One Perfect Day in Milan, Italy

Morning coffee & a pastry

The everyday Italian breakfast experience is a simple pleasure of life. Loste Cafe is the trendy, minimalist spot for perfect fluffy cinnamon rolls and specialty coffee, co-founded by a former Noma pastry chef. Pavé also serves up reliably fantastic, laminated treats. Marchesi 1824 is a historic pastry shop, now owned by the Prada group, with a stunning location in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Stroll through the park

If the weather is in your favor (and it so rarely is), make the most of the sunshine. Pass through Sforzesco Castle into Parco Sempione for a green escape from the grey city.

An indoor activity

Did you know the average rainfall in Milan is higher than in London? Pack an umbrella! If Milan has blessed you with a cold or rainy day, there are plenty of museums, and not just history and ancient art. However, if you appreciate the works of Leonardo Da Vinci, you should absolutely visit the iconic Last Supper. It is on the wall of the Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie. Book tickets ahead to avoid a wait. If your interests involve fashion, you should consider spending more than a day here. Check out Armani/Silos for a beautifully presented view of the life and works of the designer. Art museums Fondazione Prada and Pirelli Hangar Bicocca offer rare contemporary breaks from the overload of Renaissance and Roman works on any trip to Italy.

Lunch

• Remulass​​: This quirky vegetable-forward spot is packed with bright color, on the dishes and decor alike.

• Langosteria Cafe: Perfect for a high-end experience at one of the city’s most renowned seafood restaurants in a convenient location.

• Via Stampa: Get away from the bustle for a cozy but modern bistro experience, complete with delightful pastries and good wine.

Sightseeing at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II & The Duomo

The looming gothic cathedral of Milan is really the sight of the city and should not be missed. To see a unique perspective of this landmark, visit the rooftop terraces, which can be accessed by stairs or by lift, and should be booked ahead. I specifically recommend it in the late afternoon. if you can get a slot around golden hour, before sunset, this is a magical experience. If you’re afraid of heights or have mobility issues, visiting inside the Duomo at any hour, is also spectacular. Just off the same piazza, find the flashy storefronts in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. At the other end, watch fancy people making their way into the iconic opera house, Teatro alla Scala.

Afternoon stroll through favorite neighborhoods

Take a walk into Brera, the area just northwest of the central Duomo area. This beautiful neighborhood has fancy shops, weekend vintage markets and romantic winding streets. Check out Surplus and Cavalli e Nastri Brera for vintage fashion finds. Make your way farther northwest by foot or tram to Via Paolo Sarpi, the heart of Milan’s Chinatown. Full of street food, boba shops and small grocers, this neighborhood is a testament to the diverse international nature of Milan. Ravioleria Sarpi is a popular spot for a steaming hot dumpling, and ​​the unique pastries at S'LAB have captured the hearts of young Milanese.

Dinner

• Ratanà: The perfect balance between modern and traditional, almost fine dining but relaxed. In a historic building alongside a busy park, this sophisticated restaurant puts quality and seasonality first.

• Rovello 18: Welcoming and cozy bistro with a mix of Mediterranean and Milanese dishes in the heart of beautiful Brera.

• Trattoria Trippa: Known for signature tripe and bone marrow dishes, this chic trattoria is unfussy and high quality.

Evening by the canal

After dinner is the perfect time to stroll around Navigli and enjoy a typical aperitivo. This neighborhood is named for the canal that runs through it, a remnant of Middle Ages infrastructure. Iter ​is a quirky cocktail bar, with rotating international themes, or try their nearby sister bar Mag Cafe for a canal view and people-watching.