Welcome to Milan - where the cobbles are your catwalk, the tramlines are your saving grace, and the espressos are...well, part of your new morning routine.
Destination highlights
Espresso and aperitivo - 'nough said
The most developed tram network in Europe (and the 6th biggest in the world, no biggie)
Fashion capital alert (if that doesn't inspire you to plan your outfits, we don't know what will)
A canal network literally designed by *the*da Vinci. Aaand mic drop.
What are the best sights to see in Milan?
With so much to do here, you'll just know Milan is the perfect city break escape. Just take a look at a few of our faves...
Duomo di Milano - for those of you behind on your Duolingo streak, this directly translates to Milan Cathedral. All you need to know is it's big, it's beaut and it's got rooftop views that'd look great slapped on your Insta feed.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II - the most glam shopping mall you'll ever step foot in (probably). The glass domed roof is kind of giving Trafford Centre vibes, but the high-end shops (from Gucci to Prada) and cute little espresso cafés will be enough to remind you you're not at home anymore.
Sforza Castle - one for the history buffs (we know there's some of you out there), this 14th century fort is surrounded by a pretty courtyard and home to several museums, whether you're into art, wood or music.
Brera District - the chicest neighbourhood in Milan (we said what we said) - home to galleries, independent boutiques and - of course - café terraces where you can slurp an espresso and watch the world go by.
San Siro Stadium - football fanatics, you're gonna love this one. It's one of the biggest stadiums in Europe and *the* largest in Italy. Get ready to embrace the culture of Italian football.
Popular Milan hotels
Weather in Milan
JAN
7°C
FEB
10°C
MAR
15°C
APR
19°C
MAY
24°C
JUN
28°C
JUL
30°C
AUG
30°C
SEP
26°C
OCT
19°C
NOV
12°C
DEC
7°C
Milan's summers are hotter than an espresso, with temps climbing into the sizzling twenties. Winter's a bit on the cooler side (vibes-wise and temperature-wise), but that's just an excuse to layer up and make a fashion statement. They love that over here. The seasons might change, but Milan's chic all year round.
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FAQs
What currency do they use in Milan?
The local currency in Milan is the Euro, so make sure you're stocked up if you fancy a shopping spree while you're out there (and trust us, you probably will).
What language do they speak in Milan?
Well amore mio, the official language of Milan is Italian, but some of the smaller regions also speak the dialect of Milanese. The more you know!
How long does it take to fly to Milan?
It takes around 2 hours to fly to Milan from the UK, which is enough time to watch 5.2 episodes of Friends. You're welcome.
What's the time difference between the UK/Ireland and Milan?
The local time in Milan is one hour ahead of the UK/Ireland, which means you can soak up all those sights without the pesky jetlag. Winner.
Fake it 'til you lake it
Idroscalo might be an artificial lake, but it's a whopper and it's the ideal place to try your hand at some watersports in Milan - from kayaking and canoeing to water-skiing. It's also surrounded by bars and restaurants so you can grab a bite between paddling, and in the summer season you can enjoy outdoor concerts on the lakeside.
Get the middle finger at Piazza Affari
Don't worry, you'll only be getting the middle finger from a statue - not the locals. This square is the most important place in Italy when it comes to finance, and home to Maurizio Cattelan’s controversial L.O.V.E sculpture, which is a giant, raised middle finger. The acronym stands for liberta, odio, vendetta, and eternita which translates as freedom, hatred, vendetta and eternity. Make of that what you will!
Fill your face at Luini's
Luini's bakery has won awards - that's how good it is. It's a traditional little bakery in the city best known for its panzerotti, which are fried like a deep-fried calzone filled with savoury fillings such as mozzarella and tomato. Buon appetito.
Get your da Vinci on
It'd be rude not to, let's be honest. The interactive Leonardo3 Museum is a celebration of all things da Vinci, including digital restorations of his paintings and even working models of some of his inventions. You can see a restoration of the iconic Last Supper painting here, as well as a model of his Flying Bicycle design which is...well, exactly what it sounds like.
Park yourself
Sempione Park is a gorg park right in the middle of the city. Think Central Park vibes but a smidge smaller and with less hotdog carts. There's plenty of lakes, greenery and picnic spots though - and even Arco della Pace - AKA, the arch of peace which is well worth a snap in front of.
What events can I go to in Milan?
Milan's event calendar is as packed as a Prada sample sale! There's always something happening to get your fashion-fix or culture-crave sorted. Jot these down...
Milan Fashion Week (February & September) - the crème de la crème of fashion, where the streets become runways. It's like the Oscars, but for clothes - and without any drama from Will Smith.
Design Week (April) - Milan turns into an IKEA catalogue, only cooler (if that's even possible). Think futuristic furniture and designs that'll make your living room jealous.
Salone del Mobile (April) - the world's biggest furniture fair, where chairs are art, and sofas are masterpieces.
Festa di San Giovanni (June) - fireworks and partying - because Italians don't do things by halves.
