Milan 7 Day Itinerary

7 Day Foodie Itinerary for Milan

This itinerary focuses on experiencing Milan’s rich culinary scene while also incorporating some must-see sights and experiences. It can be adjusted based on your interests and dietary needs.

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive in Milan (Milan Malpensa Airport - MXP is recommended) and check into your hotel, perhaps a charming boutique option like Hotel Spadari al Duomo near the iconic Duomo cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic center, starting with a coffee break at a classic Milanese cafe like [Pavè Milano**. Enjoy a traditional “cappuccino e brioche” (coffee and pastry) combo – a perfect introduction to Italian culture!](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187849-d10621353-a_c75-i101321_Food_d10_d10105065-r1057683527.html
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious Milanese dinner at Trattoria Milanese. Try the “Risotto alla Milanese” (saffron risotto), a local specialty.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Visit the Duomo, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. While you’re there, grab a quick breakfast and cappuccino at a cafe near the Piazza del Duomo.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Pinacoteca di Brera, an art gallery with renowned Italian masterpieces. Enjoy a traditional “aperitivo” (pre-dinner drinks and snacks) at a bar in the Navigli district.
  • Things to know: The Duomo is free to enter, but access to the rooftop and Duomo Museum requires tickets.

Day 3:

  • Morning: Visit the Museo del Novecento for an overview of modern Italian art. Enjoy a traditional Milanese lunch in the fashion district, perhaps at Ristorante La Terrazza.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade.

Day 4:

  • Morning: Explore the hidden culinary gems of Milan’s historic Brera district.
  • Things to know: The fashion district is a great place to find unique and stylish restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Day 5:

  • Day trip: Travel to one of the charming towns around Lake Como for breathtaking scenery and a taste of local Italian life. Consider taking a train from Milan to a picturesque town like Bellagio or [Varenna**.
  • Tip: Book your train tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.

Day 6:

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant Milanese nightlife with a visit to the trendy bars and clubs in the Navigli district, known for its charming canals and lively atmosphere.
  • Things to know: The Navigli district is a great place to experience the “Italian aperitivo” tradition, where you enjoy drinks and small snacks (often buffet-style) before dinner.

Day 7:

  • Morning: Enjoy a final leisurely “aperitivo” at a cafe overlooking one of Milan’s beautiful piazzas.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Prada Foundation for a dose of art and culture, or explore the stunning architecture of the Duomo di Milano.

  • Things to do:

    • Day trip: Take a day trip to another charming town in Lombardy.
    • Experience the Milanese “aperitivo” scene: Enjoy a pre-dinner drink and a variety of small plates, often with complimentary aperitifs.

Transportation:

  • Milanese public transport is excellent for getting around. Use the metro (underground) or buses and trams to explore different neighborhoods and attractions.
  • Day Trips: The train system in Lombardy is efficient and affordable. Consider a day trip to one of the picturesque towns around Lake Como, such as Varenna or [Como** itself**, for example: * Take a scenic ferry ride from one village to another. * Explore the charming streets of Bellagio, known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of Lake Como.

Dining:

  • Michelin-starred experiences: For a truly special meal, consider booking a table at one of Milan’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Authentic Trattoria Dining: Enjoy traditional Italian dishes like Ossobuco (braised veal shanks) and Risotto alla Milanese at a local trattoria.

Accommodation:

  • Immerse yourself in the heart of Milan: Consider staying in a hotel near Piazza Duomo for easy access to many attractions.
  • Experience a luxurious stay: “Hotel Teatro della Moda” is a great choice if you want to experience a more upscale side of Milanese cuisine. This stylish hotel near the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the fashion district is a perfect example.

Things to do:

  • Explore the vibrant atmosphere of the “Quadrilatero della Moda”, Milan’s famous fashion district, known for its designer boutiques and high-end restaurants.
  • Visit the Duomo di Milano, a symbol of the city and a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Day trip:

  • Travel by train to the charming town of Varenna. Enjoy exploring the picturesque streets and taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Como.

  • Take a cooking class: Learn how to make authentic Italian dishes from local chefs.

  • Enjoy the nightlife:

Transportation:

  • Book a train or plane ticket:

    • Milanese style:

Day trip:

  • Take a scenic ferry ride across the lake to visit the charming villages of Varenna and Bellagio.

  • Explore the local bars and restaurants: Try their “aperitivo” offerings – drinks and cocktails are a popular way for Milanese to experience the culinary scene.

  • Enjoy a romantic dinner with a view.

  • Visit a rooftop bar or restaurant near the Duomo for breathtaking views of the city, while experiencing the local cuisine.

  • Explore:

Things to consider:

  • Book in advance: Especially if you’re visiting during the peak season (summer).
  • Wear comfortable shoes: Milanese streets are often cobblestone and can be challenging to walk on.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy a delicious “aperitivo”: Milan is known for its “aperitivo” culture, so be sure to experience it firsthand!

Try this:

  • Sample local delicacies: Enjoy a plate of Milanese risotto or indulge in a traditional aperitivo spread.
  • Enjoy the sunset over the Duomo: Find a spot on a rooftop terrace overlooking Piazza del Duomo and enjoy the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the city.

