Updated June 2017
Art collections old and new, couture collections most fabulous, and enough antiquated architecture to satisfy even the most insatiable of culture vultures, Milan has it all.
Here are a few itinerary suggestions to help you enjoy a memorable 24 hours in Milan.
START YOUR DAY AT THE DUOMO DI MILANO
Grab yourself a cappuccino, and begin your stay in Milan by exploring the Duomo di Milano. Sitting at the very heart of the city, its majestic façade commands the attention of all who pass through the adjacent cathedral square.
Admire the intricacy of the architecture that required centuries of labor in order to complete, and climb up to the terrace for a panoramic view over the city.
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RELAX IN THE PIAZZA DELLA SCALA
Should you manage to tear yourself away from the boutiques of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, head out into the charming Piazza Della Scala.
This pedestrianized square is a picture perfect place to take a break from sightseeing. It contains a monument to the great Leonardo da Vinci who spent many years living and working in Milan, and it is overlooked by the neoclassical Teatro alla Scala (one of the world’s most noted theatres).
CITY GUIDES ON WANDERLUSTERS
EXPLORE THE PICTURESQUE STREETS OF THE BRERA NEIGHBOURHOOD
Choose one of the many neighborhood restaurants that line the quaint streets of Brera, and enjoy a lunch of traditional Milanese fare.
Afterwards, peruse the many independent boutiques and galleries, and marvel at the impressive collection of masterpieces by Raphael, Piero della Francesca, and Andrea Mantegna on display in the Pinacoteca di Brera gallery.
Grab yourself a cappuccino, and begin your stay in Milan by exploring the Duomo di Milano. Sitting at the very heart of the city, its majestic façade commands the attention of all who pass through the adjacent cathedral square.
Admire the intricacy of the architecture that required centuries of labor in order to complete, and climb up to the terrace for a panoramic view over the city.
STEP BACK IN TIME IN THE GALLERIA VITTORIO EMANUELE II
Just a few minutes’ walk from the Duomo di Milano is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. One of the world’s oldest shopping malls, this impressive glass roofed, four-story, double arcade is a must-see for those visiting Milan.
A favorite meeting place of the Milanese, the arcade houses numerous luxury fashion labels, cafes, and restaurants, and it famously forced fast food giant McDonald’s to relinquish their tenancy in favor of a new occupant, fashion house Prada.
ENJOY A ROMANTIC EVENING IN NAVIGLI
Possibly the most romantic of all Milan’s neighborhoods, Navigli is the perfect place to spend the evening with your loved one.
Walk hand in hand over the bridges that cross the Naviglio Grande Canal, and watch as the cruise boats slowly navigate the narrow waters.
CITY GUIDES ON WANDERLUSTERS
MARVEL AT THE CASTELLO SFORZESCO
Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, the then Duke of Milan, the Castello Sforzesco, or Sforza Castle as it is also known, was once one of the largest citadels in Europe.
Demolished, rebuilt several times, embellished, and restored, it now houses several of the city’s museums and art collections. Spend your afternoon soaking in the sights and sounds of the various exhibitions before walking back to your centrally located Milan hotel.
Milan offers endless opportunities for those seeking a cultural retreat, and with so much to see and do within walking distance of the city center, it is the perfect choice for a short stay.
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Have you spent 24 hours in Milan? Share your travel tips with me below.
