The Ultimate Milan Itinerary for 3 Days

Milan, the capital of Lombardy, is a vibrant and dynamic city located in the north of Italy. Known as the fashion capital of the world, Milan has a lot to offer visitors. From its historical and cultural attractions to its world-class restaurants and shops, Milan is a city that must be experienced in order to be appreciated.

This Milan itinerary for 3 days will provide you with an insight into Milan’s culture and attractions. From the best shopping areas to the most popular tourist attractions, this guide will help you plan the perfect vacation.

History of Milan

Milan has a rich history that dates back more than 2000 years. In Roman times, it was known as Mediolanum and was an important military centre. After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the city was invaded by the Lombards in 569 and became the centre of their kingdom.

In 1162, the city became the seat of the powerful Visconti family, who ruled it until 1447. In 1535, it was annexed by the Spanish Empire and in 1706, it was conquered by the Austrians. In 1859, it was annexed by the Kingdom of Sardinia and became part of the unified Italy in 1861.

Today, Milan is an important cultural hub and economic centre in Italy. It is home to several universities, museums, galleries, theatres and opera houses, making it one of the most visited cities in Europe.

Things to do in Milan

Visit the Duomo

No visit to Milan is complete without a visit to the Duomo. This majestic cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milan and has been a symbol of the city for centuries. Built in 1386, it is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The interior is decorated with marble columns and arches, frescoes and stained glass windows. There is also a terrace on top of the cathedral that offers stunning views of the city.

Explore The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the oldest shopping malls in Europe and is a must-see for any visitor to Milan. Built in 1877, this stunning glass-vaulted shopping arcade houses some of Italy’s most luxurious stores, cafes and restaurants. Take some time to wander around and admire the architecture before stopping for coffee or lunch at one of the many restaurants.

See Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper

Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper is one of the most iconic works of art in the world and is located in the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. This painting was painted by da Vinci in 1498 and depicts Jesus and his apostles at their last supper. It is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance art and is a must-see for any art lover visiting Milan.

Visit Sforza Castle

Sforza Castle is a 15th century castle located in central Milan. It was once home to the powerful Sforza family who ruled over Milan for centuries. The castle is now home to several museums and art galleries, making it a must-see for any history or art lover visiting the city. Be sure to check out the courtyards and gardens which are beautifully maintained and offer stunning views of the city skyline.

Go Shopping

Milan is known as one of the fashion capitals of the world and there are plenty of places to go shopping. The city has everything from high-end designer stores to small independent boutiques. Be sure to check out Via Monte Napoleone, which is home to some of Italy’s biggest fashion houses, or explore Corso Buenos Aires for more affordable options.

Popular Tours in Milan

Milan has plenty to offer visitors, but sometimes it’s nice to have a local guide show you around. Here are two popular tours that will give you an insight into Milan’s culture and attractions:

Milan Food Walking Tour

Explore some of Milan’s best-known foodie hotspots with a local guide on this food walking tour. The tour will take you through some of the city’s most iconic neighbourhoods such as Brera and Navigli, where you will get to sample some delicious authentic Italian dishes. You will also have the opportunity to visit some local markets and learn about traditional Italian cooking methods and ingredients. Book your Milan Food Tour here.

Duomo and City Sightseeing Tour

This city sightseeing tour will give you an insight into Milan’s rich history. You will get to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as The Duomo and La Scala Opera House as well as some hidden gems such as Piazza Mercanti and La Rotonda della Besana. You will also get to explore some of Milan’s trendiest neighbourhoods such as Brera and Porta Ticinese. Book your Duomo City Tour here.

Where to Stay in Milan

Milan has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. For luxury stays, check out hotels such as Four Seasons Hotel Milano or Bulgari Hotel Milano which offer spacious rooms and world-class facilities such as spas, restaurants and gyms. For more affordable options, check out hotels such as ibis Milano Centro or Hotel dei Cavalieri which offer comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Conclusion

Milan is a vibrant and dynamic city with plenty to offer visitors. From iconic landmarks such as The Duomo to trendy neighbourhoods such as Brera, there is something for everyone in this Italian city. This Milan itinerary for 3 days provides an insight into what this city has to offer and will help you plan your perfect vacation. Don’t forget to book some guided tours such as a food walking tour or a city sightseeing tour for an even more memorable experience!