2 Days in Milan Itinerary (2025): The Perfect First-Timer’s Guide


by Luca | Last Updated September 9, 2025

If you only have 2 days in Milan, you might wonder if that’s enough to truly experience my city. The truth is, while Milan always deserves more time, two days are perfect to capture its spirit—from the Gothic spires of the Duomo to the buzzing Navigli canals.
I’ve spent years living in Milan, walking its cobbled streets, rushing through its metro stations, and savoring too many cappuccinos in its cafés. So trust me when I say: this Milan 2-day itinerary isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about seeing the landmarks, yes—but also feeling the rhythm of the city like a local.
In the morning, you might be standing inside the centuries-old Duomo di Milano; by afternoon, you’re sipping a spritz under futuristic skyscrapers in Porta Garibaldi. That’s Milan—the fashion capital where history and design blend, and where every day ends with aperitivo, a ritual I never skip.
Whether you’re here on a weekend break, a business trip with free time, or a stopover before exploring the rest of Italy, this guide will show you exactly what to see in Milan in 2 days. With a mix of must-see highlights and local tips, you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll leave with memories of the real Milan that I call home.
Quick Look: 2 Days in Milan Itinerary
Day 1 — Icons & Historic Milan
- Climb the Duomo di Milano rooftop
- Walk the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Snack at Luini panzerotti
- Explore Brera District & Pinacoteca
- Sunset & aperitivo at Arco della Pace
- Dinner by the canals in Navigli
Day 2 — Art, Design & Hidden Gems
- See Leonardo’s Last Supper (book early)
- Breakfast at Pavé or Marchesi 1824
- Discover Porta Garibaldi & Bosco Verticale
- Stroll Corso Como & 10 Corso Como
- Choose Cimitero Monumentale or Villa Necchi
- Rooftop dinner & farewell at Bar Basso
This two-day Milan itinerary blends iconic landmarks, local food, modern design, and hidden gems—so you’ll leave with the real Milan experience.
Want deeper Milan insights? Dive into our comprehensive Milan Travel Guide written by locals, covering hidden neighborhoods, seasonal rhythms, and the cultural nuances that make Milan special.
🗺️ Milan Itinerary Map
Use this interactive map to follow our 2 days in Milan itinerary.
- Day 1 sights are marked in blue
- Day 2 sights are marked in red
Pro tip: Click the ★ star next to the map’s title to save it to your own Google Maps account. Then, when you’re in Milan, you can open it on your phone and easily navigate between stops
Essentials to Book Before You Go
Best Tours in Milan
- Da Vinci’s Last Supper Guided Tour – Guarantee entry to the city’s most famous masterpiece
- Fast Track Duomo & Rooftop Tour – Skip the lines and enjoy sweeping views of Milan
- Milan Food & Aperitivo Tour – Taste authentic Milanese dishes with a local guide
Best Hotels in Milan
- Budget: Hotel Calypso Milano Centrale – Fun, social vibe, top-rated hostel
- Mid-range: B&B Hotel Milano City Center – Comfortable rooms near key attractions
- Luxury: Galleria Vik Milano – Elegant stay inside the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
How to Get Around
- Best Car Rental Deals on DiscoverCars.com.
- Train / Bus / Ferry tickets through Omio.
- Metro & tram tickets on ATM Milano.
Before You Go: Planning 2 Days in Milan
Before diving into the details of this 2 day Milan itinerary, it helps to set your expectations. Milan isn’t Rome with its ruins, or Venice with its canals — it’s a city of contrasts. Here, centuries-old cathedrals stand beside glass skyscrapers, and business districts blend with historic cobbled streets. With only 48 hours, you won’t see everything, but you will get a real taste of the city’s spirit.


