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Ultra-Rad Insider Guide to the Best Gelato in Milan

Planning a hella awesome trip to Italy and looking for the best gelato in Milan that will make your tastebuds sing with delight?

Yeah, I feel you. I mean, not only is Milan the gelato capital of Lombardy but gelato is basically a must-eat when planning any very Italian vacation.

In fact, can you really say you visited Italy without eating some gelato? And of course, the correct answer to that question is an emphatic “no”.

Therefore, you need this guide to the best gelato places in Milan in your life.

Not only will I give you the inside scoop (get it?) on where you can find the best gelato Milan has to offer, but I’ll tell you what to order too.

Heck, I’ll even give you a free map to help you navigate your way around the city since I am basically always in Milan and never ever leave the city without ordering gelato at least once.

So, be prepared to lose the diet and enjoy the best gelato spots in Milan right now. Just maybe eat ALL the gelato after renting a car in Lake Como.

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.

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Best Gelato in Milan – Multiple Locations

1. Artico Gelateria

View of a variety of different gelatos from a place with the best gelato in Milan.

Not only does this award-winning gelateria have four locations in Milan, but Artico Gelateria also has an academy for aspiring gelato chefs.

Now, these four unique gelaterias in central Milan can be found in Duomo, Città Studi, Isola, and Brera.

And that’s because this franchise produces exceptional flavors that everyone will love, including pistachio, hazelnut, and lemon.

But, you can always browse among more surprising options that change frequently. For example, they serve up creamy avocado – which, essentially covers one of your five servings of fruit and veggies a day.

So, all you need to do is pick a flavor and then choose between a cup or a cone with a wafer cracker.

Additionally, you’ll lobe that prices are extremely reasonable for the best gelato in Milan.

Address: Via Luigi Porro Lambertenghi, 15, 20159 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm with extended hours until 11:30 pm on Friday and Saturday.

Price: Starts at $3.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the tram to Via Porro Lambertenghi and walk from there.

2. Pavé – Gelati&Granite

Now, Pavé – Pavé – Gelati&Granite has four epic gelato stores in central Milano to choose from.

And, two of them are a stone’s throw away from the MUBA Children’s Museum Milan.

Therefore, this is one of the best gelato places in Milan to know about if you’re traveling with kids.

Plus, the Via Cesare Battisti store is super cute with its white subway tiles that even placing your order is an experience.

Now, at this best Milan gelato spot flavors are themed to match the seasons.

But, if you spot stracciatella alla ricotta behind the counter, do yourself a favor and snap up a scoop.

Although, don’t miss the chance to sample their sorbet-style granita too since both are hella awesome.

Address: Via Cadore, 30, 20135 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 2:00 pm to 12:00 am.

Price: Starts at $9.50 each.

How to Get There: Take the bus to Palazzo di Giustizia stop and walk from there.

3. Rivareno

Rivareno is one of the best getlaterias in Milan and this is a cone with vanilla gelato on the top and chocolate gelato on the bottom with a person holding the cone.

En route to Sforzesco Castle? Not without a cone of the freshest gelato in Milan you’re not.

See, the USP at Rivareno serves up homemade gelato and sorbet that is made fresh daily.

Yup, there’s nothing stale about the dessert supply at this longtime gelateria.

Essentially, Rivareno reproduces traditional Italian gelato flavors using premium ingredients and creative fusions.

Therefore, you’ll peruse through options like strawberries whipped with mascarpone and Fior di Panna with dark chocolate and peppermint.

But, if you only go once, make it an “Alice”. Yeah, this signature gelato marries mascarpone, chocolate hazelnut sauce, and a splash of Marsala Vergine Soleras DOC wine.

However, they also have a second store next to Bocconi University, in Navigli if you want to compare and contrast the best gelaterias in Milan.

Address: Via Mercato, 20, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 1:00 pm to 11:30 pm, with extended hours until 12:00 am on Saturday.

Price: Starts at $3.22 each.

How to Get There: Take the bus to Lanza M2 station and walk from there.

4. Terra Gelato

Panettone with a slice taken out of it from one of the best Milan gelaterias of them all.

