Must-See Attractions for One Day in Milan
Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is a vibrant city filled with history, art, and culture. If you find yourself with just one day to explore this dynamic metropolis, here’s a carefully curated itinerary to help you make the most of your time.
Breakfast: Top Coffee Spots in Milan
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at one of these excellent coffee spots in Milan:
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery: Located at Piazza Cordusio, 3, this flagship store offers a unique experience where you can enjoy freshly roasted coffee while observing the roasting process.
- Princi: Situated at Largo La Foppa, 2, Princi is fahttps://princi.itmous for its artisanal breads, pastries, and pizzas. Enjoy a classic Italian breakfast with a cappuccino and a slice of their delectable focaccia or a sweet pastry.
- Orso Nero: For coffee lovers, visit Orso Nero at Via Giuseppe Mazzini, 12. This cozy spot is known for its excellent coffee selection and inviting atmosphere.
- Aroma del Caffè: If you’re craving authentic Italian coffee and pastries in the Neapolitan style, head to Aroma del Caffè, located at Via Isola, 14. Here you can indulge in rich espresso paired with traditional brioche.
- Cova 1817 @ Montenapoleone : Located at Via Monte Napoleone, 8, Cova has been an iconic part of Milan’s history since it opened in 1817. This refined café was once a meeting place for the irredentists during the Cinque Giornate. Today, it remains a stylish spot where you can enjoy a “Montecarlo” (small cappuccino) or fresh orange juice. The atmosphere is perfect for people-watching along one of Milan’s most fashionable streets.
This variety of options ensures that you can find the perfect breakfast spot to fuel your day of exploration in Milan.
Morning: Start at the Duomo di Milano
Kick off your day at the Duomo di Milano, one of the largest and most stunning Gothic cathedrals in the world. Located in Piazza del Duomo, this architectural marvel took nearly six centuries to complete. Consider visiting the rooftop for breathtaking views of the city and a closer look at its intricate spires and statues.
Important Note on Entrance Tickets
To enter the Duomo, it is essential to purchase tickets in advance due to its immense popularity. Opting for skip-the-line tickets allows you to bypass long queues, which can save valuable time during peak tourist months. There are several ticket options available:
- Cathedral and Terrace Skip-the-Line Ticket: This option grants access to both the Cathedral and its stunning rooftop.
- Exclusive Rooftop Priority Access Ticket: Perfect if you wish to focus solely on enjoying the panoramic views from above.
- Cathedral-Only Entry Ticket: For those who want to explore just the interior.
The Duomo is significant not only for its architectural beauty but also as a symbol of Milan’s history and cultural identity. It serves as a focal point for both locals and tourists alike, representing the city’s rich heritage. The cathedral’s intricate design features over 3,400 statues and 135 spires, making it one of the most remarkable examples of Gothic architecture in the world.
While there are other grand cathedrals globally—such as St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris—the Duomo di Milano stands out for its unique blend of artistry and historical significance within Italy.
Mid-Morning: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Just a short walk from the Duomo is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant shopping gallery known for its stunning glass dome and intricate mosaics. Here, you can indulge in some window shopping or grab a coffee at one of its historic cafes. Don’t forget to take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture that dates back to the 19th century.
Late Morning: Teatro alla Scala
Next, head over to Teatro alla Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world. While you may not have time for a performance, you can explore its museum, which showcases costumes, set designs, and historical artifacts related to opera and ballet. The nearby Piazza della Scala is also worth a stroll, featuring a statue of Leonardo da Vinci.
Art Shows in Palazzo Reale
After visiting La Scala, make your way to Palazzo Reale, which hosts a variety of exciting art exhibitions throughout the year. Some upcoming highlights include:
- From February 15 to June 29, 2025, Palazzo Reale will present a major retrospective dedicated to artist Felice Casorati, showcasing his significant contributions to modern art after over three decades since his last exhibition in Milan.
- In early 2026, expect an extraordinary site-specific installation by contemporary artist Anselm Kiefer in the Sala delle Cariatidi during the Winter Olympic Games.
- Throughout 2025, various exhibitions will explore themes such as Surrealism with artists like Leonor Fini, as well as contemporary works from renowned artists including Cindy Sherman and Francesco Vezzoli.
These exhibitions make Palazzo Reale an essential stop for art lovers visiting Milan. You can find more here
Shopping Options
For those interested in shopping before lunch, consider these excellent options:
- Explore Milan’s fashion district or visit La Rinascente, located near the Duomo. This luxury department store offers high-end Italian brands alongside unique souvenirs.
- The main shopping streets include Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Torino, where you’ll find everything from designer labels to trendy boutiques.
Lunch Options
For lunch after your shopping spree or cultural exploration, consider these excellent dining options:
- Savini Milano: Located on the first floor of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II at Via Ugo Foscolo, 5, Savini is renowned for its fine dining experience featuring traditional Italian cuisine with modern twists. The elegant setting amidst antique furnishings provides a charming atmosphere perfect for enjoying dishes like risotto alla Milanese or veal ossobuco.
- Voce: Situated within Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II as well, Voce offers contemporary Italian dishes with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for quality food in an upscale environment.
- Beucc: Known for its creative menu that blends traditional Italian flavors with modern culinary techniques. Beucc offers a relaxed yet stylish dining experience that captures the essence of Milanese cuisine.
- Salumaio di Montenapoleone: Located at Via Monte Napoleone, 8, this restaurant specializes in high-quality cured meats and cheeses served alongside traditional Italian dishes. The ambiance reflects classic Milanese elegance and provides an authentic dining experience.
These options provide a range of culinary experiences that showcase Milan’s rich gastronomic culture.
Afternoon: Castello Sforzesco and Sempione Park
After lunch, visit Castello Sforzesco, a historic castle that now houses several museums and art collections. You can explore its beautiful courtyards for free or opt for an audio guide to learn more about its history. Adjacent to the castle is Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation amidst nature.
Evening: Navigli District or Corso Garibaldi
As evening approaches, consider heading to either the picturesque Navigli District or lively Corso Garibaldi:
- The Navigli District is famous for its charming canals lined with restaurants and bars. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy an aperitivo while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
- Corso Garibaldi offers trendy bars and eateries where you can unwind after your day of exploration while enjoying local cuisine or cocktails.
Both locations provide fantastic opportunities to relax and experience Milan’s nightlife after a day filled with culture and shopping.
Conclusion
With this itinerary, you’ll experience some of Milan’s most iconic sights in just one day. From the grandeur of the Duomo to charming neighborhoods like Brera and Navigli, each stop offers a glimpse into what makes Milan such a captivating city. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking to enjoy delicious Italian cuisine, Milan has something for everyone.