Why 2 Days in Milan is Enough
Many travelers ask if 2 days in Milan is worth it. The answer is a big yes. In two days, you’ll experience the city’s iconic sights — the Duomo, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and The Last Supper — while also getting to know its neighborhoods, food culture, and nightlife. Think of it as a highlight reel: you’ll leave knowing what makes Milan tick, without feeling like you rushed through a checklist.
Personally, I think 2 days is ideal for a first visit. It’s enough to fall in love, but short enough to leave you wanting more — which is why I always recommend coming back.
Who This Itinerary is Best For
- First-timers to Milan – You’ll see the essentials, from the cathedral to Navigli.
- Weekend city breakers – Milan is one of the best weekend trips in Italy, thanks to great transport and a compact historic center.
- Business travelers with free time – Many people come for work, but with a couple of days, you can still explore like a local.
- Art & design lovers – Leonardo’s Last Supper, Brera art galleries, and the cutting-edge architecture at Porta Garibaldi make Milan a dream for culture seekers.
- Foodies – From risotto alla Milanese to aperitivo, two days are enough to discover Milan’s culinary soul.
Suggested Budget for 2 Days in Milan
How much you’ll spend depends on your travel style, but here’s a ballpark guide (per person):
- Budget travelers (€150–180 total) – Stay in a hostel or budget hotel, eat panzerotti and pizza slices, and rely on public transport.
- Mid-range (€250–400 total) – 3-star hotels in Brera or Navigli, a mix of trattorias and aperitivo, Duomo/Last Supper tickets, and metro passes.
- Luxury (€600+ total) – 4–5 star hotels (like Galleria Vik Milano), rooftop dinners, guided tours, and private transfers.
Insider tip: Milan can be expensive, but aperitivo is the best hack. For €10–15, you’ll get a cocktail and enough snacks to count as a light dinner.
Day 1 – Milan Icons & Historic Heart


Your first day in Milan is all about the city’s iconic landmarks and historic center. From the soaring spires of the Duomo to the elegant Galleria and the artistic charm of Brera, this day blends world-famous highlights with a taste of local life. By evening, you’ll wind down with aperitivo and dinner by the canals, experiencing Milan’s timeless mix of culture, history, and style.
Breakfast & Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is more than just a cathedral — it’s the heart of the city. Construction began in 1386 and took nearly six centuries to complete. That’s why it combines different architectural styles: Gothic spires, Renaissance details, and even a touch of modern restoration.
Inside, the stained-glass windows are breathtaking, especially when the morning sun pours through. Look for the small red light above the altar — it’s said to mark the spot where a nail from Christ’s crucifixion is kept. Few visitors notice this, but locals know it’s one of the cathedral’s most sacred relics.
The rooftop terraces are the highlight. With 135 spires and thousands of statues, walking among them feels like being in a stone forest. The intricate carvings are best appreciated up close. From the top, you’ll see Piazza del Duomo buzzing below, the new skyscrapers at Porta Nuova in the distance, and on clear days, the snow-capped Alps.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting in summer, go early or late — the white marble reflects the sun, and it gets very hot on the rooftop.
Stroll Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II




Walking into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II feels like stepping into a palace. Locals call it “il salotto di Milano” — Milan’s living room. The iron-and-glass dome arches 47 meters high, and the mosaics on the floor depict the coats of arms of Italy’s major cities.
The most famous mosaic is the bull from Turin. Tradition says that spinning three times on its “sensitive spot” brings good luck. Tourists laugh, kids giggle, but you’ll see even well-dressed Milanese in suits stopping for a quick spin. It’s a ritual that connects everyone.
While the shops are ultra-luxury (Prada, Louis Vuitton), don’t be shy about just window-shopping. The beauty of the Galleria is that it’s open to everyone — a public space where history meets modern glam.


