5 Days in Milan Itinerary – What to do in Milan in 5 Days

Milan is a city that has captured my heart time and time again. Having visited multiple times, I’m still in awe of Milan’s unique blend of history, fashion, and vibrant energy. In fact, I was so infatuated with this city that I even contemplated moving here for college!

Milan has always drawn me back, and I’m thrilled to share my love for this city through this curated 5-day itinerary that combines iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and, of course, delicious cuisine and aperitivos.

Get ready for a journey filled with art, culture, and a touch of la dolce vita on this 5 days in Milan itinerary!

Where to stay in Milan

For the most convenient and enjoyable stay in Milan, base yourself in the historic city center or the trendy Brera neighborhood.

Both offer central locations with easy access to numerous attractions, as well as a diverse array of restaurants and bars. If you’re traveling by train or hauling lots of luggage, it might be wise to stay near the central train station.

Casa Baglioni Milan – BOUTIQUE LUXURY
With just 30 rooms and suites, plus a top-notch restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Claudio Sadler and an exquisite wine cellar, Casa Baglioni stands out as one of Milan’s newest 5-star hotels.

Matilde Boutique Hotel – CENTRAL AND BEAUTIFUL
Matilde Boutique Hotel strikes the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, evident in every refined detail—from its elegant decor to its modern amenities.

Galleria Vik Milano – STAY IN AN ART GALLERY
More than just a luxury hotel, Galleria Vik Milano doubles as a private gallery. Located inside Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, it features unique furniture and design elements that offer an artistic experience alongside your stay.

milan duomo galleria - Milan, Lombardy

How many days Milan?

Three days in Milan is the perfect amount of time to experience Milan at a comfortable pace.

But if you have more time in Milan, the better! With five days in Milan you can really take in this wonderful city and enjoy it at a slower pace, indulge in leisurely meals and aperitivos, plus explore the wider area on day tours.

But even if you’re short on time, don’t worry! You can get a good taste of Milan and its highlights with even just one or two days.

5 days in Milan itinerary

This 5-day itinerary of Milan is thoughtfully crafted to ensure you experience the very best things to do in Milan. 

You’ll visit the must-see attractions and activities the city has to offer, as well as some unique spots you might not know about. Additionally, I’ve planned time for essential day trips to nearby locations, including the stunning Lake Como.

milan piazza duomo - Milan, Lombardy

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH

Plan your Milan trip with this convenient Milan travel guide and grab the free Milan map!

Day 1: Historic Milan

On your first day in Milan you’ll explore the historic heart of Milan with visits to iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, as well as the famous Last Supper. You’ll end the day by indulging in the vibrant aperitivo culture in Navigli.

These landmarks are very popular so make sure to book your tours and tickets in advance to skip the lines and make the most of your time. You’ll get the best value with this walking tour which includes tickets to the Duomo and the Last Supper. Or join this vintage tram tour for a more unique experience.

Book your tram tour with Last Supper tickets
Book your walking tour with Duomo & Last supper

8:00 AM: Piazza Duomo & Duomo di Milano

Start your day in the heart of Milan, where you’ll find the iconic Duomo di Milano cathedral towering over Piazza Duomo. This Gothic masterpiece, built over six centuries, is not just a jaw-dropping structure but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Inside, you’ll be greeted by stunning frescoes, radiant stained glass, and an archaeological site beneath, showcasing remnants of early Christian baptisteries and an ancient Roman city.

But wait, it gets even better! The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the climb to the rooftop. Skip the line and join this guided tour, or if you’re feeling extra adventurous, and join this combo tour combine your Duomo visit with a city walking tour and The Last Supper.

Book your Duomo tour incl. rooftop ticket
Book your combo tour of the Duomo & Last supper

milan bernardino alle ossa - Milan, Lombardy

10:00 AM: Santuario di San Bernardino alle Ossa

Next, just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Duomo, you’ll find one of Milan’s most bizarre yet fascinating churches—San Bernardino alle Ossa. Trust me, this eerie gem is a must-see.

As you step inside, take a detour to the right and behold the ossuary chapel. This small, square room is both creepy and fascinating, its walls decorated with human skulls and bones. These remains are artfully arranged in niches, corners, and doorways, creating a hauntingly beautiful display.

These bones probably belonged to patients from the Brolo Hospital, once dedicated to treating leprosy, as well as to individuals moved from 17th-century cemeteries that were shut down.

