1 Day in Milan Itinerary (2025): How to See the Best of the City in 24 Hours

I’ve lived in Milan for more than two decades, and if there’s one question I get asked over and over, it’s this: “Is one day enough in Milan?” My answer is always the same — yes, if you plan it right. In just 24 hours, you can see the city’s most famous landmarks, enjoy its unique food culture, and even catch a glimpse of the Milanese lifestyle that tourists often miss.

Milan is often thought of as Italy’s fashion and business capital, but it’s so much more. Within walking distance, you’ll find Gothic spires, Renaissance masterpieces, futuristic skyscrapers, elegant shopping arcades, and canals buzzing with life. That mix of old and new is what makes this city unforgettable — and why it’s absolutely worth a stop on any Italian trip.

This 1 day in Milan itinerary is designed to give you the perfect balance: the must-see attractions like the Duomo Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, plus time to explore local neighborhoods like Brera and Navigli. Along the way, I’ll share the same advice I give to friends visiting for the first time — when to go, what to book in advance, and how to make the most of every moment.

Here’s a quick snapshot of your day in Milan:

• Morning: Explore the Duomo, the Galleria, La Scala, and the artistic streets of Brera.
• Afternoon: Admire da Vinci’s Last Supper, wander through Sforza Castle, and relax in Parco Sempione.
• Evening: Experience the Milanese aperitivo ritual and enjoy dinner by the Navigli canals.

So lace up your most comfortable shoes, grab a coffee like a local, and let’s dive into the best way to experience Milan in one day.

Where to Stay in Milan

For a quick visit, the best choice is to stay close to the Duomo — that way, you can walk to most of the sights on this itinerary and save time on transport. There are plenty of hotels in the city center, from stylish boutique stays to more budget-friendly options. If you’re planning just one night, it’s worth booking a place right in the historic heart so you can make the most of your limited time.
Find here the best hotels near the Duomo in Milan

💡 Good to Know: At the end of this guide, you’ll find a map of the itinerary, a quick overview of all the stops, and some practical tips for visiting Milan in one day. That way, you can save this post and use it as a step-by-step guide while exploring the city.

Morning: Milan’s Historic Heart

If you only have 1 day in Milan, start where the city itself begins — in the grand square of the Duomo di Milano. This area is the heartbeat of Milan, and everything you need to see in the morning is within a short walk.

Stop 1: Duomo di Milano – The Icon of the City

I’ve walked past the Duomo more times than I can count, and it still takes my breath away. With its forest of spires and marble façade, it’s one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in the world. Step inside and you’ll see soaring columns and stained-glass windows that tell centuries of stories.

But the real magic is on the rooftop. Take the stairs (if you’re up for it) or the elevator, and you’ll find yourself among flying buttresses and statues, with sweeping views over Milan. On a clear day, you can even see the Alps in the distance.

Practical tip: Pre-book skip-the-line tickets — especially if you’re visiting in spring or summer when queues stretch across the piazza. A combined ticket for the cathedral, museum, and rooftop is the best value.

Stop 2: Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – Milan’s Living Room

From the Duomo’s front steps, cross straight into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan’s elegant 19th-century shopping arcade. With its glass dome, mosaics, and designer boutiques, it feels more like a palace than a mall.

This is the place for a mid-morning coffee. Many visitors splurge at the historic cafés inside, but if you stand at the bar (like locals do), you’ll pay a fraction of the price. And don’t forget to find the mosaic bull on the floor — tradition says spinning on its heel brings good luck. I still see kids and tourists trying it every day.

You don’t need to shop to enjoy the Galleria. Just strolling through, admiring the architecture, and people-watching is part of the Milan experience.

Stop 3: Teatro alla Scala – Music & Elegance

A few steps beyond the Galleria lies Teatro alla Scala, one of the world’s greatest opera houses. If you’re short on time, just stop to admire the neoclassical exterior. But if you’re a music or history lover, it’s worth popping into the La Scala Museum for a quick visit. You’ll see costumes, instruments, and even peek into the red velvet interior of the theater if rehearsals allow.

