian Museum, and tour the opulent Royal Palace.
– Pictures:
Franciacorta Wine Region
– Address: Franciacorta, Lombardy, Italy
– Phone: +39 030 7760870 (Tourist Information)
– Website: www.franciacorta.net
– Highlights: Wine tastings, vineyard tours, picturesque landscapes
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Franciacorta region is famous for its sparkling wines. Enjoy wine tastings and tours at local vineyards, and take in the beautiful countryside views.
– Pictures:
Milan for Foodies
Must-Try Dishes
– Risotto alla Milanese
– Where to Try: Ratanà
– Address: Via Gaetano de Castillia, 28, 20124 Milan
– Price: From €18
– Description: A creamy risotto flavored with saffron, Risotto alla Milanese is a signature dish of Milan. It’s often served with ossobuco, a braised veal shank.
– Pictures:
– Cotoletta alla Milanese
– Where to Try: Trattoria del Nuovo Macello
– Address: Via Cesare Lombroso, 20, 20137 Milan
– Price: From €22
– Description: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, Cotoletta alla Milanese is a classic Milanese dish. It’s typically served with a side of potatoes or salad.
– Pictures:
– Panettone
– Where to Try: Pasticceria Marchesi
– Address: Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, 20123 Milan
– Price: From €25
– Description: A traditional Italian Christmas cake, Panettone is a sweet, fluffy bread studded with raisins and candied fruit. It’s a must-try dessert in Milan.
– Pictures:
Best Restaurants
Ristorante Cracco
– Address: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 876774
– Website: www.ristorantecracco.it
– Price: From €150 for a tasting menu
– Description: Chef Carlo Cracco’s Michelin-starred restaurant offers a contemporary take on Italian cuisine. The elegant setting in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II makes for a memorable dining experience.
– Pictures:
Da Vittorio
– Address: Via Cantalupa, 17, 24060 Brusaporto (near Milan)
– Phone: +39 035 681024
– Website: www.davittorio.com
– Price: From €200 for a tasting menu
– Description: Located just outside Milan, Da Vittorio is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. It’s worth the short trip for a culinary delight.
– Pictures:
Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia
– Address: Via Privata Raimondo Montecuccoli, 6, 20147 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 416886
– Website: www.aimoenadia.com
– Price: From €180 for a tasting menu
– Description: A two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia combines traditional Italian flavors with modern techniques. The refined dishes and elegant atmosphere make it a top dining destination in Milan.
– Pictures:
Street Food and Markets
Mercato Centrale
– Address: Piazza Quattro Novembre, 20124 Milan
– Working Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
– Description: Mercato Centrale is a bustling food market offering a wide variety of Italian street food and artisanal products. It’s a great place to sample local specialties and enjoy a casual meal.
– Pictures:
Eataly Milano Smeraldo
– Address: Piazza XXV Aprile, 10, 20121 Milan
– Working Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
– Description: Eataly is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of Italian products, from fresh pasta to fine wines. The food hall features multiple dining options where you can enjoy traditional Italian dishes.
– Pictures:
Rinascente Food Hall
– Address: Via Santa Radegonda, 1, 20121 Milan
– Working Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM – 12:00 AM
– Description: Located on the top floor of the Rinascente department store, the food hall offers a variety of gourmet food stalls and stunning views of the Duomo. It’s a perfect spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.
– Pictures:
Cultural Experiences
Opera and Ballet
Teatro alla Scala
– Address: Via Filodrammatici, 2, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 88791
– Website: www.teatroallascala.org
– Working Hours: Varies by performance
– Price: From €20 for performances, €14 for guided tours
– Description: An architectural masterpiece and home to the world-renowned opera house, Teatro alla Scala hosts a variety of opera and ballet performances. Experience the magic of a live performance in this historic venue.
– Pictures:
Theatre and Performances
Piccolo Teatro
– Address: Via Rovello, 2, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 72333222
– Website: www.piccoloteatro.org
– Working Hours: Varies by performance
– Price: From €15
– Description: The Piccolo Teatro is one of Milan’s most prestigious theaters, offering a diverse program of plays, concerts, and performances. It’s a cultural hub where you can enjoy world-class theatrical productions.
– Pictures:
Teatro degli Arcimboldi
– Address: Viale dell’Innovazione, 20, 20126 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 641142200
– Website: www.teatroarcimboldi.it
– Working Hours: Varies by performance
– Price: From €20
– Description: Teatro degli Arcimboldi is a modern theater known for its innovative design and excellent acoustics. It hosts a variety of performances, from musicals to classical concerts.
– Pictures:
Art Galleries and Exhibitions
Pinacoteca di Brera
– Address: Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 722631
– Website: www.brera.beniculturali.it
– Working Hours: 8:30 AM – 7:15 PM (closed Mondays)
– Price: €10
– Description: The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s premier art galleries, housing an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance masterpieces. Highlights include works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian.
