Your Perfect Milan Itinerary for 2 Days
Looking for a Milan itinerary for 2 days? Gotcha!
Home to some of the most famous historical and cultural sites, Milan is sure to provide you with an unforgettable trip. From exploring iconic landmarks such as the Duomo di Milano and La Scala opera house to indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, here’s how you can make the most out of your two days in this beautiful city!
What to Know Before You Visit Milan
Milan is the second largest city in Italy and is known for its fashion and design. Its historic center is full of museums, churches, parks, galleries, and palaces that are sure to captivate even the most seasoned travelers.
Unlike other cities in Italy, it doesn’t have the same romantic feel, and its streets are not as crowded. In fact, Milan will give you a more modern, cosmopolitan experience. However, it is still worth a visit due to its fascinating cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife.
Weather in Milan
Milan lies on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea, so it enjoys warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is between April and June, when temperatures are around 20°C (68°F), and there’s less chance of rain. During summer, temperatures can reach up to over 30°C (86°F), making it too hot for sightseeing. Plus, the crowded tourists may spoil your experience.
If you plan to travel to Milan during Christmas and New Year, be prepared for rain and cold temperatures, and even snow (even though it’s not a common occurrence). Christmas in Milan will bring festive decorations and special events all around the city, making it a great time to visit.
Getting around Milan
Just like the rest of Italy, public transportation in Milan is convenient and affordable. The city has an extensive metro network, as well as plenty of buses and trams. You can purchase a day ticket that will allow you to use all public transport in Milan, or you can opt for a single ticket for each trip.
Milan’s city center is also easy to explore on foot, so you can take in the sights as you stroll around. Plus, there are plenty of bike rental companies where you can rent a bicycle and make your way around the city like a local. If you feel adventurous, rent a Vespa and cruise around the city instead. That’d be awesome!
Where to Stay in Milan
Depending on your budget and your style (solo travel, luxury travel, family travel, etc.), Milan has a wide range of accommodation options to choose from. From hostels and budget hotels to five-star hotels and luxurious villas, you’ll definitely find something that suits your needs.
When it comes to location, the city center is always a great choice. This is where most of the attractions are located, so you won’t have to travel too far to explore the city. You’ll be surrounded by plenty of restaurants and bars for your entertainment as well.
If you would prefer more peaceful surroundings, there are some great neighborhoods just outside the city center. They are still within walking distance to most attractions but not as crowded and noisy. Some of the best areas to consider are Navigli, the Brera district, and Città Studi—they are all very charming and have great transportation links to the city center.
Safety in Milan
Pickpocketing is one of the biggest concerns of most travelers when it comes to safety in Milan. Well, it’s actually one of the biggest concerns for tourists everywhere. So, make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you, and always make sure to hide valuable items such as cameras and phones in secure pockets or bags.
It’s also wise to stick to well-lit areas at night, especially when walking alone. Avoid dark alleys and backstreets, and don’t hesitate to call the police if you feel unsafe. In general, use your common sense when traveling and you’ll stay out of trouble.
Apart from that, there aren’t any major safety concerns in Milan. But if you’d like to learn more, make sure to search for the latest travel advice before planning your trip. There are many groups and forums providing continuous & up-to-date discussions and tips on traveling to Milan that can be useful.
How to Get to Milan
From Italy
If you travel from within Italy, the easiest way to get to Milan is by train or bus. You can also fly into the city’s two main airports: Linate Airport and Malpensa International Airport.
From Switzerland or France
If you’re coming from Switzerland or France, there are direct trains that will take you to Milan from the major cities. Alternatively, if you’re traveling by car, the drive is around 4-5 hours from Geneva and 6-7 hours from Paris.
From Europe
Milan is easily accessible by train or plane from other major European cities. It’s also a great starting point for a road trip, as the city is located at the intersection of several highways and offers plenty of parking spots.
From outside Europe
If you’ll be traveling to Milan from outside Europe, the best way to get there is by flying. The two main airports serving Milan are Linate Airport and Malpensa International Airport, both of which offer direct flights to various European cities as well as other locations around the world.