Even if opera isn’t your thing, knowing that Verdi and Puccini once premiered here adds a special sense of place. Milan isn’t just about fashion and finance — culture runs deep in its veins.

Stop 4: Brera – Artistic & Romantic Streets

From La Scala, it’s a short walk to Brera, my favorite neighborhood in central Milan. Brera is quieter, with narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-covered walls, and small boutiques that feel a world away from the grandeur of the Duomo.

At its heart is the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important art galleries. If you’re an art lover, it’s worth an hour to see masterpieces by Raphael and Caravaggio. But even if you skip the museum, just wandering through Brera is a joy. Small cafés in the streets, flower boxes decorate the windows, and the pace slows down — a little glimpse of old-world Milan.

Brera is also perfect for a late-morning coffee or a light snack. Grab a table outside, order an espresso, and watch the world go by. It’s here that Milan shows its more intimate, romantic side.

Why This Morning Route Works

By following this route — Duomo → Galleria → La Scala → Brera — you see Milan’s biggest icons while also slipping into one of its most charming districts. Everything is walkable, with minimal time wasted on transport.

It’s a mix of grandeur and intimacy: the jaw-dropping scale of the Duomo, the elegance of the Galleria, the cultural prestige of La Scala, and the artistic, neighborhood feel of Brera. In just a few hours, you’ve already experienced four different faces of Milan.

My Local Tip: Don’t rush the Brera district. Even ten minutes with a coffee at a corner café shows you the artistic, slower side of the city that most 1 day in Milan itineraries overlook.

Lunch in Milan

By now, you’ll be ready for a well-deserved break. The good news? Milan’s historic center makes it easy to grab lunch without losing precious sightseeing time.

If you’re short on time, join the queue at Luini, just behind the Duomo. Their panzerotti — golden fried turnovers stuffed with mozzarella and tomato — are legendary, cheap, and perfect for eating on the go. I still remember skipping class years ago just to grab one with friends — it’s that much a part of Milan life.

If you prefer to slow down, head back toward Brera for a sit-down trattoria. This is where you can taste risotto alla Milanese, golden with saffron, or a hearty cotoletta alla Milanese, the city’s famous breaded veal cutlet. Both are classics that define Milanese cuisine, and lunch is the best time to enjoy them before the afternoon rush continues.

Afternoon: Art & Castles

After lunch, it’s time to dive into Milan’s cultural treasures — from one of the most famous paintings in the world to the fortress that shaped the city’s history.

Stop 5: The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie

If you only book one ticket for your day in Milan, make it for Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano). Painted between 1495 and 1498, it’s one of the most recognized works of art on the planet — and seeing it in person is unforgettable. The mural fills an entire wall of the convent’s dining hall, and its faded beauty carries a quiet power you won’t feel in photos.

Getting in, however, requires planning. Only 30 visitors are allowed inside every 15 minutes to protect the fragile masterpiece. Tickets sell out weeks, sometimes months, in advance — so as soon as you know your travel dates, book immediately. If tickets are gone, don’t panic: guided tours often include reserved slots, and they can be worth it just for guaranteed entry.

💡 Alternative if sold out: Walk a few minutes to San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.” Its vibrant frescoes are a hidden gem, and best of all, the entrance is free.

Stop 6: Castello Sforzesco – Fortress of the Dukes

From Santa Maria delle Grazie, head toward Castello Sforzesco. This 15th-century fortress was once home to the ruling Sforza family and today houses several museums. Even if you don’t go inside, wandering the courtyards gives you a sense of Milan’s power during the Renaissance.

If you do step into the museums, highlights include Michelangelo’s unfinished Rondanini Pietà and collections ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to musical instruments. But even just walking through the gates and along the brick walls is impressive — a reminder of the city’s medieval might.

