Milan for First Timers

When I think of Milan, I think of luxury brands, cultural heritage, art galleries, and of course renowned Italian cuisine.

It's all that but so much more as well! I spent 2 days in Milan and quickly fell in love with this cosmopolitan city! If it's your first time here and you don't have much time like I did, don't worry, even 2 days here can be enjoyable and a guaranteed great time!

Getting Around

Uber- Highly recommend uber for the hot summer months. There are plenty roaming around, short wait times, and for short trips, this is the fastest way to see the local attractions

Bikes/scooters- also a good option if traveling solo or with a small group

Buses/metro- good for a longer trip or if you are interested in traveling outside the city center

Places to see

Start by exploring Duomo di Milano. followed by walking the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. If you are not into shopping, there are plenty of great coffee shops to grab a drink while admiring the stunning architecture here!

Duomo di Milano is striking and besides admiring this masterpiece from outside, you can visit the interior and even climb to the rooftop to enjoy views of the entire city!

Next, visit Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" in its original location. Make sure to book your tickets well in advance!!

Even if you are unable to purchase tickets, this is a beautiful church to walk around and is also a NESCO World Heritage Site.

Sforzesco Castle is also close to the city center and is a beautiful historic fortress and museum.

Check out Arco della Pace, an iconic triumphal arch from 1807, now a popular meeting spot for locals surrounded by bars, cafes, and restaurants. This marble monument has also become a symbol of Milan's history and civic pride.

Food and dining

There is no shortage of incredible Italian dining around the city center! Right in the middle between the Duomo and the Castello Sforzesco are hundreds of cafes and restaurants lined up one after another serving only the freshest local food! Enjoy pizza, pasta, wine to your hearts content! Of course, end your meal with some gelato from GROM!

For a short introductory trip like mine, the best and most simple advice I would give is to walk around as much as possible and enjoy the surroundings and sites in the different districts! Shop till you drop and eat your heart out! To end the night, experience the vibrant nightlife in Milan. There is really no wrong way to explore Milan and you won't be disappointed in however you decide to experience it!

Italy, thanks for the preview to your beauty, I cannot wait to return and see the rest of you!