Our guide on the Mistakes to Avoid in Milan and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Milan, Italy’s bustling fashion and financial capital, is a city of sophistication, style, and rich history. From iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano to trendy neighborhoods and upscale shopping streets, Milan has a lot to offer. However, navigating this cosmopolitan city can come with its own set of challenges.
Milan is a dynamic and multifaceted city with so much more to offer than its reputation as a fashion capital suggests. By avoiding these common mistakes and exploring beyond the obvious tourist spots, you’ll be able to appreciate Milan’s rich history, vibrant culture, and unique charm.
Here’s a guide to the mistakes to avoid when visiting Milan, along with tips on how to get the most out of your stay.
What Is The Cheapest Way From Milan Malpensa Airport To City Center?
The cheapest way from Milan Malpensa airport to city center is by bus for €8-10 and you can book online. The travel time by bus is around 50-60 minutes to reach Milan Central Station.
Read here how to get from Milan Malpensa Airport to city center and the best Italy sim card for tourist
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Mistakes to Avoid in Milan
1. Only Focusing on Fashion and Shopping
Milan is famous for its fashion and high-end shopping streets like Via Montenapoleone, but this city has much more to offer. Many visitors make the mistake of thinking Milan is all about shopping and miss out on its rich history, art, and culture.
How to Avoid It:
Visit The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, housed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie. Be sure to book tickets weeks in advance as slots fill up quickly.
Explore the Sforza Castle and its museums, which showcase art and artifacts spanning centuries.
Wander through Brera District, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and vibrant atmosphere.
Check out Milan’s many historical churches such as San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, often called the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.”
2. Not Pre-Booking Tickets for Major Attractions
Milan’s top attractions, such as the Duomo, The Last Supper, and the Teatro alla Scala, are incredibly popular, and waiting until the last minute to book tickets often means missing out or spending hours in line.
How to Avoid It:
Book tickets online in advance for the Duomo, including the rooftop terraces.
Reserve a spot for The Last Supper weeks or even months in advance.
If you’re planning to attend an opera at La Scala, book tickets as early as possible, especially for popular performances.
Consider getting the Milan Pass for discounts and fast-track entry to many of the city’s top attractions.
3. Skipping the Duomo Rooftop Terrace
Many visitors are satisfied with just viewing the magnificent Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) from the ground level, but the real magic lies in exploring its rooftop terraces. The view from the top offers stunning perspectives of the cathedral’s intricate spires and breathtaking panoramas of the city.
How to Avoid It:
Purchase a Duomo Rooftop ticket (by stairs or elevator) to explore the terraces.
Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the view during the golden hours.
Don’t forget to visit the Duomo Museum afterward to learn about the history and artistry behind this architectural masterpiece.
4. Ignoring Milan’s Aperitivo Culture
In Milan, aperitivo (the Italian version of happy hour) is a beloved local tradition, where people gather in the early evening to enjoy drinks and an assortment of light snacks. Many visitors miss out on this authentic Milanese experience by sticking only to sit-down dinners.
How to Avoid It:
Head to a trendy bar in Navigli, Porta Venezia, or Brera around 6-8 pm.
Order a Negroni, Aperol Spritz, or Campari and enjoy the complimentary buffet of appetizers, which can include anything from cheese and cured meats to small pasta dishes.
Some of the best spots include Terrazza Aperol near the Duomo, Rita & Cocktails in Navigli, or N’Ombra de Vin in Brera.
5. Overlooking Milan’s Green Spaces
While Milan is known for its fashion streets and museums, it also has beautiful parks and gardens that provide a refreshing break from the city’s busy atmosphere. Many tourists overlook these tranquil spaces and miss out on a different side of the city.
How to Avoid It:
Visit Parco Sempione, a large green space behind the Sforza Castle, perfect for picnics or a leisurely stroll.
Check out the beautiful Giardini Pubblici Indro Montanelli near Porta Venezia.
Explore the Botanical Gardens of Brera, a small but peaceful garden in the heart of the city.
For a more hidden gem, head to the Villa Necchi Campiglio gardens, an elegant villa surrounded by a serene garden.
6. Not Checking Dress Codes for Churches
Some visitors are unaware that Milan’s historic churches, including the Duomo, have a strict dress code, which can lead to being turned away at the entrance.
How to Avoid It:
Dress modestly when visiting churches: shoulders and knees must be covered.
If you’re wearing shorts or sleeveless tops, carry a light scarf or shawl to cover up.
This dress code applies to both men and women, so plan your outfit accordingly if you’re visiting multiple churches.
7. Only Eating in the Tourist Areas
The areas around the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II are filled with restaurants, but they tend to be overpriced and geared towards tourists. Dining only in these areas means missing out on authentic Milanese cuisine.
How to Avoid It:
Venture to neighborhoods like Navigli, Isola, or Porta Romana for local eateries and hidden gems.
Try classic Milanese dishes such as risotto alla Milanese, cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlet), and osso buco.
For street food, head to the local markets like Mercato Centrale Milano or Mercato di Via Fauche.
8. Forgetting About Lesser-Known Museums and Art Galleries
While the Pinacoteca di Brera and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper are must-visits, Milan has many lesser-known museums and art galleries that are equally impressive and often less crowded.
How to Avoid It:
Explore the Museo Poldi Pezzoli, a beautiful house-museum with Renaissance art and antique furnishings.
Visit the Museo del Novecento, which houses an extensive collection of 20th-century Italian art.
Check out the Fondazione Prada, a contemporary art space in a striking architectural complex.
Discover the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology, one of the largest museums dedicated to science and technology.
9. Assuming Milan is Only for a Day Trip
Many travelers think that Milan is just a day trip destination compared to other Italian cities like Rome or Florence. This assumption often leads to a rushed visit, skipping key experiences and attractions.
How to Avoid It:
Spend at least 2-3 days in Milan to explore beyond the main attractions.
Include visits to Navigli, the historic Brera District, and a day trip to Lake Como or Bergamo.
Take your time to enjoy Milan’s museums, art galleries, and local dining experiences.
10. Not Using Public Transportation Efficiently
Milan has an efficient public transportation system, but many visitors end up spending too much on taxis or struggle with the system due to lack of information.
How to Avoid It:
Get a 24-hour or 48-hour travel card for unlimited travel on Milan’s metro, trams, and buses.
Download the ATM Milano app for easy navigation and real-time updates on public transportation.
Use the Milan Metro to quickly reach attractions like the Duomo, Navigli, and Porta Garibaldi.
11. Ignoring Milan’s Nightlife
Milan’s nightlife is diverse and vibrant, ranging from elegant cocktail bars to lively nightclubs. Many visitors, focused on daytime sightseeing, miss out on experiencing Milan’s social scene after dark.
How to Avoid It:
Head to the Navigli District for lively bars and canal-side nightlife.
Explore Corso Como, known for its trendy nightclubs and rooftop lounges.
Try some of Milan’s historic bars, such as Bar Basso, famous for its Negroni Sbagliato.
12. Overlooking Milan’s Day Trip Options
While Milan itself is captivating, it also serves as a great base for exploring nearby destinations like Lake Como, Bergamo, and Turin.
How to Avoid It:
Plan a day trip to Lake Como to explore the scenic towns of Bellagio and Varenna.
Visit Bergamo, a charming hilltop town with medieval architecture and panoramic views.
Consider taking the train to Turin for its regal palaces and historic cafes.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.