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How to Spend 3 Days in Milan
18 Tours and Activities
A full Milan experience can be had in just three days if you plan an itinerary with tours that combine the sights, culture, and adventures of northern Italy. Here are our top ideas for how to spend your time, including how to visit the mountains, coast, or Italian lakes in one day.
Day 1: Milan’s Top Attractions
Start your day with a viewing of Milan’s most revered attraction, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Book a visit with a guide to hear about the painting’s history and restoration during your visit to see the 15th-century mural, on display inside the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent. Skip-the-line or combo tours are a popular way to cover more sights in a shorter time. If you’re interested in cultural landmarks, take a guided tour to learn about the architecture and significance of Duomo di Milano and La Scala opera houses, within walking distance of each other. Then spend the evening with a food and wine experience such as a walking tour of the Brera district, a wine-tasting session of Lombardy wines with a sommelier, or a food, beer, or wine tour of the Navigli district.
Day 2: Shopping, Cooking, and Aperitivo
Italy is known for its fashion and cars, so don’t miss a chance to shop for discounts on Italian designer labels like Armani, Fendi, and Gucci at the Serravalle Designer Outlet or drive a Ferrari around a racetrack outside Milan. Back in the city, go exploring on a bike or Segway tour—you’ll cover more ground than you would by walking but still enjoy being outside to see sights such as Castello Sforzesco, Piazza della Scala, Piazza del Duomo, and Colonne di San Lorenzo. End the day with a cooking lesson, during which you’ll learn how to make Italian cuisine with a local chef and then enjoy your creations for dinner. Alternatively, opt for a more relaxing experience with an evening spa treatment that includes pre-dinner snacks and wine, known in Italy as aperitivo.
Day 3: Into the Countryside
Milan offers proximity to some of northern Italy’s top destinations, which can be reached on a day trip from the city. Mountain lovers can head north for a train ride through the Swiss Alps on the Bernina Express, stopping in the resort town of St. Moritz. Closer to the city, discover the beauty and elegance of Lake Como on a tour that includes a boat ride on the lake, or head to the Italian Riviera on a day trip to Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed series of five villages perched on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. To the east, visit the canal city of Venice to see sights such as St. Mark’s Basilica.

Don't Miss These Must-Do Activities in Milan
16 Tours and Activities
Chic Milan is famous for its fashion industry, but this cosmopolitan city offers much more than cutting-edge couture. Home to one of the most striking Gothic cathedrals in Europe, a world-famous opera house, and Leonardo’s iconic The Last Supper, Milan offers more than enough to keep any art-and-architecture aficionado happy. Gourmands can get their fill by dipping in to the city’s vibrant food scene, from trendy street food to Michelin-starred restaurants packed to the gills with elegant Milanesi until the late hours. The city can also serve as a convenient jumping-off point to explore farther afield with day trips to Venice, the Cinque Terre, Lake Como, or the Bernina Express train into the Alps. From culture to cuisine, here are some of our top picks and experiences in Milan.

Things to Do in Milan This Winter
11 Tours and Activities
Temperatures bottom out in Milan in the winter months, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find plenty to keep you busy in the Italian capital of fashion and design. Between world-class museums, luxury boutique shopping, and easy access to the nearby Alpine peaks, here are our top suggestions for enjoying Milan in winter.
- Explore the Swiss Alps by rail with a train ride through the most spectacular peaks on the Bernina Express.
- Stay warm while taking in city highlights on a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour.
- Get a good look at Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper during the quiet low season.
- Experience opera history by visiting La Scala, where some of Italy’s most famous arias have been performed.
- Take in the city’s cathedral from top to bottom with a Duomo terrace and underground tour.
- Warm up with a bit of vino during a guided wine tasting, paired with samples of local cheeses and charcuterie.
- Connect with locals during a home cooking class, and learn how to prepare traditional Milanese dishes.
- Prepare for the holidays with a day trip to the famous Christmas markets in Switzerland.
- Go bargain hunting at the Serravalle or Foxtown Designer Outlet.
- Spend a few hours admiring the masterpieces in the Brera Museum, the most important art collection in the city.

