Milan’s top tourist attractions to see on a quick layover

I lived in Milan for more than two years and despite its reputation as a high-powered business destination, there really are a few great sites to see, especially on a quick layover in Milan. For most, it’s just a layover destination as they connect to Venice or Florence. But here are a few reasons why spending a day in the world’s fashion capital is worth it.

Milan, a city in northern Italy and the capital of the Lombardy region, is globally recognized for its rich history, cultural heritage, and economic influence. The city is distinguished by its breathtaking sights, including the monumental Duomo di Milano, a Gothic masterpiece renowned for its intricate architecture and towering spires. The historic Sforza Castle, now home to museums and art collections, stands as a reminder of Milan’s storied past. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant 19th-century shopping arcade, captivates visitors with its stunning glass and iron structure. Milan also boasts a wealth of cultural institutions such as the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology. For leisure and recreation, the sprawling green spaces of Parco Sempione and the modern CityLife Park offer respite from the bustling city. Beyond its cultural and historical significance, Milan is a powerhouse in the world of fashion, housing prestigious brands like Prada, Armani, and Versace, and serving as the prestigious host of Milan Fashion Week. Delving into Milan’s culinary scene reveals a blend of traditional and contemporary delights, where signature dishes like risotto alla Milanese and ossobuco showcase the city’s gastronomic prowess.

Milan’s Malpensa airport is one of the major European airports and sometimes, it’s cheaper to fly through Milan than Rome.

What to do on a short layover in Milan

Coffee
Start your day at an authentic Italian coffee bar. If you want to blend in with the locals, order your coffee properly. There’s no such thing as American coffee and you can’t have a cappuccino after 11am. And don’t sit at a table (you’ll be charged to sit down). Stand at the bar along with the rest of the Italians.

The Last Supper
Perhaps the most famous, and overlooked, tourist attraction in Milan is Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. You’ll need an appointment to see this world famous fresco so if you have a layover in Milan, make plans in advance. Only small groups of 20 people are allowed in every 15 minutes (also be sure to request an English guide). It is recommended that you book tickets at least two months in advance.

Duomo
You can’t miss Northern Italy’s iconic site in the city center, Piazza del Duomo. Milan’s Duomo is the third largest church in all of Europe and took more than 500 years to construct with its imposing white marble facade. The interior is magnificent and as they say in Italy, “look up”, at the spectacular ceiling. Climb the stair to the rooftop for 360º vistas of the entire city.

Shopping
If window shopping was an Olympic event, Milan’s famed fashion district would take gold. Stroll along  Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga where you’ll find the world’s most famous designer storefronts including Prada, Bulgari, Tod’s, Hermes, Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana.

There are some really beautiful luxury hotels in Milan but also affordable hotels in Milan.

Food
If foodies had a playground, it would be Peck, located on Via Spadari, just a few blocks from the Duomo. Just like the Milanese, the food at the deli-style counters is presented in high fashion with displays that are works of art. Enjoy a light lunch in the café on the top level and be sure to visit the underground wine cellar, featuring some of the world’s most exotic, and expensive, wines.

La Scala
Spend the afternoon at La Scala, the world-renowned opera house built in 1778 that has hosted performances of Rossini, Puccini, Verdi and Toscanini. You can take a guided tour of the performance venue and visit the museum to see artifacts and learn about the history of opera.

Giardini Pubblici
Unwind your day with a walk through Milan’s largest public garden. It’s where Milanese while away their afternoon by strolling through the tree canopies and enjoying a gelato. The garden is also home to the Natural History Museum and Planetarium.

Aperitivo
End your day of Milanese exploration at one of the many coffee bars for aperitivo. It’s the Milanese version of happy hour where you can enjoy a glass of Barolo and help yourself to an expansive spread of tapas.