Who this is for: This guide is perfect for those who enjoy exploring non-touristy hidden gems, immersing themselves in art and design, and savouring authentic local culinary experiences.
Budget: This guide is for the discerning traveller who appreciates quality and loves to indulge in local flavours and unique experiences, yet is conscious of where they spend their hard-earned money. So, if you’re not a backpacker nor a luxury traveller, but somewhere in between, this guide is for you!
Pricing ratings: $ (Cheap) – $$$$ (Very Expensive)
*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.*
Here’s a breakdown of the content you’ll find in this blog post:
Introduction: Behind This Guide
Art
Fashion
Food
Gourmet Groceries
Stay
Getting Around
3 Day Itinerary for Milan
Introduction – Behind This Guide
If you like food, fashion and art, there is no city quite like Milan to indulge your senses. Everywhere you look seems to be filled with colour, prints, history and yes, cheese, ham, wine and pasta. During a 10-day journey through Italy before attending a friend’s wedding in the United Kingdom, I had the pleasure of visiting Milan again. Milan is the only Italian city that Cathay Pacific flights (which I accumulate points for) fly into from Hong Kong. So… off to Milan we went!
First of all, like any respectable traveller, I spend a lot of time doing due diligence on the restaurants, bars, landmarks, and museums I will visit during my time in a new city. This saves time and headache when you are actually there, makes for a much smoother travel experience, and most importantly, allows me to spend my money wisely at places that deserve it. I do love the occasional spontaneous discoveries that delight – and there were definitely some on this trip.
At the end of this guide, I have also included more information about my 3-Day Milan Itinerary designed for Art, Fashion and Food lovers, including some recommendations in the following guide and more. The itinerary is carefully planned not just with the best things you can do in this city favoured by local and globe-trotting creatives, but also with the practicality of transit between locations and balance between meal types in mind. Considering getting it for half the price of an Aperol Spritz! 🍷
For the sake of transparency, I have personally visited the places marked with an asterisk (*), and I can vouch for them wholeheartedly. The other recommendations on this list come from trusted sources and individuals whose taste I respect. I’ll continue updating this list as I discover and visit more gems! Let’s dive into the best local-approved things to do in Milan.
Art
Fondazione Prada*
If you love contemporary art and you’re in Milan you must go to the Fondazione Prada. I was worried it might be crowded and overrated but it’s like a peek into the weird and wonderful brain of Miuccia Prada.
Strange, beautiful, grotesque, uplifting, disturbing, calming are all words that come to mind when you wander through the different exhibition spaces. The collection was composed of mostly of medium to large scale works with space and lighting design specifically around them. Every detail was meticulously thought through and intentional. Ms Prada’s sense of humour also comes through in a lot of subtle moments. It was so weird and wonderful I couldn’t wait to go back again next time I’m in Milan.
Don’t forget to go their cafe Bar Luce, which has a distinctly Wes Anderson vibe because it is in fact, designed by Wes Anderson!
L.go Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Entry Fee: €15
Gallerie d’Italia*
Here is a hidden gem for you. If you want to check out some nice art in the middle of Milan but don’t like crowds you’ve got to go to Gallerie d’Italia. It’s a stone throw away from the Duomo and is home to some beautiful 19th and 20th century art in the most exquisite interior. Thrown in there are also some Dan Flavin pieces and contemporary sculptures in the gardens. I was so surprised there weren’t more people in here. Go check it out!
Piazza della Scala, 6, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Entry Fee: €15
Pirelli HangarBicocca
Situated slightly north of central Milan, Pirelli HangarBicocca is a non-profit foundation that converted a former industrial plant into a hub for contemporary art. Here, you can immerse yourself in large-scale sculptures and spacious environments that give the artworks room to breathe. If you’re a fan of contemporary art and big sculptural works, this place should be on your list.
Via Chiese, 2, 20126 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Entry Fee: Free
Food
Erba Brusca*
Tucked away south of central Milan is this standalone restaurant on the side of a road sandwiched between pastures, which probably goes along with its farm to table theme. It was a relaxing atmosphere with indoor, terrace and outdoor seating. At the time of booking you can choose where you’d like to sit. We chose the large terrace and it was just lovely. We arrived early to an almost empty restaurant, but it soon filled to the brim with locals.
