How to Make the Most of One Day in Milan | As a Couple
If you’ve been wondering how to make the most of one day in Milan then you will enjoy this blog. Even though our trip to Milan lasted longer than that, we quickly realized if you’re visiting as a tourist, you really only need a day to see all the big attractions.
Milan is nestled in the northern Lombardy region of Italy. It’s not just one of the top fashion capitols in the world! It’s also a city oozing with grand architecture, rich history, and mouthwatering food.
Since there is a plethora of gorgeous places to visit in Italy, a one or two day trip through Milan could fit perfectly into your Italian adventure. Here’s our itinerary for one day in Milan:
What to do
Explore the Duomo
You cannot make the the most of one day in Milan without visiting Duomo. Located in the heart of the city, this is the best place to start your trip. This iconic gothic cathedral is one of those gems you have to see in person at least once in your lifetime. Since you have one day in Milan you might want to just walk around and awe at the intricate designs of the exterior. Although if you have some time to spare, you could easily spend a couple of hours also touring the interior.
To avoid long wait times, I recommend getting skip-the-line tickets online before your visit. Make sure to head to the rooftop terrace for stunning views of Milan and a truly memorable experience. This is also where you will get to take the most amazing pictures to show your family back home all about your trip to Milan.
Click here to prebook a skip-the-line ticket that includes access to the Duomo and the rooftop terrace with a GUIDED TOUR. Make sure to go through the fast track line when you arrive.
Click here to prebook a ticket that includes access to the Duomo and the rooftop terrace.
Click here to prebook a ticket that includes just access to the rooftop terrace.
Walk through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right next to the Duomo you will notice a gorgeous archway that leads to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest and most beautiful shopping malls. Built in 1855-77, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is decorated in Renaissance style adorned in marble, iron, and glass. In the mall you will find luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Versace and high-end restaurants. You will now even find some fast-fashion brands too like H&M and Zara on the exterior of the mall.
Not only should you visit just to awe over the beautiful mosaics and renowned fashion, but something else you have to do is head over to the bull mosaic on the floor that symbolizes the city of Turin. They say if you put the heel of your shoe where the bull’s testicles are supposed to be, and spin around 3 times, good luck will follow! Even if you don’t want to shop Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II should definitely be on your list to visit because of the beautiful architecture and history.
Lunch at Terrazza Aperol
Then head to Terrazza Aperol which is located on the second floor of the Autogrill Duomo store only a minute walk from the Galleria Vittorio. This lively and popular rooftop is of course famous for the Aperol Spritz, but also it’s close-up views of the Duomo. They have a large selection of cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages to choose from. We were pleasantly surprised to see the drinks are complemented with tapas and other international and local dishes.
We visited during lunch as soon as they opened and were able to avoid a wait, but since this is such a popular place expect a short wait if you arrive at lunch time. This is also a perfect place to come watch the sunset and enjoy an aperitif especially if you’re looking for romantic evening.
Stroll around a Castle
If you’re like us and you’ve always been curious about royalty then you should stop by the Castello Sforzesco. You can walk around the castle and the castle’s courtyard, visit some of the museums and really take in some Milanese history and culture. It’s such a memorable way to take a step back into time and really appreciate Milanese art and architecture.
Relax at Parco Sempione
Looking for something romantic to do, grab some bread and cheese because this park is the perfect place for a picnic with your date.
Adjacent to the castle is one of Milan’s largest and most beautiful parks, Parco Sempione. After a busy morning exploring the city, relaxing here will be a nice break.
Another reason this park is the perfect stop on your short trip to Milan is because it’s right in between the castle and another Milan landmark you have to visit, Arco della Pace.
So take a relaxing stroll or bike ride, grab a gelato and feed the ducks, or visit the park’s Torre Branco tower for a birds eye view of the entire city. On really clear days you can even see the Swiss Alps!
Looking for something romantic to do, grab some bread and cheese because this park is the perfect place for a picnic with your date.
