What to Do in Milan in 1 Day: Best Things to See, Eat, and Experience in 24 Hours

What to do in Milan in 1 day? Whether you’ve got a quick layover or a short city break, this 24-hour Milan itinerary covers the best things to do in Milan, mixing must-see attractions with local food tips, hidden gems, and the ultimate aperitivo experience. Ready to make the most of your day in the city of design, fashion, and risotto? Andiamo!

How to Get to YellowSquare Milan from the Airport

1. From Malpensa Airport (MXP)
   
   • Malpensa Express train to Milano Centrale (€13, 50 min)
   • Metro Line 3 (Yellow) to Lodi TIBB (4 stops, €2.20)
   • 5-minute walk to YellowSquare Milan
2. From Linate Airport (LIN)
   
   • Bus 73 to San Babila M1 (€2.20, 25 min)
   • Metro Line 1 (Red) to Duomo, then Line 3 (Yellow) to Lodi TIBB
3. From Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY)
   
   • Shuttle bus to Milano Centrale (€10, 50 min)
   • Metro Line 3 (Yellow) to Lodi TIBB

For schedules and updates, check Trenord and ATM Milano.

Morning: Duomo di Milano & Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

• Visit the Duomo di Milano
  – Climb to the rooftop terraces for panoramic views (€15-20 with lift)
  – Metro Line 3 (Yellow) from Lodi TIBB to Duomo (5 stops, €2.20)
  

• Explore Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
  -Free entry, perfect for photos and spinning on the bull mosaic for good luck

🎟️ Book your Duomo ticket here

Midday: Lunch in Navigli and a Canal-Side Walk

• Next stop on your 24-hour Milan itinerary is the Navigli district, famous for its canals, bridges, and street life.
  -From Duomo: Metro Line 3 (Yellow) to Porta Romana, then Tram 9 to Porta Genova
  -Enjoy a relaxed walk along the canals, check out small boutiques, art galleries, and street performers

Where to Eat: Le Striatelle di Nonna Mafalda (Local Tip)

• 📍 Via Vigevano, 11 – Navigli District
• What to order:
  
  • Cotoletta di Maiale (crispy pork cutlet)
  • Risotto alla Milanese
  • Get the House wine (“vino della casa”) – usually best price and very good!
    
• Cost: Around €15-20 per person

This is your YellowSquare Italian Super Tip™ — a real local spot hiding in plain sight.

Afternoon: Castello Sforzesco & Parco Sempione

• 🏰 Visit the castle courtyard (free) or the museums (€5)
• 🌳 Chill at Parco Sempione like a true Milanese with a gelato

After lunch, head to Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione for a cultural and relaxing afternoon.
🎟️ Plan your visit to Castello Sforzesco

Evening: Aperitivo Time – Two Great Options

• Wrap up your Milan day trip with the most local tradition: aperitivo.

Option 1: Aperitivo at YellowSquare Milan

• 📍 At YellowSquare Milan, Via Serviliano Lattuada, 14
• Aperitivo discount from 8pm to 9pm every day! International and local vibes, chill with us!
  See what’s on at YellowSquare
  

Option 2: Aperitivo at Casa Tua Osteria

• 📍 Via Lodovico Muratori, 10 – 10-minute walk from YellowSquare
• Cozy and budget-friendly
• Drinks + bites from €7-9
  Check Casa Tua Osteria on Google Maps

Bonus Hidden Gem: Fondazione Prada

• 📍 15-minute walk from YellowSquare or Bus 65 to P.ta Lodovica
• Contemporary art & design in a former distillery
• Don’t miss Bar Luce, designed by Wes Anderson
• Entry from €15, free outdoor spaces
  Explore Fondazione Prada

Practical Tips for Your Day in Milan

• Get a day pass (€7.60) for unlimited metro and bus rides
• Use YellowSquare lockers if you’re checking out early
• Stay hydrated and fuel up with coffee to keep your energy high

Milan can surprise you even in just one day. With this 1-day Milan itinerary, you’ll hit all the highlights, taste local flavors, and still have time to relax and soak up the city’s unique vibe. Come back anytime or explore more tips on our YellowSquare blog.

Have a good one 🙂