The skulls encased in boxes above the entrance are believed to be those of condemned souls. If that wasn’t spine-chilling enough, look up to see a ceiling frescoed by Sebastiano Ricci, a Venetian Baroque maestro.

Join this guided tour of Milan’s secret treasures

11:00 AM: Piazza Mercanti

Continue your journey to Piazza Mercanti, a medieval hub surrounded by some of Milan’s architectural masterpieces. This square houses the Palazzo della Ragione and Palazzo delle Scuole Palatine, not to mention the Gothic-style Loggia degli Osii.

Historically, Piazza Mercanti served as the bustling center of the city’s medieval markets.

milan galleria vittorio emanuele 2 - Milan, Lombardy

11:45 PM: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

End your morning at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade named after Italy’s first king, Victor Emmanuel II. As one of Europe’s oldest and most glamorous shopping malls, it’s filled with high-end boutiques, bustling restaurants, and a mosaic floor by Giuseppe Verdi.

Make sure to spin three times on the bull of Turin’s family jewels for good luck—a tradition you’ll find impossible to resist. Plus, if you’re a Leonardo Da Vinci enthusiast, don’t miss the Leonardo3 interactive exhibition. It’s your chance to dive into his inventions and book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

Book your Leonardo3 tickets

12:30 PM: RoofTop della Rinascente for lunch

Enjoy your lunch eye-to-eye with the spires of Duomo Cathedral while soaking in panoramic views over Piazza Duomo. The views are to die for, and there’s a huge selection of tasty dishes for you to choose from.

Now, don’t let the posh setting fool you—this is a food court where you can grab a cheap pizza margherita from a chain or splurge on a juicy steak.

2:00 PM: Leonardo da Vinci Museum

Nestled in the former Olivetan monastery of San Vittore, the Leonardo da Vinci Museum explores the intersection of art and science. Here you’ll find models of da Vinci’s inventions alongside groundbreaking technological advancements.

I especially enjoyed the section dedicated to space exploration. Make sure to grab tickets in advance to skip the lines and maximize your time.

Book your Da Vinci Museum tickets

last supper milan - Milan, Lombardy

3:00 PM: Santa Maria delle Grazie & Last Supper

Head over to Santa Maria delle Grazie church to take in one of the most iconic frescoes of all time, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. This masterpiece, painted in the late 15th century, captures the exact moment Jesus drops the bombshell that one of his disciples will betray him.

Due to its delicate state, daily visits are limited and tickets are hotter than a Milanese summer day. Opting for a guided tour may be pricier, but it’s your best bet to secure a spot—just be sure to book well in advance.

Maximize your visit by joining this walking tour that includes tickets to the Duomo and The Last Supper.

Book your Last Supper tickets
Book your walking tour with Duomo & Last Supper tickets

5:00 PM: Sforzesco Castle

Ready for some history? Visit the Castello Sforzesco, a structure with a resume that includes stints as a military fortress, a palace, and even a prison.

Today, it’s a top tourist destination in Milan thanks to its eye-catching architecture and intriguing past. Exploring the exhibits or just meander through the grounds before heading into the park.

milan sempione arco della pace - Milan, Lombardy

6:00 PM: Sempione Park & Branca Tower

Sempione city park connects Castello Sforzesco to the Arco della Pace. Spanning nearly 400,000 square meters, it’s one of Milan’s largest green spaces. Enjoy spacious lawns, tree-lined paths, and picturesque gardens perfect for relaxation.

Sit down for a coffee at one of the bars or climb up Branca Tower for more views of Milano.

7:00 PM: Arco della Pace

Venture to the Arco della Pace, perched on the edge of Parco Sempione and opposite Castello Sforzesco. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to celebrate the French victory at the Battle of Marengo, this white marble arch designed by Luigi Cagnola is truly a sight to behold!

Stroll along Via Mario Pagano to reach the Via Pagano Via Canova tram stop. Hop on tram 10 and head to your final destination, Navigli Pavese. Get off at either Via Vigevano V.Le Gorizia or Piazza Ventiquattro Maggio.

milan navigli - Milan, Lombardy

7:30 PM: Apericena in Navigli 

Cap off your day by diving into Milan’s vibrant aperitivo culture, but with a twist—welcome to apericena! It’s like aperitivo on steroids, with giant cocktails and endless buffets. Trust me, you won’t need dinner after this feast! In fact, cena (from aperi-cena) means dinner in Italian.

