3 days in Milan: Itinerary of what to see in Milan (+ map)

Milán za 3 dny

Milan is the fashion and design capital of the world. It combines the best of old and new – from modern skyscrapers to magnificent monuments like the Duomo di Milano. If you’re looking for a Milan 3-day travel plan with practical tips, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

I have sometimes heard opinions that there is not much to see in Milan compared to Rome or Florence. I went to Milan with that feeling and was pleasantly surprised.

Milan has a bit of everything — it’s easily accessible, offers great places to eat, beautiful sights, and modern neighbourhoods. And if you have time, you can head to Lago di Como or medieval Bergamo.

Is it possible to visit Milan in 3 days?

Three days is the perfect time to see the most beautiful places in Milan, taste the local cuisine and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.

The first two days of this itinerary are the same as our “2 days in Milan” itinerary. Let’s go over the highlights you shouldn’t miss on your first visit.

The third day will be more relaxed – we will show you more options to spend your last day in or around Milan.

Milan in 3 days / what to see in Milan

Milan in 3 days – route map

This interactive Milan 3-day itinerary map makes it easy to plan your route day by day. The route is largely on foot and starts in the historic centre of the city – at the Duomo di Milano. As part of the itinerary, we will also take a ride on the metro or historic trams.

The third day offers several options – you can immerse yourself even more in the atmosphere of Milan or take a trip around the area. In this article we will show you how to do it.

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a detailed map with the itinerary for three days in Milan. Click the top left of the map to see different layers with highlighted locations. You can hide or show layers, or click the icons to view the names of the places mentioned in this Milan itinerary. To save the map, star it. For a larger version, click the icon in the upper right corner.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN MILAN IN 3 DAYS

THREE DAYS IN MILAN – ITINERARY FOR 1ST DAY

  • Duomo di Milano
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
  • Brera neighbourhood
  • Basilica of St. Ambrose
  • Navigli district

8:30 Duomo di Milano and Piazza del Duomo

We start the first day with the best Milan has to offer. The Duomo di Milano must be on every itinerary of things to do in Milan. The imposing Gothic cathedral dominates the open-air Piazza del Duomo.

Duomo di Milano

The cathedral took an incredible six centuries to build. And it shows — with all its spires, statues, and decorations making it one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world.

Personally, I’d rank it among the top three churches in Italy — no small feat given the country’s countless magnificent churches — along with St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and St. Peter’s Cathedral in the Vatican.

When the weather is good, the Duomo offers views of the Alps. We weren’t so lucky, but the view of the square and Milan was still beautiful.

Duomo di Milano

Recommendation: Although the Duomo is open to the public, it is still a place of worship, so you may be denied entry if wearing inappropriate clothing. Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees. I also recommend choosing sturdy shoes, as the marble on the roof is a bit slippery.

How to tour the Duomo di Milano

The Duomo is one of the few cathedrals that allows access to the roof. If you’re not too scared of heights, it’s definitely worth buying an all-access ticket – with access to the roof and the interiors themselves.

You can choose between tickets using the lift or the stairs, which are slightly cheaper. If you have mobility issues or are going with small children, I definitely recommend the elevator.

We took the stairs, and there were quite a lot of them. Plus, you can’t stop on the way up because the staircase is narrow and there are usually people right behind you.

Duomo di Milano rooftop

Once you ascend or exit the elevator, you will reach the side of the roof where you can walk between the statues and towers. Then you climb a few more steps to reach the highest point of the roof, where you can enjoy spectacular views.

Once you’ve enjoyed the view from the roof, you’ll descend the stairs directly into the cathedral (there’s no longer a lift). Here, a member of staff will scan your ticket again and then let you in.

The inside of the cathedral is stunning and vast. It will take a while to see everything.

For more information on visiting the Duomo, check out our guide to the Duomo di Milano.

Duomo di milano

Admission and opening hours Duomo di Milano

  • Admission: Full admission to the cathedral, including access to the terraces by lift, costs €26 for adults and €13 for children aged 6 to 18. Children under 5 and people with disabilities accompanied by a carer are admitted free of charge (if you have a disability card, you must pick up tickets at the infopoint).
  • Opening hours: The Cathedral is open daily from 9:00 to 19:00 (last entry at 18:10).
  • How to get in: The cathedral is located right in the centre of Milan. The yellow line M3 stops in the square, Duomo station.