Awe at Leonardo da Vinci The Last Supper
The Last Supper of Leonardo da Vinci is definitely one of the most important works of art of all time and it’s located in Milan. So if you appreciate art history then this might be the most interesting attraction you will visit your entire trip. Visitors’ entry are limited to 25 people every 15 minutes so it’s necessary to purchase your tickets online before you’re visit. If you’re visiting as a couple there’s just something about viewing iconic works of art together that makes for a romantic experience.
Click here to pre-book your skip-the-line tickets to The Last Supper includes a guided tour.
Sunset and Aperitivo on the Canals of Navigli
Now it’s time to relax and enjoy the evening in true Milanese style. Aperitivo, similar to happy hour, starts around 5pm and it’s the time before dinner where you enjoy cocktails (or non-alcoholic drinks) and light food dishes.
Being one of Milan’s most popular neighborhoods and undoubtedly the best place to watch the magic of the sunset it’s the perfect way to end the day. Head to Navigli about 15 minutes before the sun sets to see the colors spill over the canals. It’s such a memorable and romantic way to end your day in Milan.
I recommend staying awhile, because the Navigli area is THE place to be at night. The area is overflowing with restaurants, bars, speakeasies, cafes, clubs, and even vintage clothing stores. Making it the perfect place to grab dinner.
Enjoy Milanese Cuisine
The cuisine in Milan is greatly influenced by its location in Italy, the northern Lombardy region, and is specially known for a few dishes other than pasta. Here are a few iconic dishes that you should experience when traveling to Milan:
Risotto alla Milanese (pictured below)
Cotoletta (pictured below)
Ossobucco (pictured below)
Casaoeula
Piadina
Polenta
Negroni cocktail
Where to eat
Posto di Conversazione
Nestled right on Navigli canal, Posto di Conversazione, is a charming restaurant that serves traditional Milanese dishes with generous portions. We ordered two of their most famous traditional dishes, the Ossobucco con Risotto and the Cotoletta. Both were absolutely delicious and incredibly satisfying, so much so that we had to stop ourselves from licking the plates clean! Such great food, great service, and the perfect place for a date night.
Osteria de Fortunata
If you're in the mood for pasta dishes, then this traditional Italian restaurant needs to be on your list. The pasta is actually some of the best we’ve ever had. The pasta is hand-made right in front up of you for a truly authentic experience! We ordered the Carbonara and the Ragu. Both were delicious and satisfying, so much so that we visited a second time when we visited Rome just a few days later.
Cioccolat Italiani
If you’re looking for something sweet to nibble on then gelato is an Italian favorite you have to try. We heard that Cioccolat Italiani serves the best gelato in Milan and they were not lying! There’s multiple locations around the city so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one. We enjoyed the pistachio and chocolate the best. It was the cutest end too our romantic day in Milan.
Where to stay
Hotel Manin
Located in the heart of the central Milan, near the most popular landmarks like Duomo, Sforza Castle, and the fashion district this 4-star hotel, Hotel Manin, is the perfect place to stay during your visit. Since this is a short trip to Milan choosing a hotel in a prime location is crucial for getting the most out of your visit. Also walking distance from the Milan central train station takes the stress out of your commute.
The rooms at Hotel Manin are very chic and modern adorned in inspirational phrases. We stayed in the Panorama Room which comes with your own terrace and panoramic views of Milan’s beautiful central park. The bathroom screams luxury and even comes with a towel warmer.
You know you’re at a 4-star hotel because everything from the hospitality, rooms, food, and decor were truly first class. Let’s not forget about the amazing breakfast buffet decked out with everything from pastries to hot proteins like scrambled eggs, bacon, and sliced meats.
We had such an amazing stay at Hotel Manin and would recommend this hotel again and again whether your visiting for a quick trip or longer stay.
Tips
Milan has a great public transportation system of trains, buses, and trams. Purchasing a 24 hour or 72 hour train ticket is going to be the best way for you to get around the city.
The Last Supper usually sells out months in advance so if you want to see it make sure to get your tickets online.
Restaurants in Milan start getting busy usually around 8-9 so to avoid a wait and beat the crowds, make reservations or arrive as early as possible.
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