Behind the castle lies Parco Sempione, Milan’s largest green space. It’s the perfect place to take a short break, people-watch, or grab a gelato. Stroll through the park to the Arco della Pace, a neoclassical triumphal arch that frames the skyline beautifully at sunset.

Stop 7 (Optional): Modern Milan in Porta Nuova

If you still have energy and curiosity, take a detour north to Porta Nuova, Milan’s modern business district. Here you’ll find the Bosco Verticale — the “Vertical Forest” skyscrapers covered in trees — and Piazza Gae Aulenti, a futuristic square with fountains and glass towers. It’s a striking contrast to the Renaissance and Gothic sights you’ve seen earlier in the day, and it shows how Milan continues to reinvent itself.

Why This Afternoon Route Works

Pairing The Last Supper with Sforza Castle gives you Milan’s cultural and historical highlights in one loop. Both are within walking distance of the center, and they balance each other: one intimate and artistic, the other grand and political. Adding Porta Nuova, if time allows, rounds out the experience with a glimpse of the Milan that looks to the future.

Evening: Aperitivo & Canals in Navigli

After a day of cathedrals, masterpieces, and castles, it’s time to slow down and experience Milan the way locals do — with aperitivo. And there’s no better place than the Navigli district, where canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci centuries ago now form one of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods.

Aperitivo: Milan’s Evening Ritual

Aperitivo isn’t just a drink — it’s a ritual. Starting around 6 pm, bars across the city serve cocktails paired with snacks, ranging from olives and focaccia to small plates that can feel like a full dinner. The idea is simple: relax, socialize, and ease into the evening.

In Navigli, the atmosphere is buzzing. Order a Negroni, an Aperol spritz, or Milan’s own Campari soda, then enjoy whatever food comes with it. Some bars still serve a simple bowl of chips, while others lay out generous buffets.

If you want a scenic spot, grab a table along the canal at Mag Café or Spritz Navigli. For something quieter, wander a bit off the main drag — side streets often hide cozy wine bars with just a handful of tables.

Dinner in Navigli

Once you’ve had your aperitivo, it’s time for dinner. Navigli offers a mix of traditional trattorias and modern restaurants. If you didn’t try risotto alla Milanese at lunch, this is your chance. Other good picks include fresh pasta or wood-fired pizza.

For a more contemporary vibe, try one of the trendy bistros that have popped up in recent years, mixing Italian flavors with international touches. Navigli is also a great spot for vegetarian-friendly options, with many menus offering seasonal produce dishes.

Insider advice: Milanese tend to eat dinner later, around 8:30–9:00 pm. If you arrive earlier, you’ll have better luck getting a table without a reservation.

Nighttime Vibe

After dinner, take a slow walk along the canals. Street musicians, lights reflecting in the water, and the hum of conversation make it one of the most atmospheric spots in the city. This is where Milan feels less like a business hub and more like a city of romance and creativity.

You don’t need to rush. Even if your train or flight leaves early the next morning, Navigli gives you the perfect last memory of Milan in one day: lively, stylish, and just a little magical.

Why End in Navigli?

Ending the day in Navigli balances the morning’s grandeur and the afternoon’s art with a dose of local lifestyle. It’s not just about what you see, but how you feel — and sipping a spritz by the canal is as Milanese as it gets.

Alternative Options for 1 Day in Milan

Every traveler is different. The classic route — Duomo, Galleria, Brera, Last Supper, Sforza Castle, Navigli — works for most visitors. But if you have specific interests, here are a few ways to tweak your 1 day in Milan itinerary.

For Shoppers

If shopping is your main goal, skip one of the museums and head for the Quadrilatero della Moda. Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga are lined with designer boutiques, while Corso Vittorio Emanuele II offers more accessible brands just steps from the Duomo. Even if you don’t buy anything, the window displays are a show in themselves.

For Families

Traveling with kids? Consider swapping the Pinacoteca di Brera or the Last Supper for the Museo Nazionale della Scienza e della Tecnologia Leonardo da Vinci. Interactive exhibits, planes, and even a submarine make it a hit with children — and it’s educational, too. Pair it with some time in Parco Sempione for space to run around.