Things to Do in Milan This Summer
14 Tours and Activities
Like many large cities, Milan can be a challenge during the hottest months of summer, and it takes a bit of planning to enjoy the highlights in comfort. Do as the Milanesi do and divide your time between the city center and cooler coast and countryside. Here are a few ways to experience the best of Milan in summer, even when temperatures soar.
- Don’t swelter in the heat outside: Choose a skip-the-line tour of the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper for priority entry.
- Avoid getting footsore with a long walking itinerary, and instead zip through the city on a Segway or rickshaw tour.
- See Milan’s highlights via a breezy, open-top bus on a hop-on hop-off city tour.
- Cool the palate with a gelato master class (and tasting!).
- Avoid touring during the hottest hours of the day, and instead explore Milan’s trendy Navigli district in the evening.
- Sample the best vintages from the cool hills of Lombardy and Piedmont with a wine-tasting tour in the countryside.
- Catch a sea breeze on the coast with a jaunt to the picturesque Cinque Terre.
- Head to cooler climes with a day trip to Lake Como or Lake Maggiore.
- Escape to the refreshing Alpine peaks with a train ride on the Bernina Express as far as St. Moritz.
- Experience Milan’s famed nightlife, when temperatures drop but the clubs and bars heat up.

Skip the Line at Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper
11 Tours and Activities
Leonardo da Vinci's famous Last Supper is a popular sight in Milan, but tickets sometimes sell out months in advance due to the time limit for each visit. Don't miss your chance to view the beautiful fresco—see your skip-the-line options below.
Skip-the-Line Tickets
Those who want to simply make sure they get their 15 minutes with The Last Supper can buy a stand-alone skip-the-line entrance ticket. It's nearly impossible to get a same-day ticket, so it's important to reserve your spot ahead of time. You'll be given a specific entry time, so don't be late. Some ticket packages include a city guide or book about the fresco itself, which can be picked up on site.
Guided Skip-the-Line Tours at The Last Supper
To learn more about The Last Supper during your visit, choose a guided tour. These come with skip-the-line access, and you'll also be accompanied by a guide who can provide details about the artwork, the location of the fresco, and the man who created it. For a VIP experience, book a private after-hours visit to see the fresco without any crowds. These tours last about 40 to 60 minutes.
Combo Tours
Combining a skip-the-line visit to see The Last Supper with another experience in Milan is a wonderful way to experience more of this busy and fashionable city. The options for additional stops include the Sforza Castle, the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, and the Ambrosiana Art Gallery. You can also choose to pair a Milan walking tour with your time at The Last Supper.

Lake Day Trips from Milan
13 Tours and Activities
Milan's location in northern Italy makes it a convenient base for getting out of the city and over to the region's collection of picturesque lakes, from Como to Garda. Here are a few of the best lakes to visit on a day trip from metropolitan Milan.
Lake Como — 32 miles (51 km) from Milan to Como
The shores around wishbone-shaped Lake Como have enticed visitors since Roman times. You’ll find mountains, grand hotels, and villas surrounding the water, plus the opportunity for a funicular ride that runs up to Brunate for stellar views over the lake and the Italian Alps. Hop around to Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio by boat, and see Lake Como's treasures in a day.
How to Visit
Como is the closest lakeside town to Milan. Choose a Lake Como day trip that includes coach or train transport to avoid the hassle of parking, gain knowledge from your tour guide, and still enjoy free time for a waterfront stroll or a boat ride. Services from Milano Centralo shuttle you to Como or Varenna.
Lake Maggiore — 37 miles (59 km) from Milan to Sesto Calende
The waters of Lake Maggiore sweep south from Switzerland into Italy, meandering their way into the record books as Italy’s longest lake. From the grand hotels of Stresa to the cobbles of Canobbio, the lake’s towns all have their charms, but it’s the tiny Borromean islands that are Lake Maggiore's biggest draw. Hop on a boat at Stresa and aim to visit all three.
How to Visit
Book a full-day tour from Milan by coach that includes a two-hour boat cruise, or relax on the hourlong train from Milano Centrale to Stresa, where ferries offer frequent trips to other lake towns and islands.
Lake Garda — 81 miles (131 km) from Milan to Desenzano del Garda
A diverse landscape surrounds vast Lake Garda—between the southern olive groves and the wild northern waterfronts, the scenery is all shingle shores and harbor towns, offset by bobbing boats and mountains. Within easy reach of Milan and Venice, the lake is an area of hiking, watersports, and historical towns.
How to Visit
Choose a day trip from Milan that combines an outing at Lake Garda and a boat tour with time in nearby Verona, or head to the transport hubs of Desenzano or Peschiera del Garda by train, then switch to a ferry to visit Sirmione and beyond.