– Pictures:
Fondazione Prada
– Address: Largo Isarco, 2, 20139 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 5666 2611
– Website: www.fondazioneprada.org
– Working Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
– Price: €15
– Description: Fondazione Prada is a contemporary art and culture institution housed in a former gin distillery. It features a variety of exhibitions, installations, and events, showcasing cutting-edge art and design.
– Pictures:
Museo del Novecento
– Address: Via Marconi, 1, 20122 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 88444061
– Website: www.museodelnovecento.org
– Working Hours: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (closed Mondays)
– Price: €10
– Description: The Museo del Novecento is dedicated to 20th-century art, featuring works by Italian and international artists. The museum’s collection includes pieces by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Fontana.
– Pictures:
Shopping in Milan
High-End Shopping
Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga
– Address: Quadrilatero della Moda, 20121 Milan
– Highlights: Luxury boutiques and flagship stores of high-end brands like Gucci, Prada, and Armani. Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga are synonymous with Milanese fashion and luxury shopping.
– Pictures:
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
– Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 8845 5555
– Website: www.yesmilano.it
– Working Hours: 24/7
– Price: Free entrance
– Map: Google Maps
– Description: The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. Its stunning architecture features a glass-domed roof and elegant mosaic floors. It’s a great place to shop, dine, and admire the historical surroundings.
– Pictures:
Vintage and Thrift Stores
Cavalli e Nastri
– Address: Via Gian Giacomo Mora, 12, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 89422112
– Website: www.cavallienastri.com
– Working Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:30 AM – 7:30 PM
– Description: Cavalli e Nastri is a popular vintage store offering a curated selection of clothing and accessories from the 20th century. It’s a treasure trove for vintage enthusiasts looking for unique finds.
Humana Vintage
– Address: Via Cappellari, 3, 20123 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 86463802
– Website: www.humanavintage.it
– Working Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
– Description: Humana Vintage is a thrift store chain known for its affordable and stylish vintage clothing. The store offers a wide range of items, from casual wear to formal attire.
Bookstores and Markets
Libreria Rizzoli Galleria
– Address: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 79, 20121 Milan
– Phone: +39 02 86461071
– Website: www.rizzolilibri.it
– Working Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Sunday, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
– Description: A historic bookstore located in the heart of Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Libreria Rizzoli Galleria offers a wide selection of books, including Italian and international literature.
Mercato di Via Fauche
– Address: Via Giovanni Battista Fauche, 20154 Milan
– Working Hours: Tuesday and Saturday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
– Description: A vibrant market offering fresh produce, flowers, and a variety of other goods. Mercato di Via Fauche is a favorite among locals for its lively atmosphere and quality products.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Spring in Milan
Milan Fashion Week (Spring/Summer)
– Date: February/March
– Website: www.cameramoda.it
– Highlights: Runway shows, fashion events, designer showcases
– Description: One of the most important fashion events in the world, Milan Fashion Week showcases the latest collections from top designers. The event attracts fashion enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the globe.
– Pictures:
Summer in Milan
Festa della Repubblica
– Date: June 2nd
– Website: www.quirinale.it
– Highlights: Parades, concerts, fireworks
– Description: Celebrated on June 2nd, Festa della Repubblica marks the anniversary of Italy becoming a republic. The day features parades, concerts, and fireworks, with many events taking place in Milan.
– Pictures:
Milano Summer Festival
– Date: June to August
– Website: www.milanosummerfestival.it
– Highlights: Outdoor concerts, music performances
– Description: A summer-long music festival featuring a diverse lineup of artists and bands. The Milano Summer Festival offers outdoor concerts in various venues across the city.
– Pictures:
Autumn in Milan
Milan Fashion Week (Autumn/Winter)
– Date: September
– Website: www.cameramoda.it
– Highlights: Runway shows, fashion events, designer showcases
– Description: Milan Fashion Week returns in September with the latest autumn/winter collections. The event is a major highlight of the fashion calendar and attracts designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts from around the world.
– Pictures:
Winter in Milan
Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Christmas Market
– Date: Early December
– Highlights: Festive treats, crafts, gifts
– Description: A traditional Christmas market held near Sforza Castle. Oh Bej! Oh Bej! offers a variety of festive treats, crafts, and gifts, making it a wonderful place to get into the holiday spirit.
– Pictures:
New Year’s Eve
– Date: December 31st
– Highlights: Fireworks, festivities in Piazza del Duomo
– Description: Celebrate the New Year with fireworks and festivities in Piazza del Duomo. Milan is a vibrant place to ring in the New Year with exciting celebrations and events.
– Pictures:
Tips for Traveling in Milan
Safety and Health
– Safety: Milan is generally safe, but be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and stay vigilant.
– Health: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers health expenses. Pharmacies are plentiful, and emergency services are reliable.
– Emergency Number: 112 (general), 118 (medical), 113 (police), 115 (fire)
Budgeting and Money
– Currency: The currency in Milan is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
– Budgeting: Milan can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Opt for budget accommodations, dine at local trattorias, and take advantage of free attractions and walking tours.
– ATMs: Available throughout the c
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