The evening will morph into night as everyone at the bar gets a bit tipsier and a whole lot merrier. For the ultimate experience, head to Naviglio Pavese.

For the best experience join this aperitivo and street food tour or combine sightseeing with an aperitivo on this sunset bike tour.

Book this aperitivo and street food tour 
Join this fun sunset bike tour.

prada foundation - Milan, Lombardy

Day 2 – Art, fashion and food

Day two of this 5-day Milan itinerary offers a blend of artistic exploration, local flavors, and the chance to indulge in a shopping spree or a relaxing spa experience. It’s the perfect chill day with a late start after all the fun you had last night at Navigli!

But you’ll have to make some choices. I’m offering two options for each activity today so pick the one that suits you best. And if you’re a bit of an overachiever and don’t mind an early start, you might be able to visit both, the Prada and Armani/Silos.

9:30 AM – Armani/Silos or Prada Foundation

Armani/Silos is a museum that showcases the creations of fashion designer Giorgio Armani. Housed in a former grain silo, the museum’s exhibits highlight Armani’s work from the 1970s to today, featuring a range of clothing, accessories, and photographs. Among the displays are iconic items such as the power suits made famous in the 1980s.

Prada Foundation was founded by Miuccia Prada and Patrizio Bertelli. This complex offers a blend of contemporary art, thought-provoking exhibitions, and cultural events that push the boundaries of creative expression and artistic innovation. With a focus on blurring the lines between art, architecture, and culture, the Prada Foundation provides a dynamic and immersive experience.

12:00 PM – Food Tour or Cooking Class

Dive into Milan’s rich food scene with this gourmet tour and sample local favorites such as risotto alla Milanese, fresh pasta, local wines, cheeses, and more.

If you’re a home chef, consider joining a cooking class to learn how to recreate authentic Italian flavors at home. Pick between this pasta & tiramisu class or opt for the pizza & gelato class.

Book your foodie experience:
Gourmet street food tour
Pasta & tiramisu cooking class
Pizza & gelato cooking class

3:00 PM – Shopping or Spa

As the fashion capital, Milan offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Make sure to check out Corso Buenos Aires, Milano’s longest shopping or head to the upscale Quadrilattero della Moda in the city center for high-end fashion. 

If you’re looking to snag designer deals, Serravalle outlet is a must. It’s located a bit out of town but you can book this shuttle bus to the shopping center.

And you even have the option to hire a personal shopper if you want to navigate this fashion paradise like a pro!

Get ready for a fashionista spree:
Hire a personal shopper
Serravalle outlet shuttle bus

If you prefer to relax then QC Termemilano Spa is the right choice for you. Set in a stunning art nouveau complex, this thermal spa boasts lush gardens, pools, saunas, and steam rooms. The architecture feels like a hug from the past, and you emerge feeling as refreshed as a spring morning.

Book your day pass, or opt for an evening visit to enjoy an aperitivo and snacks amidst bubbles and blissful steam.

Book your QC Termemilano Spa Ticket

Nottingham Forest cocktails - Milan, Lombardy

6:00 PM – Quirky Cocktails at Nottingham Forest

Nottingham Forest is a bar so tiny you’ll feel like you’re at a secret club and it serves drinks in the most bizarre containers you’ve ever seen.

Ever sipped a cocktail from a syringe or a mini bathtub? How about a toothpaste tube? This is the place where cocktails meet mad science. I promise you, their concoctions are as entertaining as they are delicious!

7:30 PM – Dinner at PLIN Pastificio

Just a short walk from Nottingham Forest, you’ll find PLIN Pastificio, a pasta hotspot offering some of the finest pasta dishes in town. The artisanal pasta here is simply superb!

You can’t go wrong with the Ravioli del Plin al Pesto, and make sure to save some space for the tiramisu! You can even purchase some of their pasta and sauces to take home.

lake como bellagio ferry - Milan, Lombardy

Day 3 – Lake Como Day Trip

Today you’ll visit Lake Como, one of the most popular day trips from Milan, and for good reason. It is famous for its breathtaking beauty with clear waters surrounded by mountains and charming villages.

Read next: Best things to do at Lake Como

I highly recommend this guided day trip to Como. It includes transport from and to Milan, a walking tour of Como town, a cruise and commentary.

The tour begins with a walking tour through the town of Como. Don’t miss the Como Cathedral, a remarkable example of Gothic and Renaissance styles, and the charming Piazza San Fedele.

Once you’ve explored the town, treat yourself to a delightful Italian lunch at one of the cozy trattorias. 

