Is Milan worth visiting in 2024? Honest pros and cons
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Are you planning your dream trip to Italy and wondering Is Milan worth visiting? 🤔
I was born and raised here, so I’ve been asked this same question countless times by friends and colleagues visiting Italy for the first time.
Well, my answer is usually yes!
I love my city and I know it offers so many hidden gems, but I totally understand the hesitation.
Milan doesn’t have the rolling hills of Tuscany or the ancient wonders of Rome, so if you’re looking for that, it might not be the place for you, but it’s got its own charm.
It is Italy’s most modern city and perfectly blends historical landmarks with modern design and architecture, with romantic neighborhoods with small cobblestone alleys next to skyscrapers. It’s true that it can feel fast-paced and business oriented, but that’s part of what makes it special in my opinion.
Additionally, Milan is also a fantastic starting point for day trips to nearby gems like Lake Como, Verona, Bologna and Lake maggiore.
In this post I’ll tell you all my honest thoughts: the pros, cons and local tips to help you decide if Milan belongs on your itinerary.
Is Milan right for your travel style?
Milan offers a unique mix of art, fashion and modernity, but deciding it’s the right fit for your trip depends on your personal travel style. Here are the honest pros and cons, in my opinion, to help you decide:
👍🏻 Pro: amazing art, design and culture
If you’re an art lover, Milan will steal your heart.
From Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, to the Duomo and La Scala Theatre… There’s so much to see and do. Plus, design enthusiasts will love the Triennale and the ADI Design Museum.
Trust me, Milan won’t disappoint.
Milan’s also packed with year-round cultural events and amazing things to do, many of which are free! From museums to exhibitions or festivals, there’s always something happening in the city so you’ll never get bored. You can check here for updates about temporary events in the city.
👍🏻 Pro: unique modern vibe
Milan stands out as Italy’s most modern city and has a distinct cosmopolitan atmosphere, mixing historical beauty with cutting-edge architecture.
If you’re into sleek, contemporary design, you’ll love the Bosco Verticale and the CityLife district, home to the iconic Tre Torri skyscrapers by Arata Isozaki, Daniel Libeskind, and Zaha Hadid.
👍🏻 Pro: a great base for exploring around
One of Milan’s biggest perks is its location, so you can use it as a base for exploring various destinations in northern Italy. Lake Como, for example, is just 40 minutes away, Verona a little over an hour, and Venice and the Alps are easily reachable.
👍🏻 Pro: less crowded than other italian cities
Unlike Florence, Venice or Rome, Milan has fewer crowds. Sure, there are busy spots and certain times of year are frenetic, but overall it’s a much more relaxed experience than the summer madness of the Amalfi Coast.
It lets you enjoy another side of the authentic Italian experience that many tourists miss.
👎🏻 Con: urban atmosphere
I know, I listed “unique modern vibe” as a pro (it is for me!) but I do understand that Milan’s modernity isn’t for everyone.
If you’re looking for the romantic, old-world charm of cities like Rome or Venice, Milan may not match your expectations.
Its atmosphere can feel less traditionally “Italian” even though there are some beautiful neighborhoods that keep a sort of old-world charm, like Brera.
👎🏻 Con: fewer Instagram-perfect views
Milan offers hidden gems and urban life rather than postcard-perfect scenery, so if you’re coming for iconic and scenic views you might want to stick to Lake Como, Venice or Tuscany.
👎🏻 Con: weather
The weather in Milan isn’t always on your side. August can be very hot and humid, so many locals (including me!) escape the city. Winters, while not extreme, can feel a bit gray unless you visit during Christmas, which is magical. Spring, early summer and autumn are the best times to visit for nice weather.
👎🏻 Con: it’s not cheap
While Milan offers budget options like hostels and plenty of free things to do, it’s pricier than smaller Italian towns. That said, it’s still more affordable than places like Venice or the Amalfi Coast.
