I Spent 2 Days In Milan, But Is Milan Worth Visiting?

I spent 2 days in Milan – but is Milan worth visiting? That was the question I found myself asking when my friend invited me to a wedding in Lake Como, and coincidentally, a two-day stop in Milan on the way. 

When I think of Italy, narrow cobblestone streets surrounded by captivating architecture and beautiful artwork come to mind; romantic restaurants, cafes, sunset tours, and endless hills of vineyards and sage-green olive groves. There’s something magical about Italy, one of Europe’s top destinations.

But Milan is not this.

Milan is one of those cities that splits views. I’ve heard travellers rave about the fashion, food and culture, while others brush it off as grey, industrial and overrated. And if truth be told, it is both.

Here’s my honest breakdown of the pros and cons, so you can decide if Milan deserves a spot on your Italy itinerary.

P.S. Get to know more about me and my blog here.

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Quick Overview: Is Milan Worth Visiting (yes or no?)

Milan is a city that divides opinion. Some travellers fall for its style and culture, while others leave underwhelmed. 

Personally, I do think Milan is worth visiting – yes. But not as your first stop in Italy. It makes more sense if you’ve already explored the classics, if you’re planning to visit the northern lakes, or if shopping is high on your list.

With that in mind, let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons of visiting Milan, so you can decide if it deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Yes: The Pros

✅ The Duomo is jaw-dropping – one of Europe’s most striking cathedrals
✅ World-class art, including Da Vinci’s Last Supper
✅ Aperitivo culture and a lively food scene, especially in Navigli
✅ A perfect base for day trips to Lake Como, the Alps, and beyond
✅ Fashion capital of Italy with stylish locals and iconic shopping spots
✅ A unique mix of historic streets and modern skyscrapers
✅ Parks and hidden corners like Parco Sempione to escape the chaos

Recommended activity >> Explore the highlights of Milan on this private walking tour! With a local guide, discover the cosmopolitan city’s top sites with insider tips and valuable advice for your trip.

No: The Cons

​​❌ The fast-paced, business-like energy can be overwhelming
❌ Grey and industrial vibe compared to other Italian cities
❌ More expensive for food, coffee, and hotels than elsewhere in Italy
❌ Booking The Last Supper is tricky, and tickets sell out fast
❌ Less “wander charm” – it takes effort to find beauty here
❌ Traffic and noise can get in the way of enjoying the city
❌ Often feels like a “one and done” destination after 1–2 days

Key Takeaways

On one side, it’s Italy’s fashion and business hub. Think stylish people, fancy shops, and modern skyscrapers sitting right next to grand old buildings. 

The Duomo is the big star – this massive Gothic cathedral covered in spires that looks like something out of a fairytale. There’s also The Last Supper. And if you love shopping or just window browsing, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is basically the birthplace of the shopping mall, but way prettier.

But Milan isn’t all glamour. 

It’s more industrial and fast-paced compared to other Italian cities; it doesn’t have the same charm as Rome, Venice, or Florence. It can feel grey, a bit business-like, and even overwhelming with traffic and noise. The weather can be damp and foggy, especially in winter, which doesn’t help its mood.

It’s often compared to London, which I get, but then London is my favourite city. So it’s no wonder I think Milan is worth visiting!

I think you should visit Milan for history, fashion, food, nightlife, and connections to the lakes. However, if you don’t like busy, sometimes cold and grey places, or want somewhere with that “romantic Italy” vibe people imagine, you might want to avoid it.

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The Backstory & My Experience Visiting Milan

Milan is a bit of a mixed bag, and that’s what makes it interesting. Before I deep-dive into the pros and cons mentioned above, I thought it fitting to share my experience.

I think Milan is worth visiting, but it’s not the first place I’d recommend you visit in Italy, and here’s why. 

The first time I went to Milan, I was a curious teenager. It was a trip I took with my mum, and I remember falling in love with these snakeskin kitten-heeled boots, which she bought for me and which I wore to a timely scuffed and dull death before leaving them behind to pursue my adventures in Oz.

I remember walking through the busy streets, gawping at the racks of elegant clothing and taking in the wonderful smell of leather. As one of Europe’s fashion capitals, Milan is a must-visit for any fashionista; however, fashion – it’s not really my thing. 

And at sixteen, I was not interested in art. I also remember the queue to enter the Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to DaVinci’s Last Supper. My mum loathes queuing, and true to form, we did not enter the UNESCO World Heritage Church, not that I would have appreciated it at the time. A problem still to be factored into any Milan itinerary – the queuing, not my mum’s dislike for queues!