Local touch: My grandfather used to bring me here on Sundays just to watch people. He always said, “In the Galleria, you don’t need money — you just need time to look up.”
Coffee or Snack Break – Luini Panzerotti
If the Duomo is Milan’s heart, Luini panzerotti is its soul. This tiny bakery has been serving fried dough pockets since 1888. The classic filling is mozzarella and tomato — warm, gooey, and the ultimate comfort food.
The line outside might look long, but it moves fast. And here’s the secret: grab two panzerotti, one fried and one baked, so you can taste the difference. Locals often eat them standing outside, chatting with friends, just as students have done for decades.
Pro tip: Don’t expect a fancy sit-down meal. This is grab-and-go, Milanese style. If you prefer a slow break, head back to Marchesi 1824 for a coffee served on silver trays.
Teatro alla Scala & Piazza della Scala


La Scala isn’t just an opera house; it’s the stage where the world’s greatest singers and conductors made their debuts. Verdi’s operas were performed here, and Maria Callas became a legend on this stage.
The museum inside is fascinating even if you’re not into opera. You’ll see costumes, instruments, and even letters by composers. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you can peek into the main hall during a rehearsal. The red velvet, golden balconies, and crystal chandelier are jaw-dropping.
Outside, Piazza della Scala is a hub of energy. In the center stands Leonardo da Vinci, gazing across the square. Locals often meet here before heading into Brera or the fashion district.
Explore Brera District
The Brera District is my favorite part of Milan — a mix of elegance and bohemian spirit. Its narrow streets are lined with art galleries, antique shops, and cozy cafés. It’s a place to wander without a plan.
At the Pinacoteca di Brera, the art collection includes Caravaggio’s “Supper at Emmaus” and Raphael’s “Marriage of the Virgin.” But even if you skip the museum, the vibe of Brera is worth the stroll. Ivy climbs up pastel buildings, and tiny courtyards hide gelaterias where locals stop for an afternoon treat.
Local touch: My go-to gelato spot in Brera is Cioccolati Italiani — order pistachio and watch them drizzle hot melted chocolate inside your cone.
Afternoon at Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione


The Castello Sforzesco looks like a fortress from a storybook, with its round towers and massive brick walls. Built in the 15th century, it was once home to the powerful Sforza family. Today, its courtyards are free to enter, and you can feel the weight of history in every brick.
Inside, the castle houses several museums. My favorite is the Museum of Ancient Art, where Michelangelo’s unfinished sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà, sits quietly in a small room. Few tourists make it there, but it’s moving to see the raw, unfinished work of such a genius.
Behind the castle, Parco Sempione is where Milan breathes. Families picnic, joggers run past, and students sprawl on the grass. I often come here with a book, especially in spring when the park is full of blooming flowers. At the far end, the Arco della Pace stands proudly — a neoclassical arch commissioned by Napoleon. At sunset, it glows golden.
Aperitivo Hour
By late afternoon, Milan slows down — and it’s time for aperitivo. This isn’t just a drink; it’s a ritual. Order a cocktail like a Negroni or an Aperol Spritz, and you’ll be served a spread of snacks: olives, focaccia, mini sandwiches, and pasta salads. Expect to pay between 10 and 15 euros.
In Milan, some aperitivo buffets are so generous they can count as dinner. Around Arco della Pace, trendy bars like Living serve cocktails with endless refills of snacks. In Brera, wine bars feel more intimate, with soft music and candlelight.
Local tip: Don’t rush. Aperitivo is about conversation. Milanese will linger for hours over a single drink.
Dinner in Navigli District


The Navigli District is magical at night. The canals, designed by Leonardo da Vinci, shimmer under the lights. Restaurants spill onto the sidewalks, and the air fills with the smell of pizza, risotto, and grilled meats.
For dinner, order risotto alla Milanese (creamy saffron risotto) or cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet). I love Osteria del Binari for a cozy, traditional experience. If you prefer something lively, the canals are lined with modern trattorias and wine bars.
After dinner, stroll along the canal. Street musicians play guitar, artists sell handmade jewelry, and locals chat with friends until late. It’s the perfect way to end your first day in Milan.
I celebrated my university graduation here with friends. We sat on the canal edge, eating gelato, laughing, and feeling like Milan was ours. That’s the spirit of Navigli — alive, joyful, timeless.
Get our FREE Italy
Travel Guide
E-Book
This printable guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Italy, with insider tips, detailed itineraries, transportation advice, must-see attractions, and more.

