Weekend in Milan Itinerary (2025): How to Spend 2 Perfect Days

Milan isn’t just Italy’s fashion capital – it’s a city where centuries-old history blends with sleek modernity, where you can admire Renaissance masterpieces in the morning and sip an Aperol Spritz by the canals in the evening. A weekend in Milan is the perfect bite-sized way to experience this mix of culture, style, and local life without feeling rushed.

In this guide, I’ll take you through a 2-day itinerary that balances iconic sights with hidden gems, delicious food stops, and practical tips that will help you make the most of your short stay. Whether it’s your first time in Milan or you’re returning to see the city beyond the Duomo, this itinerary will give you a taste of Milan’s soul.

Over the course of two days in Milan, you’ll climb to the rooftop of the Duomo, admire Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary Last Supper, stroll through trendy Brera, relax in Parco Sempione, and end your nights in lively Navigli with aperitivo by the canals. I’ll also share advice on where to stay, how to get around, and the best times to visit so you can plan your Milan weekend stress-free.

So pack light, wear comfortable shoes, and let’s dive into the ultimate weekend in Milan itinerary – designed for 2025 and beyond.

Quick Itinerary at a Glance (Day 1 & Day 2 summary table)

Day 1: Classic Milan Highlights

Morning: Duomo & Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

If you ask me where to start a Milan weekend itinerary, I’ll always say: begin at the heart of the city, in Piazza del Duomo. It’s where the past and present of Milan collide. I still remember the first time I walked into the square as a child holding my nonna’s hand — the cathedral looked so big I thought it touched the sky. Even today, after seeing it countless times, the Duomo still takes my breath away.

Duomo di Milano

The Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) is the ultimate symbol of the city. It’s the largest church in Italy (yes, even bigger than St. Peter’s if you count usable space), and it took almost six centuries to finish. Every time I go, I notice something new — a tiny gargoyle, a statue tucked away on a spire, or a stained-glass story I hadn’t paid attention to before.

• Tickets & Entry: You can visit the cathedral interior or climb to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views. To skip the long weekend queues, it’s best to book your ticket online here.
• Best Time to Visit: Go early, as soon as doors open (8:00 am). On a clear day, you’ll see the Alps shimmering in the distance, and the soft morning light makes the marble glow pink. It’s an unforgettable way to start your 2 days in Milan.
• Duomo Pass: If you’re a museum fan, get the Duomo Pass, which includes the cathedral, rooftop, and the Duomo Museum (right behind the cathedral). I took a friend there last year, and she loved learning about the centuries of history that went into building this giant.

My Personal Tip: The rooftop is one of my favorite spots in Milan. Once, I went up there with a gelato in hand (don’t tell security 🙈) and sat quietly against one of the spires watching the sunset. It felt like time had stopped. If you only have a weekend in Milan, this is a memory worth creating.

Piazza del Duomo: Milan’s Living Room

Standing in the square is an experience in itself. You’ll see street performers singing Italian classics, couples taking engagement photos, and Milanese locals rushing across the piazza on their way to work. On weekends, the energy is extra vibrant — it really feels like the city’s beating heart.

Sometimes, if I’m meeting friends in the center, we use the Duomo as our “see you there” spot. Trust me, it’s the easiest meeting point in Milan.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

After soaking in the Duomo, walk just a few steps and you’ll enter Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan’s glamorous shopping arcade. With its soaring glass dome and mosaic floors, it feels like stepping back into the 19th century.

• Cost: Free to enter — and you don’t need to buy Prada or Louis Vuitton to enjoy it.
• Tradition: In the center, you’ll find the famous bull mosaic. Legend says if you spin your heel three times on the bull’s, it will bring you good luck. When I was a teenager, my friends and I used to compete over who could spin the fastest without losing balance.
• Coffee Stop: If you’re into coffee culture, stop at Camparino in Galleria. It’s where the iconic Campari aperitif was born, and stepping inside feels like sipping history. I often bring visiting friends here for their first Milanese espresso — it’s quick, strong, and comes with a view of the Duomo’s spires peeking through the arches.