Nevertheless, I did have a good trip and I had positive feelings towards Milan. Although this was more likely the R&R time spent with my mum than Milan itself.

Fast-forward two decades, and here I am again. Wandering the streets and wondering if I would still enjoy Milan, because I did enjoy it the first time around, and I did. 

Milan 2025

The trip, in its entirety, consisted of 2 days in Milan, 3 days at Lake Como in a lovely town called Lecco and another half-day in Milan, where I’d planned to explore the city a little more. Unfortunately, the heavens opened, and torrential rains kept me sealed inside my hotel for the rest of the trip. 

On my first day in the city, I went on a Milan food tour – if you’re an avid reader of mine, you’ll know I’m a fan of food tours – which came with some drama, but overall, it was a fantastic way to spend an afternoon in Milan.

On the second day, my morning consisted of exploring Brera, the boho art district, the centre, and the canals in Navigli in the evening. It was great fun, walking around the city, discovering the sites, and eating some of the world’s best gelato.  

But why is it not the first place I recommend visiting in Italy? Milan doesn’t have that Italian-esque vibe that we’re promised. The reason many of us, myself included, want to visit Italy in the first place. Those charming streets, thought-provoking artwork, astonishing architecture and breathtaking scenery – the latter of which Milan seriously lacks.

Simply, there are many more travel-worthy, beautiful and interesting places to visit in Italy; Florence being one and Rome another. Tuscany offers more beauty than Milan, as do the Italian lakes, the Ligurian Coast and even Pisa holds an offbeat charm Milan lacks.

So, why do I think Milan is worth visiting? 

There are two scenarios: If you’ve been to Italy before, or if you’re visiting the Lake District. Then, Milan transforms into an epic travel destination. 

Milan has a cool side if you look for it.

The Navigli district is full of canals, aperitivo spots, and nightlife. There are quirky museums, street art, and (some) green spaces like Parco Sempione to escape the city rush. Plus, Milan is a great base – in an hour you can be at Lake Como, in the Alps, or even heading towards other northern Italian cities.

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Accommodation: Where To Stay In Milan

If it’s your first time in Milan, I suggest staying in the northeastern end of the city. Porta Nuova and Porta Venezia are both great locations with easy connections and great places to eat, drink and shop.

If you want to stay in the Centro Stroica, prices will be more expensive, but you’ll be a stone’s throw from the main attractions. Alternatively, Navigli or Brera are trendy spots to spend a few nights.

Tip >> Milan Fashion Week takes place a couple of times a year, which sees prices rise and availability decrease. It’s not a good time to book a last-minute trip to Milan if you want to choose your accommodations carefully.

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A Deep Dive Into The Pros & Cons Of Visiting Milan

Milan might not have the romance of Venice or the charm of Florence, but it does pack in some serious highlights. From world-famous landmarks to a buzzing food scene, there are definitely reasons why the city deserves a stop. 

Here are the pros of visiting Milan and why it’s worthwhile, including highlights, recommendations and personal insights.

The Duomo is Jaw-Dropping

The Gothic Cathedral is Milan’s crown jewel. Climbing the rooftop and standing among the spires is an experience you won’t forget – or so I’m told. I actually didn’t manage to climb to the top; this being a whimsical trip and all, meant I hadn’t booked ahead.

Nonetheless, the Duomo is incredible. Both outside and inside. It’s an iconic church and one of the largest in the world. The exterior is covered in beautiful pink and white marble, which makes it glisten in the middle of bustling Piazza del Duomo.

The cathedral’s interior is equally impressive, with elaborate ornamentation: large, sculpted marble columns, stunning stained-glass windows depicting biblical stories, and various artefacts and artworks. 

Highlights include the Holy Nail, believed to be one of the nails used during the crucifixion of Christ, housed in a case above the altar. Ascending to the rooftop terraces, which offer incredible panoramic views and an archaeological area where you can explore the remains of earlier structures.

The Museo del Duomo di Milano, located in Piazza del Duomo 12, inside the Royal Palace, houses a collection of artefacts, sculptures, and stained-glass windows related to the Cathedral’s construction and history – which took nearly six centuries to complete!

Recommended tickets>> You’ll need a ticket to enter the Duomo, and I highly recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season. You can choose different ticket options, including access to the Duomo only, combined tickets with the museum and archaeological area, or tickets that include access to the rooftop terraces (by stairs or elevator). 