Day 2 – Art, Design & Hidden Milan
On your second day, dive deeper into Milan’s artistic treasures and modern soul. Start with Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, then shift gears to explore cutting-edge architecture, fashion-forward streets, and cultural gems like Cimitero Monumentale or Villa Necchi Campiglio. End your trip with rooftop views and a farewell cocktail, soaking in the city’s elegance one last time.
Visit Leonardo’s Last Supper


Seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano) is unlike visiting any other museum. You enter a small refectory where monks once ate their meals in silence, and there it is: a painting that changed the history of art. Leonardo experimented with oil and tempera on dry plaster — a daring choice that unfortunately made the work fragile. Still, the way he captured emotion, movement, and perspective feels revolutionary even today.
The atmosphere inside is quiet. With only a small group admitted at a time, you get a rare chance to appreciate the painting in peace. The faded colors remind you of its age, but the expressions on the apostles’ faces still feel alive.
Insider tip: Pair your visit with the nearby Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Its red-brick façade and Renaissance cloister are beautiful, and entry is FREE.
Breakfast Stop Nearby
After this soul-stirring start, balance it with Milan’s daily ritual: coffee. At Pavé, the croissants are buttery, filled with pistachio cream or chocolate, and baked fresh throughout the day. The vibe is modern, with young locals chatting over cappuccinos before work.
If you want something timeless, Marchesi 1824 is a Milanese classic. Inside, chandeliers and marble counters make you feel like you’ve stepped into another century. I always love watching older Milanese ladies, impeccably dressed, enjoying their morning espresso with grace — it’s part of the city’s elegance.
Local tip: In Milan, cappuccino is a morning drink only. After 11 am, switch to espresso if you want to blend in.
Modern Milan at Porta Garibaldi & Piazza Gae Aulenti


Milan is often seen as Italy’s “business capital,” but Piazza Gae Aulenti proves it’s also a design capital. The square is futuristic, ringed by skyscrapers like the Unicredit Tower, Italy’s tallest building. In the evening, fountains light up and children run through the sprays, while professionals gather for after-work drinks.
The real star is the Bosco Verticale (Vertical Forest). These twin towers host more than 20,000 plants, designed to reduce pollution and create a vertical ecosystem. Depending on the season, the colors shift — lush green in summer, fiery tones in autumn. It’s become a global model for sustainable architecture, and seeing it in person is inspiring.
Pro tip: For the best photos, walk to the pedestrian bridge linking Porta Garibaldi with Corso Como. From here, the towers line up perfectly against the sky.
Stroll Corso Como & Designer Boutiques
Strolling along Corso Como is like walking through a live fashion magazine. Even if you’re not shopping, the street is alive with energy. Locals grab an aperitivo in sleek wine bars, while shoppers browse concept stores.
The most famous stop is 10 Corso Como, founded by Carla Sozzani (sister of Vogue Italia’s legendary editor). It’s a blend of fashion, art, and design. Inside, there’s a gallery, bookstore, and a tranquil courtyard café where I sometimes take a break — the cappuccino here costs more than average, but the atmosphere is worth every euro.
Local vibe: Milanese fashionistas love to people-watch here. Even if you don’t buy anything, dress neatly — Milan is a city where presentation matters.
Cultural Stop: Cimitero Monumentale or Villa Necchi Campiglio


This is the moment to step off the tourist trail and see Milan’s quieter side:
Cimitero Monumentale is an open-air museum of funerary art. Think sculptures of angels, marble temples, and elaborate family tombs — some designed by the same architects who built Milan’s palaces. It feels peaceful, and walking through the rows is strangely uplifting. I once spent an entire afternoon sketching here during art school, and the creativity expressed in stone amazed me.
Villa Necchi Campiglio is pure elegance. Built in the 1930s, it was once home to a wealthy Milanese family. Today, it’s preserved exactly as it was — from the art deco furniture to the private pool. Walking through feels like being a guest at a glamorous party frozen in time.
Pro tip: If you’re into photography, the light inside Villa Necchi is perfect in late afternoon.
Late Afternoon Hidden Gems
With the big sights done, this is the moment to taste Milan’s everyday life.
Chinatown (Via Paolo Sarpi): It might surprise you, but Milan has the largest Chinatown in Italy. Locals come here for authentic dumplings, bubble tea, and Asian groceries. I love grabbing baozi (steamed buns) as a quick snack.