Now, Terra Gelato is a stylish modern bistro with super-soft, ultra-light gelato that packs an insane degree of flavor.

See, this chic gelateria is more than a little picky about where they source the ingredients for their gelato.

Plus, it’s some of the best gelato in Milan if you’re looking for innovative flavors and vegan options.

If you can though, order the salted pistachio, black sesame, or tiramisu. You’ll also want to make room for a slice of panettone at Terra Gelato too.

Terra also has two gelaterias in Milan, one in the Central Station Area and one in Bullona.

Both parlors have indoor seating but the Via Vitruvio store has a rad mezzanine.

Address: Via Vitruvio, 38, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 12:00 pm to 11:30 pm, Friday from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am, Saturday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 12:00 am.

Price: Gelato starts at $1.60.

How to Get There: Take the 1/6 tram to Via Vitruvio station and walk from there.

5. Cioccolatitaliani

For reliable gelato that always satisfies, Cioccolatitaliani has your back.

See, this popular chain has multiple gelaterias in Milan (and other Italian cities), with other outposts dotted across Europe and the Middle East.

However, this place definitely ranks as some of the best gelato in Milan near the Duomo.

Plus, the emphasis is on chocolate. Yeah, the Cacao Fino de Aroma used in production is pretty much the best cocoa in the world.

Therefore, you simply have to make a pit stop at Cioccolatitaliani while spending 24 hours in Milan.

FYI, the skinny cones make a neat addition to your Instagram feed, with the pastries and coffee both being equally delicious.

Address: Via S. Raffaele, 6, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: $4.30 each.

How to Get There: Take the metro to Loreto station and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Duomo

6. Gelato e Champagne (Cerdini and Quenardel)

Bottle of Champagne at unusual restaurants in London

What do you get if you take an outstanding gelato maker (the Cerdinis) and a top champagne producer (the Quenardels)?

Why, you get Gelato e Champagne, of course.

In fact, this is one of the best gelaterias in Milan that is right around the corner from Sforzesco Castle and the Duomo.

The gelato here is also super awesome since it’s made using nothing but mountain milk.

Now, flavors include old-time classics and innovative blends alike. But, you’ll want to order the champagne-infused gelato.

Naturally, this is best enjoyed with a glass of bubbles. It’s also pretty surprising but Gelato e Champagne has a decent supply of seating.

Therefore, on a sunny day, be sure to grab a table on the sidewalk patio so that you can take time to enjoy your dessert.

Address: Via Cusani, 10, 20121 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 11:30 am to 11:00 pm, Saturday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 2:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

Price: $2.15 each.

How to Get There: Take the 1 to Cairoli station and walk from there.

7. Ciacco Lab

Just steps away from the Duomo, Ciacco Lab dazzles with an array of artisanal gelato and moreish panettone.

Headed up by a scientist and gelato chef, tangy flavors include lemon and basil, matcha, and kiwi.

But, this spot with the best gelato in Milan also whips up incredible options for vegans and lactose-free explorers.

See, those with dietary restrictions have tons of options to choose from including gianduia (gianduja).

Note, there’s not much seating and this place always has a line out the door which is a telltale sign of how delish the gelato is.

And just in case you’re not in the mood for gelato, Ciacco Lab also serves up specialty coffee, granita, yogurt, and mini cakes.

Address: Via Spadari, 13, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, Saturday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and Sunday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take the 2/14 to the Duomo stop and walk from there.

8. Enrico Rizzi

Box of macarons and a coffee

Right off Via Cesare Correnti, Enrico Rizzi is first and foremost a bakery and chocolate maker. In fact, the specialty here is macaroons.

But, the gelato is hot on their heels and easily one of the best things to order. And, their offerings include a stellar mix of vegan and milk-free gelato.

However, if you can’t decide what to order then go for the tasting bowl since you can sample 12 delicious flavors.

Otherwise, indulge in their sweet – but not too sweet – cocoa dough stracciatella with salted caramel pieces.

Oh, and nobody will judge you if you dunk a macaroon in your order since this gelateria is named after head chef and director, Enrico Rizzi.

Address: Via Cesare Correnti, 5, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm.