World-Class Art (Hello, The Last Supper)

For most people, Milan feels incomplete without seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. But for me, yet again, it wasn’t meant to be. Nevertheless, it is one of Milan’s main attractions, and if you appreciate religious art, it will surely make Milan worth visiting. 

Hidden away inside the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, this 15th-century mural is one of the most famous artworks in the world. It’s also much larger than most people might think, measuring about 8.8 by 4.6 metres!

Depicting the moment Jesus tells the apostles that one of them will betray him, it shows each disciple reacting differently, their expressions ranging from shock to denial. It’s this raw human emotion that makes the work so powerful. 

The experience itself will be short but memorable as numbers are tightly controlled, so only small groups are allowed in at a time, and each group has just 15 minutes to stand in front of the mural. 

Suggested tickets >> Tickets are notoriously hard to get, so book well in advance – ideally at least a month or two before. Guided tours often combine entry with visits to the convent and nearby landmarks, which can be a great way to add context to the experience.

Other museums & iconic landmarks worth a visit in Milan include:

• Sforza Castle – A vast red-brick fortress that once housed Milan’s rulers. Today, it’s home to several museums, including Renaissance art, musical instruments, and Michelangelo’s unfinished Rondanini Pietà. The courtyards and adjoining Parco Sempione also make it a nice spot to wander.
• Arco della Pace – This grand arch at the edge of Parco Sempione is a triumphal monument celebrating peace. A great photo spot, especially at sunset.
• Bagatti Valsecchi Museum – A beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion showcasing Renaissance-style art, furniture, and interiors. It feels like stepping back in time.
• Museo del Novecento – Next to the Duomo, this museum is dedicated to 20th-century Italian art, including works by Boccioni, De Chirico, and Modigliani.
• The Church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore – Often nicknamed the “Sistine Chapel of Milan” thanks to its breathtaking frescoes that cover almost every surface.
• Fondazione Prada – A modern art space housed in a former gin distillery, known for bold modern exhibitions and its striking architecture.
• Torre Velasca – An unusual mid-century skyscraper that divides opinion – some call it ugly, others iconic. Either way, it’s a symbol of Milan’s post-war identity.
• Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology – Italy’s largest science museum, with fascinating exhibits on transport, energy, and da Vinci’s inventions.
• Pinacoteca di Brera – A small fine-rt gallery considered the third best collection of medieval and Renaissance artwork in Italy after the Vatican and Florence’s Uffizi.

Aperitivo & Food Culture

If there’s one tradition I wasn’t going to miss in Milan, it’s aperitivo. 

I like to think of it as Italy’s answer to Happy Hour, which here in the UK always puts a smile on someone’s face when they realise it’s on after walking into a bar mid-afternoon for a cheeky pick-me-up; however, Italy’s version is much more sophisticated.

Order a drink – usually a spritz, wine, or negroni – and you’ll be served a spread of snacks; anything from olives and crisps, mini pizzas, pastas, and cheese boards. In some places, the aperitivo buffet is so generous that it’s possible to skip dinner altogether!

It’s undoubtedly a highlight of visiting Italy, but in Milan, it’s more of a ritual, so there’s no better place to experience it. 

Navigli, with its canalside bars, is a classic spot, but I found sipping cocktails overlooking the Duomo with a spread of olives, crisps and tarallini (a crunchy savoury snack) rather delightful; you’ll find great aperitivo all over the city.

Of course, Milan’s food scene goes way beyond drinks and nibbles. The city is the birthplace of risotto alla Milanese, rich with saffron and butter, and you’ll also find hearty cotoletta alla Milanese – breaded veal cutlet, golden and crisp. The
panzerotti from Luini is also famous, and for dessert, grab a slice of panettone, Milan’s most famous sweet export.

Recommended activity >> I mentioned earlier that I went on a food tour – this is the exact tour I took. It’s a great way to sample some of Italy’s most beloved snacks, and it includes a sit-down at a deli to gorge on a traditional charcuterie board. Trust me when I say, you’ll be utterly stuffed by the end of this tour!

A Perfect Base for Day Trips

The point of travelling to Italy was not to visit Milan, but to attend a wedding at Lake Como. Milan was simply the stepping stone to reach my destination, but it turned out to be the perfect springboard.

Not only was Milan fun to explore, but getting to Lake Como was astonishingly easy. From hopping on the tram to Milan Centrale, to buying a ticket to Lecco on one of the large machines, to finding the platform and jumping straight on the train — the whole journey was effortless, smooth, and surprisingly quick.

Hats off to Italian transport – well, in Milan anyway!