Explore:

  • Take a break from “aperitivo”: Visit a local market like the Mercato Centrale for fresh, local produce and a taste of everyday Milanese life.

  • Enjoy the ambiance:

Day trip:

  • Visit the charming canals of the Lake: Experience the beauty of the Lombardy countryside while taking in the stunning views of the lake from the water.
  • Experience the “Aperitivo” culture: Sample aperitivos and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional Milanese bar or restaurant.

Explore:

  • Enjoy the local “aperitivo” experience: Indulge in a variety of delicious Italian appetizers and drinks, and savor the flavors of this unique tradition.
  • Try a “spritz” cocktail: A popular choice for enjoying the “aperitivo” culture is to enjoy a spritz at one of the many bars in the city.

Things to consider:

  • Travel during the off-season: Enjoy the quieter, more charming side of Milan with fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.

  • Learn about the history of “aperitivo”: Understanding its origins and evolution can enhance your appreciation for the tradition.

  • Embrace the Italian lifestyle: Enjoy the delicious food and drinks while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Lake Como.

  • Indulge in a traditional Milanese meal: Consider visiting one of the local “trattorias” or restaurants near the lake for a taste of authentic Italian cuisine.

  • Enjoy the “aperitivo” experience:

Things to enjoy:

  • Enjoy the scenery: Take a stroll through the Piazza del Duomo and admire the architectural marvels, including the breathtaking facade of the Duomo di Milano.
  • Experience the local culture:

Try a “Aperitivo” at a traditional “aperitivo” bar and enjoy their unique offerings.

  • Enjoy a variety of “aperitivos”: Explore the diverse flavors of Milanese cuisine, from savory snacks to sweet treats.

  • Indulge in the aperitivo tradition: Embrace the opportunity to socialize and sample delicious food and drinks at a local bar or cafe.

Things to consider:

  • Embrace the Italian lifestyle:

Research and enjoy traditional “aperitivo” hours and locations for an authentic “Milanese” experience.

Enjoy a variety of “aperitivo” options:

  • Try different types of cocktails, appetizers, and wines, many of which are unique to the region.
  • Enjoy the ambiance: The charm of Milanese “aperitivo” culture lies not only in the food and drink but also in the social atmosphere.

Try a “spritz” at one of the “aperitivo” bars:

Many offer local variations.

Explore the variety of “aperitivo” experiences:

  • Enjoy:

The charming streets and piazzas of Milan are filled with locals enjoying “aperitivo” in outdoor cafes.

  • Try a traditional “aperitivo” meal:

Enjoy a leisurely experience and enjoy the unique flavors and ingredients of the region.

  • Consider:

Enjoying a delicious “aperitivo” spread at a local bar or restaurant, enjoying the company of other people.

Try a variety of “aperitivo” locations:

  • Local bars: Explore the charm of Milanese bars and enjoy the “aperitivo” experience with a local.
  • Restaurants: Try a “restaurant” like “Pino’s” for a more formal, upscale “aperitivo” experience.
  • Try a “spritz” on a boat:

Enjoy a “spritz” on board while enjoying the breathtaking views of Lake Como.

Enjoying the “Aperitivo” Culture:

Enjoy a local “aperitivo” bar: Enjoy the unique flavors and charm of this region.

  • Embrace the Italian lifestyle:

Enjoy “aperitivo” is a social tradition, enjoy a delicious spread with friends and family.

  • Enjoy a traditional “aperitivo” experience in Milan:

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of “apritiovo” bars, where you can enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks.

  • Experience the local culture:

Enjoy a “spritz” and mingle with the locals.

Enjoy the ambiance:

  • Enjoy a traditional “aperitivo” experience:

Enjoy a delicious “aperitivo” at a restaurant with a view, or try a traditional “aperitivo” spot for a taste of this local tradition.

  • Try the local “aperitivo” offerings: Enjoy a variety of Italian wines and cocktails, and enjoy the unique flavors of the region.

Remember:

  • The beauty of Milanese “aperitivo” culture lies in the experience itself, not just the food and drink.

Enjoy the social atmosphere, try a local cocktail and enjoy delicious snacks while you’re there.

  • Try a variety of “aperitivi”: Enjoy

Enjoy the ambiance

Enjoy the experience:

Enjoy the traditional Italian way:

  • Embrace the ambiance:

Enjoy the beauty and variety of the city’s “aperitivo” offerings.

Enjoy a range of experiences:

  • Enjoy local specialties like: “Risotto alla milanese” (with saffron), “arancini” (fried rice balls) and “spritz” with a variety of “cicchetti” (small snacks) on top.

Enjoy the stunning views: Enjoy a “spritz” by enjoying a traditional Italian “aperitivo” experience,

such as a spritz at a cafe with a view of the Duomo di Milano.

Enjoy a local aperitivo: Try a variety of delicious Italian food and drinks

What to do:

  • Enjoy a “spritz” at a local bar and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Enjoy a range of traditional Venetian “aperitivi”

Enjoy the history:

The tradition of “aperitivo” is rooted in Milanese culture and dates back to the 18th century, so it’s worth learning about its origins.

