I am excited to share my First Visit to Milan tips with you. This was not my first stay in Milan – just six years ago, we spent five days here. I wanted to visit some of the key attractions again, but finding sights that were less explored was also important to me.
Milan is a perfect blend of history and modernity, where one minute you are looking at stunning architectural wonders and the next, you are in a trendy cafe. I love to strike up a conversation with locals, as they have the inside scoop on all the coolest spots, tastiest eats, and most intriguing experiences. Planning your first visit to Milan is easier when you know what to expect before you arrive.
Milan has an amazing selection of hotels, from classic to more modern, expensive, or affordable. Search current availability on Booking.com – If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Duomo di Milano
Duomo di Milano is a stunning cathedral, with beautiful stained glass windows, and a must-see when in Milan. It is the largest church in Italy and the fifth largest in the world. It is highly recommended that you buy your tickets online and well in advance to avoid standing in line for hours. You can buy tickets for a guided tour, access to the rooftop terrace, or combination tours. One of the best things you can do on your first visit to Milan is book major attractions in advance.
Tickets can be purchased next to the Duomo or online. I highly recommend that you go to the rooftop. While the climb to the top is steep, it is well worth the close access to the architecture and amazing views from the top. It is also a great location to get photos with a Milan backdrop or of the architecture. Needless to say, if this is your first visit to Milan, this attraction is a must.
Opening Hours:
- Cathedral: Monday – Sunday, 8 am – 7 pm
- Rooftop Terraces: Monday – Sunday, 9 am – 7 pm
- Museum: Thursday – Tuesday, 10:00 am – 5:10 pm
the Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano
I suspect that this may not be on your list of places to visit while in Milan. It was not on mine until I saw it. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery Milano is an intricate masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship and coffee innovation. If this is your first visit to Milan, give yourself time to explore beyond the main sights. Inside, it is visually stunning, with:
- a working roastery
- a 22-foot roasting cask that periodically unfolds and rotates to view the de-gassing phase of the coffee bean roasting process
- a floor-to-ceiling, engraved brass story of Starbucks
- attention to detail in the architecture, including mosaiced marble floors, heated marble countertops
- upstairs is the Arriviamo Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails
- a wood-fired oven for making bread
Pro tip: the bar features more than 100 cocktails with new creations and traditional favorites like the Negroni and the Aperol spritz.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Navigli
Navigli, the district around the two canals of Milano Italy, is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Milan. Navigli specializes in clubs, cafes, and vintage shops, and during the evening, it is highly popular. While enjoying aperitivo and perusing the antique stores are popular in the area, be sure to wander up the side streets, enjoy the art galleries, and enjoy the architecture. The best time to visit is on a warm summer evening. There are some great street walking tours that you can enjoy in the area. A first visit to Milan should always include time for both culture and food.
HISTORICAL LANDMARKS
The Duomo di Milan and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele are among the popular historic landmarks to visit in Milan, but some of the lesser attractions are just as spectacular:
- Castello Sforzesco is a Renaissance fortress turned cultural hub in Milan. It boasts impressive architecture, housing museums, art collections, and lush gardens.
- Teatro Romano is an ancient archaeological site showcasing remnants of an ancient Roman theater, offering a glimpse into Milan’s rich historical tapestry. A smart tip for your first visit to Milan is to learn a few basic Italian phrases.
- Colonne di San Lorenzo features ancient Roman columns, vibrant street life, and a lively atmosphere, perfect for strolling and soaking up culture.
CASTELLO
Castello was originally built in the 15th century by the powerful Sforza family. It is a great example of Renaissance architecture and art, including Michelangelo’s final masterpiece. While the entrance is free, lines can be long to enter the museum exhibits. Pro tip: on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 2:00 p.m., admission is free. Your first visit to Milan will be much smoother if you plan your days around the location.
Parco Sempione
After the busy streets, Parco Sempione is a serene oasis. Lush greenery and tranquil lakes are the perfect picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls, photos, or moments of quiet reflection. Quite frankly, the park is stunning and charming. Besides taking a seat and people-watching, strolling around the pond, and enjoying the aquarium are welcomed attractions. Pro tip: kids love the wide-open areas to run and play. For your first visit to Milan, comfortable walking shoes are a must.
ARCO DELLA PACE
The “Arch of Peace” was recently renovated and is one of Milan’s most beautiful pieces of history. Made of marble and topped with horse-drawn chariots, the arch was built as a tribute to Napoleon’s victories. Wear comfortable shoes, and have time to spend admiring the architecture. There is often a musician in the area, so spending a day enjoying the sun, music, and arch is quite relaxing. A relaxed approach will make your first visit to Milan far more enjoyable.
EATALY
Eataly is food heaven meets Italian charm. Even if you have no plans to purchase something, I’d recommend you add it to the list of sights in Milan. It is a great combination of high-end Italian food and wine products, a market with fresh fruit, vegetables, and meats, and restaurants ranging from cheap to expensive. The first Eataly location was opened in Manhattan in 2010, and all have the same premise: restaurants, food and beverage counters, a bakery, retail items, and a cooking school. Food plays a big role in any first visit to Milan, so come hungry.
BRERA
The Brera district is a wonderful combination of history, culture, and modernity. Its cobblestone streets lead to Pinacoteca di Brera, where you can find masterpieces by Italian artists. Cafés, stores, and boutiques fill the charming alleys, making it wonderful for strolls and grabbing an amazing meal. It’s considered the most bourgeois neighborhood in Milan, and at night, it becomes vibrant with restaurant goers. Pro tip: visit the weekly outdoor mercato on Via San Marco. On your first visit to Milan, be sure to experience the local aperitivo culture.
A helpful tip for your first visit to Milan is to avoid peak travel months if possible. Whenever I visit a city, I love to explore the top attractions, but also find some of the lesser-known sights. Getting inside tips from locals adds to an enriching experience. My goal is to always leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the city I’ve just explored. Looking for a day trip while in Milan? Whether this is your first visit to Milan or you’ve been before, I hope you found these tips helpful. Take the Trainline train to Genova and explore this wonderful city.
2 Responses
This has so many great tips thank you! Now I want to add Milan to my list!
I love Milan for its history and modernity, exquisite food, and stunning architecture.