A mid-range budget will let you enjoy Milan’s restaurants, museums, and shopping to the fullest.
10 amazing highlights in Milan that will convince you it’s worth a visit
1. Duomo di Milano
The Duomo di Milano is nothing short of breathtaking. It is Milan’s most iconic landmark, right in the heart of the city.
It’s a gothic cathedral that dates back to the 14th century and with its many intricate spires, is a true masterpiece and will leave you awestruck.
If you’re short on time, I’d recommend skipping the interior and heading straight to the rooftop.
The views are magical, offering panoramas of Milan and, on clear days, you can even see the mountains. Plus, you can admire the intricate architecture up close, every detail is a work of art.
You can take the stairs (around $21) or the elevator ($24—trust me, it’s worth it!).
Pro tip from a local 😎
Visit at sunrise for a peaceful, crowd-free experience, or at sunset when the light casts a pink glow over the cathedral. It’s pure magic. And don’t forget to book a skip-the-line ticket because the queues can be terribly long.
2. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade that connects Piazza del Duomo to Piazza della Scala. Known for its stunning glass dome and intricate mosaics, this elegant arcade is home to high-end boutiques, luxury cafés, and a distinct Milanese charm.
Walking through the Galleria is an experience in itself, even if you don’t want to splurge and do luxury shopping.
When I was a kid, my grandparents used to take me to the city center for a special day out for my birthday and we’d always stop here. The beauty of the Galleria felt magical and even now, it never fails to mesmerize me.
A fun local tradition you won’t want to miss is spinning three times with your right heel on the bull’s balls mosaic for good luck!
Pro tip from a local 😎
Starting in September 2024, you can walk along the Galleria’s rooftops for incredible views of the Duomo and the city.
It’s called Highline Milano, and it’s an unforgettable way to see Milan from above. Tickets are just €14, it’s absolutely worth it!
3. La Scala Theater
La Scala Theater (Teatro alla Scala in italian) is one of the most renowned opera houses in the world and one of Milan’s most iconic places.
Even after coming here many times, the awe and magic of this place never fade. I still remember the first ballet I saw here: Romeo and Juliet. As a young aspiring ballerina, it was a dream come true.
The grandeur of the stage, the velvet-lined seats, the chandeliers… you’ll never forget your first visit to La Scala, I promise!
Pro tip from a local 😎
If you want to visit, you can either attend an opera or ballet, or take a guided tour of the theater and its museum. I’ve done both and would recommend choosing the one that fits your schedule and budget best (the guided tour is way cheaper but still amazing!).
4. Castello Sforzesco
Castello Sforzesco is a stunning fortress that transports you back in time, just a short stroll from the Duomo.
Wandering the beautiful grounds is free because they connect Piazza Cairoli with Milan’s largest park, Parco Sempione.
You can also visit the museums inside the castle, which house incredible collections, from ancient sculptures to Renaissance masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s Rondanini Pietà.
5. Parco Sempione
Parco Sempione is Milan’s largest park, right behind the castle, and it’s the perfect place to escape the city’s hustle and relax in nature.
During the warmer months, you’ll find locals lounging on the grass, enjoying picnics, taking pictures of squirrels or soaking up the sun. It’s a peaceful retreat, ideal for a stroll and to unwind with a gelato.
At one end of the park, you’ll find the impressive Arco della Pace, while on the western end you’ll see Museo Triennale, Milan’s hotspot for contemporary art and design exhibitions.
Pro tip from a local 😎
Keep an eye out for Milan’s little mermaids, one of those hidden gems that most tourists miss, but locals love! They are four statues on a small bridge inside the park.
6. Leonardo’s The Last Supper
The Last Supper is one of the world’s most famous and influential artworks. It captures the moment of Jesus’ last meal with his disciples and was painted directly on the wall of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church by Leonardo da Vinci.
Seeing it is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Milan but finding tickets can be a nightmare.