But where can you actually go from Milan? The city is incredibly well-connected, making it a brilliant base for exploring northern Italy. 

You can hop on a train to Lake Como – towns like Lecco, Varenna, and Como itself are all just an hour or so away. Lake Maggiore is also easily reachable, with Arona or Stresa perfect for a day trip or overnight stay. 

Beyond the lakes, Milan puts you close to Bergamo, a charming hilltop city with a medieval old town, and Pavia, known for its historic university and cobbled streets. Verona isn’t far, and even Cinque Terre can be reached in a few hours.

Fancy the mountains? The Lombardy Alps aren’t far, and Turin is just a couple of hours by train if you’re looking for another city escape. 

Suggested activity >> If you’re considering a day trip to one of the lakes from Milan, this Lake Maggiore tour is perfect. It encompasses my favourite attractions: the Borromean Islands but also a stop in the timeless Stresa. If it’s Lake Como you’re after, check out this Milan to Lake Como including Bellagio day trip.

Fashion Capital of Italy

Even though I’m not into shopping sprees, Milan is the beating heart of Italian fashion, and there’s no escaping the city’s style. It was wonderful to absorb this sophisticated, stylish vibe as I strolled around the boutique-lined streets.

The most famous spot is most certainly Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. It’s incredible, with a soaring glass dome, marble mosaics, and luxury boutiques, it feels more like a palace than a shopping centre. It’s worth visiting just for the architecture and atmosphere alone.

For something more affordable, I found Milan also has plenty of high-street brands scattered around Corso Vittorio Emanuele II near the Duomo. I found Zara, H&M, and Mango sitting alongside mid-range Italian chains like Rinascente, a department store with rooftop views.

If high fashion is your thing, head straight to the Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrangle). This district is home to Via Monte Napoleone, Via della Spiga, and Corso Venezia – streets lined with flagship stores for Italian powerhouses like Gucci, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. Expect jaw-dropping window displays, glossy storefronts, and price tags to match.

For unique pieces, Corso Buenos Aires is one of Europe’s longest shopping streets with hundreds of shops, from trendy labels to budget finds. And don’t miss the city’s markets:

• Fiera di Sinigaglia (every Saturday 8:00-18:00) – a lively flea market with vintage clothes, accessories, and quirky bargains.
• East Market – an indoor vintage and second-hand market, perfect for one-off finds.
• Mercato di Via Fauche – famous for discounted designer items, especially shoes, bags, and leather goods.

Leather is a Milan staple, and I found plenty of shops selling beautifully made bags, belts, and shoes. Prices vary widely: designer labels will cost a small fortune, but markets and independent boutiques offer stylish Italian craftsmanship at a fraction of the price.

Mix of Old + New

One of the things I absolutely loved about Milan was the way it balances history and modernity. 

Strolling through the old town, I enjoyed soaking in the medieval architecture, visiting the charming piazzas, and stopping by the small artisan shops tucked into narrow lanes. I found the historic heart of the city, with its cobbled streets, centuries-old churches, and landmarks like Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio worlds away from the city’s hustle. 

Then there’s the modern side of Milan, and it’s just as captivating. Head to Piazza Gae Aulenti, near the Milan Business Centre, and you’ll find sleek skyscrapers, pedestrian-friendly squares, and innovative architecture, including the famous Vertical Forest towers. 

Exploring both sides gives a real sense of Milan’s energy and versatility. You can wander the historic streets near the Duomo, then hop on a tram or metro to the Porta Nuova district for a taste of Milan’s futuristic skyline. 

Recommended >> Don’t miss Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio for a touch of history, then wander over to Piazza Gae Aulenti and Porta Nuova to see the modern side of Milan. A short walk between the two gives you a perfect contrast in one afternoon.

Parks & Hidden Corners

Milan isn’t just about fashion and historic landmarks – it’s also a surprisingly walkable city with a handful of green spaces and hidden gems that balance out the hustle and bustle.

If you have the time, and for anyone who enjoys wandering on foot, like me, I found the city rewards early risers (and planners), who want to experience Milan’s more human and livable side.

