Best Things to do in Milan, Italy for Fashion & Spas

Art

Visiting the Fondazione Prada is a must while in Milan. The Fondazione Prada was established in 1993 by Miuccia Prada, the granddaughter of Mario Prada. While there are both permanent and temporary art and conceptual exhibits, the incredible architecture by designer Rem Koolhaas' is worth a visit alone. The facilities are spread across a number of buildings on the property, so block out at least a few hours to see it all.

Sometimes referred to just as Novecento, the Museo del 900 is located right on the Piazza del Duomo and has one of the best views of the Duomo you can find. The museum has a stunning collection of about 400 works of (primarily) twentieth-century Italian art. However, you’ll also find a few pieces by Matisse, Picasso, Kandinsky and others. The museum is a nice size and not too overwhelming, so you’ll only need an hour or two to see it all (depending on your pace). Be sure to go an hour or so before sunset so you can get that perfect “golden hour” shot.

The Armani / Silos is a must for fashion lovers in Milan. Each room is decorated with different color lighting, music and scents that represent different themes through the years of Armani fashion. You’ll see a mix of short films and photography among a stunning archive of garments from over the years. Be sure to stop by the cafe as well, which is perfect for an afternoon aperitivo out on the terrace.

Shopping

If you are looking to do some designer shopping, Milan has some of the best in the world.

Head over to the Quadrilatero della Moda. A neighborhood known for its high-end designer and boutique stores including Dior, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermes, Gucci and more. You’ll find the majority of stores on Via della Spiga, Via Montenapoleone, Via Manzoni and Corso Venezia. Or, head over to Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is not only the oldest shopping mall in Italy, but named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. The mall is full of fantastic stores and restaurants, but can be very crowded. Be aware that this mall is also frequented by notorious pickpocketers, so keep your belongings close and in eyeshot.

If you are more of an antique or thrift shopper, be sure to go to the Navigli flea market on the last Sunday of the month between 8am and 6pm (but many stalls don’t set up until closer to 10am). Vendors range from handmade jewelry and art, to high and low-end vintage sunglasses, bags and clothes, antiques, home decor and more. Bring cash and be ready to negotiate prices. Even if you are not in Milan on the last Sunday of the month, the streets of Navigli are lined with thrift and consignment shops and are definitely worth a visit. While you’ll find dozens of vintage stores, Humana Vintage always has a fantastic selection and prices.

For lovers of concept and boutique stores, the charming Brera District is a cobblestoned artsy district in the heart of the city. While historically the Brera District had a more bohemian vibe, it still retains a more “boho chic” status these days and will quickly make you forget about the more industrial and gritty parts of the city. On Mondays and Thursdays, you can visit the Mercato di Via San Marco, where you can find a mix of fruit and vegetable stands mixed amongst clothing and shoe stalls.

Spas

Once exhausted from shopping, be sure to enjoy some of Milan’s best spas.

Located in the heart of Milan, BVLGARI Hotel Milano Spa offers a serene and opulent environment. It features a variety of treatments by Augustinus Bader and a beautiful indoor pool with pure gold tiles.

The Armani/SPA at Armani Hotel Milano, designed by Giorgio Armani, offers a sophisticated and tranquil space for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa features a breathtaking view of the city, a variety of treatments and even an ice waterfall.

The spa at the Mandarin Oriental Milan is a five-star hotel spa, offering a range of holistic treatments in a serene and luxurious setting. The spa features a hammam, a vitality pool and relaxation lounges. For those who travel to Milan regularly, the spa even offers memberships ranging from three months to one year.

As seen all over TikTok, the QC Terme Milano is located in a historic building near Porta Romana, and offers a unique spa experience with a variety of thermal baths, rain experiences, saunas and relaxation areas in a beautifully restored environment.

Day trips

Milan is central in Northern Italy, so day trip options are endless. You can easily travel by train from Milan to Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, Lake Como, Turin, Bologna or Lake Gardia.

Cafe or Lunch

Bar Luca at the Fondazione Prada is a must for a cappuccino and sweet treat. The cafe was designed by Wes Anderson in 2015 and will instantly make you feel like you’ve stepped into a set for a 1950s film.

Il Giardino at the Bvlgari Hotel, the outdoor garden designed by landscape architect Sophie Agata Ambroise, is the perfect spot for lunch or afternoon tea on a sunny day. If the weather isn’t cooperating, the indoor bar is a great pick for an aperitivo or an evening cocktail.

The Mandarin Garden, nestled in the Mandarian Oriental Hotel in Milan, is a stylish indoor and outdoor cafe and bar. Two Michelin star chef Antonio Guida has curated a stunning menu that includes Italian and Milanese dishes. At night, the bar features an impressive cocktail menu and a moody setting. Be sure to try the Risotto Alla Milanese, a savory, saffron-infused risotto dish that is a classic of Milan.

Dinner

Verso Capitaneo by chef brothers Remo and Mario Capitaneo will make you feel like you are a part of their family while seated in their open-concept seating. Their tasting menu is innovative, creative and recently awarded a Michelin star.

Dinner at La Societa Milano will feel like dinner at your friend’s house, if your friend was a Michelin star chef who could create stunning gastronomic dishes.

For an unfussy meal, try Trattoria Trippa by the popular chef Diego Rossi, which features an adventurous daily menu based on the day’s market offerings.

Drinks

If you’re tired of aperol spritz, stop by the Camparino in Galleria, located in the heart of Milan, just around the corner from the Duomo in the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s been around since 1915 and is noted as the 27th best bar in the world. I recommend ordering a Campari Seltz, classic Negroni or Campari Shakerato on the terrace during aperitivo. And yes, they do make a stunning Negroni Sbagliato.