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24 Hours in Milan: A Perfect One Day in Milan Itinerary

Want to visit the unofficial fashion capital of the world but only have 24 hours in Milan? If so then this insider’s one day in Milan itinerary is totally for you!

After all, I’ve been to Milan (Milano in Italian) countless times and want to help you make the most of your Milan itinerary since this is one of the best places to visit in Italy.

I mean, Milan may be chic beyond belief but it can be difficult to know where to go and what to do in a city the size of Paris if you only have 24 hours in Milan and have exactly zero ideas of what to do or where to go first.

Thankfully though, your super-friendly local travel expert is here to help you plan the most awesome one day in Milan itinerary ever.

This way, you can quickly and easily see the most popular designer boutiques, eat at the trendiest restaurants, and check out all of the best Milan attractions during your short stay in this next-level gorgeous city.

Who knows, I might even throw in some of the best-hidden gems in Milan too. You know, just to make this Milan itinerary extra special.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

If you’re booking a trip right now then I IMPLORE you to get travel insurance – even if it’s not from me.

After all, this past year has been a wild ride and I don’t want you to lose money because government regulations have changed. 

Truth be told though, I’ve never traveled without travel insurance and don’t think you should either – especially since I think we’ve all had plans drastically change because of the pandemic. 

Therefore, find an insurance agency that covers travel changes related to COVID-19, like my two all-time faves World Nomads and Safety Wing. You can also read more about which policy is right for you in my full review here.

🏆 Want to plan the BEST 24 HOURS IN MILAN EVER? Then book this guided tour of the Duomo, DaVinci’s Last Supper, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and La Scala opera house. It’s my pick for the best tour in Milan hands down. 🏆

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How to get to Milan for Your One Day in Milan Itinerary

Facade of the Duomo in Milan. One of the many things to do see during your 24 hours in Milan.

Located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy (FYI, Lake Como is really close by and makes for an excellent day trip from Milan), Milan is extremely well-connected to the rest of Italy. So, there are a couple of different ways for you to get to the city for the perfect 24 hours in Milan.

You could travel:

By Train – Milano Centrale is the major train station in Milan and is well-connected to not just Italy but to most major cities in Europe. That’s why upwards of 350,000 people pass through this train station every single day.

Therefore, using the train is a great option if you want to save a bit of money and have a bit of extra time on your hands. After all, the train station is located a mere 2-miles away from most major Milan attractions – making it easy to get to all of the city’s best sites if you only have 24 hours in Milan

There’s also a fantastic metro system in Milan that is easy to use and that is accessible from Milano Centrale. So, you can always arrive for your one day in Milan itinerary by train and then use the metro to quickly get around the city.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time and want to save some money, you could always do an overnight train to Milan from other major Italian cities, like Rome. I personally took the overnight train from Milan to Rome and it was a great way to save both time and money.

By Plane – Arriving for your one day in Milan itinerary by plane? If so then you’ll probably be flying into the city’s largest airport, Malpensa International Airport (MXP). After all, it’s Milan’s largest airport and accommodates international flights into the city.

If you’re flying into this airport, you can access the train in Terminal 1 and then take that into the city. The trip will take about an hour but, to be honest, it isn’t much faster to get into the city by taxi. Plus, the train has the added benefit of being infinitely cheaper than a taxi (a taxi ride takes 45 minutes and is 75 Euros).

There’s also a shuttle that runs between terminal one and terminal two twenty-four hours a day, so you’ll definitely have no problem accessing the train station regardless of the terminal you fly into.

Now, the other two airports in Milan are Milan Linate (LIN) and Bergamo (BGY). Of all three airports, Milan Linate is closest to the city center and handles mostly domestic flights within Italy.

To get into Central Milan from this airport, you could take a taxi or a bus. The taxi takes about 20 minutes and costs around 40 Euros. Conversely, you could take the #73 bus to Piazza Duomo (fares are 1.50 Euros per person and the trip takes around an hour) or the Linate Shuttle to Milano Centrale. Shuttles depart every thirty minutes, take about 25-minutes, and one-way tickets cost five Euros per person.

In contrast, Bergamo is located well outside the city center but is a popular destination for flights from the UK and other major European cities. You also can’t use the train to get directly into Milan from here.

