Planning a quick trip to Milan? Excellent choice! Italy’s fashion capital is renowned for its rich history, world-class art, and stunning architecture. In just 2 days, you can experience the top attractions in Milan without feeling rushed. This itinerary ensures you make the most of your time. Milan is perfect for a weekend break, with affordable flights readily available. Two days strikes the ideal balance, allowing you to visit the Milan Cathedral and The Last Supper on separate days.
The best things to do in Milan in 2 days
This detailed guide reveals how to maximize your short stay with expert tips and must-see spots. We’ve carefully selected famous attractions and hidden gems to ensure an unforgettable visit to this beautiful city. Here’s how to make the most of your 2 days in Milan:
Day 1 Milan itinerary
You’ll spend your first 48 hours exploring the heart of Milan, where attractions around Piazza del Duomo promise a day filled with history and culture.
1. Piazza del Duomo
Start your 2-day in Milan itinerary at the Piazza del Duomo in the historic city centre. Even if you’ve never been here, you probably recognize it as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This large rectangular square is one of the most famous piazzas in Italy, spanning 17,000 square metres (about 183,000 square feet) with a history dating back to the 14th century.
Piazza del Duomo is surrounded by some of the most important buildings in the city. At its centre stands the eye-catching Duomo Cathedral and the statue of the first king of the unified Italy, Victor Emmanuel II. Nearby, you’ll find the 18th-century Palazzo Reale, the Museum of the XIX Century and an elegant shopping arcade. No wonder Piazza del Duomo is bustling with life.
2. Milan Cathedral
Want to know why everyone who visits this city talks about Milan Cathedral? It’s the largest church in Italy and one of the largest in the world. This 14th-century cathedral church took almost 6 centuries to complete – with final details completed in 1964.
Curious about what makes it so special?
Milan Cathedral is a perfect example of Italian Gothic architecture, but that’s not the only reason to visit. Here’s a fascinating fact: This cathedral has more statues than any other building in the world. Those interested in numbers should note that 3,400 statues, 135 gargoyles, and 700 figures decorate this impressive church.
FUN FACT:
Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the completion of the cathedral’s façade with white and pink marble before his coronation as King of Italy in 1805.
WHAT TO SEE:
What’s inside? The largest musical organ in Italy, 52 giant pillars – one for each week of the year and a surprisingly precise sundial. And did we mention statue of the flayed San Bartolomeo and the sarcophagi of the Milanese citizens? Also, find a small red light bulb in the dome above the apse – it holds the Holy Nail from the Crucifixion of Christ. You can view the Holy Nail during the Rite of the Nivola, a tradition dating back to the 16th century. It occurs every year on the Saturday closest to September 14th.
the statue of the flayed San Bartolomeo is one of the highlights of the cathedral
TIPS:
- Don’t forget to visit the foundation of the Basilica di Santa Tecla and the 4th-century Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti. The entry is at the front of the Duomo (near the central doorway). The locals discovered them during the construction of the Milan Metro system.
- Visit the Milan Cathedral first thing in the morning to avoid long queues. Also, pre-book your skip-the-line tickets to save your precious time.
- Don’t forget the dress code and cover your knees and shoulders before you enter the cathedral.
3. Visit the spectacular rooftop terrace of Milan Cathedral
Many tourists leave after seeing Milan Cathedral but don’t rush off just yet. Stay a little longer to experience one of the city’s most breathtaking sights – the rooftop terrace.
What makes the rooftop terrace special?
Imagine standing on the top of a structure that took nearly six centuries to complete. Not only does the rooftop terrace offer stunning panoramic views of the city, but it also showcases the cathedral’s intricate architecture. With over 3,400 statues and 135 gargoyles, it feels like stepping into an open-air gallery high above the bustling city.
Up close, you can admire the gorgeous details of Gothic architecture.
DID YOU KNOW?
Some statues are not fully clothed, adding a surprising and artistic touch to its grandeur.
The iconic Madonnina
Before you leave, take a closer look at the Madonnina, a shining golden statue of the Virgin Mary atop the tallest spire. It’s one of the main features of the cathedral and a highlight of the cathedral’s skyline.
FUN FACT: Milan maintains a tradition where no building surpasses the height of the Madonnina. When locals constructed the three taller structures, they placed replicas of the Madonnina atop them to honour this tradition.
TIPS:
- Access the rooftop terrace via elevator or stairs (a quicker and more affordable option).