A Quick Snack: My Gelato Ritual

Even if it’s still morning, I often sneak in a gelato at Cioccolatitaliani, just around the corner from the Galleria. Their pistachio is heavenly. One of my little rituals is grabbing a cone and walking back into Piazza del Duomo to people-watch. If you’re on a Milan weekend trip, don’t feel guilty about having gelato before lunch — it’s practically a rule here!

Why This Morning Matters

This first morning in Milan gives you the city’s essence:

• The Duomo = history, architecture, spirituality.
• The Galleria = fashion, elegance, tradition.
• The Piazza = everyday Milanese life.

It’s the perfect introduction to Milan before diving deeper into art, neighborhoods, and food later in the weekend.

Hidden Gems Near the Duomo

If you’ve got a bit of extra time before lunch, there are a couple of places near the Duomo that most weekend visitors miss — but they’re absolutely worth it.

Rinascente Rooftop Terrace

Next to the cathedral sits La Rinascente, Milan’s iconic department store. On the top floor, there’s a food hall and a rooftop terrace with one of the best views of the Duomo’s spires. I sometimes come here just for a coffee or an aperitivo — it feels more relaxed than the cathedral rooftop, and you can actually sit down and enjoy the view. If you’re spending 2 days in Milan, this is an underrated stop to squeeze in.

San Bernardino alle Ossa – The Bone Chapel

Just a 5-minute walk from the piazza, you’ll find San Bernardino alle Ossa, a small church famous for its macabre yet fascinating “ossuary chapel,” decorated with real human bones. The first time I went, I was in high school on a field trip, and I’ll never forget the mix of awe and spookiness. It’s completely free to visit and usually quiet — a very different side of Milan’s history.

Museo del Novecento

If you’re into modern art, check out the Museo del Novecento, located right on Piazza del Duomo. The collection spans 20th-century Italian art, and from the upper floors, you get another great perspective of the cathedral through its huge windows. I once popped in on a rainy afternoon and ended up staying for hours — it’s the kind of place that pulls you in.
If interested, you can check tickets here.

Wrapping Up the Morning

By the end of your first morning in Milan, you’ll have:

• Stood in awe at the Duomo di Milano.
• Walked through the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
• Experienced Milan’s piazza life and traditions.
• Optionally discovered hidden gems like Rinascente, San Bernardino, or the Museo del Novecento.

It’s a packed but balanced start to your Milan weekend trip, setting the tone for the rest of your two days in the city.

Lunch Break Near the Duomo

After a busy morning exploring the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, it’s time to recharge with some authentic Milanese food.

When I’m in the center, I usually take friends to Luini, a tiny bakery just behind the Duomo that’s famous for panzerotti (fried or baked stuffed dough, like a cousin of pizza). And trust me, you should take one fried and one baked so you can taste the difference. The fried has that golden, crunchy bite that feels like pure comfort food, while the baked is lighter but still full of flavor.

The line often snakes around the corner, but don’t worry — it moves fast. I remember bringing a friend from Chicago here, and she swore it was the best thing she ate all weekend. For under €4, it’s a budget-friendly lunch with true Milanese vibes.

If you prefer a sit-down meal, try a classic trattoria in the area — I’ve had good experiences at Trattoria Torre di Pisa, a short walk toward Brera. The risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto) is heavenly. If you’re spending just 2 days in Milan, having one traditional dish is a must.

Day 1 Afternoon: Teatro alla Scala

From the Duomo, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to one of Milan’s greatest treasures: Teatro alla Scala. Even if you’re not an opera fan, the theater is worth visiting for its history and architecture.