There are a few gems worth noting:

• Parco Sempione – Perfect for a morning stroll or a peaceful break. 
• Piazza Mercanti – A small medieval square just a stone’s throw from the Duomo, gives a glimpse of Milan’s history before the skyscrapers arrived.
• Brera District – The arts district just east of Sforza Castle, is a charming neighbourhood filled with narrow streets, independent galleries, boutique shops, and cosy cafés.
• Navigli District – The canal district, is another must-see, especially if you want to wander along scenic waterways lined with bars and artisan stores.
• Isola District – A modern residential area with cutting-edge architecture, offers a quieter, offbeat perspective on Milan.
• Parco Forlanini – a large, lesser-known park perfect for a run or relaxed walk, and wandering small residential neighbourhoods where life feels slower and the streets quieter.
• L.O.V.E – Standing for Libertà, Odio, Vendetta, Eternità (Freedom, Hate, Revenge, Eternity). The sculpture is a hand with all fingers severed except for the middle finger, hence the nickname “The Middle Finger”. It’s located in Piazza degli Affari.

If you’re after a panoramic view, check out Palazzo Lombardia. I’ve heard the modern office complex, which houses the Lombardy regional government, has an observation deck on the 39th floor and is open to the public – for free! 

Pro tip >> Check in advance for Palazzo Lombardia’s observation deck dates if you want those incredible skyline views, as it’s not open all the time.

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​​Of course, Milan isn’t perfect. The city has its flaws, and it won’t suit every traveller. From the busy atmosphere to the higher prices, there are a few downsides you’ll want to know before deciding if it’s worth your time. 

Here are the cons of visiting Milan and suggestions on getting around them!

The Fast-Paced Energy Can Be Overwhelming

I’m rather fond of city-life, including the fast-paced energy, which is why I think Milan is worth visiting. However, unlike the slow charm of Florence or Venice, Milan did feel more business than pleasure at times. 

The streets are busy, people walk fast, and the tram and metro networks are constantly buzzing with both commuters and tourists. I find it energising, especially in small doses, but it can feel exhausting if you’re trying to relax or soak in the city slowly.

I noticed that even areas that seem touristy, like the Duomo plaza or Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, were often crowded with office workers grabbing lunch or shoppers rushing between boutiques, rather than actual tourists. In a way, this is good thing – Milan does feel real. 

The city rarely pauses, there’s the hum of traffic, the chatter, and the constant movement making it feel more like a working hub than a leisurely sightseeing destination.

Therefore, I suggest embracing the pace in small bursts. Start early in the morning to enjoy quieter streets near the Duomo, or plan visits to museums and parks outside peak commuter hours. A calm canal-side stroll in Navigli or a morning in Brera can balance the intensity nicely.

Practical tip >> In Milan, peak commuter hours are generally the same as in most big cities. Morning, roughly 7:30 am – 9:30 am, and Evening, roughly 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. 

Grey & Industrial

The city definitely lacked the romantic, postcard-perfect feel I expected from Italy, and this is one of the main drawbacks deterring visitors. 

Fog, drizzle, and the occasional haze don’t help – especially in winter – although I was lucky to have beautiful summer weather. Saying that, during the food tour, it began drizzling, but the sun continued to shine, reminding me of the song by Creedence Clearwater – have you ever seen the rain – and which I began to sing as we walked through the Piazza del Duomo with our arancini balls from Peck.

More areas than not definitely felt like an office hub than a charming Italian city. Streets in business districts, like Porta Nuova or Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, are sleek and modern, but seem somewhat cold and impersonal compared to the cobbled lanes of Brera and the old town.

That said, Milan has its share of wonderful contrasts – a few streets away from the skyscrapers, you’ll find pockets of historic charm, colourful buildings, and small squares that hint at the city’s past. 

Still, if you’re after the romantic “Italy of your imagination,” Milan can feel too urban and functional, and I do feel you’d be disappointed.

Expensive Compared to Other Cities

My experience was this: the coffee, meals, and hotels cost more here than elsewhere in Italy. Even a quick espresso in a café near the Duomo set me back quite a few cents more than in Florence, and dinner in central areas quickly added up, too.

That said, there are ways to enjoy Milan without breaking the bank. 

Venture a little off the main tourist streets for lunch, grab aperitivo in local neighbourhoods instead of the canals, or stay in quieter districts with easy metro access to the centre. 

Hotels range from mid-range to luxury, and budget options can feel limited, especially in the historic centre or near major transport hubs. 

I stayed in an apartment with my friend in the Porta Monforte zone, which was lovely and much cheaper than central. It was also only a 20-minute walk to the Duomo.

A bit of planning will go a long way, and you can still enjoy Milan’s highlights without overspending.

Tip >> Try a takeaway coffee, drink in your hotel or a casual trattoria lunch in Brera or Isola. Booking hotels a few months in advance also helps keep costs down, as you can be more selective.

