I vividly remember the first time I visited Milan. I was 19 and ready to re-enact every Sofia Loren film. But only the glamorous ones. I didn’t want a traumatizing Two Women replay. Anyways, I was thrilled to visit a new Italian city. I hopped off the train at Milano Centrale. I’m not sure if I was waiting for a modeling contract to land in my lap or what because my expectations were very high. Instead, all I could think is This city is grey, dull, and boring.

Fast-forward years later and I am mind-boggled this was my opinion! Not only am I now living in Milan (pinch me), but I LOVE the city. Taking a step back and removing my bias, I am not naive to realize sooo much of this city is about planning and knowing where to go. So, you want the guide of local? Keep reading to explore my list of the best things to do in Milan, Italy.

Visit the Duomo and the Terraces

Everyone is taking pics with her. She’s the showstopper of the city. An icon.

No. She’s not one of the many models passing through Milan. She’s… The Duomo.

Duomo in Italian means cathedral and it is essential to prioritize a visit here while you are in Milan. Depending on how in-depth of a tour you want, you can opt to simply enter the church and wander solo, upgrade to utilize an audio guide, or hire a privately-guided tour. I find the self-guided audio is the best option if you are traveling on a budget. It technically is cheaper to enter without it, but there is a LOT inside and can be a bit overwhelming. Therefore, the guide provides a clear path around the cathedral and provides an excellent overview of the major pieces.

Purchase tickets directly through their website – prices start around €10 and increase depending on any add-ons.

But WAIT. There is one add-on you can’t miss. You MUST (please, I beg) purchase the additional upgrade for the terrazze. Yes! The Duomo has terraces that us common folk can access and they are as beautiful as you can imagine.

Tip: Try to plan your visit around sunset for the best golden hour views of Piazza Duomo.

Meander the Luxury Mall, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Shopping lovers, unite! One of the most beautiful (and expensive) malls is right within your grasp in Milan. In fact, it’s a stone’s throw away from the Duomo. Welcome to La Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

This architectural marvel was completed in 1877 and is known as one of the oldest malls in the world. Here, you’ll find Gucci, Versace, Swarovski, and more. #Casual

Even if you just plan on window-shopping, I do suggest popping over to Prada. This is their original location and while it may look tiny from the outside, there is more than meets the eye! Head downstairs to see how expansive these luxury shops are below ground!

Anyone with a sweet tooth may also want to head to the second floor for a visit to Marchesi 1824. The historic pastry shop, with over 200 years of history and experience, has several locations. But I think most can agree that the location at the Galleria is the most iconic.

While you’re in here, don’t forget to find the hidden bull amongst the floor mosaic. Once you find him, spin on his, um, manly parts 3 times in a row. Legend says this will bring you good luck! It’s worth a shot.

Take a Tour or Watch an Opera at La Scala

As a self-proclaimed theatre addict, I have to reluctantly admit Milan is not on the same level as a New York or Broadway. However, here is something Milan has that they don’t: La Scala.

The Teatro alla Scala was buit in the late 1700s, back when Milan was under Austrian control. As history unfolded, it finally became property of the city of Milan in 1872. If you love opera, check if you are visiting during opera season. If not, there are still events held year round here.

Fun fact: The most famous day of the year to attend a show at La Scala is December 7th, the Prima della Scala. It is the opening night of the season and all of Italy’s “who’s who” attend the show.

Reserve a Spot to See The Last Supper

When thinking of Italy, Leonardo da Vinci quickly comes to mind. His masterpieces can be spotted around the globe, sometimes even traveling museum to museum on-lend. One of his works is forever stuck in Milan, though: The Last Supper.

So, you have to add this to your list of things to do in Milan! However, the process to purchase tickets to The Last Supper can be a bit like The Hunger Games. Batches of tickets go on-sale months ahead and you need to be organized and prepared to book your slot. While slightly anxiety-inducing, it is absolutely worth it to see this work of art in-person.

For more information, read my detailed post about How to Visit the Last Supper in Milan, Italy.

Explore Milan’s Different Neighborhoods

One of my favorite things to do in Milan is to simply wander and explore its distinct neighborhoods. From Porta Nuova with its Bosco Verticale (the aesthetically pleasing residential building filled with greenery) to Brera with its posh vibe to Navigli with its laid-back aperitivo spread along the canals, Milan offers something for everyone.