• Entry: Even if you don’t attend a show, you can tour the museum to see costumes, instruments, and portraits of famous performers. Sometimes, you’ll even get a sneak peek inside the actual theater. To secure your spot, book your ticket online here.
• Why It’s Special: La Scala is where legends like Verdi and Puccini premiered their operas. I once attended a ballet here, and I still get chills remembering the red velvet seats, golden balconies, and crystal chandeliers. If you’re lucky enough to get tickets to a performance during your Milan weekend trip, it will be a highlight of your 2-day itinerary.

My Tip: If you don’t manage to get inside, just standing in Piazza della Scala, with the statue of Leonardo da Vinci looking over the theater, is already a moment to enjoy.

Hidden Gem near Piazza della Scala: Just 5 minutes walk from the piazza, you’ll find the Casa degli Omenoni, a 16th-century palace guarded by eight giant stone figures — one of Milan’s quirkiest hidden gems.

Strolling Through Brera District

Next, head into Brera, one of Milan’s most charming neighborhoods. Walking its cobbled streets feels like stepping into an artistic postcard — boutique shops, cozy wine bars, and ivy-covered walls everywhere. Whenever I need to “escape” the busier side of Milan, this is where I wander.

Pinacoteca di Brera

At the heart of the district lies the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important art galleries. It houses masterpieces by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Mantegna.

The first time I visited, I was a student, and I remember sitting on a bench in front of Caravaggio’s Supper at Emmaus, completely lost in the painting. If you’re an art lover, this museum could easily take half your afternoon.

Entry: You can wander the gallery halls on your own, but guided tours add context to the works. If you’re interested, you can book your ticket online here.

Brera’s Atmosphere

Even if you skip the museum, just walking around Brera is a joy. I like to stop for a cappuccino at Bar Jamaica, a historic café where artists and writers used to meet. Sometimes, I’ll pop into small design shops or antique bookstores — it’s the kind of place where you can find unique souvenirs that aren’t mass-produced.

Wrapping Up Day 1 Afternoon

By now, you’ve experienced:

• The elegance of La Scala.
• The artistic soul of Brera.

It’s a mix of culture and leisure that balances the busy morning at the Duomo. When I show friends around Milan, this is usually the exact route I take on their first day — it shows off the city’s iconic side and its softer, more intimate corners.

Day 1 Evening: Aperitivo & Navigli

After a day packed with Milan’s highlights, it’s time to slow down and enjoy the city the way locals do — with aperitivo. This pre-dinner ritual is one of my favorite parts of life in Milan. Think of it as happy hour, but with a serious upgrade: you order a drink (often a spritz or a Negroni), and it comes with a spread of snacks, from olives and cheese to small plates of pasta.

Aperitivo in Brera or Duomo Area

If you’re still in Brera after your museum visit, stay a little longer. The narrow cobblestone streets come alive in the evening, with bars setting tables outside. Stop at N’Ombra de Vin, a wine bar tucked into a former monastery cellar. Sitting here with a glass of red and some nibbles feels timeless.

Closer to the Duomo, you’ll find rooftop bars with stunning views of the cathedral glowing at night. One of my go-to spots is Terrazza Aperol — it’s touristy, yes, but sipping a bright orange Aperol Spritz while watching the piazza light up is a classic Milan moment. If you’d like a guided evening food & drink experience, you can book an aperitivo tour here.

Evening Stroll Along the Navigli Canals

After aperitivo, head to the Navigli district — Milan’s nightlife hub. The canals, originally designed by Leonardo da Vinci, are now lined with trendy bars, trattorias, and live-music spots.

Whenever I have friends visiting for just 2 days in Milan, I bring them here on their first night. The energy is contagious — you’ll hear music drifting from bars, see locals sitting by the water with gelato, and find couples strolling hand-in-hand.

• Dinner in Navigli: If you want a true Milanese experience, order cotoletta alla milanese (breaded veal cutlet) or ossobuco at one of the traditional trattorias. For something lighter, go for wood-fired pizza and share antipasti.

One summer evening, I sat at a small table right by the canal, and a street musician started playing Italian love songs. The whole bar ended up singing along — strangers and locals together. That’s the magic of Navigli.

