The Winter Olympics are about a week away. That’s a great excuse to visit Milan, Italy’s fashion capital. Even if you’re the most enthusiastic winter sports fan, you should have a day or two to spare to explore the city.
The good news is most places worth visiting in Milan are within a relatively short radius, so you can dedicate a day to seeing the best of the city. Here’s how you can spend your day in Milan without feeling like you missed something major.
Where to Stay
There is no shortage of prestigious hotels in Milan, but if you want a specific recommendation, the Excelsior Hotel Gallia is a great choice. The décor here is exceptional, and the service is as good as any other 5-star hotel in the city. The hotel's exterior has a dual personality, with a contemporary section by Marco Piva and a grand Art Deco section.
As you step into the reception area, you’re welcomed by a beautiful stairwell and cozy host area to make you feel comfortable before you even make it to your room. Speaking of the rooms, each one is tastefully done in a contemporary style, with bathrooms finished in choice marble.
The hotel also boasts of the largest hotel suite in Italy, named the Katara Royal Suite. The 4-bedroom suite spans 1000 square meters and includes indulgences like a whirlpool, two terraces, and soundproof windows. If you need to spoil yourself, this is the place to do it.
Other amenities in the hotel include a two-floor Shiseido Spa and Terrazza Gallia Bar & Restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and aperitivo.
Parco Sempione
Start your day in Parco Sempione, a lively park that has two of Milan’s best-known landmarks at opposite ends. Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace) is an imposing neoclassical arch on the west side of the park. It was commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate his battlefield victories, but has since been modified to symbolize peace.
Castello Sforzesco is a 15th-century fortress complete with a moat (which is now dry). It now houses museums, so it is the perfect place for history and art buffs. Between these landmarks is the park's open space, which is great for an early-morning jog or a walk. Close to the arch, you’ll find many cafes where you can enjoy authentic Italian coffee. Be wary of the pigeons in this area, though. They are not afraid to snatch food off your plate.
Pinacoteca di Brera
Art lovers should find a way to squeeze Pinacoteca di Brera into their itinerary. The Baroque-era building is not far from Castello Sforzesco, and it houses artwork spanning eight centuries. Opened in 1809 during the period of Napoleon’s reign, its affiliation with influential donors has allowed the gallery to expand its collection.
Gems you’ll find here include Andrea Mantegna’s ‘The Dead Christ and Three Mourners’, ‘The Kiss’ by Francesco Hayez, and ‘The Finding of the Body of Saint Mark’ by Jacopo Robusti.
Santa Maria Delle Grazie
Santa Maria Delle Grazie may not look like a compelling place to visit from the outside. However, within the property lies arguably one of the best-known paintings on the planet: Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper.
That’s a piece of art you won’t want to miss during your trip. If seeing the piece is high on your priority list, booking in advance is the only way to guarantee a viewing. Tickets often sell out, especially during peak periods.
Duomo di Milano & Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
If you can only spare time to visit one place in Milan, Duomo di Milano is the place to go. The 109,641 sq ft Gothic church is synonymous with the city. Beyond enjoying the artistic brilliance of the church, you can also take some time for a bit of retail therapy at the high-end stores housed in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The shopping haven is right next to the church.
The shopping mall has outlets for many of the best luxury brands, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Saint Laurent. It is a sight to behold as its ornate design, vaulted ceilings, and glass dome attract tourists practically year-round.
As a bonus, the iconic restaurants in and around the mall offer good options for authentic Italian cuisine. If you find the historical relevance of an eatery intriguing, Savani Milano is the right place for you. Opened in 1867, the restaurant celebrates its Belle Époque roots and boasts high-profile past patrons such as Henry Ford, Frank Sinatra, and Carla Fracci.
Teatro alla Scala
If you’re into theatrical performances, what better way to end your day than at the opera? Teatro alla Scala opened its doors in 1778 and continues to host top performances. Knowledgeable fans would know that the first performance at the opera house was Antonio Salieri's Europa Riconosciuta.
Other benefits of ending your day here include visiting the in-house Museo Teatrale alla Scalla which hosts many artistic gems. Outside, you have Piazza della Scala with an imposing statue of Leonardo da Vinci. The perfect site to end a day filled with history, culture, and art.