- If time is tight, prioritize the unique rooftop terrace over exploring the cathedral’s interior.
- Opt for an early morning, or late afternoon visit to enjoy optimal lighting and fewer crowds. Always book tickets online to skip the line.
4. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is a time capsule of Milan’s elegance, featuring a Latin cross floor plan and an attractive glass ceiling.
Your next stop should be Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located next to the cathedral. This 19th-century masterpiece isn’t just a mall – it’s the oldest active shopping centre in the world. Imagine yourself under its soaring glass dome, surrounded by high-end designer stores and historic cafes. Locals fondly refer to it as Milan’s drawing room, once the epicentre of Milanese society.
Architect Giuseppe Mengoni designed this famous shopping arcade in 1860. After that, it became an engineering marvel of its time. Why, is it so remarkable? Its iron and glass structure showcases the architect’s visionary artistry in every detail, from the soaring glass dome to the detailed mosaic floors. Did you know it was Italy’s first structure in Italy to integrate metal and glass structurally, not just decoratively?
Mosaic floors
Find four mosaics portraying the coat of arms of three capitals of the Kingdom of Italy: Rome, Florence, Turin, and Milan. The lily represents Florence, the she-wolf with Romulus and Remus symbolizes Rome, the bull stands for Turin, and the cross represents Milan. These symbols reflect the crucial role these cities played in the first years after Italian unification when the debate over the capital was still ongoing.
FUN FACT: According to local tradition, standing on the bull’s genitals and spinning three times brings good luck. That’s why you can see the worn-out spot where tourists step.
Need another reason to visit? Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II symbolizes Milan’s blend of tradition and modernity. This ornate shopping arcade connects two of Milan’s most famous landmarks, the Duomo Cathedral and La Scala Opera House.
5. Teatro alla Scala
Next on your list should be Teatro alla Scala, or La Scala as everyone calls it. This historic opera house sits in front of the Piazza della Scala, where the statue of Leonardo da Vinci dominates the square. La Scala is one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
See an opulent opera house that has been hosting grand opera and ballet performances since 1778.
A peek inside
While you won’t be able to catch any opera in the middle of the day, it’s still well worth a visit. With luxurious red and gold décor, a magnificent chandelier, and lavish seating, you’ll feel like royalty. Did you know La Scala has its own museum? That’s right! You can explore the rich history of opera with costumes, set designs, and musical instruments from centuries past.
A night out like no other
Dressing up and attending a world-class performance at Scala is an experience you’ll never forget. If you can, try to catch a performance; it’s a bucket list experience. Remember, tickets can be steep or sold out, so book them in advance to snag the best seats in the house.
TIP:
If you can’t attend a performance, visiting the theatre and museum during the day is still a treat for any culture lovers.
6. Pinacoteca Ambrosiana
For culture enthusiasts, the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana is an absolute must-visit when exploring Milan in 2 days. This 17th-century art gallery, housed in one of Europe’s public libraries, spans across 24 rooms that follow a chronological trajectory.
The 24 rooms of Pinacoteca Ambrosiana contain some of the greatest artworks of all time. The collection ranges from the 14th-century pieces to works of the early 19th century.
A glimpse inside
What’s inside? The 15th-century Madonna of the Pavilion by Botticelli, a cartoon version of Raphael’s Vatican fresco, the School of Athens. It also houses the Basket of Fruit by Caravaggio and the Adoration of the Magi by Titian. You can also appreciate each brushstroke of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Portrait of a Musician. It’s the only known male portrait painting and the only panel painting in Milan. Also, remember to look at the stunning Vases of Flowers by Jan Brueghel.
The Portrait of a Musician
A haven for literature lovers
Here’s where it gets juicy: The Ambrosiana Library houses over a million printed volumes and nearly 40,000 manuscripts. Beyond paintings, the Ambrosiana Library within the gallery houses ancient manuscripts, including the 5th-century illustrated Iliad and Dante’s Divine Comedy. Imagine looking at centuries-old pages, tracing the origin of Western literature in this famous Milanese institution.
Among the library’s most valuable possessions is over 1,000 pages of the Leonardo’s Codex Atlanticus in the Reading Room. This precious collection of drawings and writings reveals da Vinci’s great intelligence in science, art and engineering.