Milano Film Festival (September) -it's movie magic time, but with more espresso and less popcorn. Think Sundance, with Italian subtitles.
Milano Music Week (November) - where the city's soundtrack is live music, and every corner's got a beat.
Milan Jazz Festival (November) - it's like your Spotify jazz playlist, but live and with more sax appeal.
Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Market (December) - a Christmas market where you can shop like an Italian grandma. Think crafts, food, and oh-so-many trinkets.
Where's the best nightlife in Milan?
Milan's nightlife? It's like a catwalk after hours - sleek, chic, and always buzzing. From stylish lounges to clubs where you dance 'til dawn, Milan knows how to party (with a touch of class). Here's the scoop on where to strut your stuff:
Just Cavalli Milano - where the fashion elite mingle. It's like a runway show, but with more cocktails and less attitude.
Terrazza Aperol - sip an Aperol Spritz while overlooking the stunning Duomo. It's the Instagram spot of dreams, trust us.
Alcatraz - no, not the prison - but just as legendary. This massive club is where you go to lose yourself to the beat... and maybe find yourself at the bar.
Blue Note Milano - jazz, baby! It's all smooth tunes and even smoother drinks. You'll feel cooler just walking in.
Armani Privé - ever wondered where the Armani-clad crowd go? Right here. It's sleek, exclusive, and yes, you'll want to dress up.
Hollywood Rythmoteque - get ready to party like a movie star, or at least with people who look like they could be.
Tunnel Club - under the railway arches, this spot is for the underground music-lovers. It’s less about the chandeliers, more about the bass.
Bobino Club - an all-in-one cocktail bar, club, and summer garden. It's like three nights out in one!
What's the food like in Milan?
We know food's at the top of everyone's travel checklist, so let's take a catwalk through some of Milan's most mouthwatering bites...
Risotto alla Milanese – not just any risotto - it's like the Versace of rice dishes (we're not being dramatic). Saffron-infused, creamy, and with a touch of luxury. You'll feel fancy with every spoonful.
Ossobuco – veal shanks cooked low and slow in a white wine broth until they're fall-off-the-bone tender. It's like a warm hug from an Italian nonna.
Panettone – Milan's answer to fruitcake, but way, way better. This tall, fluffy, sweet bread is studded with candied fruits and raisins - you might have even had the butchered 'British' take on it at Christmas, but this is the real deal. Don't blame us if you can't stop at one slice.
Aperitivo – Milan's chic pre-dinner ritual. Think of it as happy hour with style. Prosecco, Campari, and a smorgasbord of nibbles that put your usual 'picky bits' from home to shame.
Cotoletta alla Milanese – it's like the schnitzel's Italian cousin, but crunchier and with more flair. A breaded veal cutlet fried to golden perfection.
Panzerotti - not to be confused with the legendary Italian opera singer. Think of this as a deep-fried pizza pocket - usually stuffed with cheese and tomato, but fillings can vary between anything savoury and delicious.
Gelato – because in Milan, even the ice cream is designer. The flavours are as bold and creative as the city itself.
Negroni – not food, but it's essential Milanese fuel. This is a cocktail so stylish, it should have its own runway show.
Places to visit
Duomo di Milano
Heading to Milan and skipping the Duomo di Milano is like going to a party and not hitting the dance floor – unthinkable! This architectural stunner isn't just any old cathedral. With spires that reach for the sky and a facade that’s more detailed than your grandma's lace collection, it's the kind of place that makes you say "Wow!" out loud, instead of just texting it. Climb to the top and get cosy between the gargoyles for a rooftop view that'll knock your super-stylish socks off – it's the perfect selfie spot.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This place is like the Ritz of retail. Think a dazzling four-story arcade where the floors are as shiny as a new penny and the glass dome is Instagram gold. Stroll through and let the window-shopping begin – it's where your designer dreams meet your high-street heart (just maybe not your budget). If you're feeling peckish, grab an espresso or some gelato that’s as fancy as the surroundings. And just a heads up: spinning on the bull's... well, let's call it the 'mosaic mosaic', is supposed to bring good luck. So go ahead, give it a whirl and make a wish – Milan-style!
Bosco Verticale
These guys are like a futuristic forest in the sky. Imagine two towering apartments covered from head-to-toe in greenery. We're talking over 900 trees, and THOUSANDS of shrubs and floral plants. It's like Mother Nature threw up all over the place - but in a nice way. Snap a pic or just gaze up in awe at this mind-boggling vertical garden. It's green-living but high-rise style, proving that even in the fashion capital - the best accessory is a leafy one!
Key facts about Milan
Flight Time
2hrs
Time Difference
+1 hr
Currency
Euro
Language
Italian
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Milan?
We'd recommend checking with your healthcare provider for all up-to-date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Milan?
A lot of the major cities in Italy now charge tourists an overnight tax. The tax is levied by hotels and can vary in price depending on location and the star rating of the hotel.
Do I need a visa to visit Milan?
If you're visiting for less than 90 days, then you don't need a visa to visit Milan.