How to Spend 2 Days in Milan
14 Tours and Activities
With two days in Milan, you can spend one day discovering the historical and cultural attractions in the historic city center and another on activities that highlight more of the city and other essential Italian experiences. Here are a few ways to plan an itinerary that suits your interests.
Day 1: Milan’s Top Sights
Morning: Begin by viewing Milan’s most revered attraction, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. Book with a guide to hear about the painting’s history and restoration during your allowed 15-minute visit, or opt for a combo walking tour and skip-the-line ticket to see additional Milan sights.
Afternoon: Discover Milan’s culinary culture on a food walking tour of the Brera district or a beer-tasting tour in the Navigli district. For a culture fix, opt for brief tours of the Duomo di Milano and La Scala opera house.
Night: Wine enthusiasts and novices alike will enjoy a sit-down wine-tasting session with a sommelier to learn about the varietals of Italy’s Lombardy region, while a walking tour of the Navigli district allows you to fuel up on appetizers and wine as you explore.
Day 2: Activities and Experiences
Morning: Fashion lovers don’t want to miss the chance to find discounts on Italian designer labels like Armani, Fendi, and Gucci with a trip to the Serravalle Designer Outlet, an elegant shopping complex outside Milan. If you’re more into cars than clothes, discover the power of an Italian vehicle with a Ferrari racing experience.
Afternoon: Explore Milan on two wheels with a Segway tour or bike tour, which lets you cover more ground than you would on foot and enjoy the fresh outdoor air as you pass by sights such as Castello Sforzesco, Piazza della Scala, Piazza del Duomo, and Colonne di San Lorenzo.
Night: Learn how to make Italian cuisine with an evening cooking lesson, where you’ll prepare a meal with a local chef and then enjoy your creations for dinner with your fellow classmates. For something more relaxing, book an evening spa experience that includes pre-dinner snacks and wine, known in Italy as an aperitivo.

Sightseeing on a Budget in Milan
13 Tours and Activities
Hailed as the fashion and commerce capital of Italy, Milan combines masterpieces of medieval art and architecture with the hip energy of a trendsetting city. It’s also an ideal hub for exploring the landscapes of northern Italy. Here's how to make the most of your visit to this sprawling, stylish hub without paying luxury prices.
Visit Treasure-Filled Churches
You don't have to buy museum tickets to see some of Milan's best art. The city’s most prized piece—The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci—is on display at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie church, and the enormous Milan Cathedral (Duomo) is filled with thousands of sculptures. Both have only a small entrance fee to step inside, while guided tours and skip-the-line tickets can help you save time and delve deeper into the artwork.
Take a Walk
Much of Milan’s historic center is best explored on foot, and it doesn't cost a thing to soak up the magnificence of Cathedral Square (Piazza Duomo) or the glitzy ambiance of boutique-lined Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. Bike and Segway tours are other options for covering even more ground in a wallet-friendly way.
Catch a Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tour
If you're not keen on navigating Milan's public transit system, there are other ways to get around while still avoiding pricey taxi rides. Hop-on-hop-off-bus tours are a flexible and user-friendly option to access top sites on your own schedule, while affordable group city tours offer a bit more structure and commentary.
Shop the Outlets
Milan is one of the world’s most fashionable cities, so if you don't want to head home without some made-in-Italy products, score quality name brands for less at suburban outlets such as Serravalle or FoxTown across the border in Switzerland. Outlets and factory stores are an Italian open secret for dressing well at discounts of up to 70 percent.
Visit Lake Como for Less
If a lakeside villa isn't in your budget, you can still experience the serene beauty of Bellagio, Monterosso, and other coastal villages on an affordable day trip to Lake Como or the Cinque Terre. Shared coach tours are a great way to fit in these picturesque destinations without the expense of overnight hotels or private transport.

