Are you planning 2 days in Milan and wondering what to see in Milan in 2 days to make every moment count?
When I booked a trip to Malta, one of the best flight options included a long stopover in Milan. That’s how I ended up in my very first Italian city and it didn’t disappoint.
I know Milan gets mixed reviews. Some people say it feels too modern or too focused on fashion. And honestly, now that I’ve visited more of Italy, I can see why it might not be everyone’s favorite. It’s not mine either.
But the truth is that I still really enjoyed the city and think it’s worth a visit. Milan has a charm of its own and is absolutely worth visiting.
If you’ve been asking yourself what to do in Milan for 2 days, this guide will lay it all out. You’ll get a Milan itinerary that covers the essentials, including the Duomo and the Last Supper.
You’ll also find tips on where to eat, how to move around the city easily, and which tickets to book in advance to avoid long lines.
Consider this your step‑by‑step game plan to visit Milan in 2 days. I’ll break down how to see the city’s most iconic sights in just two days while leaving space for those spontaneous moments that make a trip memorable.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear, stress‑free itinerary that shows you exactly how to enjoy Milan without feeling like you’re racing from one spot to the next.
When is the best time to visit Milan?
Milan is an extremely touristy city, so I recommend trying to avoid the summer months as much as possible when visiting the city. Not least because these can also be extremely hot!
So April, May, June, September or October are the best months to visit Milan. Apart from avoiding the crowds more easily, you will probably be able to find nicer temperatures (as winters are usually quite cold!).
How many days to visit Milan?
Milan is a city you can easily explore on foot, which makes it perfect for a short trip. In fact, I believe 2 days are enough to cover the top things to do in Milan without feeling overwhelmed. The city isn’t packed with endless attractions, and its compact layout makes getting around simple and stress‑free.
If you’ve got a little extra time, I highly recommend venturing out to one of the stunning lakes nearby. I chose to visit Lake Como, and honestly, no words can capture just how beautiful it is.
There are also other fantastic options beyond Lake Como worth considering:
- Lago di Garda (check out my detailed guides to Riva del Garda and Limone sul Garda for more inspiration)
- Lago d’Iseo
- Lago Maggiore
- Lago di Lugano (mostly located in Switzerland)
How to get to Milan?
Reaching Milan is easy, no matter where you’re coming from. The city is one of the best-connected hubs in Italy, with direct links across Europe and even further abroad.
Milan has three airports:
- Malpensa Airport (MXP) – The largest airport, handling most long-haul and international flights.
- Linate Airport (LIN) – Closer to the city center, mainly used for domestic and short European routes.
- Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) – A popular base for low-cost airlines like Ryanair.
Flying isn’t the only way to get here, though. Milan is a major stop on Italy’s high-speed train network, with fast services from Rome (3 hours), Florence (2 hours), and Venice (2h30). Trains arrive at Milano Centrale, the city’s main station.
If you’re coming by car, be mindful that driving in Milan’s city center can be tricky due to traffic and limited traffic zones. Parking can also be expensive, so it’s best to rely on public transport once you’re in the city.
How to get from the airport to Milan’s city centre?
Milan has more than one airport, which can make it difficult to organise trips to and from the airport.
However, all are well served as far as transport to the centre of Milan is concerned.
- If the airport is Malpensa, there is a direct train to the city centre – more information about Malpensa Express. The adult ticket costs 13€ (one way only).
- If the airport is Bergamo, there are direct buses that connect the city centre to the airport. There are several companies with this service, such as Terravision, Orio Shuttle. Prices are around 10€.
- If the airport is Linate, there are city buses (73 and X73) that connect the airport with the city centre. However, you can also use the Airport Bus Express or Linate Shuttle service. You can find the most up-to-date information.
Many of these transfer services can be purchased through GetYourGuide, which gives added comfort as this service includes a free cancellation option:
🚐 If you prefer a smooth arrival without having to figure out transport on the spot, booking a transfer in advance is a great option.
I recommend Kiwitaxi since you get a fixed price upfront and a driver waiting for you at the airport, which makes things much easier after a long flight or a late arrival.
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Accommodation in Milan
Although slightly outside the city centre, I recommend NH Milano Concordia. 5 minutes walk from the hotel there is a metro station (Sesto Marelli). The journey to the centre takes about 20 minutes.