You get to choose from several menu combinations of different sizes. Of the dishes that came out, the highlights were the vegetable ones that were amazingly fresh, creative and delightful. The dessert, a madeleine cake with strawberries and a stunning scoop of sorrel gelato, was also spectacular. Come for a relaxed long lunch, you won’t regret it.
$$
Crowd: 100% Locals
Alzaia Naviglio Pavese, 286, 20142 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Salsamenteria di Parma San Babila*
Italy is famous for many things, and Parma ham – prosciutto from the Parma region of Northern Italy – is certainly near the top of the list. At Salsamenteria di Parma San Babila, you can savour Parma ham in all its glory, from every part of the pig, in a rustic and unpretentious environment. I remember being served a platter of ham and realizing that no cutlery was provided. It turns out that everyone was simply enjoying the ham with their hands, so we followed suit. This place firmly falls into the “no-frills” category, even serving wine in stone mugs. In my opinion, this spot is a must-visit!
$
Crowd: 50% Locals 50% Tourists
Via S. Pietro All’Orto, 9, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Casa Fiori Chiari*
This is the first restaurant we went to for lunch after we landed through a recommendation from my partner’s parents. His dad’s side of the family is Italian and food at the dinner table at home has always been Italian, so yes their recommendation comes with weight! Apparently this is the spot that a lot of locals come for lunch. The pizza we ordered (a thin crust tomato based pizza with prosciutto cotto) was staggeringly good. “Ciao Milan I’m here!” I thought to myself. Our appetite wasn’t huge so we just ordered another salad and it was quite sizable. But the pizzas are what you should go for here.
$$
Crowd: 70% Locals 30% Tourists
Via Fiori Chiari, 8, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Osteria dei Malnat
A local friend recommended us to go to Osteria dei Malnat, known for its Lombardian “alpine” cuisine. They pride themselves on using locally sourced meats, eggs, organic vegetables, and fresh fruit. When you visit, be sure to try their Risotto Milanese with Osso Bucco.
$$
Via Caccialepori, 3, 20090 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Al Garghet
Although I didn’t have the chance to visit Al Garghet on this trip, I came across it in a Wallpaper magazine article as one of the few restaurants to visit in Milan, and it instantly piqued my interest. The restaurant boasts a variety of fun and funky interior areas, creating a down-to-earth and welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers a Milanese cutlet made with pork, a twist on the traditional veal option. I’ll definitely make it a priority to visit Al Garghet next time.
$$
Via Selvanesco, 36, 20141 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Coffee and Pastries
Marchesi*
Indulge in fancy, beautiful, and delicious cakes and pastries in the elegant pastel interior of Marchesi. Need I say more? This place is a treat for the eyes and taste buds. You will find a mix of well-heeled locals and tourists enjoying these delectable delights.
$$
Crowd: 50% Locals, 50% Tourists
Multiple Locations:
1 – Via Monte Napoleone, 9, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
2 – Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
3 – Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
Website
Bar Luce*
Bar Luce is the café at Fondazione Prada, which you should definitely visit anyway! Not only were the pastries and coffees fantastic, you would also pretty much be hanging out in a piece of art. Designed by Wes Anderson, this café transports you into one of his pink and warm hued movies. We took a break here between visiting the different vast spaces of the museum. Loved it.
$$
Crowd: 40% Locals, 60% Tourists
L.go Isarco, 2, 20139 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Gourmet Groceries
Eataly*
If you’ve visited Eataly in other parts of the world, let me tell you, the one in Milan is on a whole new level. You’ll be amazed by the incredible selection of cheese and ham under one roof—it’s like being a kid in a candy store. If you’re a fan of Italian food and groceries, a visit to Eataly is a must. Plus, it’s a great place to find souvenirs. Just make sure to check your country’s custom rules before stocking up on goodies.
