Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region in northwest Italy. It is a major traffic hub with 2 international airports and easy access to almost anywhere else you'd want to get in the country. This is how most people experience Milan - either on their way in or their way out, for a night or two. If that's all you ever experience of Milan, you're going to be missing out on a city that has a lot to offer - food from cultures worldwide, the unique bustle of a major Italian metropolitan area, some amazing art and culture, and more.
Milan is simply an incredible city. It blends the old world with the new. As it hasn't resisted modernization as strongly as Rome, Florence, or Venice, it does not get the traditional tourist acclaim. However, it is renowned internationally for fashion, finance, and more. The blend of what was and what is now is fascinating. Modern architecture. The Last Supper. A fantastic metro system that will whisk you anywhere quickly and cheaply. Classic Lombardian cuisine. International flavors you wouldn't at first expect, then when you pause, make complete sense with what Milan is in the international community.
Come to Milan, take a breath, and figure out how to navigate not only where you're going in Italy, but within Milan itself.
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where to stay in Milan
where to stay in Milan
Milan has a plethora of hotels and accommodations to meet every budget and preference. We have stayed in apartments and other hotels in the city, but this was far our favorite hotel. Located directly across from Milan Centrale, Hotel Gallia is stunning. Although we usually don't stay near train stations, or splurge on 5-star hotels, we opted to do both on one of our trips to Milan. We arrived to this hotel on Christmas day, of all days! Beautifully decorated and very festive, it made the holiday even more special. The location in Milan is very convenient, especially if you need to take the train to your next destination, or if you are flying in/out of Malpensa Airport (MXP).
excelsior hotel gallia
If you are flying in/out of Malpensa Airport (MXP), this hotel is an excellent choice if you want a place to rest when you arrive, or if you have a very early departure time. Our experience when leaving Milan has been that our departing flight is always scheduled for 6 o'clock in the morning! Due to the distance of the airport from Milan's city center, it usually makes sense to stay our last night here since the hotel is directly connected to the airport. It is a beautiful hotel with large rooms and great amenities. The hotel has a restaurant which is a better option if you do not want to eat fast food in the airport terminal as your final meal in Milan (although they do have several options in the airport for that too!).
Sheraton Milan Malpensa
Photo Source: Sheraton Milan Malpensa
where to eat in Milan
Milan isn’t always the first city that comes to mind when you think of Italian food, but it absolutely deserves a spot on the culinary map. As Italy’s second-largest city, just behind Rome, Milan’s status as a bustling metropolitan hub brings with it an incredibly diverse dining scene. You’ll find everything from classic Milanese dishes rooted in tradition to modern, innovative cuisine that reimagines what Italian food can be. Plus, Milan offers international flavors that are often hard to come by in other parts of Italy, making it perfect for adventurous eaters. In our opinion, Milan’s food scene is deeply underrated — and well worth exploring.
Best Restaurants in Milan
Via Stoppani near Via Achille Maiocchi is filled with activity; there are several spots for aperitivo, a gelateria (Gelateria LAB - exceptional and we recommend you go there!), a salumeria, and multiple places to eat dinner. We recommend checking out Hosteria di via Stoppani. Although Milan is not typically known for its pasta dishes, there are a few on this menu that are amazing. Try the chitarra (similar to spaghetti), a take on cacio e pepe, which they add shrimp. Not to be missed is their version of cotoletta (veal Milanese), inwhich they add almonds to the crust to add a little bit of ‘crunch’. Hands down the best we've tried. Ever.
Located in the Guastalla neighborhood, this trattoria offers traditional Tuscan and Milanese cuisine, and executes on it flawlessly. It's in a simple setting and upon arrival, you may be expecting no frills. But they surprise you with both a pre-meal aperitif and a pre-dessert digestif. Go here for the classics - osso bucco alla rissotto Milanese, cotoletta alla Milanese, gnocco fritto, ravioli con zucca (a favorite!). Come hungry; their portions are no joke. Try if you can to save room for the dessert - their selections are just as good as the main courses. We really liked their soft mascarpone cake!
This is not only our favorite Chinese restaurant in Milan, but one of our favorites in the world. The restaurant ambiance and service is amazing, they offer an extensive tea menu, and everything on the menu is delicious. The peking duck - a fun experience served with crepes, creates a make your own ‘taco’ with the accompanying veggies and sauce. Try the dim sum - start with the classic Xiao Long Bao - and expand to what strikes your taste buds that day. If you can’t decide, their tasting menu is a selection of all their most popular dishes.