We had purchased tickets in advance for opening time — we booked them here. We were here in September and it was already pretty crowded early in the morning. We lined up right away for the 9:00am group on the left side of the cathedral (there is an entrance for the stairs and elevator).

Duomo di Milano rooftop

Then we went through a short security check, showed our tickets on our mobile phones and went inside. We didn’t have to wait in line for tickets and risk getting in later.

Honestly, I can’t imagine how the tour works later in the day when even more people arrive. There isn’t much room on the terraces and roof, so with large crowds you won’t get a chance to enjoy everything peacefully.

If you plan to buy tickets on the spot, they are sold in the Royal Palace wing on the right side of the cathedral.

Tickets for the Duomo di Milano

There are several types of tickets to choose from, depending on what you want to see:

We chose a combined option (terraces and church interiors). The weather wasn’t too good and we didn’t see the Alps that day, but it was still worth it. Just beware that it’s a bit slippery on the roof.

Duomo di Milano

10:30 – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

To the left of the Duomo is another landmark of Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is the oldest shopping centre in Italy still in operation.

The gallery has a four-story double arcade with a distinctive glass dome. It’s a beautiful building and definitely worth a visit.

Milan in 3 days / where to go in Milan / Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan
Galerie Vittorio Emanuele II.

You can wander the surrounding streets, which are lined with the trendiest department stores. Or head to the small medieval Piazza Mercanti, which is a little hidden away, about 2 minutes from Piazza del Duomo.

I recommend trying the panzerotti at Luina’s bakery, located just a short walk from the gallery. Panzerotti dough is similar to pizza dough and can be filled with sweet or savoury fillings.

Milan in 3 days itinerary
Piazza Mercanti

Practical tip: Toilets are located on the right side of the cathedral (€2 fee, better to have cash). You can refill your water in the green fountain in Piazza Cesare Beccaria, just behind the Duomo.

Milan in 3 days

13:00 La Scala

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. connects Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scala, where La Scala Opera House is located. And it’s not just any opera house. Many famous opera artists from all over the world have performed at La Scala.

You can go to an opera or ballet performance in the evening or see the decorated interior as part of a regular tour.

In the centre of the small square is a statue of Leonardo da Vinci, flanked by trees and several benches.

🏡 Where to stay in Milan

Below you’ll find accommodation suggestions with great value for money, good accessibility, and 24-hour reception with luggage storage.

ubytování v Miláně
UNA HOTELS Galles Milano

Cosy 4-star hotel a short walk from the metro station, roof terrace with views and swimming pool with spa

ubytování v Miláně
Hotel Da Vinci

Quiet accommodation for up to 5 people, rich breakfast, free parking, 30 min by train to the centre

14:00 – Brera district

From La Scala, head north towards the Brera district.

I’m absolutely charmed by this neighborhood. All you can do here is stroll through the narrow streets lined with houses with colourful shutters and lots of greenery. Restaurants and cafes literally beckon you to sit down and there are plenty of small galleries, shops and picturesque streets.

Brera Milan

The best part of La Brera is around Via Fiori Chiari. It’s also lined with some great restaurants to eat at. On a side street you’ll find Osteria da Fortunata, where you can go for homemade pasta.

In addition to simply wandering its streets, Brera also offers some interesting spots to spend an afternoon on your three-day Milan itinerary:

Pinacoteca di Brera

Visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, a public gallery housing an important collection of Italian Renaissance art. Artists such as Raphael, Caravaggio and Mantegna are well represented.

Please note: Pinacoteca di Brera is closed on Mondays. You can book your visit here.

Brera Milan

Brera Botanical Garden

Would you like to get away from the busy centre for a while? Head to the Brera Botanical Garden.

Once you pass through the iron gate, the crowds of tourists stay far behind.

Practical tip: Entrance to the Botanical Gardens is free. There is a small seating area and free toilets.