For Design Lovers

Milan is a global design capital, and if that’s your passion, don’t miss the Triennale Milano in Parco Sempione. It’s part museum, part design lab, showcasing Italian creativity across furniture, architecture, and visual arts. During Salone del Mobile (Design Week), the entire city turns into an open-air design festival.

Map of the Itinerary

One of the things I love about this 1 day in Milan itinerary is how compact the city is. You don’t need endless metro rides or complicated transfers — most of the sights are close enough to walk, which is how I usually explore when I show friends around.

Here’s how your route flows:

• Start at the Duomo di Milano in Piazza del Duomo. From there, it’s a natural walk straight into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II — I always bring visitors here first, because it’s impossible not to be impressed.
• Exit on the far side, and within five minutes you’ll be standing at Teatro alla Scala.
• From La Scala, I like to wander toward the Brera district, grab a coffee, and enjoy the quieter streets before lunch.
• In the afternoon, make your way west to Santa Maria delle Grazie for The Last Supper. This is the one spot I always tell people to pre-book.
• Afterward, walk (or hop on tram 16) to Castello Sforzesco, then stroll through Parco Sempione toward the Arco della Pace.
• In the evening, I suggest taking the metro line M2 (green) or tram 10 to the Navigli canals — it’s my favorite way to end the day.

The loop is about 6–7 km (4 miles). I often do it entirely on foot, but if you’d rather save energy, Milan’s metro and trams make it easy.

Practical Tips for Visiting Milan

After living here for over 20 years, I know Milan can be a little overwhelming at first — it’s busy, stylish, and full of energy. Here are some quick tips to make your one day in Milan smoother:

• Timing matters: Start early, especially at the Duomo. I usually go right when it opens to avoid long queues.
• Book in advance: The Last Supper sells out weeks ahead, and even the Duomo rooftop can get crowded. I always tell friends to secure tickets as soon as possible.
• Getting around: Milan is very walkable, and I often do this whole itinerary on foot. But if you’d rather save time or energy, the metro and trams are excellent. A single ticket lasts 90 minutes across the metro, bus, and tram, and you can buy them at metro stations, newsstands, or use contactless payment on some lines. The metro is best for longer hops (like Duomo to Navigli), while trams give you a scenic ride through the city streets.
• Dress code: Milanese style leans smart-casual. You don’t need designer clothes, but you’ll feel more comfortable blending in if you avoid beachwear or sportswear in the city center.
• Food breaks: Lunch menus (menu di lavoro) are a good deal if you sit down, while an aperitivo in the evening is practically dinner in itself.
• Language: Most people in central Milan speak English, but even a simple grazie or per favore makes a difference.

My Local Tip: Buy your Milan metro ticket in advance if you can. Queues at machines during rush hour are long, and contactless payment doesn’t always work on every line.

With these basics, you’ll spend less time figuring things out and more time enjoying the city.

FAQs About 1 Day in Milan

Final Thoughts on Spending 1 Day in Milan

Milan isn’t always love at first sight — it’s fast, stylish, and a little overwhelming if you don’t know where to look. But with the right plan, even a single day is enough to experience its magic. From the soaring spires of the Duomo to Leonardo’s Last Supper, the cobbled charm of Brera, and the lively canals of Navigli, this itinerary gives you a taste of the city’s many faces.

I’ve guided friends and family through this exact route more times than I can count, and the reaction is always the same: surprise at how much you can see in just 24 hours. Milan rewards curiosity — if you slow down for a coffee in a side street, join locals for aperitivo, or wander a little off the main path, you’ll find the city opens up in ways you didn’t expect.

If you have more time, Milan is also the perfect base for day trips to Lake Como, Bergamo, or the Franciacorta wine region. But even with just one day, you’ll leave with memories of Gothic cathedrals, Renaissance art, modern skylines, and the Milanese way of life.