TIP:
For an enriching experience, join a guided tour to learn more stories behind the artworks and manuscripts.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Purchase a Duomo and Ambrosiana ticket if you plan to visit both attractions. This ticket grants you access to the cathedral with terraces, the Duomo Museum, the Church of San Gottardo and the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana for a reduced price. Tickets are valid for 3 days from your first visit.
8. Opera Duomo Museum
If you’ve purchased the Duomo and Ambrosiana ticket, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Opera Duomo Museum. This hidden gem features 26 rooms filled with treasures from Milan’s iconic cathedral. Inside, you’ll discover the original cathedral statues, liturgical objects, and other historical artifacts. Highlights include the stunning glass window room adorned with 55 large windows depicting episodes from the Old and New Testament. Also, don’t miss the detailed wooden architectural scale model of the Duomo Cathedral at the scale of 1:22.
The detailed wooden model of the cathedral
TIP:
Make time to visit the 14th-century Church of San Gottardo, accessible only as part of your Duomo Museum visit.
9. World of Leonardo da Vinci
Calling all Leonardo da Vinci fans! You simply must visit the World of Leonardo da Vinci. This unique attraction is more than just a unique museum; it’s an engaging journey into the mind of one of history’s greatest geniuses.
Why visit?
Unlike typical museums, this place is interactive. You can explore full-scale models of Leonardo’s inventions, from flying machines to war devices. The World of Leonardo da Vinci Museum is engaging and educational, with interactive exhibits making learning about Leonardo’s work entertaining. Plus, you can touch and operate many of the machine models.
The museum showcases his notebooks, filled with sketches and ideas that were centuries ahead of their time. Enjoy quirky exhibits and fun facts about da Vinci’s life. Did you know he wrote his notes in mirror writing?
The Last Supper
While the museum primarily focuses on his inventions, you can also marvel at his masterpieces. Did you know you can also see all of Leonardo’s paintings with a timeline of when he painted them? Plus, you can admire the reconstruction of the Last Supper just as it was when da Vinci completed it. While you can’t touch this masterpiece, you’ll find a fascinating exhibit explaining the techniques and challenges behind this famous mural. It’s a perfect introduction to seeing the real thing in person the next day.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The World of Leonardo has a very convenient location at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Even though it’s compact, give yourself at least an hour and a half to explore this museum. The World of Leonardo da Vinci is open every day from 9.30 am until 9 pm.
Day 2 Milan itinerary
10. Da Vinci’s Last Supper
If you’re spending two days in Milan, a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is an absolute must. This iconic masterpiece captures the poignant moment when Jesus reveals that one of his disciples will betray him. The expressions and emotions on each face are incredibly detailed.
Why visit?
This UNESCO-listed artwork isn’t housed in just any museum; it holds a place of exclusivity. Painted by Leonardo in the 15th century, The Last Supper hides fascinating secrets within its brushstrokes. If you’re eager to uncover more, read our article on The Last Supper painting secrets.
READ MORE:
11. Sforza Castle
Your next stop should be the Sforza Castle, just a 13-minute walk from Santa Maria delle Grazie. Originally reconstructed by the Sforza family in the 15th century, this fortress evolved into one of Italy’s most magnificent residences. After Ludovico Sforza became the lord of Milan, he commissioned renowned artists such as Bramante and da Vinci to decorate it. Following the renovation and enlargement during the 16th and 17th centuries, it expanded into one of Europe’s largest citadels.
What’s inside?
The Sforza Castle houses a wealth of cultural treasures. The Museum of Ancient Art showcases Michelangelo’s last and unfinished work. Explore the Egyptian Museum, the Archaeological Museum of Milan, and an Art collection boasting over 1,500 works. Don’t miss the Sala delle Asse, featuring a remarkable tempera painting by da Vinci. Other highlights include the Museum of Musical Instruments, the Applied Arts Collection, and the Antique Furniture and Wooden Sculpture Museum.
the Sala delle Asse by da Vinci
12. Park Sempione
Peaceful Park Sempione is a Milanese oasis that you simply can’t miss. Why you may ask? Because this expansive public park in the heart of the city is just a stone’s throw from the famous Sforza Castle. Picture strolling through lush greenery, shaded by green trees, with winding paths ideal for a leisurely walk or a peaceful picnic. The park also features a pretty pond and hosts a museum dedicated to Italian design, and the monumental Arco della Pace. Remember to climb the Branca Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Milan’s skyline.