You need to book months in advance because they sell out immediately. Buying them from the official website can be frustrating (trust me, I’ve been there!), so many people opt for a tour. It’s more expensive but way easier to secure a spot.
I’ve done both and honestly, I just recommend the guided tour. You will have a guide explaining all the details about what you’ll see and you’ll enjoy it more, not to mention you won’t go mad trying to buy the tickets from the official website.
If you’re wondering if visiting the last supper is worth it, the short answer is absolutely YES.
7. Brera
I absolutely love Brera, it’s one of the most charming and romantic corners of Milan. It has quiet pedestrian streets, historic buildings, a sort of old-world charm and a bohemian vibe.
It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Milan at its most picturesque: it feels like stepping into a more intimate side of the city.
Here you’ll find the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s top art galleries with masterpieces from Caravaggio and Raphael.
Brera is also a great place for aperitivo – a local tradition of having pre-meal drinks with small bites that honestly often turn into an actual dinner – with cozy cafés and bars perfect for sipping a spritz while watching the world go by.
Some great options for aperitivo around here are: N’Ombra de Vin, La Tartina and La Prosciutteria. If you’re looking for a vegan aperitivo, you might want to check out God save the food and Eataly.
8. Porta Venezia’s Art Nouveau
Porta Venezia is a the best place to admire Milan’s Stile Liberty (what locals call Art Nouveau). My favorite spots are:
- Palazzo Castiglioni: considered the very symbol of Liberty in Milan, with intricate floral details and elegant curves.
- Casa Galimberti: a masterpiece of colorful ceramic tiles.
- Casa Campanini: famous for its ornate wrought-iron gates and stained glass.
- Ca’ de l’Oreggia: a building with an ear-shaped intercom (I’m not joking, you have to see it!)
- Villa Invernizzi: you can’t go inside but you can sneak a peek at the garden from the street, where pink flamingos roam freely 🦩
9. Milan’s architecture
Milan’s architectural diversity is remarkable but the absolute best in my opinion is:
- Torre Velasca, with its brutalist style and medieval-inspired form.
- Citylife (Tre Torri): three skyscrapers by Zaha Hadid, Arata Isozaki and Daniel Libeskind.
- Fondazione Prada: founded by Miuccia Prada, it’s probably my favorite place in this architecture list. It is housed in a former gin distillery so it has both industrial structures and contemporary additions, designed by Rem Koolhaas.
My favorite spot here is Bar Luce, a vintage café designed by filmmaker Wes Anderson. - Piazza Gae Aulenti and Porta Nuova, with glass towers surrounding the square and a beautiful park (Biblioteca degli alberi) right next to it. Nearby you can also find Bosco Verticale by Stefano Boeri, a stunning example of sustainability, with trees and plants adorning the towers creating a “Vertical Forest” in the city.
10. Museums
There are so many, but in my opinion the best are:
- Museo del 900: located right next to the Duomo, is a must-see if you’re into contemporary art. It’s packed with 20th-century masterpieces and offers stunning views of the cathedral from its windows.
- Triennale Milano and ADI Design Museum: my favorites, perfect for design enthusiasts. You will fall in love with italian design!
- Fondazione Prada: the best if you love modern art and innovative industrial spaces.
- Pinacoteca di Brera: a beautiful collection of Renaissance masterpieces and classical italian paintings.
- Science and Technology Museum: my favorite as a kid, offering an engaging dive into the world of innovation with exhibits ranging from Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions to space exploration.
FAQs and other tips for visiting Milan
When to visit Milan?
You can visit Milan year-round, but my favorite seasons are spring, autumn and early summer. The weather is perfect for strolling through the city’s streets and the long days give you plenty of time to explore.
If you love a festive atmosphere, Christmas is also a magical time to visit, with sparkling lights and holiday markets adding a special charm to the city!
I’d recommend avoiding August if you can, it’s so hot and humid that most locals leave the city.
