Milan a week

Milan's primary international airport. Efficient transport links to the city center are available via the Malpensa Express train or bus services.

• Book Malpensa Express tickets in advance online for potential savings.

A highly-rated boutique hotel centrally located, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service for a mid-range budget. It provides a perfect base for exploring the city on foot.

A breathtaking Gothic cathedral, the third-largest in the world. Admire its intricate facade, climb to the rooftop for panoramic city views, and explore the interior's vast nave.

• Book rooftop access tickets online to skip long queues.
• Dress modestly: shoulders and knees must be covered.

The main public square of Milan, bustling with activity and surrounded by iconic landmarks. It's a perfect spot to people-watch and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Dine in the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, offering classic Italian cuisine in a refined setting. It's an ideal introduction to Milanese dining.

One of the world's oldest shopping malls, an architectural masterpiece featuring high-end boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Admire its stunning glass dome and mosaic floors.

• Don't miss the bull mosaic on the floor; legend says spinning on its heel brings good luck.

Home to one of Italy's most important art collections, featuring masterpieces by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bellini. The museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century palace.

A charming bohemian quarter known for its art studios, antique shops, and picturesque cobblestone streets. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere away from the main tourist crowds.

The heart of Milan's fashion district, renowned for its luxury designer boutiques and elegant showrooms. Window shopping here is an experience in itself.

Milan's historic canal district, lively in the evenings with numerous bars, restaurants, and artisan shops. Enjoy an aperitivo by the water.

A traditional trattoria in the Navigli district serving authentic Milanese dishes. It's a cozy spot for a relaxed dinner.

A magnificent medieval fortress that was once the seat of the Dukes of Milan. Today, it houses several museums and art collections, including Michelangelo's Rondanini Pietà.

• Allow ample time to explore the various courtyards and museum wings.

Milan's largest public park, offering a green oasis behind Sforza Castle. It's ideal for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or simply relaxing.

A triumphal arch located at the end of Parco Sempione, commissioned by Napoleon. It's a grand monument surrounded by a lively piazza.

A wide, tree-lined avenue extending from Arco della Pace, featuring numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars. It's a popular spot for evening passeggiata.

A well-regarded restaurant along Corso Sempione offering traditional Italian fare with a focus on fresh ingredients. Enjoy a pleasant dinner in a lively atmosphere.

This UNESCO World Heritage site houses Leonardo da Vinci's iconic mural, 'The Last Supper'. The painting's fragile state requires strict visitor controls.

• Tickets must be booked months in advance due to extremely limited availability.
• Entry is timed and strictly enforced; arrive at least 15 minutes early.

A design and art museum located in Parco Sempione, showcasing Italian creativity through temporary exhibitions and its permanent collection. It's a hub for contemporary design.

A trendy area known for its design studios, showrooms, and concept stores. It's particularly vibrant during Milan Design Week, but offers inspiration year-round.

A cultural hub in the Tortona district, often hosting events, exhibitions, and providing a space for creative expression. It also has a bar and restaurant.

A unique restaurant and bar in the Tortona district, known for its eclectic ambiance and good food. It's a fun place for dinner and drinks.

Explore Milan's most exclusive shopping district, home to haute couture brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace. Even if not shopping, the streetscapes are impressive.

• Visit during weekdays for a less crowded experience.

Visit the world-renowned opera house, La Scala. The museum displays historical costumes, instruments, and portraits, and offers guided tours of the theatre itself (subject to rehearsals).

• Check the schedule for performance times as access to the auditorium may be restricted.
• Audio guides are available for self-guided tours.

Located in the neoclassical Villa Reale, this gallery houses a significant collection of 19th and 20th-century Italian art, including works by Hayez and Segantini.

While primarily a research institution, tours can sometimes be arranged for stunning evening views of the city from its historic location, offering a unique perspective.

• Bookings are essential and often limited; check their official website well in advance.

A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an exquisite fine-dining experience with innovative Italian cuisine. It's a splurge for a memorable evening.

The most famous of Milan's canals, offering picturesque views, artisan workshops, and vintage shops. A morning stroll here is less crowded and more serene.

Italy's largest science and technology museum, dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci and innovation. It features interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.

A charming house museum displaying a diverse collection of art and decorative objects, including armor, ceramics, and paintings by Botticelli and Pollaiolo. It offers an intimate museum experience.

Experience Milan's quintessential aperitivo culture along the Navigli canals. Enjoy a drink and a generous buffet of snacks at one of the many bars.

• Many bars offer a 'buffet' style aperitivo where you pay for your drink and can eat as much as you like from the spread.

A cozy osteria famous for its 'gnocco fritto' (fried dumplings) and other Emilian specialties. It's a delightful spot for a casual dinner after aperitivo.

Pick up any last-minute gifts or mementos from the shops around the Duomo or Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Check out from your hotel.

Depart from Milan Malpensa Airport.