13. Pinacoteca di Brera
All culture lovers looking for the best things to do in Milan should also visit Pinacoteca di Brera. The main public gallery for paintings is one of the best places to visit in this Italian city. It contains one of the vast collections of Italian paintings from the 13th to 20th century. Among the highlights are works by Piero della Francesca, Raphael and Caravaggio.
Where to find it? Inside the beautiful 19th-century baroque palace. Napoleon Bonaparte dedicated this museum to the education of the students in the city. Don’t just rush through, take time to soak up great artworks such as The Marriage of the Virgin by Raphael and Supper at Emmaus by Caravaggio. Take a closer look at The Kiss by Francesco Hayez and the Virgin with Child, Angels and Saints by Piero della Francesca. Also worth seeing are Andrea Mantegna’s Lamentation of Christ and Guercino’s Dead Christ and Three Mourners.
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Pinacoteca di Brera is open every day (apart from Mondays) from 8.30 am until 7.15 pm. As of July 2024, the entry fee to Pinacoteca di Brera costs 15 euros for adults (10 euros reduced).
TIP:
Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera for free on the first Sunday of the month (advanced reservation required).
14. Monumental Cemetery
When you think about how to spend 2 days in Milan, fashion, art, and delicious food probably come to mind. But guess what? This metropolis in northern Italy has a secret gem that’s totally unique and unexpected: the Monumental Cemetery. Now, we know what you’re thinking: ‘‘A cemetery? Really?’’ But hear us out!
A Feast for the Eyes
The Monumental Cemetery is not your typical cemetery. Think of it as a gigantic open-air museum where the exhibits are impressive tombs and statues. Imagine wandering through a peaceful park where you’ll find grand mausoleums that look like they belong in an art gallery. Each monument tells a different story – some are so grand they look like mini-cathedrals!
Historical vibes
The Italian architect and restorer Carlo Maciachini designed this Monumental Cemetery, and it officially opened in 1866. Since then, it’s been the final resting place of many famous Italians, from artists like the sculptor Medardo Rosso to writers like Alessandro Manzoni, politicians, and industrialists. The architecture throughout the cemetery is varied and fascinating, with styles ranging from classical to modern. You’ll see everything from Greek temples to obelisks. It even has a scaled-down version of the Trajan’s Column and a stunning reproduction of The Last Supper.
The Last Supper – Campari family tomb
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Monumental Cemetery is one of the two largest cemeteries in the city. You can find it near Porta Garibaldi railway station. Remember, it’s a place of rest and remembrance. Be respectful of the surroundings and people visiting loved ones.
15. Vertical Forest
Before you board your train at Porta Garibaldi, let us unveil a hidden gem just steps away. Porta Nuova is Milan’s chic business district, famous for its contemporary architectural wonders. Among them are the sleek skyscrapers, like the UniCredit Tower (one of Italy’s tallest buildings) and the Bosco Verticale. Haven’t heard of it? These residential skyscrapers are masterpieces covered with lush greenery. Locals refer to it as the Vertical Forest because together, they host 800 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 1,500 plants.
Architect Stefano Boeri designed these soaring 116-metre (381 ft) towers. His inspiration? Probably the Hanging Gardens of Babylon were or the Torre Guinigi in Lucca with its rooftop hanging garden.
Eco-friendly innovation
The Vertical Forest isn’t about looks. This building that’s basically a forest rising into the sky is a green powerhouse. It improves air quality, reduces noise pollution, and regulates temperatures. This ambitious urban reforestation project aims to increase plant biodiversity and animal species. Impressive, isn’t it?
GOOD TO KNOW:
The Vertical Forest lies near Porta Garibaldi train station, so you don’t have to trek far. Just a short walk and you are there. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your legs before boarding the train.
Now you know how to spend 2 days in Milan!
Logistical tips – Flying to Milan
The city welcomes you via three main airports: Malpensa (MXP), Linate (LIN), and Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY). Each of them has a different way to connect you to the city centre. Here’s your insider guide to each:
1. Malpensa Airport (MXP)
This is Milan’s main international airport, located 45 km (28 miles) northwest of the city. It’s a breeze to reach the city centre, you can easily hop on a train, or bus, or grab a taxi.
The easiest way to reach Milan’s city centre is by taking the Malpensa Express train. As of July 2024, one-way ticket costs for adults €13 and €6.50 for children (4-13 years old). The Malpensa Express train zooms you to Cadorna in 37 minutes or Milano Centrale stations in under an hour. Remember, the train doesn’t serve both stations. You must figure out which one is closer to your accommodation before boarding either train.