Or you can fly to Rome first as many others often do. From there, you can take a train or bus to Milan, which takes around 3 hours.
Milan Itinerary for 2 Days
Before you start planning your next trip to Milan, take some time to read through these FAQs and see if a two-day itinerary in Milan is something for you!
Q: Is Milan worth visiting?
A: Absolutely! Milan is a vibrant, modern city that offers plenty of activities and attractions for all types of travelers. From exploring its ancient churches to sampling delicious Italian cuisine, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable time in this lively city.
Q: Is 2 days enough for Milan?
A: Although it’s always recommended to stay in a place longer to get the most out of your experience, two days is enough time to see some of Milan’s main sights and explore its cultural attractions. With careful planning and organizing, you can even squeeze in some shopping or sightseeing during your trip.
Q: How many days is enough for Milan?
A: If you want to get the most out of your experience, we recommend staying in Milan for at least four days. This will give you enough time to explore all of its interesting attractions and soak up the city’s culture.
Q: How can I see Milan in 2 days?
A: So, let’s say two days are what you all have to discover the beauty of Milan. Here’s the best two-day itinerary for you to follow!
What do Do in Milan for Two Days
Day 1: Discover Milan’s Iconic Attractions
Start off your first day by taking a stroll along Via Dante, one of Milan’s main streets that’s filled with charming restaurants and shops. Once you’ve reached Piazza del Duomo, admire its stunning architecture while sitting on one of the benches that surround it.
Then, head over to the nearby Duomo di Milano or the Milan Cathedral. Built in 1386 and remains one of the city’s defining landmarks, every year, thousands of visitors flock to the site to admire its intricate Gothic architecture, beautiful mosaics, and soaring spires.
After marveling at its grandeur, head to the nearby Teatro alla Scala for a unique cultural experience—a performance of a classic opera. Teatro alla Scala is one of the oldest and most famous opera houses in Europe and has hosted some of the greatest classical music performances in world history. The Phantom of the Opera, Aida, and Carmen are just a few of the shows featured at La Scala.
End your first day with an evening tour at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II—the world’s oldest shopping mall—where you can find some of Italy’s most luxurious stores like Prada and Armani. Traveling on a budget? Don’t worry. Window shopping is free!
If you still have time before dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the city’s historic canals and explore the charming area of Navigli. These picturesque waterways were once the lifeblood of Milan, and today, they are a great place to take photos or have dinner at some of the city’s best restaurants. Then, since you’re already here, don’t forget to try some traditional Italian dishes before wrapping up your night.
Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Local Culture
For your second day in Milan, start off with a visit to Brera District, where you can explore its numerous art galleries, antique shops, and cafes and restaurant. Be sure to stop by Pinacoteca di Brera—Milan’s principal art gallery—which houses masterpieces from the likes of Raphael and Caravaggio.
If you’re around during Christmas and would love to try out the authentic Panettone, a classic Italian Christmas cake that is enjoyed by everyone during the festive period. Stop in at Pasticceria Martesana for their famous pastries and you can thank me later!
Continue on your journey and make a stop at the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology, located in an old 16th-century convent. Here you’ll find many interactive displays that showcase the genius’ work, such as his famous “Vitruvian Man” drawing.
Then, head over to the Castello Sforzesco, a 15th-century castle that doubles as an art museum. Inside you’ll find works by Michelangelo and other Renaissance masters. Take the time to admire the impressive sculptures and frescoes found in the courtyard before heading off to explore Parco Sempione—an expansive green space perfect for taking a break from city life and enjoying nature.
Then, head over Piazza del Duomo where you can admire the architecture again or just people-watch while enjoying an espresso or gelato (or both!).
Once you’ve had your fill, wrap up your two days in Milan with a hearty dinner before heading off to your next destination. Trattoria Trippa is highly recommended for its delicious traditional dishes like risotto alla milanese, ossobuco, and cotoletta.
The Editor’s Note
Before you know it, your 48 hours in Milan will be over but the memories of its iconic sites, delicious food, and friendly people will stay with you forever.
If you happen to fall in love with this city, don’t worry, you can always come back for more. Check out our other Milan itineraries for more great ideas on how to explore the city in the future!