Price: $7.50 each

How to Get There: Take the tram to Carrobbio and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Central Station Area

9. La Bottega del Gelato

Now, La Bottega del Gelato is an old-school ice cream counter with some serious traditional vibes.

And that makes sense since they’ve been serving the best gelato in Milan since 1964.

Now, with close to 50 varieties to choose from, La Bottega del Gelato is the best gelateria in Milan if you’re looking for a massive amount of variety.

In general, the menu is inclusive of all the classics like fruity fragola (strawberry), ciliegia (cherry), zesty limone, and cool-as-a-cucumber mela verde (melon).

Naturally, you can find the Milan staple of stracciatella, too. But, you can also devour innovative delights like avocado, Chinese lantern, and pink grapefruit.

Yeah, you might have to make a couple of visits for seconds since there is just so much to choose from.

Address: Via Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, 3, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Thursday through Tuesday from 10:30 am to 11:00 pm.

Price: $2.68 each

How to Get There: Take line 1/2 to Loreto and walk from there.

10. Antica Gelateria Sartori

Large mound of pink gelato in a metal container ready fro sccoping.

So, if you were impressed with the reputation of La Bottega del Gelato, here’s another old-timer for your tastebuds.

See, Antica Gelateria Sartori has been cooling down commuters and locals since 1937.

Actually, the low-key kiosk outside the railway station has barely even changed.

However, the gelato is velvety soft and is served at the precise temperature deemed appropriate by Italians.

Now, the flavor to try is cannolo Siciliano. But, give the standard cone or cup a miss and order it in brioche.

Yup, the gelato is served the Sicilian way – sandwiched between fluffy, buttery pieces of bread.

Yeah, this place is the perfect spot for breakfast or for a post-sightseeing pick-me-up.

Address: Piazza Luigi di Savoia, 20125 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 12:30 am and Sunday from 10:30 am to 12:30 am.

Price: $2.15 each.

How to Get There: Walk here from Milan Central Station.

11. Gelateria Paganelli

Nestled in between Piazza Gae Aulenti and Milano Centrale, Gelateria Paganelli is a fuss-free gelato parlor that everyone will love.

In fact, this place has been handing out the best gelato in Milan since 1930. What’s more, they excel at semifreddo and biscotti gelato.

Now, all raw ingredients used to make the gelato are sourced fresh on the day that the gelato is made.

Then, quintessential gelato favorites are fused with unexpected spices such as cayenne pepper, cardamon, and turmeric.

I mean, who knew peppercorn and ice cream could taste so damn good? One of the best Milan gelaterias of them all, that’s who.

However, you will need to eat on the go since seating is limited to around five tables.

Address: Via Adda, 3, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 9:30 pm and on Saturday from 12:00 pm to 9:30 pm.

Price: Starts at $2.74 each.

How to Get There: Take line 2 to Giola and walk from there.

12. Gelato Giusto

An assortment of different flavors of gelato in tubs with spoons sticking out.

Sitting along the border of Zona Buenos Aires is Gelato Giusto, a teeny tiny hole in the wall that serves some of the best ice cream in Milan.

Therefore, if you want to get your lips on some of the top gelato Milan has to offer vegans then you’ll need to stop by ASAP.

And as tempting as good-old pistachio is, you’ll want to go straight for the basil at Gelato Giusto. I mean, provided you’re headed to Milan for summer, mind you.

However, other awesome flavors that will delight your tastebuds include tongue-tingling ginger and lime and super-comforting nocciola (hazelnut) with ricotta and honey.

Actually, the pistachio is so good you’re just going to have to keep coming back for more.

Address: Via S. Gregorio, 17, 20124 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 10:30 pm, except closed on Mondays.

Price: Starts at $2.30 each.

How to Get There: Take line 1 to Porta Venezia and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Bullona

13. Il Massimo del Gelato

Sitting just north of Sforzesco Castle and Chinatown is Il Massimo del Gelato. It’s a family-owned ice cream haunt with retro vibes. Oh, and banging gelato to go, of course.

Now, this place does feel a bit out of the way in regard to location. But, it’s worth the trip since this place makes some of the best gelato in Milan for chocolate addicts.