So, if you fly into Bergamo you could either take a taxi to Milano Centrale (the trip will take between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours and cost 75 Euros) or one of five buses into the city, all of which will take you to central Milan for between 6 and 7 Euros per person.

Tips to Make Your 24 hours in Milan Itinerary a WHOLE Lot Easier

The newly refurbished roof of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade in Milan. A must-see during your one day in Milan itinerary.

Here’s a list of all the things I wish I had known before I spent one day in Milan. Trust me, these tips will make spending 24 hours in Milan 10,000 times easier. And yes, that is an exact number.

1. Book Everything in Advance

If you only have 24 hours in Milan then skip-the-line tickets will be your new best friend. Because guess what? Lines for top Milan attractions can be insanely long.

The result? You’re wasting precious time standing in line and not seeing everything on your one day in Milan itinerary. Also, not gonna lie, tickets for certain Milan landmarks sell out months in advance (yes Da Vinci’s Last Supper, I’m talking about you), making it impossible to purchase tickets the day of.

So, be sure to book tickets in advance for all of the following if you want your 24 hours in Milan to go super smoothly.

  • Duomo/Milan Cathedral – Lines are long so purchase either the admission ticket or the fast track Milan ticket with a guided tour before you arrive.
  • Da Vinci’s Last Supper – Tickets sell out months in advance so be sure to nab a ticket well before you plan to spend one day in Milan. I’d also opt for a skip-the-line ticket with a guided tour since the tours are great and provide you with historical context so that you actually know what you’re looking at.
  • La Scala Museum and Theatre Tour –  Great 60-minute tour if you have a bit of extra time and want to see the stunning interior of this amazing theater.
  • Castle Sforza – Stunning, Renaissance-style, brick castle that is home to beautiful courtyards and seven different museums. Get your tickets with a guided tour now!

2. Make a Plan

While I tend to be more of a fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants kind of traveler, Milan is one of those cities where you’ll definitely want to plan an itinerary in advance.

Yeah, it just helps you make the most of your one day in Milan itinerary so that you don’t waste time needlessly waiting in line or getting lost within this sizable city.

Personally, I’d use Google maps to help you plan your 24 hours in Milan itinerary so that you have all the attractions you want to see mapped out and you know how to seamlessly move from one place to another.

3. Use GPS To Get from One Place to Another

If you’re spending 24 hours in Milan then chances are pretty high that this is your first time in the city. If it is, then you won’t have time to get your bearings and develop an understanding of how to get around the city.

Plus, while it can be fun to “get lost” during a longer trip, it is very un-fun when you’re short on time and have a ton to see and do. So, don’t waste time getting lost and use your GPS to quickly get from one top attraction to another.

Also, before you use mobile data in a foreign country (mobile data is needed to use your GPS while you’re walking around), be sure to check with your cell phone carrier and see what the fees associated with using mobile data are.

Honestly, I’ve made this mistake in the past and it’s insane how quickly those fees can add up. But, If it’s pricey for you to use mobile data abroad, you can always purchase a local SIM card upon arrival (be sure to have a paper clip handy to help you remove your regular SIM card from your phone) or get a WIFI hot spot so that you can use WIFI while walking around Milan.

4. Use the Metro to Get Around

Rather than walking everywhere, try using the metro. Not only is it pretty easy to use, but it’s a lot faster than walking and is a lot cheaper than a taxi.

And while it may be tempting to purchase single-ride tickets while enjoying your 24 hours in Milan itinerary, you can save money by purchasing a day pass for €4.50 per person (that’s about $5.50 per person).

5. Wear Comfortable Shoes

High heels may be awesome and look lovely, but they are not ideal when doing a one day in Milan itinerary. Trust me on this people! I mean, even if you take the metro to most places, you’ll still be doing a fair amount of walking as you try to make the most out of your time in Milan.

So, be sure to wear extra comfortable shoes that are great for walking, like this pair right here. I like them because they’re well-priced (under $30 each), stylish, easy to slip on, are comfy AF, and come in a bunch of different colors that will work with just about any outfit you can dream up.

Pro Tip; If you’re visiting in winter then be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes and wear warm boots since Milan is hella freezing at this time of year. I visited towards the end of December and was pretty surprised at how cold it was.

6. Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

Pickpockets and scammers are a HUGE problem in Italy. Therefore, you’ll want to take extra care with your belongings, especially in touristy areas around the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

And, real talk? Some of these con artists may not be so obvious (like panhandlers) at first since they’ve come up with some pretty inventive ways to separate you from your cash.

I mean, some may try and stop you by “giving” you a free bracelet.  But, don’t fall for it. Because once they get that bracelet on your wrist they will demand money or distract you while they pick your pocket.

Instead, just firmly say, ‘no thank you” and keep it moving.

Best Hotels in Milan

😊 Not sure where to stay in Milan? Then try the B&B Milano Central Station. It’s my pick for the best hotel in Milan since it’s well-priced, features modern amenities, and is well-located near the train station.😊

I know you’re only planning a one day in Milan itinerary, but if you want to spend the night in this amazing city, here are my picks for some of the best hotels in Milan.

They’re all well-located and vary by price based on your budget and the type of traveler you are. This way, you can easily find the perfect hotel for you based on how much you want to spend during your 24 hours in Milan.

  • B&B Hotel Milano Central Station (budget) – Well-priced at under $100 per night, B&B Hotel Milano Central Station is an epic, 3-star hotel with bright and airy rooms and a sleek lounge that is a fun place to hang out. It’s also a 5-minute walk from the train station and offers a wicked awesome breakfast buffet for a small fee.
  • Hotel Gran Duca Di York (mid-range) – What’s not to love about the Hotel Grand Duca Di York? I mean, it’s only a 7-minute walk from the Duomo, sits inside a historic 19th-century building on a quiet cobblestone street, and is well-priced. Plus, a stay in one of the hotel’s minimalist/traditional rooms includes a fantastic breakfast buffet that you can enjoy while staring at one of the hotel’s many old-world frescoes.
  • Montenapoleone Suites (mid-range) – Located just 0.5 miles away from the Duomo, this plush guest house features chic, well-appointed rooms that come fully outfitted with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, and en suite bathrooms. Heck, some rooms here even have swank AF private saunas and whirlpool tubs – all of which are available for an additional fee since the best things in life are very much NOT free.
  • The Yard at Aethos Hotel (luxury) – Wanna be swank AF while spending one day in Milan? If so then this is the perfect hotel for you! Sure, rooms here may not be cheap but you’re less than a mile away from the Duomo and the entire establishment overlooks a lovely little canal. Rooms are also funky but stylish and include designer toiletries, in-room Nespresso machines, sitting areas, and more. Plus, breakfast is complimentary (and delish), as are skate rentals, bike rentals, and the use of a retro bar at one of the best boutique hotels in Milan.

The Perfect One Day in Milan itinerary: 24 Hours in Milan

Okay, so this one day in Milan itinerary will obviously vary depending on who you are, how much time you have, and what you’re interested in.

But, here are my picks for all of the top attractions that you’ll probably want to see during your 24 hours in Milan. Yeah, just think of it as an awesome, rough outline that you can use to plan your trip.

  • Breakfast at Panzerotti Luini
  • Duomo di Milano
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  • Piazza del Scala
  • Lunch in the Brera District
  • Pinacoteca di Brera or Castle Sforza
  • Da Vinci’s The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie
  • Stroll Along the Navigili Canals
  • Quadrilatero d’Oro (Optional)
  • Dinner

1. Breakfast at Panzerotti Luini

Fresh fried panzerotti from Milan. One of the best things to eat with one day in Milan.

Perfectly located right near Milan’s famed Duomo, there is no better place to start your 24 hours in Milan than at Panzerotti Luini.

It’s a charming, old-world bakery that has been around FOREVER and that is known for serving panzerotti turnovers (deep-fried turnover or dough pocket with a filling of your choice. Kind of like a calzone) with either sweet or savory fillings.

Definitely get a panzerotti while you’re here since the city is known for them and they come in amazing flavors like mozzarella, tomato, ham, and eggplant.

Chase it down with a piping hot cup of coffee and you’ll be ready to explore our first attraction on our one day in Milan itinerary.

Address: Via Santa Radegonda, 16, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm, except on Sunday when they’re closed.

2. Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral)

Exterior of the Duomo di Milano in Milan.

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (13,444 Reviews) Price: $17.50 per person Duration: 2-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Duomo Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Okay, I’m gonna be real with you. Most people refer to the Duomo di Milano simply as the Duomo. And that makes sense since basically, every other church in the city pales in comparison to this gorgeous, Gothic masterpiece.

In fact, this structure is so awesome – and detailed – that it was constructed throughout the course of 600 years, starting in 1368 and resulting in the architectural wonder that you see today.

In total, this masterpiece features 135 marble spires, 3400 statues, and is known for being the fourth largest church in Europe. It’s also the second-largest church in Italy and consists of five main sites that you’ll probably want to see.

  • The main church
  • The rooftop terrace
  • The Duomo Museum
  • The crypt
  • The archaeological area

Before you visit though, be sure to nab a skip-the-line ticket so that you can avoid a long wait in line. Once inside, I’d start with a trip to the rooftop terrace so that you can enjoy the panoramic views and get an overview of the church as you start your one day in Milan itinerary.

To access the roof, you can use either the elevator or the stairs. Just know that even if you do use the elevator, you’ll still have to climb up some narrow, super steep steps to get to the roof.

“The Milan Duomo is an amazing building, epic and perfect proportions. Well worth a visit. Three stair climb to the roof was ready for all family members. The audio guide was good.”

Nicolas (read more reviews now)

Also, the elevator only operates one way, so even if you take it to the top you’ll still have to use the stairs to get back down – something that is good to know if anyone has accessibility issues.

Okay, so after enjoying the stellar panoramas and the amazing gargoyles at the top, learn about the history of the church at the Duomo Museum.

Next, head inside the Cathedral itself before visiting the crypt (you’ll see the remains of famous Milanese archbishop Saint Carlo Borromeo in a rock crystal casket), and the archeological sites (the is where the ruins of the Baptistery of San Giovanni alle Fonti are, which is the first octagonal-shaped Christian baptistery.

And if you just want to visit the church itself during your 24 hours in Milan itinerary, then be sure to keep an eye out for, count em, 55 amazing stained glass windows.

Other super rad highlights include the funeral monument of Gian Giacomo Medici, the splendid ‘tree-shaped’ Trivulziano candelabra (in the left transept), the baptistery with a baptismal font that (dates back to Roman times), and the statue of “St. Bartholomew flayed” (gross because he is wrapped in his own skin, a la Hannibal).

Pro Tip: If you want to enter the Duomo, your shoulders and knees will both need to be covered.

And if you have luggage and are not planning to spend the night in Milan, be sure to store it inside a storage locker in the museum since large luggage is not permitted inside the church.

You can also enjoy some of the best gelato in Milan while you’re here or check out one of the best rooftop bars in Milan too.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am 7:00 pm, with the last admission at 6:10 pm.

Price: Tickets are pretty cheap and general admission is between $5 and $10 per person.

3. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Exterior of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade.

I hate shopping with the passion of a thousand sons. But, Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II won me over and is definitely one of the best sights to see during your 24 hours in Milan.

After all, this shopping mecca is not just about embracing the consumer whore within. Rather, because this building was first erected in 1877, it is the oldest, and one of the most astounding, shopping arcades in the world.

it also has a historic charm and Renaissance-style beauty about it that is generally absent from many modern shopping complexes.

I mean, just look at the four-story double arcade, the exquisite mosaics, (be sure to check out the masterpiece entitled, “Riot in the Gallery”) the marble floors, and the enticing designer boutiques and I DARE you not to be impressed.

If you can, try to enter the Galleria through the corridor between the Duomo and La Scala Theatre. Here, you’ll be welcomed into the complex by a series of extraordinary arches that allude to the greater beauty within.

As you step inside, enter the “parlor” of the city where many locals sit, relax, and enjoy a cup of coffee at Camparino. Feel free to stop for a cup and watch the shoppers stroll by.

Conversely, you could always do a little bit of high-end retail therapy as you enter a world full of Borsalino hats, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, for good measure.