Ristorante Berton is the perfect choice for a special occasion — and it delivers on every level. Located in Milan’s sleek Porta Nuova district, the restaurant embodies the city’s modern, innovative spirit. While an à la carte menu is available, the tasting menus are where Ristorante Berton truly shines. We were fortunate to visit during truffle season, and we certainly got our fill! Expect impeccable service, beautifully crafted dishes that are as stunning to look at as they are to taste, and an evening that feels truly unforgettable. If you happen to dine here during truffle season, do yourself a favor and indulge in at least one truffle dish — or go all in with their special truffle menu, where nearly every course celebrates this decadent ingredient — even dessert!
Paper Moon is an elegant escape in the heart of Milan’s Fashion District. Despite being surrounded by the hustle and bustle, once you step inside, you’ll feel transported to a more serene, sophisticated space — especially if you opt for patio dining, which we highly recommend. While Milan isn’t typically known for its pasta, Paper Moon is the exception. Whether you choose the gnocchi with black truffle or chitarra pasta with seafood, every bite is a delight. Don’t miss the fritto misto, a must-try dish that perfectly rounds out the meal.
On a nondescript corner in Porta Venezia hails a small Korean restaurant that we loved! Their menu has all the traditional Korean fare - jeon, bibimbap, soups, Korean BBQ, and a selection of fried chicken options. We loved the spicy fried chicken and the japchae! Save room for a slice of cheesecake or yakwa (or do what we do.. order both!). Reservations recommended.
Located east of the city center, Dim Sum is another amazing Chinese restaurant in Milan. They offer a large selection of Dim Sum - you can choose a couple for appetizers or make it your entire meal! If you choose to go beyond Dim Sum (and either way you choose, you can’t go wrong), they have a great selection of soups, rice/noodle dishes, and prepared meats to choose from.
Opening his second Milan location in the Porta Venezia neighborhood, this pizza place is sparking up quite the debate online; it’s not a traditional pizza, and thus does it belong? Famed chef Denis Lovatel uses high-end ingredients to make original and innovative recipes. Using those special ingredients doesn’t make this an economical choice for pizza, which is usually the reason pizza is sought out. In the end, is it worth the extra price? We think so! And if you’re craving pizza but looking for something a ‘bit more’ than just the original margherita pizza, Denis should be high on your list to try.
Drinks + Aperitivo in Milan
Camparino in Galleria looks like the places that every travel blog will tell you to avoid - it’s the “food on the main plaza that you’re paying for the view, but the food and drink are no good”. Don’t get us wrong - you’re paying for the people watching and the real estate for sure (this is right next to the Duomo and in the middle of some of the highest end shopping you can find in the world). But there’s a reason this place has been here since 1915. Started by the Campari family (yes, that Campari), this is where the Aperitivo became what it is today. The drinks here are done perfectly, and the accompanying small bites pair well. This is a place to sit and relax, have a nice drink and a small bite while you watch the hustle and bustle all around you. Reservations recommended.
Quick Bites + Street Food in Milan
Chinese street food? Yes, please! Located in the heart of Chinatown, this walk-up restaurant is takeaway only. You can watch all the action in the kitchen and wait for your freshly made dishes are served piping hot! The menu is not extensive; choose from a vegetarian or beef crepe or pork or beef ravioli. Both are made from scratch, amazing, and we recommend trying everything. Our favorite though was the vegetarian crepe!
Panini de Santis makes a really good sandwich. Opening their fist store in 1964, they now have multiple locations around Milan. De Santis offers an extensive menu that will have something for everyone. The sandwiches are made fresh, use top quality ingredients, and they know how to pair the right combinations to give you a quick bite that you won’t soon forget.
Outside of Castle Sforza, this permanent stand offers a wide variety of delicious sandwiches. If the weather is nice, take a seat at a nearby table to enjoy your panino alfresco.
Breakfast + Brunch in Milan
If you’re looking to try something other than your typical brioche filled with albicocca for breakfast, step into Pan Milano. This bakery and breakfast/lunch spot introduces brioches filled with japanese ingredients like matcha and yuzu. Grab a fresh pastry and a latte (matcha, if you prefer!), and enjoy the flavors.
restaurants near Milan
This cozy gem is located in Vigevano, about an hour’s drive from the heart of Milan. For more than 30 years, they have been serving wonderfully prepared, inventive dishes. The duo running the show is amazing - Enrico Gerli is the wizard in the kitchen, and Luisa, his wife, runs front of house. We opted for options from the a la carte menu so we could try multiple dishes. From the bread service to the primi (we highly recommend the risotto), to hearty mains with unique game options and fancy, delicious desserts - you will not be disappointed. We loved the special little touches throughout the meal. They also have rooms on-property if you are looking for a place to stay after you dine! A highly recommended stop.