Botanical Garden Brera Milan

16:30 Basilica of St. Ambrose

The Basilica of St. Ambrose is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Milan and a definite must on any 3-day Milan itinerary. Take the green M2 metro line; after about 15 minutes, you’ll arrive just a short walk from the Basilica.

  Basilica of St Ambrose Milan

The Romanesque Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio was founded in the 4th century by St. Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan, making it one of the oldest churches in the city.

From the outside, it already impresses with its distinctive red brick facade. Inside, it also contains beautiful frescoes. Admission is free.

  Basilica of St Ambrose Milan

17:30 Colonne di San Lorenzo

Do you like ancient Rome? The Colonne di San Lorenzo is about 10 minutes from the Basilica of St. Ambrose. It is a series of ancient Roman columns dating from the end of the 2nd century.

From the Colonne di San Lorenzo, continue south through the medieval gateway to the last point on today’s itinerary. The Naviglio Grande canal is about a 10-minute walk or a few tram stops away.

19:00 Naviglio district

The Naviglio district was once a system of canals designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Today, it is one of Milan’s liveliest neighbourhoods, frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Around Navigli Grande, artists exhibit their paintings, and there are plenty of bars, restaurants and vintage shops.

Navigli Grande Milan

Try traditional Milanese dishes such as risotto alla Milanese or osso buco. Most of the better restaurants open around 7 pm. If you arrive early, go for an aperitivo, a small snack with a drink.

Personally, I liked other neighborhoods in Milan better. The Navigli Grande neighborhood is pretty touristy, but it’s worth stopping by and making up your own mind.

Navigli Grande Milan

MILAN IN 3 DAYS – ITINERARY FOR 2ND DAY

  • The Last Supper
  • Milan’s Sistine Chapel
  • Sforza Castle
  • Chinatown
  • Cimitero Monumentale di Milano
  • Piazza Gae Aulenti

9:00 Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie and Last Supper

On our second day in Milan, we start with a visit to one of the most iconic works of art in the world – The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. It is located in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie – to the left of the entrance to the church (it has its own entrance).

Milan Last Supper

How to visit the Last Supper

The Last Supper tour is available by reservation only. Click here to reserve a specific date and time for your visit (available dates are announced 3 to 4 months in advance).

Inside, you have 15 minutes to view the painting. The painting is no longer in good condition, so the number of visitors is limited to 1,000 people per day. It may seem like a lot, but tickets tend to sell out months in advance. At the time of editing this article (July 1), tickets are sold out through the end of October.

For this reason, many people choose a guided tour. It’s not cheap, but it’s the only way to see the painting if it’s sold out.

While you’re here, visit the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Admission is free (donations are welcome).

Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie and Last Supper Milan

10:30 Milan’s Sistine Chapel

From the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, turn left along the main street and in a few minutes you will reach the church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore.

It’s not as famous as the Basilica of St Ambrose or the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, but it’s definitely worth seeing. This, for me, is the hidden gem of Milan.

Milan Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

It is inconspicuous from the outside and can be easily overlooked. Inside, I was absolutely stunned by its beautiful and well-preserved frescoes. Many of these frescoes were painted by artists who followed the teachings of Leonardo da Vinci.

Practical information: Admission to the church is free, donations are welcome. It’s closed on Mondays. When you enter the main nave of the church, there’s a rather inconspicuous passage on the left leading to another part of the building.

Milan Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
Milan Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore

11:00 – Sforza Castle

Sforza Castle is one of the most beautiful monuments in Milan. It is just a short walk from the Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore.

The fortress now serves as a museum and hosts various collections including art, antique furniture and musical instruments. The highlight is Michelangelo’s unfinished sculpture of Rondanini’s Pieta.

Sforza Castle Milan

You can walk around the complex for free or visit the museum for a small fee. Behind the castle is the large Sempione Park, where locals spend their leisure time. There are plenty of benches, ponds, toilets and refreshments. An ideal place to relax.

On the other side of the park, the Arco della Pace towers majestically (about a 15-minute walk from Sforza Castle). You can’t climb it like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but it’s still worth seeing.