The hotel had excellent conditions and a superb breakfast – quite complete and with quality products.
Anyway, I leave here other accommodation suggestions that are also quite interesting:
What is the best way to get around Milan?
Although the city is relatively compact, it may make sense to use the metro sometimes. The metro has good coverage and is fairly easy to use. For short stays, it is best to buy individual tickets as you need them.
However, if you want to be relaxed about the number of trips you have to buy to travel by public transport, I suggest buying the 24-hour pass (7.6€) or the 3-day pass (15.5€). You can find the most up-to-date information regarding public transport in the city here.
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I personally use Heymondo because it offers strong coverage at a reasonable price, including medical expenses, lost luggage, and electronics.
What I like most is how easy it is to manage everything through their app, especially if you ever need assistance while traveling.
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Activities & tours in Milan
Milan Itinerary Map
Before diving into the full plan, here’s a handy Milan map to help you see where everything is located. It includes all the main sights from this guide, so you can easily follow the route and avoid backtracking during your 2 days in Milan.
📌HOW TO USE THE MAP: Click on the top left corner to access the various layers of the map. You can select the layers you’re interested in and also find out more about each point of interest by clicking on it in the left-hand sidebar or on the pin on the map. Add the map to your Google Maps by clicking on the star next to the title. To access the map, simply go to Google Maps ‘Saved’ and click on ‘Maps’!
How to spend 2 days in Milan
This 2‑day plan lays out exactly what to visit in Milan in a logical order, guiding you through the city’s landmarks, cultural highlights, and scenic spots in a smooth and easy flow.
Day 1 in Milan
» Bosco Verticale
Start your Milan 2-day itinerary in the business district (Palazzo Lombardia) and make our way to Bosco Verticale.
These buildings are only residential, but they gained fame with their funky shape and all the vegetation surrounding every floor! It’s not the most touristy spot in Milan, but I thought it was pretty cute 🥰.
» Monumental Cemetery
I know it might sound unusual, but this Milan itinerary continues at a cemetery.
The Monumental Cemetery is one of the largest in the city and is famous for its elaborate tombs, sculptures, and striking monuments. It’s not everyone’s idea of sightseeing, but I decided to include it because it offers a fascinating glimpse into Milan’s history and artistry.
» Santa Maria delle Grazie Church
Continue towards Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, where you can see the famous painting ‘The Last Supper’ by Leonardo da Vinci.
🎫 See one of the world’s most famous masterpieces up close with this Da Vinci’s Last Supper Guided Tour. Your expert guide will share the fascinating history and hidden details of Leonardo’s iconic painting, making this once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience even more unforgettable.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to see the painting myself. Because of the significance of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, tickets sell out far in advance. It’s best to secure them online the moment you know the dates of your Milan trip.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: Tickets must be purchased in advance online at this website.
» Sant’Ambrogio Basilica
Another must-visit in Milan is the fantastic Basilica of Sant’Ambrogio. It is one of the oldest churches in the city, having been built in the 4th century.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The visit to the Basilica is free and can be done from 7.30 am to 12.30 pm and from 2.30 pm to 7 pm from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, it’s open from 8 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 8 pm. However, I recommend you check the most up-to-date timetables.
End your day with dinner in the lively Naviglio Grande area, passing through Porta Ticinese on the way.
Naviglio Grande is often called a “little Venice” in Milan — a historic canal built centuries ago for trade and transport. Today, it’s one of the city’s most vibrant spots, buzzing with restaurants, bars, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for an evening stroll.
🎫 See Milan from the water on this Navigli canal cruise. Glide past historic bridges and enjoy a classic Italian aperitivo as the district comes alive.
Day 2 in Milan
On the second day of my visit to Milan, we were going to visit some of the city’s best-known spots.
» Via della Spiga and Via Monte Napoleone
I suggest you start your day walking through two of the best-known shopping streets. They are Via della Spiga and Via Monte Napoleone.
I’ll be honest. I’m usually underwhelmed by these types of streets that always make it into tourist itineraries. In my opinion, these two don’t add much to your visit to Milan unless you’re in the mood for some serious shopping. Otherwise, they’re easy to skip without feeling like you’ve missed out.