How to Spend 1 Day in Milan
10 Tours and Activities
With a walkable historic center and major attractions within easy reach of each other, Milan is not hard to see in just one day. From remarkable architecture to culinary delights to one of the most famous paintings in the world, here are our top ideas to help you make the most of your limited time in the city.
Morning: The work of Da Vinci
Start your day with a viewing of Milan’s number-one attraction, Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. The 15th-century mural is on display inside the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, where visitors are allowed just 15 minutes to look at it before moving on for the next group. By booking a visit with a guide, you’ll gain insight into the painting’s history and restoration attempts. Alternatively, combine your visit with a walking tour of Milan’s other sights to cover more ground in one tour. If you prefer to explore Milan at your own pace, opt for a hop-on hop-off tour.
Afternoon: Cultural interests
Depending on your preferences, you can spend the afternoon exploring Milan’s culinary scene or cultural attractions. Foodies will want to embark on a food walking tour of the popular Brera district, where you can sample prosciutto, cheese, and other items, or perhaps go beer-tasting in the Navigli district. Alternatively, explore the city’s two major landmarks—the Duomo di Milano and La Scala opera house—on short guided tours that introduce you to the architecture and significance of these two sites, which are located within walking distance of each other in Milan’s historical center.
Night: Epicurean experiences
It’s all about food and wine when evening rolls around. Both wine aficionados and novices will enjoy a sit-down wine-tasting session with a sommelier, who talks about the varietals of Italy’s Lombardy region, but if you’d prefer to explore on foot, opt for a walking tour of the Navigli district that includes stops for appetizers and wine. For a more immersive experience, an evening cooking lesson gives you the chance to make your own Italian meal with the help of a local chef, and then enjoy your creations for dinner with your fellow classmates.

Things to Do in Milan This Spring
12 Tours and Activities
Winters can be long in Milan, and the city blooms both figuratively and literally with the first balmy days of spring. Locals gather in the city’s lush parks for a walk by day and in chic outdoor cafés and bars for an aperitivo come sunset. Here are the best ways to enjoy Milan as it comes to life in spring.
- Take advantage of the warmer temperatures to savor the view from the spectacular rooftop terrace of Milan Cathedral (Duomo).
- Beat the summer crowds to ponder Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in relative peace.
- Join the foodie fun at alfresco restaurants and cafés with a food-and-wine tour in the trendiest neighborhood in the city.
- Bask in the warm spring sunshine from an open-top bus with a hop-on hop-off tour.
- Enjoy the lavish villa gardens lining Lake Maggiore in full spring bloom during a day trip.
- Get outside with the rest of the sun-starved Milanesi and tour the highlights by bike.
- Take the first beach break of the season with a jaunt to the picturesque fishing villages of the Cinque Terre.
- Admire the city and surrounding countryside of Lombardy and Piedmont from above with a hot-air-balloon ride.
- Experience the spring abundance even in urban Milan with a visit to the local market followed by a cooking lesson.
- Update your wardrobe for the season with a shopping tour of the most fashionable boutiques in Milan.

Things to Do Near da Vinci's Last Supper
11 Tours and Activities
Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, “The Last Supper,” is one of Milan's top attractions. But with only 15-minute visits allowed, you'll be looking for other things to do nearby. Luckily, the fresco is in a church that's close to several other sights.
Learn more about da Vinci at the Museum of Science and Technology.
Italy's largest science and technology museum features models made from the Renaissance man's invention sketches. There are seven sections of the museum, some of which are hands-on and geared toward kids, so it's an excellent spot for a family or private tour.
Check out one of Milan's oldest churches, the Basilica di Sant'Ambrogio.
This church was consecrated in the fourth century by Milan's patron saint, St. Ambrose. There are two bell towers, which is unusual for a church, and inside you’ll find gorgeous mosaic artwork from the fourth to eighth centuries.
Relax with the locals in Parco Sempione.
One of the best places to take a break from city life in Milan, the wonderful green space of Parco Sempione sprawls out behind the Castello Sforzesco. Museums line the park, but the main appeal for locals and visitors alike is the grassy lawn surrounded by rows of trees that help you forget you're in the middle of a busy city.
Visit the former seat of the ruling Sforza family at the Castello Sforzesco.
This once imposing castle houses several museums, including the Museum of Ancient Art, Museum of Musical Instruments, and a collection of Egyptian artifacts. Visitors can see the castle's historic battlements and guard chambers with a guided tour, and there are also family tours to keep kids interested.
Explore the history of Italian design at the Triennale Museum.
Jump forward in time after seeing “The Last Supper” to immerse yourself in the excellent collection of contemporary art and design at La Triennale. Located on one side of Parco Sempione, the building also contains a spacious cafe and a reference library.