Stop by La Vita è Bella for a pizza that will make you question why you ever eat anything else. Or try Il Solito Posto for a pasta dish that may lead you to join a pasta appreciation society. But make sure to save room for a treat and head to Gelateria Guidi for gelato to die for.

The tour continues with a scenic cruise on Lake Como, where you can take in the breathtaking vistas and stunning villas from the water. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride back to Milan, arriving in time for dinner.

Book your Lake Como Day trip from Milan

Bernina Express Train - Milan, Lombardy

Day 4 – Bernina Express and St.Moritz Day Trip

On Day 4 you’ll venture outside Milan again for a scenic Bernina Express ride. This UNESCO World Heritage train route treats you to breathtaking scenes of snow-capped peaks and glistening glaciers and ends in the charming town of St. Moritz. 

I recommend you book this Bernina tour from Milano. You’ll ride the Bernina Express one way and take a coach ride back while also having plenty of time to explore St Moritz.

Upon reaching St. Moritz, stroll along the picturesque Lake St. Moritz, browse through chic boutiques, or explore the works of local artists at the Segantini Museum.

Feeling peckish? Treat your taste buds to Swiss classics like fondue or raclette at cozy eateries such as Chesa Veglia or Stüvetta.

Book your Bernina Express tour from Milano

milan brera art gallery - Milan, Lombardy

Day 5 – Artistic & Modern Milan

The final day of your Milan itinerary is dedicated to exploring the artistic and modern aspects of the city. The day includes visits to art galleries, a visit to Teatro alla Scala, and enjoying the business district. It’s a perfect blend of classic and contemporary Milan that ends with a memorable last supper in Milan.

8:00 AM: Pinnacoteca Brera

Start the day with art history at the Brera Art Gallery, established in 1776. This gallery boasts a jaw-dropping collection of masterpieces from legends like Raphael, Tintoretto, Rembrandt, Titian, and Rubens, spanning from the 13th to the 20th century.

Snag your tickets in advance to dodge any lines. Housed in a stunning building designed by Francesco Maria Ricchini and Giuseppe Piermarini, the gallery’s architecture is as impressive as the art it contains.

Grab your tickets 

10:00 AM: Coffee in Brera

Brera district is known for its bohemian atmosphere, charming cobblestone streets, and vibrant art scene. This historic neighborhood is home to the prestigious Brera Academy of Fine Arts and boasts an array of art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.

Take a moment to stroll through the picturesque streets and admire the beautiful architecture. Then sit down for a coffee at Pasticceria Marchesi for some people watching and observing the hustle and bustle of Milanese life.

La Scala Opera house - Milan, Lombardy

11:30 PM: Teatro alla Scala

La Scala is the crown jewel of opera houses! Since 1778, this theatre has graced the world with performances by legendaries like Giuseppe Verdi and Maria Callas. Still one of the globe’s most prestigious theaters, La Scala continues to draw crowds for grand evening performances.

Join this guided tour of the theatre and its museum or snag a ticket for a luxurious night out and enjoy a performance in the evening.

Book this guided tour

1:00 PM: Via Paolo Sarpi for lunch

Found in Milan’s Chinatown a lively and diverse area combining Italian and Chinese cultures, Paolo Sarpi Street is famous for its genuine Chinese restaurants, bustling markets, and cultural activities.

For an authentic dining experience, visit Ravioleria Sarpi, a well-liked restaurant known for its handmade dumplings and classic Chinese dishes. Alternatively, Jingji offers the best Sichuan cuisine and a friendly atmosphere.

2:30 PM: Monumental Cemetery

Though visiting a cemetery might seem unusual, the Cimitero Monumentale is an open-air museum of art. Founded in 1866, it houses awe-inspiring tombs that are true sculptural masterpieces.

Think Greek temples and towering obelisks, it’s not so much about who’s buried here, but how! These tombs truly are monumental works of art.

Join this guided tour for more insight into the artistic gravestones and Milan’s rich history.

Book your Cimitero Monumentale guided tour

Bosco Verticale milan - Milan, Lombardy

4:00 PM: Piazza Gae Aulenti & Bosco Verticale

For a taste of modern architecture, head to Piazza Gae Aulenti. This contemporary square is surrounded by some of Milan’s bold architectural feats. This bustling square is home to a cluster of impressive skyscrapers, including the Unicredit Tower, Italy’s tallest building and the iconic Bosco Verticale translating to Vertical Forest.

