Itineraries for Your Trip to Milan
1 Day in Milan for First Timers
I’ll never forget my first trip to Milan. I toured the most beautiful cathedral in the world, discovered the best hidden pizza spots, and came home with some seriously stylish finds. You could spend your time in Milan just people-watching—think men in suits riding bikes with cute little dogs in the baskets, impeccably dressed women practically jogging along the cobblestone streets in stilettos, and boutique after boutique of big-name designers and artisan leather goods. However, the Italian city extends beyond its sophisticated locals, offering memorable landmarks, delicious cuisine, and an abundance of art and culture. Here’s what to do if you have one day in Milan.
If you only have time for one thing, see the world-famous Milan Cathedral.
Milan sees all four seasons, so pack accordingly based on your travel time.
The two most famous attractions in Milan are the Milan Cathedral and Leonardo Da Vinci's Last Supper painting at the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie. Both of these attractions can get very crowded and sell out, so it’s best to purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance or opt for a combo cultural tour if you’re spending one day in Milan. These attractions are located about a 20- to 30-minute walk from one another, so enjoy a leisurely stroll between doses of Milanese culture and history this morning.
Continue your 1-day Milan itinerary for first timers with a wander around the city. Move at your own pace (or consider a walking tour, stopping by the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and admiring landmarks such as the Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), the Arch of Peace Arco della Pace, and the opera house: La Scala (Teatro alla Scala). Be sure to stroll through the Navigli District, which features Venice-inspired canals and offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Weather permitting, a stop (or even a picnic) in Sempione Park is an easy way to add a little greenery into your afternoon.
I highly recommend experiencing the best of Milan’s food scene. Besides sampling some of the more obvious delights—such as pizza, pasta, Italian wine, and gelato—be sure to try arancino (crispy rice balls), Milanese risotto, ossobucco (veal), and polenta. If you’re not quite sure where to start, a guided food tour can help you find all the best spots. Or, you could indulge in aperitivo, which is Milan’s version of happy hour. Certain bars and restaurants typically offer discounts on drinks and light snacks from around 6pm to 9pm.
