Curator’s statement
My stay at the Duo Milan Porta Nuova was a highlight of the trip. This beautiful boutique hotel offers a luxurious and welcoming atmosphere. The staff were friendly and accommodating, offering early check-in and late check-out when you book with me through Fora Travel, which made our travel schedule so much easier. Drinks at the hotel bar were surprisingly inexpensive, with a glass of wine costing just $11 — a great way to wind down in the evenings.
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Exploring the Navigli Canal area
One of my favorite parts of Milan was the Navigli canal area. We visited during the day, and it was buzzing with energy. The area is known for its outdoor dining options and cheap drinks, making it a great spot for a leisurely afternoon. While it can be touristy, the people-watching was excellent, and the canal’s clear water, filled with interesting fish, made for a unique and scenic backdrop. There's some graffiti along the canals, which adds to the urban charm. If you're looking for a peaceful boat ride, be aware that only a tourist boat operates on the canal.
Il Tavolino Restaurant – A culinary delight
For dinner, we tried Il Tavolinlino, and it didn’t disappoint. The service was impeccable, and the food was exceptional. I was particularly impressed by the salad greens, which were fresh and top-tier — they served mosh, which is our favorite and only found in Europe. The prices were also very reasonable, with a Cabernet Franc for just $40. The restaurant served excellent salads, breads and cheeses, making it one of the best meals we had in Milan.
A quick visit to Museo del Novecento
With limited time in Milan, we decided to visit the Museo del Novecento, and it was the perfect choice. The museum focuses on 20th-century Italian artists and takes less than two hours to explore — just right for my schedule. The collection is well-curated, offering a great snapshot of modern Italian art without feeling overwhelming. If you have a couple of hours to spare, I highly recommend adding this museum to your itinerary.
Airport dining – A pleasant surprise
Believe it or not, one of the best pizzas I had in Italy was at the airport! Rossopomodoro in Milan’s MXP airport blew me away with their delicious pizza. If you’re passing through, make sure to stop by — it's a fantastic way to end your trip on a high note.
Milan offers a great blend of culture, charm and value, and I can't wait to return for a longer visit!
Need to know
The cost of getting around:
One thing to keep in mind if you’re flying into Milan is that the cab ride from the airport into the city can be expensive. Ours cost over $120, which felt steep. However, beyond that, we found everything else in Milan to be very affordable, from the food and drinks to the accommodations.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Milan. In need of further inspiration? Check out Michaela Perez’s guide, Milan, Florence, Rome: The Ultimate 7 Day Italian Adventure.
Travel Advisor
Chantel Kane-Krebs
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