1 day in Milan, what I cannot miss?

Visit Duomo early in the morning to avoid the crowds

Duomo di Milano is the star of the city. It’s really impressive, the size and all the details. It’s understandable why it took more than 500 years to build. Inside, it’s Italy’s largest church.

If you’re going to Milan you must visit it at least from the outside. If you have more time, you can see the cathedral, access the rooftop, or visit other museums inside.

To go inside is free for children up to 5 years, and there are discounts for families. Check all prices here.

2. Admire the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

This is another place you cannot miss and it’s right next to the Duomo. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the oldest shopping mall in Italy, and probably the most beautiful. All the little details are impressive.

There are several stores and restaurants inside, all of them in the luxury category. You can just visit the galleria or spend some money if you’re willing to (no judgments here 😅) .

Taste the delicious panzerotti fritti at Luini

If you go out of the gallery, you’ll find the best place for a morning snack, and it’s not expensive at all. Luini is a place full of history and full of delicious sweet and savory snacks. You need to taste the fried pastries (panzerotti fritti) filled with tomato and mozzarella. You’re welcome 😏

Opens at 10am and closes on Sundays.

Explore the Brera district

Brera is a historic and trendy neighborhood with a lot of life, such as restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and shops.

Since it’s an old neighborhood, all the streets are beautiful and have plenty of pedestrian-only streets. The downside… the cobblestone streets that are challenging for strollers (but still manageable).

Buy lunch to go at Panetteria Mercato

If you want to have a delicious lunch outside while saving some €€, buy your lunch at Panetteria Mercato. They have delicious tarts, sandwiches, cannolis, and much more. Our suggestion is to take it to the next location.

Have a picnic at Sempione park and explore the park

Public parks are always the peace within the city, and this one is no exception. Sempione Park is huge, with a lot of different areas from a lake with ducks to basketball fields to dog parks. There’s even a triumphal arc!

Have your lunch relaxed in the park and then save some time to explore it.

Visit Sforsceso Castle (free, only museum and exhibitions are paid)

One of the entrances to Sempione Park is through the Sforsceso Castle. Besides the beautiful buildings which are free to visit from the outside, there are also plenty of museums, libraries, and exhibitions. You can visit those individually, or book a guided tour. Check full info here.

Have dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

We read so many great reviews about Osteria da Fortunata that we had to try it. And it was one of the best meals of our entire trip.

Starting with the people that look genuinely happy to have you, followed by a delicious home-made pasta, and finishing with a creamy tiramisu.

If you’re coming to Milan (or Rome, where they have the original restaurant) you should try for yourself.

Have fun!

You’re in Italy, so enjoy the views, enjoy the food and have fun 🙂