Another time you might want to avoid is the fashion week in September, unless you’re coming for it, because the city is crazy busy and packed with people literally everywhere (public transport turns into a real nightmare).
How many days should I spend in Milan?
I’d recommend spending a long weekend in Milan. Don’t worry if you’re pressed for time, you can still see the highlights of Milan in a day.
Two days is perfect for exploring the city’s highlights, plus you can treat yourself to some relaxation at the beautiful QC Terme spa in the afternoon (the courtyard is limited by the ancient Spanish walls, it’s incredible!).
I’d recommend going for the aperitivo (essentially pre-dinner drinks with snacks and small things to eat) they call it aperiterme, which is included in your ticket from 5PM to 8PM.
On the third day, take a day trip to Lake Como—it’s just a short train ride away and absolutely stunning.
If you have extra time, consider adding a day trip to Verona, Bologna, Turin, Bergamo, or even Venice.
Is Milan a walkable city?
Absolutely yes! Make sure to pack some comfy shoes because you’ll be walking a lot.
Most of the city center is easily explored on foot, with everything relatively close together but if you ever get tired or need to cover longer distances, Milan’s public transport is super efficient and reasonably priced.
How to get around Milan?
The city center is very walkable since many streets are pedestrian only, so you can explore most of the main sights on foot without any problem.
If you get tired, Milan also has an efficient public transport system that connects all the major tourist spots, making it super simple to get from one place to another.
You don’t even have to stress about tickets, you can just tap your credit card going in and out and at the end of the day the system will automatically calculate the cheapest fare and charge that!
One thing I highly recommend is hopping on one of the historic trams! It’s a fun and charming way to experience the city while giving your feet a break.
Start from tram lines 1 or 2.
Milan is also very well connected with its 3 airports:
- Linate: the closest one, now connected to the center with a metro line.
- Malpesa: you can get to the center with a direct train called Malpensa express in around 35 minutes, it’s very easy to get tickets with Trainline.
- Milan Bergamo (Orio al Serio): about 1 hour by bus with many departures hourly. There’s no real need to book in advance in this case.
Is Milan safe?
There’s a lot of talk about safety, but honestly, Milan is absolutely safe for tourists, even more than other cities I’ve visited. I’ve never felt seriously at risk here, even walking alone at night, but like in any major city, it’s important to take some basic precautions.
One tip to avoid being pickpocketed in Milan (and anywhere in the world): avoid wearing a backpack on your back on public transport, instead wear it on the front or opt for a crossbody bag and keep it in sight.
You can definitely walk alone at night in touristy areas like the Duomo, Navigli, Brera, and Isola districts, but I’d suggest avoiding Stazione Centrale and more isolated streets late at night if you’re unfamiliar with the city.
One common scam to be aware of happens in Piazza del Duomo, where people may try to hand you “free” bracelets. Just politely decline: they’re not free, and you’ll be asked to pay for them!
Should I book tickets in advance?
Yes, absolutely!
For popular attractions like the Duomo’s rooftop terraces, The Last Supper, and La Scala Theatre, it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance because they always sell out super quickly.
I’d also recommend opting for skip-the-line tickets whenever possible—they’ll save you tons of time that you’d rather spend exploring the city instead of waiting in long queues.
Trust me, it’s worth it!
In conclusion, is Milan worth visiting?
If you’re still wondering “is Milan worth visiting?”, the answer in my opinion is 100% yes!
Like any destination, Milan has its pros and cons, but I’d definitely recommend adding it to your itinerary. It’s a city full of art, architecture, charming old neighborhoods, shopping, and fantastic food—there’s something for everyone. But ultimately, it depends on your travel style.
If you’re after romantic landscapes and quaint Italian towns, Milan’s modern, cosmopolitan vibe might not be what you’re looking for.
I hope this guide gives you a glimpse into why I love my hometown and why Milan is worth discovering. When you know what to expect, Milan won’t disappoint!