Leonardo da Vinci's Milan
21 Tours and Activities
With works including The Last Supper and the Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci is one of the world's most famous artists, and his legacy remains strong in his former home of Milan. Follow in the footsteps of an art icon with a tour of da Vinci's Milan.
Santa Maria delle Grazie & The Last Supper
Few paintings are as globally renowned as The Last Supper, da Vinci's evocative interpretation of the biblical scene. Located in the UNESCO–listed Santa Maria delle Grazie church, the magnificent fresco is open to the public by guided tour only.
How to visit: Choose a private, small-group, or group tour; opt for skip-the-line access to avoid the long queues; or upgrade to a private VIP tour and enjoy a special after-hours visit.
Navigli District
Navigli is one of Milan's most atmospheric districts, with its scenic canals and lively cafés facing out over the waterfront. The neighborhood also has a fascinating link to the city's most famous artist—Leonardo da Vinci was the mastermind behind the design of the canal locks.
How to visit: Explore the Navigli District on a 2-hour walking tour, accompanied by a local guide.
Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology
The biggest museum of its kind in Italy, this site is crammed with interactive and innovative displays. Da Vinci fans can enjoy the exhibit devoted to the artist, where his most unusual drawings and inventions have been brought to life.
How to visit: Take in the highlights on a 2-hour guided visit, designed to engage the whole family.
San Sepolcro Church
Located on Piazza San Sepolcro in the heart of the city, San Sepolcro Church and its magnificent underground crypt were beloved by Leonardo da Vinci, inspiring him to place the church at the center of his map of Milan.
How to visit: Explore the church and crypt on a self-guided tour, accompanied by an audio guide.
Leonardo's Vineyard (Museo Vigna di Leonardo)
Located across the road from the Santa Maria delle Grazie church, Leonardo's Vineyard was gifted to the artist by the Duke of Milan and was his home while he worked on The Last Supper. It has since been transformed into a museum, offering visitors a chance to stroll around the vineyard and explore inside his former home, the Atellani Palace.
How to visit: Access to the house and vineyard is by guided tour only. Tours are often combined with a visit to the neighboring Santa Maria delle Grazie church to view The Last Supper.

Things to Do in Milan This Fall
10 Tours and Activities
Milan hits its stride in the fall, when the city fills with fashionistas from across the globe for Fashion Week and mild temperatures keep the outdoor cafés and clubs packed with sophisticated urbanites far past midnight. If you’re planning an autumn trip to Milan, here’s how best to fill your days (and nights).
- Take advantage of the cooler temperatures to explore the city’s highlights on foot as part of a Milan walking tour.
- Admire the clear view across Milan to the Alpine peaks on the horizon from the rooftop terrace of Milan Cathedral (Duomo).
- Explore one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city and its flourishing culinary scene with a Brera food tour.
- Indulge in a relaxing soak at a chic urban spa, followed by a cocktail to toast the city’s aperitivo tradition.
- Duck out of a sudden fall rainstorm by taking in Milan’s top sights with a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour.
- Join the vibrant nightlife along Milan’s historic canals during an evening walking tour in the Navigli district.
- Imbibe some of the best regional labels with a wine tasting in a city enoteca (wine shop).
- Discover where those in the know shop on a fashion tour of Milan’s hottest boutiques.
- Escape the city with a day trip to Lake Como during the most picturesque season of the year.
- Pay homage to one of Milan’s most treasured local traditions by taking an aperitivo tour of the city.

How to Get Around in Milan
8 Tours and Activities
Milan is not only easy to navigate without a car, it's easier than with one. The city imposes a pollution tax on all automobiles, including rentals, so it’s a good idea to take a bus or walking tour, or take advantage of the city’s excellent public transit. Here are your options.
Public Transit
Milan's public transportation options include the Metro, bus lines, and a few tram routes. All three use the same ticketing system, and the Metro's four color-coded lines serve nearly every part of central Milan. In areas not covered by the Metro, bus and tram lines fill in the gaps.
Walking and Biking Tours
The historic center of Milan is actually quite compact, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Walking tours are popular, covering the main sights within easy strolling distance of one another, or focusing on a certain neighborhood like the Navigli or Brera, both of which become more lively at night. Alternately, cover more ground by booking a bicycle tour or taking advantage of Milan’s bike-sharing program, BikeMi.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Tram Tours
Getting the lay of the land in an unfamiliar city is often easiest when you start a visit with a hop-on hop-off tour. Milan offers these tours on both open-top, double-decker buses and on vintage trams. In either case, you can ride the whole route in one go or disembark at any point to explore and then get back on the next bus or tram.

