A Perfect Day: Milan in One Day

9 AM: Brioche and Let's Go

Breakfast in Italy is usually light. I go with the flow and start the morning at one of the many cafés with a brioche – that’s what it’s called in Milan, even though the name sounds French. My favorite place is Tre Marie in San Babila. Honestly, it just tastes different in Italy!

10 AM: Morning Light in the Galleria and People-Watching

Fueled by sweet pastry, I head toward the Duomo, making a quick detour through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is lined with elegant boutiques of major fashion houses. In the morning it's still pleasantly quiet, as sunlight streams through the glass dome and the mosaic floor gleams. Architecturally, it's truly impressive.

11 AM: Up to the Duomo

The Duomo is the heart of Milan – a must-see attraction. I skip the inside and head straight up to the roof. You can walk all the way around and get up close to the intricate spires. On a clear day, the view stretches all the way to the Alps. It's a bit quieter in the morning, which I like. If you're looking for beautiful light, the sunset from up here is especially atmospheric – but be sure to check the terrace opening hours first. In the summer, the sun often sets after the terrace has already closed. It's not exactly a hidden gem, but it's popular for good reason.

12:30 PM: Relaxing in Milan's Green Lung

From the Duomo, I make my way to the Castello Sforzesco, a massive city castle with towers, courtyards, and a museum. Walking through the courtyards leads straight to the Parco Sempione. It reminds me of Munich’s English Garden, just smaller. Locals jog, read, or picnic here. For those unafraid of heights, the elevator ride up the nearly 100-meter Torre Branca is worth it – the view is fantastic! After my stroll through the park, I stop for lunch at Taverna dei Golosi.

2 PM: A Stroll in Brera

Next, I head to Brera, a charming district known for its art and fashion. I love browsing the concept stores, stationery shops, and vintage boutiques. Art lovers should not miss the Pinacoteca di Brera, an impressive museum with works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and other Italian masters.

4 PM: Milan Goes Modern

Ready for a change of scenery? It's time to see Milan's modern side. At Piazza Gae Aulenti, the city suddenly feels futuristic. Nearby, the twin towers of the Bosco Verticale rise skyward, their facades covered in greenery. The residential project has even won awards. In the Parco Biblioteca degli Alberi, you can stroll among wildflowers, trees, and geometric paths, or relax on the lawn.

6:30 PM: Apericena in Porta Venezia

Hungry? Porta Venezia, one of Milan's most elegant neighborhoods, is my favorite spot for apericena – an "expanded" aperitivo. You meet for a drink, but you get so many snacks, or even a small buffet, that you can often skip dinner. Around Via Melzo, the streets come alive in the evening. The bars are full, people stand outside with a Spritz or Negroni in hand, chatting on the sidewalk. This district is also the center of the queer community – even the subway platform here is painted in rainbow colors.

8 PM: Dinner by the Water

In the evening, I head to the romantic Navigli district. With its canals, the light, and little restaurants, it's a bit like Venice. I often order risotto alla Milanese, which is typically made with saffron. Delicious! I prefer to sit right by the water. Along the Naviglio Grande canal, restaurant after restaurant lines the shore. You can easily hop from one to the next until you find your personal favorite risotto. If I still have plenty of energy after dinner, I head back to Porta Venezia. My favorite spot is Via Panfilo Castaldi, where there's still something going on even after midnight on a weeknight. Otherwise, if I'm already tired, I just stroll through the nighttime streets a bit. I love the calm atmosphere and how the lights reflect on the water.

About

Yasmine Candussio has been Marketing Manager EMEA at Lufthansa since 2023. Her work often takes her to Italy, the UK, France, and Spain. She loves discovering new cities on foot – always in search of great cafés, unique shops, and culinary surprises.