Wander through Parco Sempione and Visit the Castle Sforzesco

If you only have limited time, a walk around Parco Sempione to see the Castle Sforzesco is worthwhile. It is only a short walk from the Duomo. However, I don’t recommend paying to visit the museum since it is admittedly a bit boring (and this is coming from someone who loves history!) and there are better ways to spend your time in Milan.

Even without tickets, you can walk through the castle doors and inside the castle’s enormous courtyard, so take advantage of that bonus. Here, we love free things.

For those who truly want to adapt to the Milanese way of life, one of the best (and cheapest) things to do in Milan is to grab a bottle of wine and some meat and cheese from local shops. Setup a blanket or towel in the park, bask in the sun, and just simply enjoy life.

Enjoy an Aperitivo in Navigli

As mentioned in the neighborhood section above, Navigli is a great spot to grab an aperitivo or even an apericena. The apertivo is a pre-dinner drink, that’s why you’ll usually see Italians with a spritz in their hand from the hours of 6-8pm, give or take. It’s definitely the socializing hour as everyone heads out of the office and is looking for a chance to unwind and catch up with friends.

An apericena is essentially the aspect of buying a drink but then also gaining access to a large buffet of finger food. The quality can vary greatly, but one thing is for sure: it is a good bang for your buck. Hence the flocks of students that congregate at them.

And Then Sample Everything Campari!

Ok, so all this talk about spritz is making me thirsty! Of course we all love the bright orange Aperol drinks. BUT, while you’re in Milan you also need to sample Campari, the Milanese aperitif. It has a darker red color.

Check out my post about Where to Drink Campari Like a Local in Milan.

Visit the Monumental Cemetery

One of my favorite things to do in Milan is meander the Monumental Cemetery. Sounds a bit odd, right? Walking around a cemetery… Well, this is an open-air museum. You’ll find enormous tombs for some of Milan’s most famous people.

The entrance is free, but make sure to check a map because you could easily get lost inside!

Relax at the QC Terme Spa

Looking for an affordable way to unwind in the center of the city? Look no further than the QC Terme spa in the Porta Romana neighborhood. You will forget you are in the center of bustling Milan.

For €64, you can enjoy access to the spa for 5 hours. And while that may seem like a lot of time, it flies here at the spa! There are so many hidden rooms to try.

For instance, there are several pools and cold plunges outside, a variety of saunas with different themed scents inside, relaxation areas, a rain simulation room, and more.

But Sara, this sounds too good to be true! What is the catch?! I must admit, one of the only downsides is the amount of undeniable PDA with some other attendees. There were several times I felt like I was interrupting some NSFW moments or was an extra in an adult film. It tends to be that way with the younger crowd, so if you’re trying to avoid this I suggest booking on the weekdays or early morning slots.

That being said, on a nice, hot day the spa gets crowded in general, so book in advance and try to reserve an earlier slot to beat out the crowds.

Try a Traditional Milanese Dinner

You can almost find any and every type of food in Milan. As a bustling, international city you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the city offers so much variety. I’ve had incredible meals from all different corners of the world in Milan.

But, I know, you’re in Italy for vacation and food is probably at the top of your list! And while Milan isn’t necessarily winning most culinary awards out of all the Italian cities, it does have its own specialities that are delicious and need to be on your radar.

From the savory risotto alla Milanese (a giant plate of risotto made with saffron), the cotoletta (which competes directly for the #1 spot with Austria’s schnitzel), and during holidays a big loaf of panettone (a sweet bread usually filled with dried fruit and nuts).

Do you want the full breakdown of what to eat? Then click on this post as a guide to the Must-Eat Foods in Milan, Italy.

Cheer on Inter or AC Milan at San Siro

The San Siro stadium is located just outside of the city center and is very well-known to soccer fanatics. But soccer is out the door. We say football here.

Whether you simply want to take an organized Stadium Tour or attend one of the big games, you’re bound to create some fantastic memories.

Looking for more off-the-beaten path ideas of what to do in Milan, Italy? Check out my guide of My Favorite Hidden Gems in Milan.

I hope you enjoy my list of some of my favorite things to do in Milan, Italy!

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