So, on any given day, you can expect to find dark chocolate and cherry, gianduia, and white chocolate. But, of course, don’t forget about an assortment of nutty chocolatey concoctions too.

However, in complete contrast, they’re also renowned for their seriously fruity granita. Therefore, there really is something for everyone at one of the best gelaterias in Milan.

Address: Via Lodovico Castelvetro, 18, 20154 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Price: Starts at $3.43 each.

How to Get There: Take line 5 to Gerusalemme and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Porta Genova

14. Avgvsto Premiata Gelateria

Authentic Sicilian granita from one of the best gelato places in Milan.

If you’re craving the best gelato in Milan’s bohemian quartiere then beeline it one over to Avgvsto Premiata Gelateria.

After all, seasonally-inspired gelato is a thoroughly sensory experience here.

Therefore, expect a rainbow of strawberry, mango, coconut, and peach in the summer.

On the other hand, warming rum and raisin, pumpkin, fig, or classic nocciola makes ice cream in winter nothing but a good idea.

Meanwhile, there is always a generous supply of vegan-friendly gelato and granita for plant-based travelers.

Just be sure to ask for a scoop of vegan dark chocolate with raspberry and you’ll leave Milan with a happy heart.

And while there is a small seating area inside, it’s best to grab your gelato to-go.

Address: Viale Coni Zugna, 54, 20144 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 7:45 pm and Sunday from 9:00 am to 7:45 pm.

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take the 2 to S. Agostino and walk from there.

15. Gelateria Latteneve

Overlooking the city’s stunning canals, Gelateria Latteneve is a light and airy takeout place with a focus on vegan gelato.

And, TBH, even if you’re not into plant-based desserts, the vegan offerings here are sublime and taste just as good (maybe even better) than the real thing.

So, dive in with a scoop of the peanut mixed with black sesame for just the right amount of sweet and saltiness in your life.

Although, sweeter palates may prefer the scrumptious nocciola.

Although, other innovative gelato choices on the menu include rose and matcha. Heck, you can even satisfy your grumbling stomach with one of their pancakes to go.

Address: Via Vigevano, 27, 20144 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Sunday through Tuesday from 12:30 pm to 10:30 pm, Wednesday/Thursday from 12:30 pm to 11:00 pm, and Friday/Saturday from 12:30 pm to 11:30 pm.

Price: Starts at $3.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the 2 to P.TA Genova FS and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Navigli

16. Gelateria della Musica

Woman holding gelato in a cone with a cookie coming out the top on the streets of Italy.

Take a stroll along the canals of Milan and you’ll quickly find your way to Gelateria della Musica.

Now, what makes this some of the most unique gelato in Milan is that flavors are named in honor of a famous singer or song.

And even though their offerings change seasonally, you can anticipate finding gelato named for Italian artists plus the occasional international star.

In essence, the recipes aim to capture the personality of the musician or mood of the song.

In fact, Jacopo “Lazza” Lazzarini recently earned himself a chocolate, raspberry, and Oreo cookie combo.

However, even if you’re not all that familiar with the rapper, that’s still a quality combination.

Address: Via Lodovico Il Moro, 3, 20143 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm, with extended hours until 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday.

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take lines 2/325 to Via L. Il Moro Via Pestalozzi and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Zona Risorgimento

17. Gelateria Giova

Gelateria Giova is another somewhat off-the-beaten-path gelato place in Milan where you’ll be wrestling with locals to get your favorite flavor.

See, this gelateria is all about using seasonal, superior raw ingredients to create some of the best gelato in Milano.

Therefore, in fall and winter, fig and chestnut flavors are the clear winners. In fact, the chestnut ice cream alone justifies purchasing a plane ticket to Italy.

Meanwhile, summer is all about the berries and lemons grown around Sorrento, which is home to some of the best wine tours on the Amalfi Coast.

Plus, the menu features offerings for vegan diners too. So, just choose between a cone or cup filled with biscotti gelato.

Then, once you’re armed with your gelato of choice, dine in style in the Corso Indipendenza.

Address: C.so Indipendenza, 20, 20129 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Price: Starts at $3.00 each.

