There are obvious beauty of the city that are given to all, and other secret who like to be discovered. Milan belongs to this species, to the point that it is difficult to establish the reasons of its charm.
From tourist is another matter entirely. First, thanks to its three airports, is easy to reach; not to mention the fact that overflows a year-round cultural events, exhibitions, meetings with fashion and design and, if you’re a shopper, in Milan you will find shops of all kinds and for all budgets. And, if you insist with research, in addition to traditional tourist stops Milano offers an endless amount of hidden corners and neighborhoods to be discovered.
And speaking of tourist stops here are some ideas on what to visit in Milan in a day, if you’re just passing through or if you want to know, however, taking it in small doses.
1 – In the heart
Let’s say you leave the central station. It only takes a few metro stops to get to the heart of the city and see you before my eyes one of the most photographed monuments in all of Europe: the Milan Cathedral. After having visited it in a long, wide and even at the top by climbing on the roof terrace, you just have to look around: you are in one of the most beautiful squares of the city. From there you walk past the bow and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, one of the “social scene” more elegant. Sbucherai in Piazza della Scala, home of the famous Theater and Palazzo Marino, the city hall. From there he goes back and, from Piazza Duomo, begins the path that will lead you to Brera, one of the most beautiful districts of the city.
2 – Brera
Past Cordusio Square and you will come in via Broletto Piazza Carmine, one of those corners where Milan has always given me the impression of not being her either. And to look more like a village, for once. The Brera district runs right behind the square and, in no time at all; you will come to the Art Gallery, where a visit is an absolute must.
After exploring the district continue on Via Garibaldi and Corso Como, two-way, by day, remain quiet, almost sleepy; in the evening, however, they become the center of the most fashionable nightlife, including cocktails and nightclubs. If you want to take a peek at the view of the skyscrapers of Milan, moves faster up to Piazza Gae Aulenti, architectural gem opened in 2012.
3 – The Castello Sforzesco and Parco Sempione
Going back to Via Garibaldi not continue on Via Mercato but turns to the Foro Bonaparte, and soon you will find yourself in front of the entrance of the Castello Sforzesco, one of the city’s landmarks and history where, among museums, libraries and archives will have spoiled for choice. Maybe it’s time to take a relaxing break in Green: know that the Castle is located within one of the most beautiful and famous parks of the city, the Parco Sempione, Milan attended by at all hours, including lunch.
4 – Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Last Supper
You are now very close to one of the favorite destinations for tourists: the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and the Last Supper. Just keep in mind that if you want to admire this masterpiece you absolutely need to book your visit: guided tours do not take place every day and are allowed only 25 people at a time. I advise you not to go to the adventure because it is a fact that you would find in front of you endless files.
Not far from Santa Maria delle Grazie, also on Corso Magenta, you should visit another jewel: the church of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, one of the most beautiful churches in the city, known as the “Chapel of Milan Sistina” for extraordinary frescoes present inside.
5 – The canals and the Columns of San Lorenzo
Not far from the Duomo but at this point the weight of the day could begin to be felt. Get on a tram and rested for the time of the few stops that separate you from via Torino, one of the city’s most frequented shopping in the city (if not chaotic) ever. Percorrila all (quiet, is short) and you will be just a few meters from one of the university nightlife centers, the atmosphere more relaxed and where just a few Euros for a beer or a cocktail: you stand in front of the famous San Lorenzo Columns.
My advice is to walk the whole of Ticino Corso Porta : If you are a lover of craft shops, vintage accessories and, above all, the street art you definitely cannot give it up. From there to the canals is a short step: the Dock starts right from Porta Ticino.
At this point, you just have to play around to discover the shops, courtyards, romantic and local streets for a drink or dinner. You are in one of the most vibrant areas of the city, one of the absolute most characteristic neighborhoods, attended day and night and worthy of being known.
Your day in Milan will be coming to an end but I hope yours is just a goodbye. I have here ready just a few more tips to give you if you ever have the chance to go back. You could, for example, spend an evening in the elegant neighborhood of Porta Romana in Via Marghera or Corso Sempione, all areas rich in clubs and restaurants of all kinds. Or you could visit the neighborhood Island, another place to Milan does not even look like her, one of the most historic districts of the city.
Or, again, discover the beauty of the Monumental Cemetery and that of the Church of Sant’Ambrogio. If you’re in the mood for cultural events you cannot miss one of the many exhibitions, throughout the year, are continuing at the Royal Palace, as well as a visit to the Museum of Science and Technology (one of the largest in Europe) and a walk through the loggias and courtyards of the magnificent headquarters of the State University.