Porta Venezia: Known for its Liberty-style (art nouveau) villas and colorful murals. The cafés here are some of the coolest in the city. On weekends, the area buzzes with young Milanese catching up over spritz and street food.
My friends and I often meet in Porta Venezia before heading out for the night — it feels more “real” than the touristy center.
Rooftop Dinner & Farewell Drinks
End your 2 days in Milan on a high note — literally. Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant (Address: Via Ceresio, 7) offers skyline views, chic design, and a poolside terrace. It’s trendy, yes, but also unforgettable when the sun sets behind the city. If you want something slightly more low-key, Clotilde Brera (Address: Via Galilei, 2) gives you the rooftop experience with a more intimate vibe.
And for the final toast, head to Bar Basso (Via Plinio, 39). This isn’t a tourist gimmick — it’s a Milan institution. Open since 1947, it’s famous for inventing the Negroni Sbagliato, a “mistaken” Negroni where prosecco replaced gin. The result? A lighter, sparkling cocktail that’s now loved worldwide.
Personal ritual: Whenever I travel and return to Milan, I make sure to stop at Bar Basso within my first week back. Sitting there with a Negroni Sbagliato feels like reconnecting with the soul of the city.
Practical Tips for 2 Days in Milan
How to Get to Milan
Milan is one of the most accessible cities in Europe, served by three airports and excellent train connections.
By plane:
- Malpensa (MXP): 50 minutes from central Milan. Take the Malpensa Express train (€13) to Centrale or Cadorna stations.
- Linate (LIN): Closest airport (20 minutes). Best for European flights. Buses or taxis get you downtown quickly.
- Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY): Used by budget airlines like Ryanair. Shuttle buses run every 30 minutes to Milan Centrale (~1 hour).
Insider tip: If you’re tight on time, avoid Bergamo. Stick to Linate or Malpensa.
By train – Milan is a high-speed rail hub. You can reach:
- Rome in 3 hours
- Florence in 2 hours
- Venice in 2.5 hours
- Turin in 1 hour
- Arriving at Milano Centrale is part of the experience—it’s an architectural landmark in itself.
By car – Not recommended for short stays:
Milan’s ZTL (restricted traffic zones) make driving stressful, and parking is expensive. If you must drive, park at a metro-connected garage outside the center.
How to Get Around Milan


For just 48 hours, it’s best to combine walking with public transport.
- Walking – Most highlights (Duomo, Galleria, Brera, Scala) are within walking distance. Bring good shoes.
- Metro – Fast and efficient. The 2,20€ ticket, Valid for 90 minutes. Daily ticket, valid 24 hours, costs 7,60€, and a 3-day ticket costs 15,50€. They all cover metro, trams, and buses.
- Trams – Milan’s vintage orange trams are not only practical but also a fun sightseeing ride.
- Taxis & Uber – Taxis are metered but not cheap. Uber works here, but is usually more expensive (it uses licensed drivers only).
- Bike/Scooters – Services like BikeMi, Lime, and Helbiz are great for exploring Navigli or Porta Venezia.
Mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t ride without validating your ticket (inspectors fine heavily).
- Don’t expect Uber to be like in the US—here it’s more like a chauffeur service.
Where to Stay in Milan
Finding the right neighborhood can completely change your 2 days in Milan itinerary. Since the city is compact but diverse, where you stay will shape how you experience it. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas, with pros, cons, and my local perspective:
Centro Storico (Historic Center)
If it’s your first time in Milan, staying in the historic center puts you right in the middle of everything. Imagine waking up and walking out to see the Duomo just around the corner — no metro needed. You’ll also be near the Galleria, La Scala, and Brera.
- ✅ Best for: First-timers, short stays, walking everywhere.
- ❌ Downside: Hotels here are the priciest, and the area can feel touristy.
My take: If budget isn’t an issue, waking up with the Duomo practically outside your window is an unforgettable experience.
Brera District