Booking The Last Supper is a Hassle

Seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper is on nearly everyone’s Milan checklist and for good reason. The painting is breathtaking and utterly iconic – I’ve seen the photos! But tickets are extremely limited and sell out months in advance, which can be frustrating if you haven’t planned ahead.

If you miss out, it can leave you feeling a little disappointed, I should know, especially since it’s such a highlight for many visitors. Guided tours often include reserved tickets, but those come at a premium. Even walking up to the church without a reservation usually won’t get you in – so this one really rewards early planning.

Book tickets as soon as you can, ideally a month or more in advance. If you can’t get in, consider a walking tour of Santa Maria delle Grazie and nearby streets to still soak in the area’s historic charm.

Suggested tickets >> Tickets are notoriously hard to get, so book well in advance – ideally at least a month or two before. Guided tours often combine entry with visits to the convent and nearby landmarks, which can be a great way to add context to the experience. 

Less “Wander Charm”

Some cities in Italy feel like they were made for aimless wandering – cobbled streets, hidden courtyards, little corners that surprise you. Milan doesn’t really have that same magic. It’s more about big boulevards, designer shops, and business-like energy.

In cities like Florence, every corner feels historic. Milan takes more digging to find its beauty.

But you can still find these pockets of charm to take in the city’s highlights (the canals in Navigli or Brera’s narrow lanes, for example), but it’s not the kind of place where every turn feels like a postcard. 

If you love slow wandering and soaking in atmosphere, you’ll probably find Milan a bit lacking compared to Florence, Venice, or even Bologna.

Traffic + Noise

Milan moves fast and sometimes it feels like too fast. 

Cars, scooters, trams, horns, chatter… it all blends into a constant buzz. For me, it didn’t ruin my two days, but it did make wandering less relaxing. Crossing the road in some spots felt like a sport.

If you love a calmer pace or prefer cities where you can tune out the chaos, Milan’s energy might feel a bit overwhelming.

It’s a “One & Done” Place

I’ll be honest – I don’t feel a strong pull to go back to Milan. Two days felt like enough to see the highlights, eat some good food, and get a sense of the city. Unlike Rome, Florence, or Venice, Milan doesn’t leave you with a long list of things you have to come back for.

That’s not to say it’s not worth visiting. Milan has its gems: the Duomo, The Last Supper, aperitivo culture. But once you’ve ticked those off, you might find yourself wondering what else would bring you back.

For me, Milan was interesting, but not unforgettable. It doesn’t have the same timeless magic as Italy’s other big hitters. If you’re short on time in Italy, you won’t miss too much by skipping it. And if you do visit, two days is plenty.

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When To Visit Milan?

Milan is busy year-round, but some seasons are definitely better than others.

• Spring (April–June) is a sweet spot. The weather is warm but not boiling, and you’ll find fewer tourists than in peak summer. 
• Autumn (September–November) is another good window — cooler days, colourful parks, and easier bookings for hotels and restaurants.
• Summer (July–August) can be hectic. Think packed piazzas, long queues, and higher prices. Plus, it gets hot — and not in a fun way.
• Winter (December–February) is quieter, except for Christmas and fashion weeks, when prices shoot up and crowds return. If you don’t mind the cold, it’s a chance to enjoy Milan without too much chaos.

If you can, avoid weekends, as Milan draws plenty of domestic visitors too. A midweek trip makes the city feel a little more manageable.

My pick? Late spring or early autumn. You get nice weather, fewer queues, and just enough buzz without the madness.

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In The End, Is Milan Worth Visiting?

So, would I recommend Milan? Yes – but with a little caution. 

Two days here felt just right for me. I got to see the highlights, soak up the atmosphere, and eat my fair share of gelato and pizza without feeling rushed. But I’ll be honest: Milan didn’t steal my heart the way other Italian cities have.

It’s stylish, busy, and impressive in its own way, but also a bit chaotic and pricey. For me, it was more of a “visit ‘cause I’m passing through” kind of destination rather than somewhere I’d hurry back to.

That said, I’m glad I went. I loved standing in front of the Duomo, wandering through the Galleria, and people-watching in the piazzas. 

If you’ve never been and have visited Italy a few times, I do think it’s worth adding to your Italy trip – just don’t expect the same magic you’ll find in places like Florence, the Lake District, or the smaller towns.

Would I go back? Probably not. But am I happy I went? 100%.

Thank you for reading my post. You can find my latest stories and articles on my blog homepage here. Follow me on Instagram (@abigailcarolina.dalton) and Facebook to see what I’m getting up to and where my upcoming trips are.

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