Curator’s statement
Milan holds a special place in my heart, a city I’ve come to know well through years of attending runway shows during Milan Fashion Week. Twice a year, I would immerse myself in the city’s electric energy, where fashion, art and culture converge. Beyond the glamor of the catwalks, Milan revealed its timeless beauty to me—its rich history, architectural marvels and, of course, its impeccable sense of style. This itinerary is a reflection of those experiences, offering a journey through the chic city that is Milan.
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Day 1: Arrival
You are most likely arriving early from and overnight flight, so take a minute to shower and get settled in your hotel room. But, don't take a nap; it will make your jet lag worse.
Afternoon:
Villa Necchi Campiglio: Via Mozart, 14
Step into the refined world of Milan’s bourgeois past with a visit to Villa Necchi Campiglio. This stunning 1930s villa offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of Milanese high society. Don’t miss the elegant gardens, where you can enjoy a peaceful moment away from the city’s hustle.
Aperitivo:
Bulgari Hotel Bar: Via Privata Fratelli Gabba, 7
Sip on a perfectly crafted Negroni at the Bulgari Hotel’s chic bar. The Milanese do aperitivo (aka a drink and nibble before dinner) so well - don't miss it.
Dinner:
La Bricola: Via Marsala 1
Friendly and festive place for your first dinner in Milan.
Day 2: Markets, Canals & Bohemian Vibes
Morning:
Navigli Antique Market: Navigli District
Make sure your trip is during the last Sunday of the month to experience this fantastic antiques market in the bohemian neighborhood -Navigli.
Lunch:
Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many canal-side cafes - indulge in a fresh pasta dish with a view of the water.
Afternoon:
Explore the Navigli Neighborhood
Take a leisurely stroll along the Navigli canals, lined with quirky boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafes. This area is perfect for those who love to wander and discover hidden gems.
Aperitivo:
Stay in Navigli for a sunset aperitivo—find a spot along the canal and enjoy a spritz as the sky turns pink and orange.
Dinner:
Gloria Osteria: Via Tivoli 3, Brera
Make your way to Brera for dinner at Gloria Osteria. This spot offers a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine vibrant setting.
Day 3: Art & Culture in the Heart of Milan
Morning:
Fondazione Prada: L.go Isarco, 2
Start your day with a visit to Fondazione Prada -the contemporary art space is a must visit.
Lunch:
Bar Luce
Designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson, Bar Luce feels straight out of a 1960s Italian film. Enjoy a light lunch after exploring the art space.
Afternoon:
Gallery Hopping
After lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Milan’s vibrant gallery scene. Use the Artguide app to navigate your way through the city’s top contemporary art galleries.
Dinner:
Papermoon Il Giardino: Via Bagutta, 12
Dine al fresco at Papermoon Il Giardino, a stylish restaurant offering an idyllic garden setting.
Day 4: Discovering Brera’s Artistic Charm
Morning:
Explore Brera Neighborhood
Brera is the artistic heart of Milan, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, quaint cafes and beautiful art galleries. Start your day by wandering through this charming district, stopping at the Pinacoteca di Brera, an art gallery with works by European greats including- Caravaggio, Titian & Raphael.
Afternoon:
Continue your exploration of Brera, perhaps visiting a local artisan shop and doing some people watching. If you have time, stop for an aperitivo at Bar Jamaica - such a classic spot.
Dinner:
Trattoria Torre di Pisa: Via Fiori Chiari, 21
One of the oldest restaurants in the city and a lovely vibe - try the Rigatoni alla Toscana.
Day 5: Shopping and Duomo
Milan has many gorgeous cafes - make sure to stop by for a pastry and a coffee (just no cappuccino in the afternoon).
Some of my favs:
Pasticceria Cucchi
Pastcceria Sissi
Marchesi
Spend some time shopping if you haven't already.
Some of my favorite spots:
Corso Como, 10
Antonia
La DoubleJ
Galleria Vittoria Emanuele
Dinner:
Book a table for lunch at Giacomo Arengario and make sure to get a table with views of the Duomo.
Travel Advisor
Wendy Wallace
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Milan. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Local’s Guide to Florence, Ita.