Located in the north of Italy, Milan is a working city known for its beauty, history, and shopping. If you love a bustling yet still charming city that is full of charm, it is a must visit. Luckily, many flights into Italy and to the rest of Europe can lend to at least a stopover in Milan and it is well worth taking the time to visit.
While in Milan, here are just some of the activities you can do:
Sightseeing
Milan is a beautiful city, and it is a must to do some sight-seeing while you’re here. The city’s landmark is easily the Duomo, a Gothic cathedral that has been around since the 14th century. You can climb the stairs for incredible views of the city, visit the inside to appreciate the art and architecture, and even simply enjoy the architecture from the main piazza. Another sight to see is Castello Sforzesco, where you can walk the grounds for free or visit inside to see the museums and artwork inside.
Luxury shopping
The incredible shopping in Milan is known worldwide, and if you love to shop this is a place to come to. You can find the major designers here as well as the smaller boutique names and high street fashion. Some of the most popular spots to shop are Corso Como 10, La Rinascente (a luxurious department store), and Cavalli e Nastri (two popular vintage boutique shops). There are many incredible goods to buy here, from luxury watches such as De Bethune at shops like Pisa Orologeria and high-end designer fashion items from Armani, Versace, Prada and more.
Enjoy the nightlife at Navigli
If you enjoy nightlife or even just an evening stroll along some fun nightlife energy, spending some time at Navigli is a must. It is a picturesque little neighborhood along the canal where people are flowing out of bars and restaurants. It is the perfect place to go for an aperitivo
Admire contemporary art at the Brera art gallery
The Brera Art Gallery is the main place to go in Milan to see Italian paintings. You can see beautiful works by Bellini, Raphael, Caravaggio and so many more artists. It’s a small museum that doesn’t draw quite the numbers of visitors, but the quality is incredible and it is well-worth a visit while you are here.
Opera
Milan is a wonderful city to spend an elegant night out in. While you’re here, catch a show at La Scala for a classic experience. Teatro alla Scala is one of the world’s most famous opera houses, and particularly if you are an opera fan it is a must-do while here.
Enjoy the local food
As with every city/region in Italy, Milan has some typical dishes that you will see across the city and are musts to try. Some typical dishes to try are risotto alla Milanese (served with saffron), ossobuco (veal shanks), and polenta. And while we may have covered Navigli being perfect for an Aperitivo, it has to be mentioned here that an Aperitivo is a classic and very popular outing in Milan. It is well worth going to some different ones while you’re here! While you’re here, stop at Fondiere Milanesi for a classic aperitivo in the city.
While there is so much to see and do while in Milan, it is also a great starting point to make some day trips from. Lake Como for example is only about 30 minutes via train departing from Milan’s Stazione Centrale. Or you can pop over to romantic Verona to the city of Shakespeare’s heroine Juliet.
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