Nightlife Options

If you still have energy after dinner:

• Corso Como 10 – Stylish bar + concept store with a fashionable crowd.
• Jazz Cafè in Parco Sempione – More relaxed, good for cocktails and people-watching.
• Clubbing: Milan has a big nightlife scene, especially near Porta Garibaldi and Corso Como.

Wrapping Up Day 1

Your first day in Milan ends with:

• Aperitivo, the city’s best tradition.
• A walk and dinner along the canals of Navigli.
• Optional nightlife or a relaxed evening under the stars.

This balance of high culture (Duomo, La Scala, Brera) and local lifestyle (aperitivo, canals, nightlife) is what makes Milan such a rewarding city for a weekend.

Where to Stay in Milan for the Weekend

If you’re planning a weekend in Milan, where you stay can completely shape your experience:

• Duomo Area: Perfect if it’s your first time in Milan and you want to be steps from the cathedral, Galleria, and main attractions. It’s the most central, but also the busiest.
• Brera District: My personal favorite — artsy, elegant, and full of charm. You’ll be close to museums, boutique shops, and stylish cafés.
• Navigli: Best if you love nightlife and want to experience Milan’s canals, aperitivo bars, and buzzing evenings.
• Porta Nuova / Garibaldi: Modern skyscrapers, trendy restaurants, and excellent transport connections.

You can check the best hotel deals in Milan here and find something that fits your style and budget.

(I usually advise friends to book early, especially around Fashion Week or major events, when rooms sell out fast.)

Day 2: Hidden Gems & Local Life

Your second day in Milan is about slowing down a little — mixing history with local life, art with green spaces, and ending the day with more great food and atmosphere. If Day 1 was Milan’s iconic side, Day 2 shows you the soul of the city.

Morning: Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione

Start your day at Castello Sforzesco, Milan’s red-brick fortress. I still remember coming here on school trips as a kid — back then, it just felt like a huge playground with towers and courtyards. As an adult, I’ve come to appreciate it as a cultural hub, home to several museums.

• Entry: The castle courtyards are free to enter, so even if you don’t step inside the museums, it’s worth walking through.
• Museums Inside: You’ll find everything from Michelangelo’s unfinished Rondanini Pietà to ancient Egyptian artifacts. If museums are your thing, you can book your ticket online here.

Behind the castle stretches Parco Sempione, Milan’s most beloved green space. On weekends, the park fills with joggers, families, and couples out for a stroll. I often grab a takeaway cappuccino and croissant and enjoy breakfast on a bench here — it’s the best way to see locals starting their day.

At the far end of the park, you’ll spot the Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace). Built in the 19th century, it’s now a gathering spot for friends and street musicians. If you’re lucky, you might catch an impromptu performance here — I once stumbled upon a group playing jazz under the arch at sunset, and it felt like a movie scene.

Lunch: Porta Garibaldi & Local Flavors

For lunch, wander toward Porta Garibaldi, one of Milan’s most dynamic areas. The modern skyscrapers of Porta Nuova rise up here, but you’ll still find plenty of traditional trattorias hidden in the side streets.

One of my go-to spots for visitors is a simple osteria where I introduce them to risotto alla Milanese (creamy saffron risotto) or cotoletta alla milanese (breaded veal cutlet). It’s filling, comforting, and pure Milanese tradition.

If you prefer something quick, Milan also has an exploding street food scene — panini shops, gourmet pizza slices, or even sushi (the city has one of the largest Japanese communities in Italy).

For food lovers, a guided tasting experience is a great option — you can book a Milan food tour here to discover places you’d probably never find on your own.

Afternoon: Leonardo’s Last Supper

No 2-day Milan itinerary is complete without trying to see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano). It’s housed inside the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Here’s the catch: tickets are limited and often sell out weeks in advance. The first time I tried to go, I didn’t book early enough and missed it. Lesson learned! The next time, I booked online in advance, and stepping into that room was unforgettable. Seeing Leonardo’s faded yet still majestic mural, knowing it has survived centuries of wars and restorations, gave me goose bumps.