Brera is the romantic, artsy heart of Milan. With cobblestone streets, art galleries, and boutique shops, it feels like a little village within the city. In the evenings, wine bars spill onto the streets, creating a cozy atmosphere.
- ✅ Best for: Couples, art lovers, those who want charm over convenience.
- ❌ Downside: Hotels are smaller and often book up early.
I lived near Brera for a while, and it’s still where I go when I want to feel Milan at its most authentic. Even after years, wandering Brera never gets old.
Navigli
If you want nightlife, energy, and a younger crowd, Navigli is your spot. The canals, designed by Leonardo da Vinci, come alive in the evenings with bars, trattorias, and live music. It’s not the quietest area, but it’s a lot of fun.
- ✅ Best for: Night owls, younger travelers, anyone who loves aperitivo culture.
- ❌ Downside: Noise can be an issue, especially on weekends.
My take: I wouldn’t recommend Navigli for families, but if you’re here for fun, it’s unbeatable. Aperitivo on the canal is one of Milan’s best experiences.
Porta Garibaldi & Porta Nuova
This is Milan’s modern face — skyscrapers, rooftop bars, and stylish hotels. Staying here means easy access to Piazza Gae Aulenti and the Bosco Verticale, plus great transport links.
- ✅ Best for: Trendy travelers, business visitors, those who like sleek design.
- ❌ Downside: Lacks the historic charm of Brera or Centro Storico.
Personal tip: I love coming here for a rooftop aperitivo. It’s futuristic Milan at its finest.
Near Milano Centrale
Staying near the main train station is super practical, especially if you’re coming or going by train or flying via Malpensa/Bergamo. Hotels here are generally more affordable and modern.
- ✅ Best for: Short stopovers, train travelers, budget-conscious visitors.
- ❌ Downside: It’s not the prettiest neighborhood, and it’s further from the main attractions.
My take: I’ve stayed here before early-morning flights, and while it’s convenient, it doesn’t capture Milan’s atmosphere. Good for function, not charm.
Isola District (Bonus pick)
A rising star neighborhood, Isola blends modern street art with traditional trattorias. It’s right next to Porta Garibaldi but feels more local and less polished.
- ✅ Best for: Travelers who want a hip, authentic vibe away from tourist crowds.
- ❌ Downside: Slightly less central, though still well-connected.
Local tip: Isola’s weekend markets are fantastic for food and crafts — a great add-on if you have time.
My Final Advice for 2 days in Milan, I’d recommend Centro Storico if it’s your first time, Brera if you want charm, and Navigli if nightlife is a priority. Wherever you stay, Milan’s metro makes it easy to connect the dots.
Get our FREE Italy
Travel Guide
E-Book
This printable guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Italy, with insider tips, detailed itineraries, transportation advice, must-see attractions, and more.

Best Tours & Tickets
Time is precious in Milan, so book in advance for these:
- Duomo & Rooftop Fast-Track Ticket – Essential for Day 1.
- The Last Supper Guided Tour – A must, since tickets sell out weeks ahead.
- Walking Tours – A great way to get insider history in a short time.
- Food & Aperitivo Tours – Perfect if you’re a foodie.
Insider tip: Combo tickets (Duomo + Last Supper + city tour) save some money.