2. Linate Airport (LIN)
Just 7 km (4 miles) east of the city, Linate is your go-to for domestic and short-haul European flights. It’s a base for Alitalia company and receives the fewest passengers of the city’s three international airports.
Hop on Bus 73 (every 10 minutes) and X73 which connect the airport to the San Babila metro station. It’s a convenient choice and also the cheapest way of travelling from the airport. If you take a taxi, in about 20 minutes you’ll be sipping espresso in the city centre. Taxis don’t have a fixed price from Linate Airport – the drive should cost you between €30 and €40.
3. Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY)
Your last option is the budget-friendly Bergamo airport. It’s a bit further out, the northeast of Milan, in the city of Bergamo. This main low-cost airline airport for the Milan area lies approximately 45 km (30 miles) away from the city centre.
Terravision Buses connect you to Milan’s central station in about 1 hour, with busses leaving every 20-30 minutes. Remember Terravision buses depart from Bergamo airport only between 4 am and 1 am. From Milan, Terravision Buses leave between 2.15 am and 10.10 pm. Tickets cost €10 for a single or €18 for a return ticket. Expect to pay over €100 for a taxi (50-minute ride).
Alternatively, take Orio Shuttle which connects Bergamo airport with Milano Centrale. The price for a single ticket starts from €10, depending on the day you get the ticket. Orio Shuttle runs every 30 minutes between 3 am and midnight.
Getting around
Navigating Milan is a breeze, thanks to its efficient public transport and walkable streets. You have three options: walk, ride the tram, or take a metro.
- Metro: The city’s metro system is fast and covers most areas of the city. Four colour-coded lines, labelled M1, M2, M3, and M5 are easy to navigate.
M1 (red line) runs from northwest to southeast, passing through landmarks like Duomo or Sforza Castle. Then we have M2 (green line) which travels north to south, hitting spots like Centrale Station and Cadorna. The Yellow M3 line goes east to west, serving areas like Porta Romana and San Donato. And lilac M5? It’s the newest metro line, which circles around the city centre. Metro trains run frequently from 6 am until midnight, with extended hours on weekends and before holidays.
- Trams: The city’s trams are iconic and offer a scenic way to explore the city. They are convenient for short distances and cover routes which the metro doesn’t serve.
The tram network system consists of 18 lines, and it has longer schedules, compared to the metro and the local buses. You can purchase tickets for the tram at the metro stops, kiosks, or off-licences.
- Buses: Buses complement the metro and tram network, reaching areas not covered by other models of transport.
They operate from early morning until midnight, with night buses running on key routes until the early morning hours. Similarly, like trams, buses are also integrated into Milan’s ticketing system, making transfers between different modes seamless.
Which Milan transport tickets and travel card should I buy when I spend 2 days in Milan?
There are various types of tickets and transport cards available, but the most useful tickets for tourists are these:
- Single ticket: It covers M1, M2, and M3 and is valid for 90 minutes since you validate the ticket in the machine. The price of a single ticket is €2.20 (as of July 2024), and it allows transfers between metro lines.
- 24-hour travel card: It covers M1, M2, and M3, and costs €7.60 (as of July 2024) and is valid for 24 hours.
- 72-hour travel card: As of July 2024, the three-day travel card costs €15.50 and allows unlimited travel for 72 hours. Remember to validate your ticket using the validating machine.
Best tours for 2 days in Milan
When you’re in Milan for 2 days, here are the top tours you shouldn’t miss:
- The Last Supper: Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece is a must-see tour. Book well in advance, as it usually sells out quickly.
- Duomo Cathedral and Rooftop Tour: Climb to the rooftop terrace for an unusual experience and breathtaking views of the city.
- Sforza Castle and Museum: Explore a historic fortress and its art collection, including Michelangelo’s unfinished sculpture.
- Pinacoteca Ambrosiana: See the greatest works of all time, featuring pieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, and da Vinci.
- Pinacoteca di Brera: Admire a vast collection of Italian paintings, including works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Piero della Francesca.
Save 2 days in Milan for later!
Do you have any questions about spending 2 days in Milan? You can ask us in the comment section below. Please feel free to share your own experience as well. Don’t forget to pin this itinerary for future reference.
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