• Booking Tip: Don’t wait — if this is on your bucket list, secure your spot now. You can book your Last Supper ticket online here or join a guided tour that combines the church and mural with other city highlights.
• Alternative if Sold Out: If you can’t get in, visit San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, sometimes called the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.” Its colorful frescoes are jaw-dropping, and entry is free.

Evening: Back to Navigli or Local Neighborhoods

For your final evening in Milan, you have two great options depending on your mood:

1. Sunset & Dinner in Navigli

If you loved Navigli on Day 1, come back for round two. The vibe is different every evening — sometimes lively and buzzing, sometimes romantic and mellow. I once brought a friend here two nights in a row, and both evenings felt completely different.

This time, maybe try a different restaurant or a wine bar tucked into a side street.

2. Local Neighborhood Experience

If you prefer something less touristy, head to Isola, a trendy neighborhood near Porta Garibaldi. It’s filled with street art, indie boutiques, and creative restaurants. I sometimes end my weekend here with craft cocktails and live music — a nice break from the more famous spots.

Another option is Chinatown (Via Paolo Sarpi), one of Milan’s liveliest food districts. I often come here with friends for dumplings or bubble tea when I want something different from Italian food.

Wrapping Up Day 2

Your second day in Milan gives you:

• Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione – history + green space.
• Local lunch in Porta Garibaldi – Milanese flavors.
• Leonardo’s Last Supper – a world masterpiece (book early!).
• Evening in Navigli, Isola, or Chinatown – nightlife, food, and atmosphere.

It’s a day that balances art, food, and local life, showing you that Milan isn’t just fashion and business — it’s a city full of surprises and soul.

Practical Tips for a Weekend in Milan

Planning a Milan weekend trip is easier when you know a few insider tricks. Here’s everything I usually tell friends who come for 2–3 days.

Best Time to Visit Milan

Milan is a year-round destination, but the experience changes a lot depending on the season:

• Spring (April–June): My personal favorite — sunny but not too hot, café terraces are buzzing, and flowers bloom in Parco Sempione.
• Autumn (September–October): Perfect weather and fewer crowds. The fashion weeks make the city electric (book hotels early!).
• Winter (December–February): Cold but festive. The Christmas lights around Duomo are magical, and it’s a good base for day trips to the Alps.
• Summer (July–August): Hot, and many locals leave for vacation. Still, you’ll find lively nights in Navigli and plenty of events.

Getting Around Milan

Milan is compact, and for just 2 days in Milan, you won’t need a car (beware of ZTL zones in the center).

• Walking: Many highlights are within 15–20 minutes’ walk.
• Metro & Trams: Fast and reliable. A 48-hour transport pass is the best deal.
• Bike/ Scooter Sharing: You’ll see locals zipping around — it’s fun if you’re comfortable with city traffic.
• Airport Transfers: Malpensa, Linate, and Bergamo airports are all well-connected. You can book your Milan airport transfer here to save time.

Where to Stay Recap

• Duomo: Best for first-timers, right in the action.
• Brera: Romantic, artsy, and stylish.
• Navigli: Nightlife and canals.
• Porta Nuova / Garibaldi: Modern and well-connected.

You can check the best hotels in Milan here.

Budget Tips for Visiting Milan

• Free Sundays: On the first Sunday of each month, many museums are free (including Pinacoteca di Brera).
• Aperitivo = Dinner: If you’re on a budget, a well-chosen aperitivo spread can replace a meal.
• Skip-the-line: For short trips, don’t waste time in queues. Always book tickets online here.

Map: Weekend in Milan Itinerary

Here’s a quick map with all the stops from this 2 day Milan itinerary — from the Duomo to Navigli.

🗺️ How to Use This Map:

• Zoom in/out to explore the details.
• Click each marker for info about the attraction.
• Save it to Google Maps on your phone for offline use.

FAQs About a Weekend in Milan