3 Days in Milan Itinerary
Art, fashion, and a stunning Lake Como day trip
Milan is Italy's fashion and finance capital, but it offers far more than designer shopping. The city boasts Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals, and excellent family-friendly museums. Add a day trip to Lake Como's breathtaking scenery, and you have the perfect three-day Italian escape that balances culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
Day 1: Duomo & Historic Centre
Day 1: Gothic Grandeur & Galleria Glamour
Duomo di Milano
Milan's magnificent Gothic cathedral took nearly 600 years to complete. Explore the interior first, then climb to the rooftop terraces for close-up views of the spires and city panoramas.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Step into Italy's oldest shopping mall, a stunning 19th-century glass-roofed arcade. Admire the architecture and window-shop at Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton.
Lunch near Duomo
Try panzerotti (fried dough pockets) from Luini - a Milan institution since 1888. Or sit for pasta at one of the restaurants in the surrounding streets. Avoid the Piazza Duomo tourist traps.
Museo del Novecento
This modern art museum in the Palazzo dell'Arengario overlooks Piazza del Duomo. Excellent collection of 20th-century Italian art including Futurism and works by Modigliani.
Navigli District
Head to Milan's canal district for aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks with free snacks) and dinner. The waterside restaurants are atmospheric and families are welcome early evening.
Duomo Dress Code
Shoulders and knees must be covered for cathedral entry. Pack a light scarf or cardigan. Security lines can be long - arrive early or book skip-the-line tickets.
Day 2: Last Supper & Sforza Castle
Day 2: Leonardo's Masterpiece & Renaissance Power
The Last Supper (Cenacolo Vinciano)
Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece is in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Only 25 people enter every 15 minutes, so advance booking is essential - often 2-3 months ahead.
Santa Maria delle Grazie Church
After viewing The Last Supper, explore the beautiful Renaissance church itself. The domed tribune was designed by Bramante.
Lunch in Corso Magenta area
This elegant neighbourhood has excellent restaurants. Try risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto) or cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet) for local specialities.
Sforza Castle & Museums
Explore the vast 15th-century fortress of the Sforza dukes. Multiple museums inside include art (with Michelangelo's final sculpture), furniture, and musical instruments.
Parco Sempione
Behind the castle, this large park offers green space, playgrounds, and the Arch of Peace. Perfect for a gelato break and letting kids burn energy.
Dinner in Brera
The charming Brera district has cobbled streets, art galleries, and excellent restaurants. Wander and choose somewhere that takes your fancy.
Last Supper Booking
Tickets sell out 2-3 months in advance. Book at vivaticket.it as soon as your dates are confirmed. Alternatively, guided tours include guaranteed entry but cost more.
Day 3: Lake Como Day Trip
Day 3: Alpine Lakes & Celebrity Villas
Train to Varenna
Catch a train from Milano Centrale to Varenna-Esino. Trains run hourly. Varenna is a charming lakeside village with colourful houses tumbling down to the water.
Explore Varenna
Walk the Lovers' Walk (Passeggiata degli Innamorati), a romantic lakeside path. Visit Villa Monastero's beautiful gardens cascading down to the lake.
Lunch in Varenna
Eat at one of the waterfront restaurants with views across to Bellagio. Fresh lake fish is the specialty. Al Prato is family-friendly with a terrace.
Ferry to Bellagio
Take the ferry across to Bellagio, the pearl of Lake Como. Wander the steep lanes lined with boutiques, enjoy gelato, and soak up the atmosphere.
Villa Melzi Gardens (optional)
If time allows, these beautiful lakeside gardens have azaleas, ancient trees, and Japanese influences. Peaceful and photogenic.
Return to Milan
Take the ferry back to Varenna (or direct ferry to Como town) and train to Milan. Grab a quick dinner near the station or in Navigli before your final night.
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Build My Packing ListLake Como Options
Como town is closer (40 mins by train) but Varenna and Bellagio are more picturesque. If time is tight, take the funicular up Brunate from Como for views without the full day trip.
Practical Tips for Milan with Kids
- Language - Italian, but English widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger people.
- Currency - Euro. Cards accepted almost everywhere.
- Public transport - Efficient metro (4 lines), trams and buses. Day tickets 7 EUR, 3-day tickets 12 EUR. Children under 6 free.
- Meal times - Lunch 12:30-2:30pm, dinner from 7:30pm. Many restaurants close between services.
- Aperitivo - Pre-dinner drinks (6-9pm) often include free buffet food. Families welcome at early hours.
- Tipping - Service included (coperto covers bread/service). Small tips for excellent service appreciated.
Where to Stay with Kids
Best areas for families:
- Duomo/Centro - Most central, walking distance to major sites, but expensive and busy
- Brera - Charming, artistic neighbourhood, great restaurants, slightly quieter
- Navigli - Canal district, lively atmosphere, excellent food scene, some evening noise
- Porta Romana - Southern area, more local feel, good value, metro access
Station Area
Hotels near Milano Centrale station offer good value and easy day trip access. The area is safe but less characterful than the centre.
Budget Guide
Milan is one of Italy's more expensive cities, but many attractions are free for children. A family of four can expect:
- Accommodation - 100-180 GBP/night for a family room or central apartment
- Meals - 60-100 GBP/day (panzerotti and pizza slices help manage costs)
- Attractions - 30-50 GBP/day for family entrance fees (under 18 free at state museums)
- Lake Como day trip - 60-90 GBP including trains, ferries, lunch and gelato
Free for Under 18s
Italian state museums are free for EU citizens under 18. Bring ID. This includes the Last Supper, Sforza Castle museums, and Brera Pinacoteca.
Getting There
Milan has three airports. Malpensa (MXP) is the main international hub with direct flights from all UK airports (2 hour flight). Linate (LIN) is closer to the city for European flights. Bergamo (BGY) serves budget airlines.
From Malpensa, the Malpensa Express train reaches Milano Centrale in 50 minutes for 13 EUR. Buses and taxis are also available. From Linate, bus 73 connects to the metro in 25 minutes.
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