Whatever you do though, do not leave without heading to the center of the Gallery and finding the bull that represents the city of Turin. Apparently, if you spin your heels on the bull’s “manhood” three times, you’ll enjoy good luck. Something that we could all use a bit of during 24 hours in Milan.

Pro Tip: While you’re here, you can stop by Marchesi. It’s a charming, Milanese bakery that has been around since 1824 and that serves some of the best pastries in the city. The Panettone with a chilled shaker coffee would be my order of choice and the shop is inside the shopping arcade itself, behind a small door on the right that will take you to the shop on the second floor.

Address: Plaza del Duomo, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open twenty-four hours a day.

Price: Free!

4. Piazza Della Scala and La Scala Theatre

Leonardo's Monument in the Piazza della Scala.

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (215 Reviews) Price: $49.85 per person Duration: 90 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Leonardo Da Vinci statue Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Okay, this is one of those things on your 24 hours in Milan itinerary that you can probably skip if you’re really short on time.

But honestly? It’s basically right on the other side of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (on the end away from the Duomo) and is just a nice little pedestrianized square for you to walk through.

Obviously, the main highlight here is the renowned statue of Leonardo da Vinci, in addition to the Teatro Alla Scala Opera House which is next-level stunning on the inside.

“Booking this tour was the absolute best decision!! The privately guided tour was well organized and the lady was very competent and personable. She knew her way around in every respect and was able to help us with great tips when we had spontaneous questions! In the opera house, she is known to the security and we have enjoyed some advantages as a result. The fact that we were able to watch a rehearsal of a ballet performance at the end made the tour a unique experience. My husband and I would 100% recommend!!”

Damla (read more reviews now)

If you have the time, I would 100% recommend taking a tour of the Opera House’s lavish interior. Or, if you want to see the interior but don’t really have time for a full tour during your one day in Milan itinerary, you could always come back for dinner and dine at the lavish, Il Marchesino restaurant instead.

But, if time is of the essence, you can just marvel at the theater’s exterior and head to the Brera District for lunch!

Address: Piazza Della Scala, 5, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open twenty-four hours a day.

Price: Free!

5. Lunch in the Brera District or Private Food Tour

Charming cobblestone streets of the Brera District in Milan.

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (84 Reviews) Price: $83.00 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Panificio Pattini, Via Solferino 5, Milan Provider: Fat Tire Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Next, take a 15-minute walk to Milan’s one and only Brera District. It’s an artsy, glam, and altogether suave part of the city that is known for its posh art galleries, sleek restaurants, and charming street markets.

And if you’re feeling a bit peckish, this is a great spot to stop for lunch. Heck, you could even do a private food tour through the area to learn all about the traditional Italian food and drinks that this area is known for.

“It was a great tour! Daniele was very knowledgeable as he lived in Milan for years. He showed us all the great places to experience the food culture of Milan as well as enoteca’s to try the best wines in the region. We were the only 2 people of the tour that day so fortunately it turned out to be a VIP tour. Definitely recommend anyone!”

Sina (read more reviews now)

Otherwise, just stroll along the area’s quaint cobblestone streets and stop for lunch at Boa Boa (if you like sushi), Obicà Mozzarella Bar, Carminio (get the quiche or zucchini souffle), or Daniel Ristorante for traditional veal Osso Bucco.

Just do yourself a solid and make a reservation since this Michelin-starred restaurant is quite popular.

Pro Tip: If you love museums and have a bit of extra time, The Pinacoteca Gallery, The Astronomical Museum, and the Braidense National Library are all found in this part of the city and are well worth a visit.

6. Pinacoteca di Brera or Castle Sforza

Sadly, some tough choices need to be made during your twenty-four hours in Milan. So, you’ll need to decide if you want to visit the Pinacoteca Brera or the Castle Sforza.

Both are top Milan attractions so it really just depends on whether you like historic castles or awe-inspiring art museums more. So, go with Castle Sforza if you like historic buildings or the Pinacoteca di Brera if you like art museums.

Castle Sforza

Stunning exterior of Sforza Castle in the evening.

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (112 Reviews) Price: $52.91 per person Duration: 90 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Piazza Castello (in front of the fountain), 20121 Milano Provider: Italy Hidden Experiences Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Originally built as a Visconti fortress, this awesome, Renaissance, red-brick castle eventually became the residence of the Sforza dynasty. It sits on the perimeter of the Brera district

Today, Castle Sforza is home to no less than seven different museums, which basically are a giant amalgamation of important artifacts that relate to Milanese culture and civic history.