How to Get There: Take like 4 to Dateo and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Porta Romana

18. Sioli and Bissoli Gelateria

Pistachio gelato in a cone with chocolate sprinkles on top.

Down in the fashionable Porta Romana neighborhood, Sioli and Bissoli Gelateria offers you a nifty little, gelato-related pick-me-up after an epic shopping spree.

Because this is one of the best gelato places in Milan that uses only natural ingredients free from nasties.

In particular, the pistachio is utterly flawless – but you can upgrade the experience with the salted version.

Additionally, the gianduia and tiramisu flavors prove hard to resist and there’s always a bold supply of seasonal granita on offer too.

Furthermore, Sioli and Bissoli crank out some of the most indulgent cakes Milan has ever seen.

And, there is a nice little seating area where you can sip on an espresso while you enjoy being in gelato heaven.

Address: Via Lodovico Muratori, 26, 20135 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Friday/Saturday from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Starting at between $2.00 and $3.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the 3 to Porta Romana and walk from there.

19. Gelateria Piccolina

Tiny squares of cremino or a chocolate, hazelnut praline that is traditionally found in Italy.

Occupying a spot on one of Milan’s prettiest streets, Gelateria Piccolina is a charming place for artisanal gelato and other sweet treats.

However, the legendary cremino is the star of the show here. But, be warned – it’s not for the faint of heart.

After all, this rich union of chocolate and hazelnut praline is pretty heavy on the tongue.

But, it pairs to perfection with a scoop of housemade raspberry granita.

Of course, you’ll find all the familiar flavors available at Gelateria Piccolina, aka one of the best gelato places in Milan.

And, as usual, seating is pretty limited. But, you’ll enjoy checking out the vintage interiors while you wait to be served.

Address: Via Orti, 17, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 1:30 pm to 8:30 pm and Saturday from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm.

Price: Between $2.15 and $5.37 each.

How to Get There: Take like 3 to Crocetta and walk from there.

Best Gelato in Milan – Wagner

20. Gelateria Marghera

Rounding off this epic list featuring the best gelato in Milan is the Wagner-based Gelateria Marghera.

See, this is one of the best gelato spots in Milan that has been around since 1979.

And here, gelato flavors are centered around the classics – with rich and creamy nocciola sailing in alongside pistachio as the go-to picks for Milanese residents in the know.

However, people who love fruitier flavors can choose from the likes of nectarine, lemon, melon, and raspberry.

Additionally, the clever folk at Gelateria Marghera also specialize in ice cream cakes, cassata, cheesecakes, and multi-flavor tiramisu too.

Plus, another bonus of going to this traditional gelateria is that it has ample seating in case you fancy putting your feet up before ordering seconds.

Address: Via Marghera, 33, 20149 Milano MI, Italy

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, with extended hours until 12:00 am on Friday and Saturday.

Price: Starts at $4.29 each.

How to Get There: Take line 1 to De Angeli and walk from there.

Map of the Best Gelato Spots in Milan

Map of the best gelato in Milan.

Best Places for Gelato in Milan FAQ

Who has the Best Gelato in Italy?

If you want to best gelato in Italy (and the world) then head to San Gimignano. It’s a sleepy little town in Tuscany that serves up the best gelato that you’ve ever tasted.

Is Milan Known for Gelato?

Yes! Milan is known for its gelato and is basically the ice cream mecca of the Lombardy region.

Who Makes the Best Gelato?

The best gelato is made at I Giardini di Marzo gelato shop in Varazze. In fact, Marco Venturino was honored with the title of the best gelato artisan of 2022 for his amazing Bocca di Rosa gelato.

It’s an absolutely epic flavor that is made with white chocolate, milk chocolate, and rosewater.

How do you Pick Good Gelato in Italy?

To pick good gelato in Italy:

  • Look for pastel-hued gelato and stay away from lots of vibrant gelato mounds
  • Choose gelato stored in stainless steel containers with lids
  • Watch out for signs that say things like , fatto in casa, gelato artigianale, or gelato in casa
  • Sample gelato before you buy it

Additional Milan Resources You’ll Love

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best gelato in Milan.

Tell me, did your picks for the best gelato shops in Milan make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.

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