Things to Do in Milan with Kids
13 Tours and Activities
You may be surprised at how kid-friendly the cosmopolitan city of Milan is, with its chic, grown-up boutiques tempered by a fun medieval castle, city parks, and historic trams. Older teens enjoy the aperitivo scene, and even the youngest tots love the view from the cathedral’s rooftop. Here’s how to keep the whole family entertained in Milan.
Highlights
- Take in the city from above with a trip up to the rooftop observation terrace of the soaring cathedral (duomo) overlooking Milan. Older kids can take in the entire complex during a duomo tour, or you can opt for skip-the-line tickets directly to the roof for dazzling views of the city center.
- All aboard! Hop on a historic tram through the city center to ride past some of Milan’s most captivating neighborhoods and take in its monuments from a vintage early 20th-century car. This unique way to see the city is perfect for footsore kids (and adults).
- Conquer the castle. The 15th-century Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) is home to a number of museums and galleries, but kids are primarily drawn to its round battlements and watchtower. Join a family-friendly castle tour to learn about the history and lore of Milan’s most famous fortress.
- Both kids and adults sometimes need a respite from the urban bustle and historic grandeur of Milan. Relax at Sempione Park adjacent to Castello Sforzesco, and take a jaunt to the top of the Torre Branca panoramic tower, or pop into the Indro Montanelli Public Gardens or Brera Botanical Garden in the city center.
- Older kids can do as the Milanese do and sip a (nonalcoholic) drink and nibble on finger food at one of the trendy spots in Brenta or the Navigli district during the lively evening aperitivo hour, a daily ritual in fashionable Milan.

Venice Day Trips from Milan
5 Tours and Activities
A trip from Milan to Venice showcases two sides of northern Italy—while Milan has the shopping and the swagger, Venice is all about history and romance, with a tangle of canals and palazzi. Here's how to take your own day trip from Milan to Venice.
Things to Know
Milan and Venice lie 168 miles (270 km) apart, connected by the fast Autostrada A4. By road, the journey takes up to three hours, but the train is slightly quicker and saves you the headache of parking. Be sure to hop off at Venezia Santa Lucia station, not Venezia Mestra, which is the last mainland stop.
Day trips to Venice from Milan generally last about 14 hours, including travel and activities, so prepare for a long day.
Aside from comfortable shoes—you'll do a lot of walking in Venice—change is also helpful to have. You'll need coins for any public transit, and spare change is especially handy if you find yourself wanting to hop on a traghetto boat to cross the Grand Canal.
Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, affording you a stress free day of exploring.

Verona Day Trips from Milan
6 Tours and Activities
Famously the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, romantic Verona is one of Italy's most impressive Renaissance cities. It's easy to visit on a day trip from Milan, and to help you find the perfect tour, here's a rundown of your options.
Day Trips
The most convenient and cost-effective way to visit Verona is on a full-day group tour, traveling by bus or coach from Milan. Most tours include a walking tour of Verona's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including attractions such as the ancient Roman amphitheater, Juliet's Balcony, and Lamberti's Tower, as well as photo stops at the villages around Lake Garda.
Multi-Day Tours
Multi-day tours mean you can maximize your time and check off multiple destinations with an expert tour guide on hand to make sure you don't miss anything. Discover the villages and lakes of northern Italy on a two-, three-, or four-day tour, or set out on an epic adventure to explore the Dolomites mountain range or the Italian Riviera coast. Most tours include accommodation, as well as selected meals, entrance fees, and activities.
Things to Know
Verona is about 100 miles (160 km) east of Milan, a journey of about two hours by road.
Day tours from Milan typically last between 12 and 14 hours, so prepare for a long day.
Be sure to bring your camera, comfortable walking shoes, water, and snacks for the trip.
Multi-day tours typically include accommodation, some meals, and round-trip transport from Milan.