» Corso Vittorio Emmanuel II
From a street with shops, it’s time to head to one of the most amazing places in Milan that you really must visit – Corso Vittorio Emmanuel II!
It is a shopping gallery with lots of shops (and quite expensive ones!). However, the gallery itself is beautiful and well worth a visit. The details are so pretty that it will be difficult not to spend the whole visit with your eyes up there.
» Milan’s Cathedral (Duomo)
We continue to Milan’s Cathedral (“duomo” in Italian) – the city’s trademark.
With an extremely imposing structure, the cathedral is as beautiful outside as it is inside.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance and there are several packages available (e.g. with or without access to the terraces, with/without lift, among others). I suggest you check out which of these you prefer. More information.
🎫 Buy your Duomo and Terraces ticket with audioguide. Wander through the cathedral’s awe‑inspiring interior, climb to the terraces for panoramic views, and let the included audioguide bring the Duomo’s rich history to life.
💡 EXTRA TIP: I suggest you put aside some time to visit the Duomo. The queues can be long (it took me almost an hour to get in). After all, it is one of the best-known monuments in the city. Additionally, be careful with the clothes you’re wearing. Remember that it is a religious place and, as you would expect, some rules are applied.
Also take the opportunity to visit the square where the Cathedral is located – Duomo Square.
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you have some extra time, you can also take the opportunity to visit Palazzo Reale, located right next to the Cathedral.
» Piazza della Scala
Another place I suggest visiting in Milan is Piazza della Scala, from where you can see the exterior of the famous opera house/theatre La Scala.
Even if you are not lucky enough to watch a show inside, I think this is a spot worth including in your itinerary.
🎫 Discover the elegance and history of Milan’s most iconic opera house on this La Scala Theatre Guided Tour. Wander through its lavish halls, visit the museum’s unique collection, and hear fascinating stories about legendary performances from your expert guide.
» Sforza Castle
Day two of this Milan tour may be ending, but we still have time to visit one of my favourite places in the city – Sforza Castle.
This imposing fortress isn’t just a striking landmark. It’s home to museums, Renaissance art, and even Michelangelo’s final masterpiece.
Strolling through its grand courtyards feels like stepping back in time, making it the perfect final stop before you wrap up your visit.
🎫 Explore one of Milan’s most iconic landmarks with this Sforza Castle ticket, which includes an audio guide. Learn fascinating stories about its art, courtyards, and Michelangelo’s masterpieces as you wander at your own pace.
Right next to the castle, you have the beautiful Sempione Park. Especially on summer days, it is a place full of life and where I suggest you take the opportunity to rest a bit after a day of sightseeing.
» Porta Sempione (Arco della Pace)
Finally, just outside one of the park’s exits, you’ll find Porta Sempione, better known as the Arco della Pace.
It’s an ideal spot to slow down at the end of the day. Take a seat, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and watch the sunset light up the arch before heading off for the evening.
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you have extra time in Milan, take a day trip to Lake Como. It’s one of the most stunning spots near the city. You can follow my complete Lake Como guide to plan it yourself or opt for an organized Lake Como tour if you’d rather have a hassle‑free experience.
Restaurants in Milan
Eating well in Italy is never a challenge, and Milan is no exception. Here are a few spots I tried that serve great food at reasonable prices.
- Gino Sorbillo – Lievito Madre al Duomo (€€): great pizzas
- Pizzeria Ristorante Salernitano (€€): the tiramisu was just excelent
- Pizzeria Naturale (€€)
- Napoli 1820 (€€)
🎫 Savor Milan like a true foodie with two unforgettable experiences. Join a pizza and gelato-making class to master Italian classics or explore the city’s flavors on foot with a guided street food walking tour.
Final thoughts on visiting Milan in 2 days
After my trip, I can say one thing for sure: 2 days in Milan is just enough to see the city’s highlights and still leave you curious for more.
From the beautiful Duomo to the quiet beauty of Sempione Park, this itinerary covers the best places to visit in Milan while giving you time to enjoy the atmosphere, not just tick off sights.
Milan surprised me, and I hope this guide helps you plan a trip that feels effortless and memorable.
Have you been to Milan before, or is it still on your travel list? I’d love to hear about your experience or what you’re most excited to see!
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