Enjoy a glass of wine (or two) while enjoying the unique experiences:

  • Try a local wine bar: Enjoy a delicious “spritz” with a selection of savory “cicchetti”.
  • Explore: Enjoy the food and drink pairings, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Remember:

Enjoy a variety of Italian “aperitivo” snacks.

Enjoy a beautiful “Aperitivo” experience:

  • Try enjoying: a “spritz” with a view at a bar offering a selection of cicchetti.

Enjoy a “traditional” “aperitivo” experience – enjoy the local culture!

A taste of the past: Enjoy a “traditional” Venetian “aperitivo”

Enjoy a delicious “aperitivo” (a light meal and drinks enjoyed before dinner) with a variety of traditional Italian Aperitivo

Try a few different “spritz” variations:

The city of Milan, the heart of Lombardy, offers a range of traditional Italian “spritz” experiences.

Enjoy the views:

Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Duomo while enjoying a “Aperitivo”.

Enjoy the history and architecture:

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the canals, or try a refreshing “aperitivo” experience at a cafe overlooking the beautiful Duomo**.

  • Enjoy the ambiance:

Enjoy the stunning views of the Duomo.

  • Enjoy a delicious “aperitivo” in a charming setting like a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the lake and cityscape.

Exploring the local culture:

  • Enjoying the culinary delights of Milan, while reading about its history.

  • Explore:

  • Try a “spritz” on the canals

Enjoy the ambiance of a Venetian “aperitivo” bar,

enjoying the beautiful views of the Duomo and the canals

Enjoy: the experience.

Remember that many “aperitivo” bars in Milan offer complimentary snacks with your drinks.

Enjoy the local Italian “aperitivo”

  • Try a “traditional” “Aperitivo” at a bar serving delicious “cicchetti” (small snacks)

to enjoy a traditional “aperitivo” :

  • Enjoying a “spritz” with a variety of snacks and drinks.

  • A formal “Aperitivo” is not just about the drink, but also the experience.

  • Enjoy a refreshing “Aperitivo”: Enjoy a complimentary “Aperitivo” spread at a bar or restaurant.

Remember:

The tradition of “aperitivo”

is a relaxed and social affair. Enjoy the ambiance and enjoy a variety of “aperitivi”

with a “spritz” and a selection of appetizers. *

Enjoy a traditional “Aperitivo” experience at a local bar in Milan.

Try a variety:

A few popular options for enjoying a more casual “aperitivo”

experience:

  • Enjoy the views:

Enjoy a traditional aperitivo with complimentary snacks and drinks.

  • Enjoy a “spritz”:

enjoy this tradition, try a different variety of “spritz”

Try a traditional “Aperitivo” experience:

  • Enjoy the unique flavors and atmosphere of an Italian “aperitivo”

Explore:

Think about:

  • Enjoy the ambiance and local culture.

Enjoy the views

  • Enjoy the Duomo, a breathtaking architectural masterpiece.

  • Enjoy the canals

Try to enjoy:

  • Try the “Aperitivo”

at a bar or restaurant

that

offers a variety of “aperitivi”

for dinner

  • Explore the local “cicchetti” (small snacks) culture.

Enjoy the traditional flavors and ambiance:

Find a rooftop terrace with stunning views:

  • Enjoy the view from a rooftop bar.

Enjoy a “spitz” cocktail at a charming cafe near the canals, while enjoying a delicious “aperitivo” spread

Explore:

For a unique “Aperitivo” experience, enjoy a variety of “traditional” drinks and snacks:

  • Wine tasting: Enjoy a wine tasting event with a variety of “traditional” Italian wines.

Enjoy the ambiance:

Try a traditional Aperitivo:

Explore:

  • A variety of local bars and restaurants in Milan, as many offer complimentary “aperitivo”

with unique flavors and ingredients that

will reflect your “Aperitivo” experience

and enjoy the beautiful “Aperitivo” culture.

Enjoy a delicious aperitivo with the locals while enjoying the ambiance.

Explore the history:

  • Enjoy the local “cicchetti”:

Embrace the ambiance of Milanese restaurants and bars offering unique “aperitivo” experiences,

such as:

Try a “traditional” Italian Aperitivo experience in Milan.

Enjoy a variety of “traditional” snacks: These are often small bites designed to be paired with specific drinks.

  • Embrace the “spritz” culture by enjoying the unique taste and flavors

of the Italian

city**:

Enjoy the ambiance of a cafe or bar,

and enjoy the variety of drinks and delicious

“food”.

Enjoy the ambiance

  • Enjoy a traditional “aperitivo” experience at a local restaurant.

Enjoy an “Aperitivo” on a boat ride

Embrace the ambiance by enjoying a delicious Aperitivo.

Enjoy:

  • Enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks,

enjoying a traditional “aperitivo”

experience.

Enjoy a variety of “cicchetti”:

You can enjoy a refreshing Aperitivo

in a charming setting. *

Enjoy a “traditional” “Aperitivo”:

Enjoy the ambiance of the local bar scene

while enjoying