Ah Milan—the Italian captial of fashion, business, religion and history all so synergistically intertwined. Milan is arguably Italy’s metropolitan and cultural capital. When I decided to take a day trip from Florence to Northern Italy, I knew that I had to add stylish Milan to my itinerary. Although I didn’t get to stay overnight, I packed a lot into my day in Milan and completely fell in love. I hope these travel tips will help you make the most of 24 hours well spent in the fashion capital of the world!
The Milan Short List
Explore + Photograph
- Duomo
- Piazza del Duomo
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
- Teatro alla Scala
- Piazza della Scala
- The Last Supper
- Sforza Castle
- Pinacoteca Ambrosiana
- Leonardo da Vinci National Science and Technology Museum
- Brera Art Gallery
What to Wear in Milan
Things to do in Milan
Duomo
Milan’s Duomo is the highlight of the city. This stunning church is the largest church in Western Europe and one of the most awe-inspiring buildings in Europe. If you only have time to visit one major attraction in Milan, choose the Duomo. I highly recommend purchasing tickets with the roof access add-on. The views from the rooftop of the Duomo are ethereal and unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before. You’ll feel like you’re in The Hunchback of Notre Dame overlooking Milan from above. Duomo tickets are available for purchase here.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
This elegant mall is the oldest in Italy, and a Milanese landmark. The mall was constructed in the nineteenth-century arcade style, covered by a glass ceiling and home to several luxury boutiques. The galleria is the perfect place in Milan to window shop and snap a few photos. Conveniently enough, the galleria is directly adjacent to the Duomo.
Teatro alla Scala
This stunning opera house with a rich history was one of my favorite places I visited during my European summer. Teatro alla Scala is world-famous as one of the greatest opera houses in the world. The museum, Museo Teatrale alla Scala, holds artifacts and personal mementos from famous opera stars and composers. You can even see hand-written compositions by Mozart! One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to listen in on a live rehearsal by the performers. If you are a classical music lover, Teatro alla Scala can’t be missed. I so wished I had the opportunity to see a show here; the performances are rumored to be legendary. You can purchase admission to Museo Teatrale alla Scala here and tickets to an opera performance here.