Arco della Pace Milan

14:00 Chinatown

Like many other cities, Milan has its own Chinatown. It is just a few minutes’ walk from the Arco della Pace. You can also take the orange tram line 10, which runs through the area and stops at Arco della Pace and Chinatown.

Chinatown Milan

If you haven’t eaten yet or want to enjoy the incredibly lively atmosphere, head here. In particular, take a stroll down Via Paolo Sarpi, the main pedestrian street of Chinatown.

Chinatown has a lot of Asian restaurants, but also one of the best ravioli restaurants in Milan. And at great prices. The best places are marked on the map at the beginning of this article.

🏡 Budget hotels in Milan

Below you’ll find suggestions for places with great value for money, good accessibility, and 24-hour reception with luggage storage.

ubytování Milán
Hotel MEININGER

Accommodation for 2 to 6 people with private bathroom or mixed rooms, close to the station

ubytování Milán
Ibis Milano Centro

Cheap and modern rooms within walking distance of the centre and the train station

15:30 Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

The next stop is not a typical sight when visiting Milan.

But if you appreciate beautiful architecture, the Cimitero Monumentale di Milano is probably one of the best things you’ll see in Milan.

You will see a large collection of Italian statues, Greek temples, obelisks and a small version of Trajan’s Column. All visitors behave respectfully and walk quietly through the cemetery.

Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

Practical information: The cemetery is open daily except Mondays.

It’s halfway between Chinatown and modern Milan, where we’ll go next. In addition, tram no. 10 or the metro make the cemetery easily accessible.

Cimitero Monumentale di Milano

17:00 – Piazza Gae Aulenti

Porta Nuova serves as a contrast to the historic centre of Milan. This modern neighbourhood is the epitome of modern Milan – skyscrapers, luxury apartments and corporate offices that define Milan as Italy’s city of the future. The entrance to Porta Nuova is Piazza Gae Aulenti.

You can sit in the grass, have a delicious ice cream at Venchi and see the interesting architecture, including the Bosco Verticale, a sustainable apartment building with lots of greenery.

Porta Nuova Milan

19:00 Corso Como

It’s evening and time for a good meal or a drink. If you’re looking for something extra, stop by 10 Corso Como. This place was founded by fashion editor Carla Sozzani and it shows – combining boutique, art galleries and cafes.

Porta Nuova Milan Bosco Verticale

MILAN IN 3 DAYS – ITINERARY FOR 3RD DAY

Unlike the previous two days, we will leave the third day in Milan more open. There are still plenty of places to see in the city.

But this also applies to the area around Milan, where you’ll find historic towns, Alpine lakes and breathtaking nature. We’ll show you some options so you can enjoy your last day in Milan exactly as you wish.

Option 1: Milan

  • Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology
  • Porta Venezia
  • Centre and Biblioteca Ambrosiana

In the first option, we’ll show you how you can spend another full day in Milan. We’ll visit the neoclassical Porta Venezia district, see Leonardo da Vinci’s discoveries at the museum of the same name and explore other parts of the historic centre, including the Biblioteca Ambrosiana.

9:30 Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology

Near the city centre, the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology is one of the most visited attractions in Milan. There is a lot to see in the museum and it’s really big, so we’ll plan a visit first thing in the morning.

Here you will find exhibits ranging from transport and energy to the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci, to whom the museum is dedicated. I really enjoyed it and think it will interest both adults and children.

Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology
How to visit the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology

Considering how big the museum is and how much there is to see, the entrance fee is quite reasonable: €10 for adults aged 27–65, and a reduced price of €7.50 for children over 3, young people under 27, and seniors over 65. Children under 3 and visitors with a Disabled Persons Card, including an accompanying person, enter free of charge.

The museum is open daily except Mondays at the following times: Tuesday to Friday 9:30-17:00 and on weekends 9:30-18:30. Book your tickets here.

The nearest metro station is S. Ambrogio (green metro line M2), just 5 minutes away.

12:00 Porta Venezia

Porta Venezia is a beautiful neighbourhood full of neoclassical buildings and large parks. It is connected to the historic centre and is far less touristy than the centre itself.