Romantic Things To Do in Milan
9 Tours and Activities
Milan is known for its fast-paced, fashionista vibe, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find pockets of romance even in this cosmopolitan city. Enjoy its soaring views, historic neighborhoods, and solid wine game—all perfect for lingering gazes and strolling hand in hand. Here’s how to explore the romantic side of Italy’s capital of style.
Admire the City from Above
Leave the urban bustle far below to take in the city from one of its lofty perches. The most famous scenic overlook is the rooftop terrace of the cathedral (duomo), in the heart of the city. Join a private tour with skip-the-line access to the roof as the sun sets over the rooftops. Less famous but equally spectacular, the Torre di Brenta observation tower in Sempione Park also offers sweeping panoramas, the ideal backdrop to a kiss.
Capture Your Love on Film
Milan has some of the most striking historic monuments in Italy, from the Gothic cathedral to the 19th-century Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Take advantage of the theatrical setting for a couple’s photo shoot with a professional photographer, snapping posed and spontaneous shots of the two of you in locations across the city.
Soak Away Your Cares
The stress of daily life can take its toll on a couple, so spend an evening relaxing in one of Milan’s most exclusive spas. Unwind in the hot tubs, pool, sauna, and steam bath while enjoying a light aperitivo of finger food and drinks. You’ll both come away rejuvenated.
An Aperitivo for Two
One of Milan’s most beloved rituals is the evening aperitivo, a happy-hour repast of finger foods and drinks. Grab a table for two in the city’s trendy Navigli neighborhood along the canal, or opt for a more upscale cocktail hour at a landmark wine bar in the center, and settle in for sips and nibbles.

Top Nightlife Experiences in Milan
9 Tours and Activities
Italy’s capital of cool is a center of fashion and design that’s famous for its nightlife. The Milanese work hard and play hard, meaning that the city’s restaurants, bars, and clubs are always full of revellers. Here are a few ideas for exploring Milan after sunset.
Experience Italy’s Aperitivo Capital
Segueing from work to play over drinks and finger food is a beloved ritual across Italy. Hailed as the birthplace of the aperitivo, Milan is the best place to experience this trendy pre-dinner cocktail crawl. On an aperitivo tour, you’ll discover the most popular bars and cafés in the fashionable Navigli and Brera districts, and relax with locals over drinks and nibbles.
Bright Lights, Big City
Milan shows its romantic side after the sun sets. Leave the guidebook behind on a night tour that covers the Duomo, La Scala Opera House, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, when they’re theatrically-lit and crowd-free. Explore downtown on foot or via Segway, and learn more about local history and architecture from a guide.
Dinner and a Show
Paris isn’t the only European city famous for its cabaret. Maison Milano is Milan’s premier dinner theater and puts on burlesque, live music, and DJ sets during dinner service. After the show, the venue becomes a disco where you can dance until the early hours. Do bear in mind that this is one of Milan’s most popular nightclubs, so advance booking is recommended.
Soak Your Cares Away
The urban pace of Milan can be relentless, so spend an evening relaxing at one of the city’s spas. Unwind in the hot tub and sauna; recharge with an aperitivos; or indulge in a treatment. Reserve ahead of time as spaces are limited.

How to Experience Aperitivo in Milan
5 Tours and Activities
The concept of aperitivo has become more common in Italy’s big cities in recent years, but not everyone really understands what it means to have a pre- or post-meal aperitif. Read on to discover how to experience this dining tradition in Milan.
Things to Know
Strictly speaking, the term aperitivo refers to any alcoholic beverage consumed before eating a meal and meant to trigger one's appetite. In practice, however, it typically means the pre-dinner ritual of a bar or restaurant serving an assortment of food that patrons get for free with the purchase of a drink.
It may sound like any old happy hour, but that's not quite the same thing. In Italy, drinks aren’t cheaper during aperitivo—in fact, they can be a little more expensive than normal—and the buffet is free. While it's easy (and totally acceptable) for diners to make a meal of happy hour in some countries, you're not supposed to stuff yourself at aperitivo in Italy. It’s meant to serve as a light snack and drink before dinner, and one of the best places in which to experience the tradition is Milan, a city that prides itself on its cocktail culture.
How to Go
Be on the lookout for bars and restaurants setting up for the evening (with lots of sidewalk tables in nicer weather) in popular neighborhoods such as Nagigli just south of the city center and the classy Brera district near the Duomo. Browse on your own or book an aperitivo tour to make sure you're getting the best possible experience.
Head out on an evening walking tour to scope out the possibilities and get recommendations from your guide, or choose a tour that specifically includes an aperitivo stop. It's even possible to relax over an aperitivo in the villa vineyard that was once owned and cultivated by Leonardo da Vinci himself.