Designed by Stefano Boeri, this sustainable residential complex features two towers that are beautifully adorned with lush greenery, providing a striking contrast to the surrounding urban landscape. The towers aim to promote biodiversity and combat air pollution in the city by incorporating over 1,000 trees and 2,000 plants within their structure for a total of 10,000 m² (107,639 sq ft) of greenery.

Grab a coffee at Illy Cafe in the square to take in the incredible architecture.

5:00 PM – Indro Montanelli Gardens and Gallery or Museum

The Indro Montanelli Gardens honor the famous Italian journalist and historian with their green plants, peaceful paths, and lovely ponds. Inside the gardens, you’ll find the Gallery of Modern Art (GAM) and the Natural History Museum.

The GAM displays a mix of modern and contemporary art from Italian and international artists. Visitors can enjoy paintings, sculptures, and installations in a setting that enhances the artwork’s beauty.

The Natural History Museum offers an exciting exploration of the natural world, featuring exhibits on biodiversity, geology, and evolution, from dinosaur skeletons to interactive displays on ecology.

Book your Natural History Museum tickets

milan piazza duomo - Milan, Lombardy

6:30 PM – Aperitif at Aperol Terrace

Savor your last moments in Milan with a traditional aperitif at the Aperol Terrace, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Duomo. Relax in the elegant setting and toast to your time in this vibrant metropolis while enjoying a delightful selection of Aperol-based cocktails.

7:30 PM – Risotto alla Milanese for dinner

You can’t leave Mila without indulging in an authentic Risotto alla Milanese. This creamy saffron-infused rice dish from Milan is known for its golden color. You can pair it with Ossobuco, a braised veal shank in a flavorful vegetable and broth mixture, often served with marrow.

I highly recommend Risoelatte for the best risotto and a nostalgic experience a 1960s ambiance. Alternatively, make your way to Ristorante Galleria, where you can enjoy dinner with views of the magnificent Duomo, just be prepared for the higher price tag.

milan duomo sunrise - Milan, Lombardy

Is Milan worth visiting?

Milan is a gem brimming with historic landmarks, rich culture, and a lively cosmopolitan vibe that makes it a must-visit. From the iconic Duomo di Milano to the legendary fresco, The Last Supper, Milan offers a feast for the eyes and soul.

While you’re in Milan, dive headfirst into its history and architecture, explore an array of museums and galleries, splurge a little (or a lot) on shopping—after all, it is the fashion capital—and indulge in superb dining and vibrant nightlife. Plus, Milan is a fantastic base for day trips from Milan to nearby lakes, mountains, and charming towns.

milan vintage tram arco pace - Milan, Lombardy

Getting to Milano

Milan is a major hub with excellent connections by air, train, and road.

By Air: Fly into Malpensa Airport, Milan’s main international gateway. From there, hop on the Malpensa Express train for a quick ride into the city center. Alternatively, Linate Airport is a convenient choice for many travelers.

By Train: Arrive at Milano Centrale, the city’s main train station with direct access to various parts of Italy and Europe. It’s a striking architectural marvel and, more importantly, a key transit hub. Be sure not to confuse it with Milano Porta Garibaldi, another important station serving various regional routes.

By Bus: Milan’s bus services connect various regions, with many terminating at Milan’s central areas like Piazza Duca d’Aosta, near Milano Centrale.

By Car: You can easily reach Milan by rental car via A1 or A4. Though Milan is car-friendly, parking can be a challenge in the heart of the city. Park at one of the designated public parking lots on the outskirts, such as those in Famagosta or Lampugnano, and take public transport into the city center.

Getting around Milan

The historic city center is best explored by foot but navigating wider Milan is a breeze with its superb public transportation system, which includes buses, trams, the metro, and trains. Throw in a plethora of taxis and Uber drivers, and you’re all set.

Milan’s extensive tram routes offer a convenient, efficient, and budget-friendly way to explore the city while soaking in the sights.

The Metro is another fantastic option, providing quick and comprehensive coverage of nearly all areas in Milan. Fast and reliable, it’s a commuter’s best friend.

Best time to visit Milan

Milan dazzles no matter when you visit. For the best weather, spring and autumn are ideal, although be prepared for a bit of a crowd.

Winter, while less popular, transforms the city into a magical wonderland. Summer, especially August, is surprisingly quiet but can get scorching hot.

Milan map mockup e1726487448789 - Milan, Lombardy

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