Of all the museums here, the Musei d’Arte Antica (Museum of Ancient Art) is probably the most interesting since it sits inside old apartments that have frescoes from Leonardo da Vinci painted on the walls.

There are also a ton of paleo-Christian sculptures on display here, like the equestrian tomb of Bernarbò Visconti, reliefs representing Milan’s triumph over Barbarossa, and more.

On the first floor though, you also have the Museo dei Mobile (Furniture Museum) and the Pinacoteca (Picture Gallery). So, feel free to marvel at the stunning 20th-century furniture before taking in an impressive collection of Lombard Gothic art, with highlights like Andrea Mantegna’s Trivulzio Madonna and Vincenzo Foppa’s St Sebastian.

“We were welcomed by the guide Simoni at the meeting point and at the appointed time. He accompanied us throughout the visit and was very kind. He introduced us to the works and told us the whole history of the Castle and the works of art contained in it. We loved everything.”

Patricia (read more reviews now)

Whatever you do though, do not leave without seeing Michelangelo’s final work, the Rondanini Pietà. it sits in the frescoed hall of the castle’s Ospedale Spagnolo (Spanish Hospital) and was discovered, unfinished, in his studio – after he died at 89.

Pro Tip: If you want to visit for free, stop by on the first Sunday of the month or after 2:00 pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month.

Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 7:00 am to 7:30 pm (FYI, museums have different hours).

Price: The grounds are free but the museums are €10.00 for a regular ticket and € 8.00 for a reduced ticket. Avoid the lines and get your ticket with a guided tour now!

Pinacoteca di Brera

The interior courtyard of the Pinacoteca di Brera.

Another gem of the Brera district, Pinacoteca di Brera is home to an exquisite collection of religious art from the 14th through 16th century – all of which is tucked away inside the stunning, Palazzo Brera from the 17th century.

So, head upstairs from one of Italy’s most prestigious art school and use an awesome audio guide (€5) to explore a glass-walled restoration laboratory (you can see conservators at work) and works from artistic greats like:

  • Caravaggio
  • Van Dyck
  • Goya
  • Raphael
  • Guercino
  • Bellini
  • Rubens

In particular, Caravaggio’s Supper at Emmaus, Francesco Hayez’s The Kiss, Andrea Mantegna’s Lamentation of Christ, Raphael’s Marriage of the Virgin, and Bellinis’s Pieta are all must-sees.

And if you’re not feeling the ancient stuff, never fear because this museum also has a great modern art collection too!

Pro Tip: Stop by on the third Thursday of the month for a live concert and a reduced admission fee of €3.

Address: Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm with the last admission at 5:30 pm. The museum is also open until 10:15 pm – last admission at 9:30 pm – on the third Thursday of the month.

Price: Standard tickets are €15.00 per person while reduced tickets are €10 per person.

7. Visit Corso Magenta & Sant’Ambrogio to see Da Vinci’s Last Supper

The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (3995 Reviews) Price: $46.66 per person Duration: 60 minutes with optional audio guide 📍Meeting Point: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie Provider: GT Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Okay, so next stop on this 24 hours in Milan itinerary is the man, the myth, the legend, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper.

Yeah, it’s a pretty iconic painting that is a total must-see for anyone spending one day in Milan.

Now to get here, hop on the metro and take it to either Conciliazione or Cairoli station.

Both stops are about a ten-minute walk from Santa Marie Delle Grazie church (aka “Holy Mary of Grace” Church in English).

Once there, you’ll really only be here for around 20-minutes. Yeah, tours here are pretty short because they want to protect the painting.

Also, because this is basically THE most immortal site in all of Milan, you’ll need to book your tickets at least 6-weeks in advance if you want to enjoy this amazing piece of art.

Other than that, just sit back, relax, and enjoy one of the famous paintings in the world. It’s an enormous, Renaissance masterpiece that takes up almost the entire back wall of the refectory in Santa Maria Delle Grazie.