Food in Milan
7 Tours and Activities
Packed with art, culture, fashion and design, Milan is also a traveler’s dream when it comes to food and restaurants as the rich flavors of Milanese cuisine are renowned the world over. Here are a few ways to enjoy eating and dining out in Milan.
Must-Try Dishes
Every region of Italy has a distinct culinary style, and Milanese cuisine is best known for the rich ingredients that make up its Italian-style comfort food dishes. Meat replaces poultry and fish, and the cuisine is heavy on dairy, with butter, cream, milk, and cheese as the staples of Milanese meals. You can’t leave the city without ordering a plate of risotto alla Milanese, a creamy risotto infused with saffron that doesn’t skimp on the butter. Meat lovers will savor la cotoletta, a pan-fried veal cutlet often covered in eggs, flour, and a sprinkling of breadcrumbs. Veal ossobucco is another meat staple, as is the pork dish cassoeula, served with cabbage and bursting with flavor. To bring a Milanese meal to a close, order panettone, a fluffy cake infused with raisins or other candied fruits.
Must-Do Experiences
Join a guided walking tour as you eat your way across Milan’s hippest neighborhoods.
Stroll the stalls of a Milanese market for produce you’ll use in a cooking class with a private local chef.
Combine a food-themed walking tour with a visit to one of Milan’s top sites, like a cruise on Navigli canal.
Explore the flavors of surrounding regions with day trips outside of Milan.

Swiss Alps Tours from Milan
Look north on a clear day in Milan and you might just make out the peaks of the Swiss Alps, which rise along the Italy–Switzerland border in a sweep of mountains, lakes, and villages. Here's how to see it all up close on a day trip from Milan.
Things to Know
- St. Moritz is about 100 miles (165 km) from Milan, while Zermatt sits about 143 miles (230 km) away. Each can be reached from the city via a three- to four-hour train ride.
- The Swiss Alps are stunning all year round, so when to visit depends on your interests. If you'd rather sightsee than ski, consider late March through early May, when the conditions aren't quite so wintry but still involve snow.
- Those interested in a Bernina Express day trip to the Swiss Alps should know that the experience is just as much about the journey as it is the destination. These tours can run upwards of 13 hours, with about two hours spent in St. Moritz and the rest spent seeing alpine vistas of mountains, lakes, and pinewood forests. Sit on the left side of the train for the best views.
- Switzerland isn't part of the European Union, so be sure to check visa requirements before you travel. Aside from your passport, you may also want to exchange some money into the local currency—Swiss francs are the legal tender in Switzerland, not euros.

Shopping in Milan
5 Tours and Activities
Milan is Italy’s fashion capital and has a shopping scene to match, from the couture boutiques lining the central shopping district to the designer outlets within easy reach of the city. Here’s how to experience the best of Milan’s fashion scene.
Quadrilatero d’Oro
This popular area is known as the “Golden Rectangle,” and you can shop or just admire the window displays from some of Italy’s biggest fashion houses on its pedestrian-only streets. Book a private shopping tour to gain the help of a guide to find treasures you might otherwise miss.
Navigli
Milan’s Navigli district, south of the city center, draws visitors to its canals and art galleries. On Sundays, an outdoor market attracts shoppers looking for antiques, books, and clothing.
Serravalle Outlets
Designer outlets are usually located in the suburbs of Italy’s big cities, and there are several within easy reach of Milan. The Serravalle Outlets complex is about 58 miles (93 kilometers) from the city. It’s one of the larger outlets in the area with about 200 shops selling discounted merchandise.
FoxTown Factory Stores
The FoxTown Factory Stores are across the border in the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland, about 38 miles (61 kilometers) from Milan. There are about 130 shops to explore. Choose a day tour for independent shopping time without the need to rent a car or plan transportation.
Fidenza Village Outlets
Fidenza Village is about 65 miles (105 kilometers) from Milan, roughly the same distance from Bologna, so it’s a popular shopping day trip destination from both cities. This outdoor outlet center has nearly 100 shops to browse. Most outlet day trips come with VIP savings cards to give you even more discounts.
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