Last Updated on December 21, 2024
The first time I visited Milan was during a solo travel trip to other cities like Brescia, Padova, and Venice, and I decided to spend one day exploring the world’s fashion capital. Since then, I’ve returned to Milan a few more times, including during Christmas and the summer. So I can say, I have visited all year round!
Is it worth visiting Milan for one day?
To be honest, I was very excited about my first solo trip. It is Italy’s second biggest city, and I thought that there were so many things to see and do.
Italians however don’t share the same love. When I said to my friend that I am going to Milan, he asked “What are you going to do there? There is nothing to see or do!”. I argued that this is not true and he challenged me to prove him wrong. I opened my Lonely Planet Guide Book and started skimming all the pages about Milan. I arrived at the sad conclusion, that yes, there are some famous landmarks, but let’s be honest, there are not so many things to do.
Since then I have visited Milan other two times, once for attending a Christmas Party and once for spending a weekend solo and explore the city a bit more.
The answer to the question “Is it Worth Visiting Milan?” is very complicated. It depends on your hobbies, your expectations and from a list of other things that I am going to analyze in the paragraph below.
Milan at a glance
Let’s find out together why it’s worthing visiting Milan and what to expect from your trip:
- You should know that Milan is the capital of Lombardy and Italy’s second-biggest city.
- It is also called the “fashion capital” and if you love fashion or if you are passionate about shopping this is the place for you!
- It also called “the business capital” of Italy. The job market is good here, there are a lot of companies and let’s say if you were an Italian businessman you would be based here.
- The city is famous for its aperitivo, for its risotto alla Milanese and the “cotolettta alla Milanese.” But I am going to prepare you: the locals don’t eat a lot. That means that the portions are small and there is a lot of healthy/vegetarian/vegan food. I liked Milan, but I left the city hungry!
- Is it expensive? Yes, it’s a little bit more expensive than Rome.
- The weather is a bit dull, it rains a lot and is colder than Rome.
- For me, Milan is an excellent destination for solo female travelers: I traveled solo the first and last time in Milan, and I enjoyed it a lot.
Milan in one day? 8 top-rated tourist attractions
#1. Duomo of Milan
The first stop is definitely the symbol of the city, the Duomo, or otherwise the Milan Cathedral. It is located in the heart of the city and is accessible by metro. The nearest metro station is called “Duomo” and drops you off a few meters in front of the attraction.
The Duomo of Milan is not just the symbol of the city – it’s a breathtaking masterpiece of Gothic architecture! With its golden statue of the Madonnina, it stands as one of the largest cathedrals in the world, capable of holding up to 40,000 people at once.
In front of the cathedral is the famous Piazza Duomo. The square is always bustling (besides pigeons!) and you’ll see many street artists, models, and tourists from all over the world. If you dare, you can feed the pigeons for the famous photo (I avoided it!).
A Bit of History about the Duomo
Construction of the Duomo began in 1386 under Duke Gian Galeazzo Visconti and took over 600 years to complete. It is said that Napoleon Bonaparte insisted that the facade be finished before his coronation (otherwise they might still be building it..!).
My Pretty Travels Tip: As Milan, along with the Vatican, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, the queues for entering the cathedral can become endless. If waiting in line under Milan's gray skies isn't appealing, I recommend buying your tickets in advance from here.
The cathedral now boasts over 3,400 statues, 135 spires, and an impressive array of stained glass windows that light up the interior in the most magical way.
Do not miss the Terrace of Duomo
It’s a must to climb up to the terrace of the Duomo during your visit for a view of the city. On clear days, you might even see the Alps in the distance!
Another beautiful thing to know is that the Madonnina, which has been standing since 1774, is a symbol of the city’s protection, and no building in Milan is allowed to be taller than it.
Other things to know before your visit:
- Bag storage: Large bags and suitcases are not allowed inside.
- Dress code: The basic rules apply. It’s a church, so you cannot enter with short shorts, mini skirts, uncovered shoulders, transparent dresses, etc. In other words, you must be appropriately dressed.
- Best times to visit: Early in the morning or late in the afternoon
This cathedral is not only the symbol of the city but also an important part of their culture, and because it survived the bombings of World War II, it is highly esteemed.
