Milan
Milan, located in northern Italy, is a bustling city known for its mix of modern energy and historic charm. With around 1.4 million residents, it’s a major hub of fashion, finance, and culture. The average annual temperature hovers around 13°C (55°F), making it generally mild throughout the year.
Each year, Milan attracts millions of tourists who come to experience its rich history, cutting-edge fashion, and thriving arts scene. Whether you’re into shopping, dining, or exploring historic sites, Milan has something to offer.
The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and the city is not overly crowded. These seasons provide a perfect balance of mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring all that Milan has to offer.
A tower apartment building in Milan's vertical forest
Stone statue on the heights of Milan
Arriving to Milan
Milan, Italy’s fashion and business hub, is super easy to get to. You can fly directly into Malpensa Airport, which is about 50 minutes from the city center. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, there are also trains and buses that can get you right into Milan. For a more scenic route, consider arriving by train through the stunning Italian countryside.
When it comes to where to stay, the Duomo area is a prime spot, placing you right in the heart of Milan’s historic and shopping district. Brera is another great choice with its charming streets, art galleries, and a cozy vibe. If you prefer a more modern and lively atmosphere, Navigli is known for its canals, trendy bars, and restaurants.
Getting around Milan is a breeze. The city has an efficient metro system that’s perfect for covering long distances quickly. You can also hop on a tram or bus for a more scenic route. Biking is popular too, with many dedicated bike lanes throughout the city. Walking is a great option in central areas where there’s a lot to see and explore.
Milan’s food scene is fantastic. You can dive into traditional Italian dishes like risotto and pizza, but Milan also has a ton of trendy spots for global cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying local specialties like osso buco and panettone.
There’s so much to see in Milan. The Duomo Cathedral is a must-visit with its stunning architecture and views from the rooftop. Art lovers should check out the Pinacoteca di Brera for incredible artwork. If you’re into fashion, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a gorgeous shopping gallery that’s also worth a visit.
For some unique experiences, consider a guided tour of the Sforza Castle and its museums or a day trip to the nearby Lake Como for breathtaking scenery. Explore the Navigli district for its lively atmosphere and canals, and definitely spend some time relaxing in the Parco Sempione, a green oasis right in the heart of the city.
Accomodation
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Currency: The official currency of Milan is the Euro (EUR). 1 € is equivalent to 1.09 USD.
Keep in mind before travelling to Milan
Milan is buzzing with cool festivals all year long. Here are the top seven you’ve gotta check out:
Milano Fashion Week (February and September) is a major event, showcasing the latest trends from top designers. Salone del Mobile (April) is a design lover’s dream, with furniture and decor exhibitions taking over the city. Milan Marathon (April) is perfect if you’re into running or just want to cheer on the participants.
In June, Festa del Naviglio transforms the Navigli district with food stalls, live music, and boat rides on the canals. Milan Jazz Festival (November) brings in amazing jazz musicians for some great tunes. Christmas Markets (December) light up the city with festive stalls and holiday cheer. Finally, Carnevale Ambrosiano (February) is Milan’s take on Carnival, featuring colorful parades and costumes.
For day trips, you can explore Lake Como for stunning views, Bergamo for its medieval charm, Pavia for historical sites, Monza for its famous racetrack, Cremona for its violin-making tradition, and Turin for its rich culture and history.
Tips to visit Milan
Milan, known for its sleek style, is home to the Milanese. When you’re meeting locals, “Ciao” or “Buongiorno” works perfectly. The main language here is Italian, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist spots.
Meal times in Milan follow the Italian rhythm: breakfast from 8-10 AM, lunch from 1-2 PM, and dinner from 8 PM onward. Businesses usually operate from 9 AM to 1 PM and then 3-7 PM, though hours can vary. Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated; a small tip of around 5-10% is a nice gesture for good service.
The healthcare system in Milan is public, so you’ll have access to various medical services. When it comes to dress, Milanese style is all about looking sharp—smart-casual is the way to go. You might hear locals say “Che figata!” to show excitement and “Dai!” to encourage someone.
