If you only have 24 hours in Milan, Italy, then here’s the perfect itinerary for you. This list covers the must visit attractions and sights as well as dining options (includes pizza and gelato), which completes a great Italian adventure! *I also took into consideration the locations of the following places so this itinerary can be changed to your liking. However, the order in which it appears is the easiest to follow and most convenient in terms of location.

24 HOURS IN MILAN, ITALY

ARCO DELLA PACE

Arco della Pace is a historical landmark and is a great place to start a full day in Milan. Also known as the “arch of peace”, this triumphant arch is located at Porta Sempione, one of Milan’s many city gates. The arch was built under Napoleon’s rule of the short-lived Italian Republic (1802–1805) to echo the Arc du Triomphe in Paris.

Make sure you admire the arch from both sides and walk towards it to admire the details. This is also located right by Sempione Park, as it’s only an 8 minute walk. Feel free to grab a coffee and walk around leisurely. The park is beautiful and this is a great introduction to what the city has to offer!

DUOMO DI MILANO

Duomo di Milano is what probably comes to mind when you think of Milan. And if there’s one thing you must do if you’re in Milan, it’s to visit this beautiful cathedral and attraction. The church is said to have the highest number of statues out of any church in the world! Its façade is exceptionally intricate with statues of human and divine figures as well as gargoyles. They say there are over 4000 statues on it and 135 spires. If you walk up closely, you can see all the beautiful details and it’s hard not to be mesmerized by the stunning features. I couldn’t help, but admire how this cathedral was built and all the effort that went into it.

Not only is the exterior jaw dropping, but so is the interior. There are different ticket options that provide you access to the cathedral, the archeological museum, and the rooftop access. You can also choose to take a lift or the stairs. The stairs is definitely a journey but also one that offers fantastic views of the city along the way. I love staying active while I’m on vacation so I chose the stairs option as well as access to all the features including the cathedral and archeological museum. If you’re going to visit Duomo Di Milano, why not do it all?

 *If you want an easier access, make sure you book tickets online as that cuts the wait time!

GALLERIA VITTORIO EMANUELE II

After you finish admiring the Duomo di Milano, you might need a break. Whether that’s to shop or grab a bite, you can do so at The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is literally a minute away. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery and a major landmark of Milan.  The Galleria connects two of Milan’s most famous landmarks: The Duomo and the Teatro Alla Scala, so this is a great idea to visit all three in one trip. 

Upon arrival, you will surely admire the triumphal arch entrance, the iron-and-glass architecture and the stunning dome roof. The arcade principally contains luxury retailers selling haute couture, jewelry, books and paintings, as well as restaurants, cafés, bars, and a hotel, the Town House Galleria. This space is great for photos, dining and shopping! I spent an hour here, just roaming around and admiring the ceiling. It does get extremely crowded here since it’s a major attraction, but know that this is all part of the Milan experience!

PIZ

Piz is a popular pizza restaurant in Milan and is only 7 minute walk from Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Duomo. The space is decorated brightly with outdoor and indoor seating. It’s also popular amongst tourists and locals because the pizza speaks for itself. Don’t get discouraged if there’s a line because it does move quickly. Make sure you come hungry and get ready to have a personal pizza to yourself! *Also note that they have a lunch break from 3-7 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly.

THE LAST SUPPER

After feeling satisfied and full, you will then see The Last Supper, which is a must visit in Milan! For those that don’t know, it houses Leonardo Da Vinci’s mural renaissance, The Last Supper, painted in the late 15th century. The painting itself is breathtaking and when you walk up to see it, you will be shocked by how massive it is and how much attention to detail there is. It’s truly a memorable experience and one to not miss!

Tickets are required and they sell out way in advance so I highly recommend booking them ASAP. Make sure you arrive 30 minutes before your time slot and bring your ID and voucher. You will join others in a small group and get 15 minutes to admire the masterpiece.

NAVILGI

You will end the day at Navigli, which is a neighbouhood filled with quirky bars, gourmet restaurants and riverside boutiques. Home to the last of Milan’s arterial waterways, this romantic canal district has plenty of history, style and charm. I am adding this as the last spot of the itinerary because it’s a great way to relax and unwind. This district also has resemblances to Venice and Amsterdam due to the beautiful canals. You can get gelato at Amorino like I did, roam around the shops and simply bask in the sunset views. It’s extremely peaceful and romantic and highly recommend visiting! This is also a great way to reflect on the day and embrace the beautiful city of Milan.

*Bookmark this page for your next Milan trip and book your Italy vacations here.