Piazza Venticinque Aprile, 10, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Fashion & Design
10CorsoComo*
Since my teenage years, I had heard of 10CorsoComo. When I was running my luxury headpiece brand, I managed to get stocked at renowned retailers like Net-A-Porter and Lane Crawford, but 10CorsoComo eluded me. The one that got away! It’s like the Italian version of Dover Street Market, blending fashion, art, and design with an undeniable energy of creative vigour. Exploring the different sections of the store and appreciating their carefully curated selection was an absolute delight. On the top floor, you’ll find a design store with a generous selection of coffee table art and design books, along with a small gallery space showcasing temporary exhibitions.
$$$-$$$$
Corso Como, 10, 20154 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Bivio
There are many fantastic preloved options online such TheRealReal or Hula, but when in Milan, Bivio is the place to go for if you (like me!) are into hunting for the best designer consignment finds. Here is where Milan’s most fashionable crowd cleans out their closet. Spanning three stores for both men and women on via Mora in the Ticinese district, you will be in for a good hunt here.
$$$
Via Gian Giacomo Mora, 4, 20123 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Seletti*
Originating with its first store in 1964 in Cicognara, Mantova, Seletti has since become a global lifestyle brand known for its surreal and vibrant designs. I first came across the brand while shopping at Australia’s Fenton & Fenton for our home, but it was incredible walking into its store in Milan (and then in Verona). It felt like falling down into a magical rabbit hole. An extra perk of buying from their stores in Italy is that prices are also way better – just make sure you have enough luggage space.
$$-$$$
Corso Garibaldi, 117, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Wait and See
If you like colours, prints and vibrant outfits, this shop is for you. Fashion expert Umberta Zambeletti offers a curated selection of clothing, accessories, objects, stationery and vintage pieces from all over the world.
$$$
Via Santa Marta, 14, 20123 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
L’Arabesque
Chichi Meroni, the creator and owner of L’Arabesque, has established a unique realm within her flagship store located at Largo Augusto 10. This boutique not only showcases her own fashion designs but also offers a selection of vintage clothing, furniture, and rare books, and even features a cafĂ©, exuding a captivating charm that echoes the old-world glamour of Milan.
$$$-$$$$
Largo Augusto, 10, 20122 Milano MI, Italy Google Maps
Website
Corso Como / Corso Garibaldi area*
The Corso Garibaldi area, which extends from Corso Como to Corso Garibaldi and the surrounding streets, is a treasure trove of lovely stores. In addition to 10CorsoComo (mentioned above), you’ll find Bottega Velasca, a modern Italian men’s shoe store; Chiara Ferragni, the namesake store of the original Italian fashion influencer; Seletti, a furniture and lifestyle store with bold, vibrant prints and designs; and more. Take your time exploring this fashionable area.
$$-$$$$
Vintage Shopping in Milan
In every city I go to, I try my best to visit the best vintage shops. I didn’t manage to visit any this time around but I found this guide for the best vintage shops in Milan that I will for sure to refer back to when I get to the city next!
Stay
To get around easily by walking, I recommend finding a nice Airbnb in the Montenapoleone and San Bablia station area. This way, you’ll be able to walk to most places and have easy access to a train station.
Getting Around
In Milan, walking, trains, and trams are the most common and convenient methods of transportation, so remember to pack some comfy sneakers! I brought along my pair Allbirds Trail Runners and they are oh-so-good for those city walks. If you need to cover more ground or save time, you can use apps like Free Now to get actual taxis or Uber when taxis aren’t available. Keep in mind that different cities and towns in Italy have their own taxi-calling methods, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the local options as you travel to different parts of Italy.
3 Day Itinerary In Milan for the Art, Fashion and Food Lover
Planning an itinerary in a city with SO much to do is not easy. I have spent the time to do thorough research before my trip, not only to make sure the places I have chosen to go are worth going to but also to make sure that the paths I am taking throughout a day make sense so I am not zig-zagging through the city and spending hours on commute each day. To make it easy for you, I have created a detailed Excel Spreadsheet of a 3-Day Itinerary In Milan with recommendations from above and more. It would only cost you the price of a latte to download it, but trust me, you won’t regret it and you could even customize this template for other parts of your trip!
In conclusion, Milan is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled style. Whether you’re strolling through the picturesque streets or indulging in a traditional Milanese risotto, the city never fails to leave a lasting impression. Experience the blend of old-world charm and modern elegance, dine like a true Italian, and create memories that will stay with you long after you leave this enchanting city. I hope this list of best local-approved things to do in Milan will guide you on your journey. Let me know if you end up visiting any of these spots, what you think, and if you have any other spots you love!