The metropolis of Milan is known as a global capital for fashion and design. With gothic architecture and hints of centuries of art and culture wherever you look, Milan is a city to explore with open eyes. It is home to some magnificent works of art including Leonardo di Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’, shown within Santa Maria delle Grazie convent. Below I share with you my favourite things to do if you only have one day in Milan.
If you’re coming to Milan by car, it’s best not to drive into the city as parking is very restricted and expensive. We used the park and ride at ‘Lampugnano’, which is both cheap and easy to navigate. There you can catch the red line of the metro and be in the city within 15 minutes.
Feeling hungry?
Start your day in Milan with a classic continental breakfast.
Italy as a nation drinks 14 billion cups of espresso each year and with over 600 cafes. Milan is definitely the place to make time for a coffee and croissant.
Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano cathedral is a breathtaking building at the heart of Milan. Exhibiting Gothic architecture at its finest with a wealth of statues and spires, this cathedral is a sight to behold. It’s nice to sit in Duomo Plaza to admire this magnificent building and watch the beautifully clad businessmen and women pass you by. If you’re prepared to join the long queues of tourists waiting to enter the Duomo, you can climb the 150 steps to the roof to enjoy a view across the city.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Fashion capital Milan is saturated with high end fashion shops where you can pick up the latest Prada or bespoke pieces. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping centres and also one of the most beautiful! With marble floors, magnificent mosaics and the elegant glass dome, you’ll definitely be shopping in style.
Castello Sforzesco
Home to precious artworks such as Michelangelo’s final, uncompleted structure, Castello Sforzesco stands tall with rounded turrets, beautiful open courtyards and hidden secret passages. There are 12 mini museums within the castle that you can visit. However, worth a visit for the Renaissance architecture alone, you can walk through the magnificent castle gates free of charge to explore the courtyards, leading you through to Parco Sempione.
Parco Sempione
The Milanese public gardens of Parco Sempione run from the Castello to Arco della Pace (an archway similar to that of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris). The park is filled with expanse of green open spaces, beautiful botanicals and romantic bridges. It’s a great place to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city and relax. Look out for the giant carp and tortoises in the ponds.
Enjoy exploring and remember to try authentic Italian food at one of the many family-run restaurants in the city.
Share in the comments below your favourite things to do during a day trip to Milan.
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