“The tour was pretty easy to book and it was everything we hoped for. We just needed to be at the meeting point 10 minutes before the scheduled tour. The guide held a sign up so it was pretty easy to spot him. We were given disposable headsets and an audio guide receiver. Our guide Marco, was very knowledgeable and professional. He made the tour fun and informative. The tour was smooth and organized. The skip-the-line perk of this tour also made it all worth it!Definitely highly recommend this tour!”

Howard (read more reviews now)

It’s also a really important piece of Renaissance art since Da Vinci built on earlier techniques for composition and perspective to create it.

However, he was WAY ahead of his time in terms of his portrayal of the emotional reactions of his subjects; a naturalism that was absent from Italian painting just a hundred years earlier. S

And while you’re here, you’ll also get to admire the Crucifixion fresco by Giovanni Donato da Montorfano, which sits inside the former Dominican convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie (adjacent to Santa Maria Delle Grazie church).

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria Delle Grazie, 2, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:45 pm, except on Sunday when it closes at 1:30 pm.

Price: Regular tickets are €15.00 and reduced admission is  €13.00 for anyone between 18 and 25.

8. Stroll Along the Navigli Canals

Colorful store fronts and people walking along the Navigili Canals in Milan on a warm day.

When you think of Italy and canals, I bet you think of Venice? Am I right? Well, you’ll be delighted to know that Milan has its fair share of supremely lovely canals too!

Yup, it’s home to the picturesque, Navigli Canals, which are definitely worth visiting during your 24 hours in Milan. Apparently, the entire area was named for the Naviglio Grande Canal (it’s particularly lovely at sunset) which was created in the 13th century to transport marble that was used to build the Duomo.

Since then though, this area has become somewhat of a nightlife hot spot where you can grab an apertivo (or 12).

Yeah, an apertivo is kind of like a pre-dinner happy hour where you can get small plates and delicious cocktails – like that Negroni that you’re gonna have to order while you’re here.

So, grab a drink, explore the quaint shops, dine at one of the great restaurants serving fine Milanese cuisine, check out some fabulous art studios, and just unwind after a long day of sightseeing. It’s a great place to stop after you’ve seen the Last Supper.

And if you’re not sure where to eat, try Le Striatelle di Nonna Mafalda Milano. It’s a really low-key, authentic Italian restaurant where you can order mussels or traditional carbonara. Both are really good and well-priced.

9. Quadrilatero d’Oro (Optional)

Quadrilatero d’Oro or the fashion district of Milan.

This is totally optional and really only necessary if you like window-shopping and gelato. I personally love the latter of these which is why I would hit up Quadrilatero d’Oro, or the Golden Rectangle in English.

It’s a chic AF part of the city that is known for being the fashion district. So, you’ll definitely find iconic, high-end brands like Prada, Armani, Versace, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel scattered throughout the area.

And if you want to visit for yourself, as part of your one day in Milan itinerary, then just hop on the metro and take it to Via Monte Napoleone.

Because not gonna lie, even if you hate shopping you should still stop by to inhale at least one scoop of gelato during your 24 hours in Milan itinerary.

And if I had to pick one place to grab a scoop, it would be Venchi Cioccolato e Gelato. They serve great coffee and the caramel and pistachio flavors are both really good. They also have vegan options too which is kind of awesome.

Truth be told though, this gelato place is near Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II so you could stop by after walking around Quadrilatero d’Oro for a bit.

Address: Via Giuseppe Mengoni 1 Park Hyatt Angolo, Via Tommaso Grossi, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm.

10. Dinner

Finally, end your 24 hours in Milan with a traditional, Milanese meal that consists of delicious dishes like risotto, Osso Bucco, pork cutlet, meat ravioli, and pappardelle pasta with mushroom sauce.

And some of the best places to eat until you can eat no more include any of the following:

  • Antica Hostaria Della Lanterna –  This Milanese trattoria serves great homemade pasta with gorgonzola and pistachio sauce. The Osso Bucco is also really delish, as is the Tiramisu. Portions are also generous so you won’t walk away from your one day in Milan itinerary hungry.
  • Trattoria Madonnina – This is an old-world, Italian trattoria with a pergola outside that you can sit beneath. And while everything here is good, standouts include the Milanese pork cutlet, the Osso Buco, and the risotto. The menu also changes daily so you can always try something new.
  • La Pesa Trattoria dal 1902 –  This place is a bit more modern but is still known for its delicious pork cutlet, which you can order either standard cut or thick cut. Other house specialties include risotto, Osso Bucco, fried dumplings, and nervetti.
  • La Libera – This restaurant is in the awesome Brera district and serves delicious pork cutlet and risotto al salto within a warm and welcoming environment.

