Located in Italy's Northern Lombardy region, you will find the beautiful metropolis city of Milan. Home to high-end restaurants, shops and its thriving fashion scene. With absolutely mouthwatering Italian food, distinctive architecture and famous artworks/landmarks, a trip to Milan is a no brainer!
When to visit? 🇮🇹
Milan is one of Italy's top tourist locations, so knowing when to visit is vital as you don't want to be held up in those extra long tourist queues and pay high season prices. So, when is best to visit?
The high season in Milan is in Summer; between July and August, tourists flood the streets and attractions, taking in the gorgeous Italian sunshine and a cheeky Aperol Spritz or two. Therefore, if you fancy going when it's a little less frantic, visiting either side of these months is the ideal time. However, be warned, when staying in Autumnal/Winter months, be prepared for rain and lots of it. I visited in November, and I experienced rain, wind and sunshine so pack for all elements! Despite the rain, Milan was absolutely stunning to see this time of year, so don't write it off!
Day 1 - Duomo Cathedral ⛪
Start your break off the right way in Milan by visiting the city's most magnificent and iconic landmark, the Piazza Del Duomo. Here in the heart of the city's centre stands The Duomo Cathedral - one of the largest cathedrals in the world. The exterior will leave you in disbelief with how phenomenal and gorgeous each and every peak, statue, corner and glass pane is. A triumph of gothic architecture, the Cathedral was built in 1386 and can hold more than 20,000 people.
To be completely honest, out of all of the locations and landmarks I have visited, this is definitely at the top. The architecture gave me chills and is by far one of the most beautiful buildings on the planet. After gawking at the structure, you will find yourself in further disbelief as you enter and explore the interior of the Cathedral. Covering 12,000 square metres, you will get your steps up when wandering around the masterpiece that is this Cathedral. Gorgeous coloured glass panes that feature scenes from the bible will catch your eye, as well as the patterned floor tiles. Every detail and feature of this Cathedral tells a story.
Once touring the inside, head up to the roof to take in some breathtaking views of Milan and walk across the roof and around the building, getting close-ups of each spire. Either purchase a lift access ticket or challenge yourself to walk up the very steep and narrow staircase of the Cathedral. There are roughly 250 stairs to climb, so get stretching!
Day 2 - The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II 🛍️
On the edge of the Piazza Del Duomo, you will find shops that border the city centre and the grand opening leading to the lavish Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Ever heard of it? This is one of the world's oldest shopping malls, jam-packed with every high-end luxury designer label associated with Milan and the fashion scene here. Shops include; Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Moncler, Saint Laurent, and many more of the globe's top fashion brands. Window shopping is the only thing that comes free in this gallery of dreams!
In addition to the pristine appearance of the shops and their goods, you will be mesmerized by the shopping centre itself. Iron and glass domes that make up the ceilings above you, gorgeous hand-painted murals on the walls, perfectly chiseled features and statues in the walls and, beautifully tiled floors that throw you back in time. Visiting this landmark will give you the chance to experience the shopping spree of anyone's dreams. After splashing the cash, you would have definitely worked up an appetite so, head to one of the gallery's many eateries like the; Café Restorante Biffi. Located in the south wing, it is the oldest cafe in the gallery serving specials such as; Ossobucco and Milanese Risotto.
Day 3 - Castello Sforzesco 🏰
Another contender of Milan's top landmarks is the Sforzesco Castle. A 15th-century castle that tourists can explore the grounds of. Check out the attractive and distinctive features of the castle, such as; the gates and medieval architecture.
The castle is home to an extensive collection of civic museums. Museums include; historical collections of Renaissance art, the more unexpected Egyptian Museum and the Museum of Musical Instruments. Pieces of art by Da Vinci, Michelangelo and many others are showcased in and around the castle's walls. Da Vinci played a significant role in the design and production of certain aspects of this castle; for example, the multi-talented artist designed all defences of the castle.
Day 4 - Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology 👨💻
Da Vinci, a national icon that has been dedicated to a museum by Milan, is known as the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology. Up there in Milan's rankings of best tourist attractions. Here, you will browse the exhibits of more than thirty models reconstructing the bold inventions of Leonardo Da Vinci, ranging from war machines to measuring instruments. The museum is substantial, meaning you will be on your feet for a long time so, this needs to be planned in advance! Throw yourself back in time and dive into the history of Milan and Italy.
Day 5 - AC Milan San Siro Stadium ⚽
Whether you love football or hate it, the San Siro is definitely worth a visit so that you can say 'been there done that!' The San Siro is one of the most legendary footballing houses globally. The stadium is home to two of Italy's sporting giants; Inter Milan and AC Milan. Telling both stories, the landmark has a museum that showcases unique mementos: classic jerseys, boots, trophies and all sorts of other memorabilia that have contributed to world football history. After making your way through the museum, staff will take you on a detailed tour of the shared stadium in which you will gain all-access, walkthrough VIP areas and much more. If you're lucky enough to bag tickets, kick back and enjoy some world-class Italian football up-close and personal!
Starting from Skratch? Here are a few tips to get you started:
https://timelesstravelsteps.com/2020/04/23/galleria-vittorio-emanuele-ii-why-you-should-visit/