Especially if you have only one day in Milan like I did, I emphasize buying your tickets in advance; you don’t have time to waste in the queue!
#2. Galleria Vittorio Emmanuelle II
After visiting the Duomo Cathedral, we should continue our solo travel in Milan. Not far away, just a few steps to your left, you’ll find yourself at the enchanting Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This arcade, built between 1865 and 1877, offers everything you came to Italy for: elegance, style, exceptional architecture, and luxury shopping! Its glass ceilings and impressive mosaic floors highlight Italian art, history, and luxury, all within a small arcade.
Here, you’ll find flagship stores of top brands like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, a stroll through the Galleria and a few photos are a must!
During Christmas time, Swarovski put up a fabulous Christmas tree with crystals.
♦ Extra tip: On the floor of Galleria Vitorio Emanuelle you will find a bull: if you put your heel in the hole, in the place of the bull's testicle and spin around... it will bring you good luck... seriously!
#3. Leonardo’s Da Vinci Last Supper
You’ll probably know of The Last Supper, one of the most famous paintings by Leonardo Da Vinci. …is located in Milan! The famous painting is specifically at Santa Maria delle Grazie. Painted between 1495 and 1498, this masterpiece depicts the moment when Jesus announces his betrayal during the Last Supper with his disciples.
My Pretty Travels Tip: you need to book your tickets in advance, weeks or maybe months before! You can do it from here.
If you still have time, walk to the Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio, which houses the relics of the saint and patron of the city.
#4. Teatro alla Scala: Milan’s Opera House
Let’s continuing your trip as a solo traveler in Milan! A few steps away from the Galleria is the Opera house, another stop in your 1 day itinerary in Milan. If you love opera, or if you just want to take some pictures in you should visit the famous opera house. La Scala in Milan hosts performances since 1778, with legendary composers like Puccini and world-famous artists who have performed on its stage. If you decide to watch a performance, you can buy tickets from the official website or at the box office; it’s better to book in advance because shows are often sold out.
Also, it’s important to know if you book a performance at the Opera that there is a dress code—no, you can’t wear denim shorts and sneakers! You also need to be on time because if you’re late, you won’t be allowed to enter once the show starts.
#5. Castello Sforzesco
The next stop is Milan’s castle, the Castello Sforzesco. According to Wikipedia, the castle was built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, and it remains one of the largest castles in Europe to this day.
For a day trip, I’d recommend not going inside, as you might lose a lot of time. You can take a few photos and then head toward Milan’s park, Sempione Park. The locals love Sempione, and you’ll often see them jogging, taking their babies for a stroll, or enjoying a picnic.
#6. Pinacoteca di Brera
I didn’t visit the place but if you are an art-lover is a must. There you will find some excellent artwork by Ticiano and Raphael!
#7. Navigli District
Navigli District is one of the most beautiful and romantic neighborhoods in Milan! In Navigli District, you can find a lot of restaurants, cafes, and bars and the good thing is that is not a tourist hot spot, locals go there too.
Even if I went alone during my solo trip in Milan, I enjoyed my cocktail there but unfortunately I didn’t have my camera with me.
#8. Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione is Milan’s biggest park. I am allergic to pollen (ouch!), so I admired it from far away. If it’s a sunny day, take your favorite book and enjoy Parco Sempione.
#9. Shopping in Milan
To come to Milan and not go shopping? Or at least window shop? That’s just not right!
The Quadrilatero della Moda district is where the best stores are. This aristocratic area is surrounded by four streets: Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni. There, you’ll find all the boutiques and stores from famous fashion houses like Prada, Gucci, Versace, Dior, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. For jewelry, I recommend Bulgari, and for classic Italian suits, Armani.
Final thoughts about Milan
I liked the city a lot, and I highly recommend it for spending a weekend, max. three days. Take it easy, see the most famous landmarks, do some shopping (shopping in Milan is much better than shopping in Rome) have an aperitivo at Navigli or a lovely dinner. The city has an excellent public transport system & it is clean and safe. Therefore, Milan is female solo traveler approved!
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