How to make the most of a long weekend in Milan

Milan is the perfect place to spend a long weekend unraveling the particular ossobuco-and-polenta-tinted charm of Northern Italy.

With a compact and walkable city center, you can see Milan’s most famous sites, like the Duomo, in a single day. The rest of your weekend can be spent exploring some of the city’s lesser-known spots or on a day trip to Lake Como, which is only an hour away by train.

Ready for fashion, history, and incredible architecture? Here is how to spend a weekend in Milan to get the most out of this lovely city.

Know Before You Go

Why you should go: It’s the birthplace of the aperitivo (pre-meal drink & appetizers), one of the world’s top four fashion capitals, Italy’s commercial hub, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper” and the famous Gothic masterpiece, the Duomo.
Don’t miss: The Duomo and its surrounding neighborhood, the Navigli canals, and Lake Como.
Best time to go: Summer is the warmest and busiest time of year, while spring and fall are milder and have slightly smaller crowds.
Where to stay: For more modern, upscale hotels, stay in the Porta Nuova district, or for charming boutique hotels, stay in the Brera or Navigli districts.
Insider tip: All of the city’s museums are free on the first Sunday of the month, making this a budget-friendly addition to your Milan weekend itinerary.

Day 1: Traverse Milan’s iconic Centro Storico

Morning

Sip a cappuccino in the Piazza della Scala

Morning in Milan means quiet walks without the crowds (and maybe the heat) of the day. Head first to the lesser-known Piazza della Scala, in front of the grand Teatro of the same name. Grab a cappuccino and cornetto to enjoy beneath the statue of Leonardo da Vinci.

Navigate towards Galleria Vitor Emanuele II

You might need to dodge a few Vespas as you walk the narrow streets of the historic center. Try to resist spending everything you have until you get to Galleria Vitor Emanuele II, the place to go for extensive shopping sprees in Milan. Admire its high ceilings and higher-end shops.

Afternoon

Cool off in the Duomo Cathedral

Exiting through Galleria Vitor Emanuele II’s opposing archway, you’ll find yourself in the Duomo Square, or Piazza del Duomo, home of the cathedral of the same name. If you visit Milan during the summer, the day will be hot by now, so you’ll appreciate its cool tiles and tranquil interior as you enter. Look for signs pointing to the rooftop for one of the best views in the city.

Walk through the Museu del Novocento

Across the piazza from the Duomo, you’ll find the Museo del Novocento (Museum of the Twentieth Century), which features some of Italy’s finest art from the last century. One of the city’s world-class museums, it’s especially renowned for the Mattioli collection of futurist art. This avant-garde artistic movement originated here and is a must-see on your Milan weekend itinerary.

Evening

Have aperitivo at a Centro Storico bar

The Milanese are serious about their aperitivo, a local tradition of pre-dinner drinks and complementary snacks. Find a nice bar on one of the side streets or join a local group tasting and enjoy the early evening buzz. Afterward, cap off the night with a show at the renowned Teatro alla Scala.

Day 2: Go canal hopping in the Navigli district

Morning

Take a morning stroll along the canals

While you may associate Italian canals with Venice, Milan’s Navigli district has its own canals designed by none other than Leonardo da Vinci. Take an early morning stroll along the Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese, the city’s two most famous waterways. Also, check out some lesser-known but equally inviting canals, such as the Naviglio Martesana.

Grab a late breakfast in the Darsena

At the meeting point of the Naviglio Pavese and the Naviglio Grande, you’ll find the Darsena, a flat waterfront area. Here, you can sometimes find market stalls selling local foods and antiques. Grab a bite to eat and lounge in the grassy area here.

Afternoon

Go shopping around Via Corsico

In recent years, the Navigli district has become famous for its bohemian shopping scene of vintage clothing stores, antique shops, and bookstores. The area around Via Corsico is particularly well-known for these shops. You can also find some of Milan’s graffiti and street art along the narrow street.