Milan in 3 days

Porta Venezia is easily reached by metro – take the green M2 metro line at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum and change to the red M1 metro line at Cadorna Station. Get off at Palestro station after about 15 minutes.

🏡 Apartments with kitchenette

Below you’ll find tips for private accommodation in apartments with kitchenettes for 2 to 6 people, good access to the centre, and luggage storage.

apartmány v Miláně
BB Hotels Aparthotel Visconti

Comfortable and clean apartments for up to 6 people, good access to San Siro Stadium

apartmány v Miláně
Residenza Cenisio – great price

Cheap apartments for 2-4 people, older facilities, friendly staff, parking, 30 minutes to the centre

Gardens of Indro Montanelli

As you get off the metro, you will see the vast gardens of Indro Montanelli on your left . These house the Natural History Museum, the Dugnani Palace and a series of paths with seating. In addition, there are several restaurants and cafés where you can go for a meal or a coffee.

Gardens of Indro Montanelli
Arco di Portaluppi

Directly opposite the Natural History Museum you will see the distinctive Arco di Portaluppi. If you like imposing architecture, I recommend you walk through the gate and continue past the beautiful buildings that can be found in the district.

A little further afield you can visit Villa Necchi Campiglio, a design villa from the 1930s.

Arco di Portaluppi Milan
Villa Reale a Corso Buenos Aires

Another interesting place in the Porta Venezia district is the Villa Reale, home to the Museum of Modern Art. Behind it is a large park.

The bustling Corso Buenos Aires winds through the Porta Venezia district, lined with shops, restaurants and historic buildings.

Read more: here we have written a detailed guide to transport in Milan.

Villa Reale Milan

15:00 Biblioteca Ambrosiana

Do you like beautiful art? Don’t miss out on the Biblioteca Ambrosiana in the city centre, just a short walk from the Duomo. Inside you can admire works by Leonardo da Vinci or Titian, which are housed in magnificent spaces.

Biblioteca Ambrosiana

After the tour, you can continue along Via Torino and discover the hidden nooks and crannies of the historic centre.

And where to eat in the centre of Milan? For delicious pizza, head to the colourful Piz Piz. Not far from here is All’Antico Vinaio, where you can get a sandwich to go (their Florence branch is renowned).

🇮🇹 Tickets in Milan

Tips on tickets and tours that are worth booking in advance – verified by us and with good reviews.

Duomo di Milano vstupenky
Tickets to the Duomo Cathedral and terraces
Duomo di Milano vstupenky
Milan Cathedral – without access to the church

Option 2: Bergamo

Bergamo is located near Milan in Lombardy. Thanks to Milan, Bergamo is overlooked by many tourists.

And although it has been growing in popularity in recent years, it is still an authentic city that will literally delight you with its friendly and warm atmosphere.

Bergamo Italy

I liked Bergamo very much. It has a completely different atmosphere than Milan. You can walk for hours through the labyrinth of medieval streets in Città Alta and soak up the lively atmosphere in Città Bassa. If you have the time, I recommend walking through it during the day and at night, when it is beautifully lit.

Read more: here we have listed the best things to do in Bergamo.

Bergamo Italy

How to get to Bergamo from Milan

Bergamo is easily accessible from Milan. The easiest way to get here is by train from Milano Centrale Train Station. Here you board the train directly to Bergamo and you’ll reach your destination in less than an hour.

For current train connections, visit Trenitalia.it. Here we have written more about travelling by train in Italy.

Option 3: Lago di Como

Lago di Como is such a beautiful place that it deserves a separate visit for a few days.

Lake Como is truly picture-perfect — with its picturesque towns, narrow streets, colourful houses lining the shore, and clear water reflecting the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Not for nothing is it one of the most beautiful Italian lakes.

Lago di Como 1 day trip

You can relax by the water with a delicious Italian gelato, stroll along the promenade in the evening, take a ferry trip to the surrounding towns or hike to one of the peaks where you’ll have Lake Como in the palm of your hand.

The highlights of Lake Como are the towns of Bellagio and Varenna. You can get here by train and ferry depending on where you’re coming from.