Map of 24 Hours in Milan

Click here for the full map

One Day in Milan Itinerary FAQ

Is 1 Day Enough for Milan?

Yes! Absolutely! Sure, you won’t be able to see everything but you can DEFFO see all the top Milan attractions with 24 hours in Milan.

After all, one day in Milan is enough time to get a feel for the city, see top sights in Milan, grab food at some of the city’s best restaurants, and shop til you drop.

Is a day trip to Milan worth it?

Yes! A day trip to Milan is totally worth it since this iconic city is home to magical sites like the Milan Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and DaVinci’s Last Super.

That being said, whether or not you want to do a day trip really depends on where you are taking a day trip to Milan from. You can also do a fun day trip from Milan to Lake Como if you have extra time.

So, really look at how long it will take you to get to/from the city and try to determine if you’ll have enough time to see want to see.

After all, many of the best attractions in Milan are super popular and mean long lines and wait times that can make a one day in Milan Itinerary tricky.

How can I see Milan in a day?

Breakfast: Panzerotti Luini

Morning: Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Piazza Della Scala and La Scala Theatre.

Lunch: Brera Distrtict or Take a Private Food Tour

Afternoon: Visit Pinacoteca di Brera or Castle Sforza and then Corso Magenta & Sant’Ambrogio to see Da Vinci’s Last Supper

Evening: Stroll Along the Navigli Canals and Quadrilatero d’Oro (Optional)

Dinner: Antica Hostaria Della Lanterna

Is Milan a walkable city?

Milan is a very walkable city. After all, many of the best things to do in Milan are within easy walking distance of each other – a fact that makes planning a one day in Milan itinerary easy.

However, if you get a little tired then be sure to hop on an old-school tram and relax on one of the semi-comfy wooden seats.

🏆 Want to plan the BEST 24 HOURS IN MILAN EVER? Then book this guided tour of the Duomo, DaVinci’s Last Supper, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, and La Scala opera house. It’s my pick for the best tour in Milan hands down. 🏆

Additional Italy Travel Resources You’ll Love

Well my Italy-loving friend, that just about wraps up this guide to 24 hours in Milan!

Tell me, did all your favorite attractions make it on this one day in Milan itinerary? If not then let me know in the comments below so that I can check them out. 

And if you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later!

Ron

Sunday 19th of August 2018

Thank you ! Lady Passport !

girlwiththepassport

Tuesday 21st of August 2018

Happy to help!

Helen

Thursday 25th of January 2018

This has made me laugh a lot. Can’t wait to see more posts.

girlwiththepassport

Thursday 25th of January 2018

I am so glad to hear it. You are the best!

Andrew

Friday 19th of January 2018

Never been to Milan and Northern Italy. Thanks for an informative and interesting article :) Did you visit Rome?

girlwiththepassport

Sunday 28th of January 2018

I did and loved every minute of it!!

Italian Belly

Thursday 18th of January 2018

You are so funny. 'duomo arigato' lol. So I just finished making a walking audio tour of Milan with Voicemaps. But there are a few things that I learned from your short trip here that I should be including in the tour I think. Next time you should check out Pasticceria Marchesi's rival: Pasticceria Cova in the fashion district. I talk about the rivalry in the tour. Taxis are mad expensive from the airport, you're so right. While the city of Milan doesn't provide free wifi,, most bars and caffes have free wifi.

girlwiththepassport

Friday 19th of January 2018

Great!! Thanks so much for the tips!! I will definitely add this when I visit next.

Bernie

Wednesday 17th of January 2018

That poor bull! He's taken a lot of punishment over the years, so I tried to be gentle with him. When we visited Milan, I thought the fashion police would intercept us at the airport, but somehow they let us past to enjoy the magnificence of the city. Glad you had a great time too.

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