When to Visit Milan
- Spring (April–June) – Best balance of weather, events, and atmosphere.
- Summer (July–August) – Hot, many locals leave for holidays. Some shops/restaurants close in August.
- Fall (September–October) – Fashion Week, cooler temps, lots of events.
- Winter (Nov–Feb) – Cold and foggy, but Christmas lights make it magical.
Milan is a working city, so it’s lively year-round—but spring and fall are most pleasant.
Money & Budget Tips
ATMs are widely available throughout the city, though it’s best to avoid airport machines with high fees. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s smart to carry a bit of cash — especially coins — for small purchases like a quick coffee at the bar or tram tickets.
Budget per day (per person):
- Budget: €75–90
- Mid-range: €125–200
- Luxury: €300+
Aperitivo is the best hack: for the price of a cocktail (€10–15), you get enough snacks to count as a light dinner.
Food Culture & Local Etiquette
In Milan, mealtimes follow a rhythm that might feel different if you’re visiting for the first time. Breakfast is quick — usually just a coffee and a pastry at the bar, often standing rather than sitting – sitting down doubles the price.
Lunch is served between 12:30 and 2:00 pm, after which many restaurants close for the afternoon, so don’t expect to find a proper meal at 3 pm like you might in other countries.
The real magic happens during aperitivo from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, when we gather for cocktails accompanied by generous buffet spreads that often replace dinner entirely. When we do eat dinner, it’s typically after 8 pm – arriving at 6:30 for dinner will get you seated in an empty restaurant, wondering where everyone is.
To blend in, keep a few etiquette tips in mind: never order a cappuccino after 11 am (it instantly marks you as a tourist), tipping isn’t required but rounding up or leaving a euro or two is appreciated, and most importantly, dress neatly when you’re out and about – Milan takes style seriously, and while we’re not judgmental, we do notice when someone makes an effort to look presentable.


Safety & Common Scams
Milan is generally safe, but like any big city, keep your eyes open.
- Pickpockets: Be cautious around Duomo, Centrale Station, and trams.
- Friendship bracelet scam: Avoid people trying to tie bracelets on your wrist.
- Fake petitions: Ignore clipboard-waving scammers asking for signatures.
- Taxis: Use official white taxis from stands or apps, not random drivers.
Personally, I’ve walked home late from Navigli many times without issues. Just stay aware, especially in crowded areas.
FAQs – Is 2 Days in Milan Enough?
Is 2 days enough to see Milan?
Yes—two days give you enough time to see the highlights like the Duomo, The Last Supper, Brera, and Navigli, plus a taste of modern Milan. If you want to dive deeper into museums and fashion, stay longer.
Can you see The Last Supper without a reservation?
Very unlikely. Tickets sell out quickly. Book early or join a guided tour with guaranteed access.
What food should you try in 2 days in Milan?
Must-tries: risotto alla Milanese, cotoletta alla Milanese, and local aperitivo spreads. For snacks, don’t miss a panzerotto at Luini.
Is Milan walkable?
The center is very walkable, but for areas like Porta Garibaldi or Navigli, use the metro or trams.
What’s the best area to stay for 2 days in Milan?
If it’s your first visit, the Centro Storico or the Brera are ideal. For nightlife, choose Navigli.
Final Words: Making the Most of 2 Days in Milan
Two days may fly by quickly, but they’re enough to experience the best of Milan — from climbing the Duomo di Milano, to standing in front of Leonardo’s Last Supper, to sipping cocktails by the canals of Navigli. In just 48 hours, you’ll see why this city is so much more than fashion shows and business suits — it’s history, design, food, and everyday rituals rolled into one.
As someone who calls Milan home, I can tell you that the city reveals itself in layers. Even if you only scratch the surface on your first visit, you’ll carry its rhythm with you — the quick coffee at the bar, the golden glow of the rooftops at sunset, the laughter over an aperitivo with friends. That’s the Milan I love, and the Milan I hope you’ll discover.
If you have more time, consider adding an extra day for a side trip to Lake Como, Bergamo, or Pavia — each just an hour away and perfect for extending your journey.
No matter how you spend your 2 days in Milan, one thing is certain: it won’t be your last visit. This city has a way of calling you back.
Plan Smarter: Related Milan Guides
👉 Ultimate Milan Travel Guide (2025) – Your complete resource with tips on neighborhoods, food, shopping, transport, and the best things to do in Milan.
👉 1 Day in Milan Itinerary – Short on time? Follow this guide to see the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Brera, and Navigli all in one perfect day.
Get our FREE Italy
Travel Guide
E-Book
This printable guide is your ultimate companion for exploring Italy, with insider tips, detailed itineraries, transportation advice, must-see attractions, and more.

💬 We’d love to hear from you!
Have questions, tips, or personal travel stories to share? Drop them in the comments below — your insights help fellow travelers plan their adventures too.