Read more: Here we’ve put together a guide and the best things to do near Lago di Como.

How to get to Lago di Como from Milan

If you use public transport, you have 2 options to get to Lake Como. You can take the train to Lecco at the eastern end of the lake or to Como at the western end.

In both cases, trains leave from Milano Centrale and the journey takes about 40 minutes. For the latest connections, visit the website of the Italian carrier Trenitalia.it. Trains are comfortable and cheap.

Varenna

Tip: If you plan to rent a car locally, our best experience has been with Discovercars.com. It offers a great selection from international and local car rental companies, quality support, good prices and free cancellations.

Como is the main town around the lake, with a beautiful cathedral and promenade. At the edge of town, you can take the Brunate cable car to the mountains for views of the town and the lake.

Lecco is smaller, but its historic centre with its promenade is iconic. A cable car takes you high up into the mountains, where you can again enjoy fantastic views – in my opinion, slightly better than Brunate near Como.

In Lecco you can change trains, which follows the right side of the lake and stops, among other places, in the town of Varenna (our favourite). Once you’ve explored Varenna, you can catch the ferry to Bellagio, which is within sight from here.

Varenna Lage Como 1 day trip

To get back to Milan, you can take the train from Varenna and then from Lecco to Milano Centrale (some connections go to Garibaldi train station).

Or join a guided day trip from Milan to Lake Como and the towns of Bellagio and Varenna. The trip includes transportation by air-conditioned bus and a ferry on the lake, allowing you to see a large part of the area in a short time.

Where to stay in Milan in 3 days?

Hotels in Milan

  • UNA HOTELS Galles Milano: cosy 4* hotel a short walk from the metro station, roof terrace with views and swimming pool with spa
  • Hotel Da Vinci: 4* hotel on the outskirts of Milan, up to 5 people, rich breakfast, free parking, 30 min by train to the centre
  • B&B Hotel Milano San Siro: 1-2 bed rooms next to San Siro Stadium, covered parking, good access to the centre

🏡 Where to stay in Milan

Below you will find suggestions for accommodation with great value for money, good accessibility and 24-hour reception with luggage storage.

ubytování v Miláně
UNA HOTELS Galles Milano

Cosy 4-star hotel a short walk from the metro station, roof terrace with views and swimming pool with spa

ubytování v Miláně
Hotel Da Vinci

Quiet accommodation for up to 5 people, rich breakfast, free parking, 30 min by train to the centre

Accommodation in an apartment with kitchenette

  • BB Hotels Aparthotel Visconti: Comfortable and clean apartments for up to 6 people, good access to San Siro Stadium and the centre
  • Residenza Cenisio: cheap apartments for 2-4 people, older furnishings but still functional for a comfortable stay, friendly staff, parking in the yard and the centre is about 30 minutes by metro

🏡 Apartments with kitchenette

Below you will find tips for private accommodation – in apartments with kitchenettes for 2 to 6 people, good access to the centre and luggage storage.

apartmány v Miláně
BB Hotels Aparthotel Visconti

Comfortable and clean apartments for up to 6 people, good access to San Siro Stadium

apartmány v Miláně
Residenza Cenisio – great price

Cheap apartments for 2-4 people, older facilities, friendly staff, parking, 30 minutes to the centre

Budget accommodation in Milan

  • Ibis Milano Centro: modern accommodation within walking distance of the centre and the train station, restaurant, breakfast included
  • Hotel Meininger: accommodation for 2 to 6 people with private bathroom or mixed rooms, further from the centre but close to the station

🏡 Budget accommodation in Milan

Below you will find suggestions for accommodation with great value for money, good accessibility and 24-hour reception with luggage storage.

ubytování Milán
Hotel MEININGER

Accommodation for 2 to 6 people with private bathroom or mixed rooms, close to the station

ubytování Milán
Ibis Milano Centro

Cheap and modern rooms within walking distance of the centre and the train station

How to get from the airport to Milan?

If you’re flying into Milan, you’re probably concerned with Malpensa (Wizz Air, Easy Jet) or Bergamo (Ryanair) airports. Both airports are located about an hour from the centre of Milan.

