Milan on a Budget: The Ultimate 5-Day Guide

Live La Dolce Vita on a Budget: Explore Milan, Italy.

21 June 2023

Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, offers plenty of affordable options for a budget-friendly trip. With cheap accommodations in the main city center and mouth-watering street food, travelers can experience the city's art scene, historic landmarks, and shopping districts without breaking the bank. From touring the stunning Duomo cathedral to browsing the local markets, Milan is a great destination for travelers on a tight budget.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Milan!

  • Check-in at Ostello Bello Grande and explore the lively nightlife of Navigli
  • Have traditional Milanese risotto for dinner at Ratanà
  • Take a stroll in Parco Sempione and watch the sunset at Arco della Pace
  • Visit the iconic Piazza del Duomo, and climb up to the rooftop of the Cathedral
  • Enjoy a cocktail at Terrazza Aperol with a view of the illuminated Duomo
Day 2

Fashion and Art

  • Breakfast at Panini Durini and shop at the high-end boutiques of Via Monte Napoleone
  • Visit the world-famous painting 'The Last Supper' at the Santa Maria delle Grazie church
  • Get immersed in modern art at Fondazione Prada
  • Have lunch at Pavilion Milano, a concept store cum restaurant
  • Visit the contemporary art exhibitions in PAC
  • Enjoy a gelato at the renowned gelateria, Grom
Day 3

Historic Milan

  • Start the day by having coffee and croissants at the historic Pasticceria Marchesi
  • Walk through the cobbled streets of Brera and enjoy the artistic vibes
  • Visit the Castello Sforzesco, a magnificent Renaissance castle
  • Have lunch at Da Abele, a traditional trattoria
  • Walk through the grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and try the famous panzerotti at Luini
  • Head to Casa Museo Boschi-Di Stefano and admire the collections of Italian art
Day 4

Day Trip to Bergamo

  • Take a train to the beautiful city of Bergamo
  • Walk through the medieval streets of Città Alta and admire the views of the city
  • Have a traditional Bergamo polenta e osei at Da Mimmo
  • Visit the Galleria d'Arte Moderna e Contemporanea and admire the works of contemporary artists
  • Enjoy a sunset drink at La Marianna
Day 5

Farewell Milan

  • Have a traditional Milanese breakfast at Pasticceria Meraviglia
  • Visit the 15th-century church of Sant'Eustorgio and its beautiful cloisters
  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Porta Venezia Park
  • Savor Italian pizza at Spontini
  • Take a train or bus from Centrale Station and bid adieu to the wonderful Milan.

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.

More travel plans

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Milan, Italy is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Enjoy a romantic stroll through the beautiful Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli park or take in the city's stunning architecture at the iconic Duomo di Milano. End the day with a romantic dinner at one of Milan's many intimate restaurants, where you can savor a delicious meal paired with a local wine.

A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure in Milan

Milan is a vibrant city in Italy that offers a perfect balance between culture, history, and family-friendly attractions. Families can explore iconic landmarks such as the historic Duomo di Milano and enjoy a visit to the renowned Leonardo da Vinci Museum. Milan also boasts beautiful parks and gardens like Parco Sempione, providing an ideal setting for leisurely walks and picnic outings for families to enjoy together.

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A romantic trip to Milan, Italy, offers a perfect blend of culture, history and modernity. There is an abundance of charming cafes, restaurants and bars to indulge in Italian cuisine while admiring the stunning architecture and art. The enchanting city also boasts designer shops, luxurious hotels and tranquil parks, making it the ideal destination for a couples' getaway.

Milan on a Budget: 2 Days of Fun

Visiting Milan, Italy on a tight budget is possible and starts with finding affordable accommodation options, such as hostels or budget hotels. The city is dotted with free attractions, including stunning architecture, historical sites, and beautiful parks, making it easy to explore without breaking the bank. For cheap eats, visit local cafes or markets where you can savor Milan’s delicious street food delicacies.