what to see in Milan
what to see in Milan
Yes, this is going to be the #1 attraction you’ll see listed everywhere for Milano. That means it’s going to be packed with tourists. Even with all the hustle and bustle around, it’s still something to behold. Who had the audacity to try and build a church to fit the entire town? The Milanese, that’s who. The stats are mind blowing - 40,000 capacity, over 3,000 statues, the largest church is Italy; be prepared to be awestruck by its magnificence. It’s worth taking a stroll through the piazza to admire the architecture. Or step inside or make your way to the terrace for the views.
duomo di milano + piazza duomo
In keeping with the inspiring architecture, the Milanese built one of the world’s most beautiful promenades to shop in (at least in our opinion). What is proclaimed to be one of the oldest malls in the world has the highest end fashion mere steps away from the Duomo. Going back to the typical American mall after seeing this will never be the same. Or skip the shopping and enjoy a spritz at Camparino while you people watch!
Painted on a wall inside the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, it’s worth the trip to see one of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous works. Between how the painting was done, the material the painting was done on, the (failed) attempts of restoration, and how close WWII bombings came - it’s pretty much a miracle that the mural has survived at all. Limited crowds are allowed to see the painting, so book early as it consistently sells out. This is one of those masterpieces that words cannot describe how beautiful and amazing this piece of art truly is, and one cannot appreciate it until seen in person.
leonardo da vinci's the last supper
Castello Sforzesco + Parco Sempione
If you’re looking for a place for a peaceful stroll inside the city, consider going to Castello Sforzesco. As you’ve probably figured out, much of Milan is now modern; the business world and 21st century is all around you. One of the best portals into the past (and reminders that Milan is located in Italy) is the castle in the middle of town. There are several museums to peruse if you so choose, however the walk around still allows you to take in the sights and enjoy your walk.
Galleria vittorio emanuele iI
Navigli canals
Incredibly, at one point in the past you could reach Milan by boat from the Adriatic Sea. A system of canals provided transportation. Today, the connectivity to the sea is gone, however, one stretch of the canal has been repurposed. Known for its nightlife, if you make it down to Navigli, you’ll be off the typical path for those travelers that just stop over for a night or two in Milan.
Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
Often called the “Sistine Chapel of Milan”, Chiesa San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a hidden gem just steps from the city's busy center. Behind its simple exterior lies a breathtaking interior covered in Renaissance frescoes. The ceiling is breathtaking! Although admission is free, donations are welcomed to help support restoration and maintenance.
Football at San Siro Stadium
Home to two iconic football clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan, there’s a good chance of catching a game while you’re in town. Opened in 1926, San Siro will celebrate its 100 year anniversary in 2026! This stadium is the largest in Italy, and one of the largest in all of Europe. You’ll have a great experience watching a match here, even if you don’t know terribly too much about the game.
what to drink in Milan
what to drink in Milan
Although not technically invented in Milan (rather, nearby in Novara), this is the quintessential ingredient in many drinks Milan (and Italy in general) is known for. There are so many routes to go - a Campari Spritz, Negroni, Negroni Sbagliato, and the Americano, just to name a few. This is a must try during aperitivo.
campari
what to try in Milan
what to try in Milan
Although it may look similar to the wiener schnitzel, we much prefer the Italian version of the veal cutlet. Maybe that it’s served bone-in, or it’s just something about the butter in Italy. You’ll find that chefs will add their creative flair to the preparation - so just because you’ve had one doesn’t mean you have tried them all! Our all-time favorite is from Hosteria Stoppani.
cotoletta alla milanese
Another to-die-for veal dish, this one coming from the shank (ossobuco translates to braised veal, so you’ve got the literal meaning here). It takes care and time to make ossobuco, so when you find a good one, you know you’ve found a great chef (and they’re all over Milan!). For what is usually a tough cut of meat, you’d never know it as it melts in your mouth and is simply dripping in umami flavor. The ultimate compliment to ossobuco. What sets apart the milanese version is the use of saffron. Just a small amount completely changes the flavor profile, and gives you a different take on risotto that isn’t like any other. You can even eat it by the spoonful without ossobuco.
ossobucco alla milanese
Not that you’d ever get tired of risotto, but if you’d like to try something different that is corn- based rather than rice, polenta is a great choice. Made in a ton of different varieties, from like a bread to more like a porridge, with different additions to change the flavor profile, no two polentas are the same. Look for what stands out in how different chefs prepare theirs!
polenta
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