Milan: Art, Fashion, and Food on a Budget!

Discover Milan's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

On a limited budget, a trip to Milan, Italy can still be enjoyable. With free attractions such as the Duomo di Milano cathedral and window shopping in the fashion district, there are plenty of activities to keep busy. To save money on food, head to local markets and cook meals in a hostel or Airbnb.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Milan's Hidden Gems

  • Check into Hotel Bogart: Affordable with cozy rooms and friendly staff
  • Visit Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore: A hidden church with stunning Renaissance frescoes
  • Head to Navigli district for aperitivo: Best place for a pre-dinner drink by the canal
  • Dine at Trattoria Milanese: Traditional Milanese dishes, a charming atmosphere and budget-friendly prices
  • Take a walk in Parco Sempione: Large park in the city center with plenty of greenery and a stunning castle
Day 2

Art, Fashion, and Food

  • Visit Pinacoteca di Brera: Art museum with a vast collection of Italian masterpieces
  • Shop in the Quadrilatero della Moda: The best place for high-fashion shopping in Milan
  • Try a panzerotto for lunch: Fried dough stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other toppings, a Milanese specialty
  • Explore the Piazza del Duomo: Beautiful cathedral and buzzing square with street performers
  • Indulge in some gelato at CioccolatItaliani: One of the best gelato places in Milan
Day 3

Day Trip to Lake Como

  • Take a train to Como: 30-minute ride from Milan with stunning views of the lake and mountains
  • Visit Villa del Balbianello: Gorgeous villa with lush gardens and breathtaking views of the lake
  • Have lunch at Osteria del Gallo: A cozy restaurant serving traditional dishes made with local ingredients
  • Take a boat tour of the lake: An excellent way to explore the picturesque towns and villas on the shores of the lake
  • Catch a train back to Milan in the evening, a beautiful end to an incredible trip

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Milan, Italy by plane is by flying to Milan Malpensa Airport, which is the main international airport in the area. Many major airlines such as Air France, British Airways, and Delta operate flights to this airport.

Car

The best way to get to Milan, Italy by car is by driving from Florence to Milan. The journey takes around 3 hours and there are plenty of rental car options available in both cities, with several parking options in Milan.

Train

The best way to get to Milan, Italy by train is by taking the high-speed train from Rome to Milan. The journey takes around 3 hours and arrives at the Milano Centrale Station, which is located in the heart of the city.

Boat

The best way to get to Milan, Italy by boat is by taking a ferry from Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto in Sicily to Napoli, and then driving from Naples to Milan. It is a long journey, but quite scenic, and there are many interesting stops along the way such as Pompeii, Sorrento, and Rome.

Bus

The best way to get to Milan, Italy by bus is by taking the FlixBus from Paris to Milan. The journey takes around 11 hours and arrives at the Lampugnano Bus Station, which is located in the north-western part of the city.

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As a tourist in Milan, you will be mesmerized by the stunning architecture, world-class museums, and awe-inspiring fashion scene. You can stroll around the Piazza del Duomo and marvel at the magnificent Duomo cathedral or explore the trendy Navigli district which is famous for its picturesque canals, boutiques, and restaurants. You can also take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Lake Como, which is known for its serene scenery and picturesque villages.

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Milan, Italy is a fantastic destination for a family friendly trip, offering a blend of history, culture, and fun activities. Families can explore famous landmarks like the magnificent Duomo di Milano and the historic Sforza Castle. With its world-renowned fashion and shopping scene, Milan offers plenty of opportunities for both parents and children to indulge in retail therapy, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.