Milan is Italy's most modern city, the country's fashion and finance capital. But beneath the sleek surface lies Renaissance art, Gothic architecture, and a food scene that rivals any in Italy. The Last Supper alone justifies the trip, and the aperitivo culture makes happy hour an art form. Milan is often overlooked for Rome or Florence, which means fewer crowds and a more authentic Italian experience. The city serves as a gateway to the lakes, the Alps, and all of Northern Italy. Flight deals to Milan are common, especially on budget carriers.
Best Time to Fly to Milan
Peak Season
April through June and September through October see fashion weeks and design events. August sees Milanese flee the heat, leaving some restaurants closed.
Off Season (Best Deals)
November through March is cooler but less crowded. January has fashion week. December has festive decorations and fewer tourists.
Spring (April to May) brings pleasant 55-70°F. Summer (June to August) is hot at 80-90°F and humid. Fall (September to October) offers warm 60-75°F. Winter (November to March) is cold and foggy at 35-45°F.
💡Book 2-3 months ahead for fashion weeks. Book Last Supper tickets 3 months in advance; they sell out immediately.
Cheapest Months to Fly to Milan
Cheapest Months
January, February, November
Most Expensive
April, June, September (fashion week)
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Must-Try Foods in Milan
Risotto alla Milanese
Creamy saffron risotto is Milan's signature dish. The saffron gives it a golden color and subtle flavor. Traditional versions come with ossobuco (braised veal shank). Find it at classic restaurants like Trattoria Masuelli.
$18-28
Aperitivo
Milan's happy hour tradition includes a drink plus unlimited buffet snacks for one price. Start around 6pm at spots like Mag Cafe or Nottingham Forest. It can replace dinner if you graze strategically. A Milanese essential.
$10-15
Panzerotti
These fried dough pockets filled with mozzarella and tomato are Milan's street food staple. Luini near the Duomo has lines around the block for good reason. Cheap, delicious, and perfectly portable.
$3-5
Top Attractions in Milan
The Last Supper (Cenacolo)
Leonardo's masterpiece in Santa Maria delle Grazie is a bucket-list experience. Tickets sell out 3 months ahead; book the moment they release. The 15-minute viewing slot is tightly controlled but unforgettable.
Duomo di Milano
Milan's Gothic cathedral took 600 years to build and the result is spectacular. Climb to the rooftop terraces for stunning city views and up-close gargoyles. The interior is free; the roof costs extra but is worth it.
Navigli District
Milan's canal district comes alive at night with bars, restaurants, and a young local crowd. The Sunday antique market along the canals is excellent. This is where Milanese nightlife happens.
Daily Costs in Milan
Milan is moderate for Italy. Fashion and design can be expensive, but eating well is affordable. Aperitivo culture means free food with drinks. Coffee at the bar is still just a euro or two.
Accommodation (per night, pick one)
Budget
$70-110
Mid-Range
$130-220
Airbnb
$80-150
Food (per day)
Street Meal
$5-12
Restaurant
$18-35
Coffee
$1-3
Transport
Local Transport
$2-3/ride
Comfortable Daily Budget
(excluding flights)
$100-160
Getting Around Milan
From the Airport
From Malpensa: Malpensa Express train to Cadorna takes 50 minutes for $15. Buses are cheaper at $10. From Linate: Bus 73 to the center costs just $2.
Getting Around
Milan's metro is efficient with four lines covering the city. Trams add character and coverage. The center is walkable. Bikes and e-scooters are increasingly popular. Taxis are metered and reliable.
Tips
- •Buy a day pass for unlimited metro and tram rides if you're doing serious sightseeing.
- •Aperitivo starts around 6pm and runs until 9pm. Plan your evenings around this Milanese ritual.
Where to Stay in Milan
Duomo / Centro Storico
The historic center around the cathedral has major sights, luxury shopping, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Tourist-heavy but essential. Walking distance to the Last Supper. Start here.
Navigli
The canal district is Milan's nightlife hub with bars, restaurants, and a young local crowd. Aperitivo culture thrives here. Stay for dinner and drinks along the water. Most atmospheric at sunset.
Brera
The artistic quarter has the excellent Pinacoteca di Brera, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. Cobblestone streets and elegant buildings give it a village feel within the city. The most refined neighborhood.
Smart Travel Tips for Milan
FAQs About Flights to Milan
Milan is moderate for Italy. Budget $100-140 per day for comfortable travel. Fashion shopping is expensive but eating well is affordable. Aperitivo culture helps stretch your budget. It's pricier than southern Italy but reasonable overall.
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