Learn Milanese cooking near the Alzaia Naviglio Grande

The Alazaia Naviglio Grande is the most commercial part of the Navigli district and, as such, is home to many excellent Milanese cooking classes. Learn the ins and outs of Milanese cuisine from a local chef and make an osso buco alla Milanese, a veal shank dish that will impress everyone back home.

Evening

Take a golden hour cruise through the canals of Navigli

The evening is the best time to take a boat ride along the Navigli canals, ideally with an aperitivo in hand. Take in the relaxed atmosphere and stunning architecture of the neighborhood. The Naviglio Grande is the more popular of the two, while the Naviglio Pavese tends to be quieter and more local.

Dance to live music at a canal-side bar

You’ll find bars and restaurants all along the canal playing live music and serving delicious Milanese food. Follow the sound of Italian rock ballads to the Porta Ticinese neighborhood across the canal from Alzaia Naviglio Grande for one of the best ways to spend the night in Milan.

Day 3: Day trip to Lake Como

Morning

Take a day trip to the Lake Como region

Only an hour by train from Milan, Lake Como is the perfect way to end any short stay in the city. Home to some of the best lakefront views (and Italian villas) in Europe, it’s the perfect conclusion to a weekend already marked by incredible sights.

Take a stroll along the Lungolago

As soon as you step off the train station in Como, you’ll understand why the region has become a favorite of A-list celebrities. Walk along the Lungolago (lakefront), admiring the churches and historical buildings that line the shore. Of course, this experience can only be improved by grabbing an espresso at a cafe along the way.

Afternoon

Take the ferry to Belaggio

The town of Bellagio is sometimes called the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Only a short (and breathtaking) ferry ride from Como town, it is home to gorgeous villas, shops, and restaurants. Check out Villa Melzi for a stunning garden with a lake view. Grab lunch along the waterfront in Bellagio before taking the ferry back to Como.

Explore Medieval Como at the Mura di Como

Once you’ve returned to Como, stop at the Muro di Como or the city walls. They provide an incredible window into the city’s medieval history. Try to finish your stroll at the Porta Torre, or “Tower Gate,” which is only a short 5-10 minute walk from the train station.

Evening

Head back to Milan for a dinner near Milano Centrale

Once your train arrives back in Milan, you’ll undoubtedly be hungry. Although not typically a favorite neighborhood in Milan, Milano Centrale is surrounded by many restaurants and bars. For a more laid-back experience, find an osteria with typical Milanese dishes nearby.

Reflect on your trip in the Piazza Gae Aulenti

Before you head back to your hotel, make a quick detour. At Piazza Gae Aulenti, you’ll see some of Milan’s modern architecture that has come to define the city in recent years. The square’s fountain is illuminated at night, making it the perfect spot to reflect on your long weekend in Milan.

FAQ

Is Milan worth visiting for a weekend?

Milan is a fantastic choice for a weekend getaway. The city offers a unique mix of historical sites, stunning modern architecture, luxury shopping, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore world-renowned museums, iconic landmarks like the Duomo, and vibrant neighborhoods. Milan’s blend of culture and style ensures a memorable experience in just a few days.

Is Milan a walkable city?

Milan has an extensive and affordable metro and tram system, which makes getting around the city a breeze. Central Milan, however, is ideal for strolling, with its pedestrian-friendly areas.

Which area in Milan is ideal for accommodation?

Staying near Porta Nuova and Porta Venezia in the northeastern part of the city center is highly recommended. This area offers a prime location with convenient public transportation links and various dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an excellent choice for visitors.

What is Milan famous for?

Milan is renowned as a global hub for fashion and design, setting trends and leading the way in these industries. It’s also a significant financial center, home to the Italian stock exchange, reflecting its economic influence.

Is three days enough to explore Milan?

Two days in Milan will allow you to see the main attractions, such as the Duomo, Sforza Castle, and The Last Supper. While more days would be ideal to explore more thoroughly and visit additional sites, a three-day weekend provides a good overview.