How to get from Bergamo Airport to Milan?

Air-conditioned buses stop right outside the arrivals hall of Bergamo Airport (Orio al Serio Airport) to take you to Milano Centrale Train Station.

We bought our tickets here – they’re valid for the whole day, so you can use them for the next connection without any problems. When you arrive, you go straight to the bus, where you just show the ticket on your mobile to the staff member standing there.

How to get from Malpensa Airport to Milan?

In the case of Malpensa Airport, you have a choice of train or bus. In both cases, follow the signs at the airport to guide you.

Buses stop at Milano Centrale Station, which is also where you’ll return to the airport from.

I used Malpensa airport on my second trip to Lombardy. Also in this case I purchased tickets in advance – you only choose the day, not the hour. All you had to do was show the ticket to the driver.

The trains are slightly faster and there are 2 lines to choose from – to Cadorna Station or to Milano Centrale via Garibaldi Station.

Milano Centrale Station in Milan / How to get from the airport to the center of Milan
Milano Centrale Train Station

How to enjoy Milan in 3 days

  • Wear comfortable shoes. The sidewalks are sometimes uneven and the marble in the Duomo is a bit slippery.
  • Lots of places are located in the city centre and are easily accessible on foot. For places further afield, use the metro or the historic yellow trams – transport is safe, cheap and reliable.
  • Try the food outside the main tourist spots, in hidden alleyways or neighbourhoods frequented mainly by locals. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy more.
  • Summer or winter, Italian gelato is a must-try. There are excellent gelaterias dotted all over Milan – in the centre, try Venchi, which has excellent gelato and chocolate.
  • Stop at the main tourist spots such as the Duomo or the Last Supper.
  • Or, conversely, explore Milan after dark, when it’s beautifully lit up. From the Navigli Grande Canal to the Duomo, in the evening everything is bathed in warm colours of light.
  • Take a day trip around the area – Lago di Como and Bergamo are perfect for a day trip.

Do you have a question about our itinerary of what to see and do in Milan in three days? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below.

We hope this Milan 3-day travel itinerary inspires you to discover the city with confidence. Have a safe journey!

Milan in 3 days

More information about Northern Italy

MILAN: Here’s an overview of the best things to do in Milan. Do you have less time than 3 days for Milan? Check out the itinerary for 2 days in Milan or the itinerary for 1 day in Milan.

Here’s our guide to transport in Milan, along with tips on where to stay. We’ve also put together a separate guide with practical tips for visiting the Duomo di Milano.

LOMBARDY: Get inspired by the most beautiful places to see in Lombardy.

In Lombardy, you’ll find many other beautiful places beyond Milan. Just outside Milan is the Alpine lake Lago di Como. Or check out our 15 tips on things to do in Bergamo.

ROME: Rome is one of the most popular cities in Europe. Here’s a list of the best things to see in Rome. Build your 3-day Rome itinerary and see how to save in Rome. Find out all about the Vatican Museums or the Colosseum.

VENICE: In our article on the best places to visit in Venice, we share recommendations on the most beautiful places and other useful information.

Summary: What to see and do in Milan in 3 days

How many days to visit Milan? Is 3 days in Milan enough?

You need about 2-3 days to see the main attractions of Milan. If you have planned a 3-day trip to Milan, I recommend a third day trip to the surrounding area – to the lake Lago di Como or to the beautiful medieval town Bergamo.

What to see and do in Milan in 3 days?

Three days provides enough time to visit all the main attractions and a few hidden gems to boot. Must-see sights include the Duomo di Milano, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Teatro alla Scala, the Brera district, Castello Sforzesco, Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper and the Navigli district. In the itinerary we will show you other places that are definitely worth seeing.

Do I have to book tickets in advance?

Some attractions have long queues or are almost impossible to get a ticket for on the spot – especially Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper and the Duomo.

What are the best day trips around Milan?

Lombardy hides many beautiful places. Less than an hour from Milan, you can visit the Alpine lake Lago di Como or the beautiful medieval town of Bergamo.

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