A long weekend in milan
Art, Culture and Solo Travel Tips
Take in the skyline from the roof of the Duomo in Milan.
Planning a long weekend in Milan? This stylish and culture-rich Italian city is the perfect destination for a short break, especially for solo travellers. With walkable streets, world-class art, buzzing canal-side cafes, and easy train access to places like Turin and Lake Como, Milan offers the ideal mix of urban energy and peaceful spaces to sit and soak it all in.
Day 1: Breakfast at Fondazione Prada and Exploring Milan on Foot
Start your Milan itinerary with breakfast at Fondazione Prada, a minimalist museum space showcasing contemporary art. Don't miss Bar Luce, designed by Wes Anderson—the perfect spot to enjoy a cappuccino and pastry in whimsical retro surroundings. (the loos are pretty spectacular too!)
Milan is incredibly walkable, with flat streets and a compact city centre. Whether you’re exploring fashion boutiques in the Quadrilatero d'Oro or admiring Art Nouveau architecture in Porta Venezia, every corner offers something unexpected.
Day 2: The Last Supper, Pizza & Sunset from the Duomo
Book tickets in advance to see The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci at Santa Maria delle Grazie. This UNESCO masterpiece is a must-see and a highlight of any Milan city break. Afterward, grab a pizza at Nico’s Pizzeria, a hidden gem just around the corner.
A visit to see Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece ‘The Last Supper’ is a must.
Spend the afternoon exploring Sforza Castle and the surrounding Parco Sempione, then head to the rooftop of the Duomo di Milano for a stunning sunset over the skyline. It’s one of the best things to do in Milan, especially for solo travellers seeking a memorable view.
Day 3: Navigli District, Canaletto Bistrot & Gianasi Food Stall
Spend Sunday morning in Navigli, Milan's famous canal district. Stroll the cobblestone paths, pop into vintage shops, and enjoy a relaxing lunch at Canaletto Bistrot. This charming spot is perfect for slow dining and people-watching.
The Navigli district is the perfect place to spend a relaxed Sunday morning
If you want something more local, stop by Gianassi, a historic food stall established in 1967, known for its juicy rotisserie chicken and takeaway comfort food. It’s a favourite among Milanese locals.
Art lovers should visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, home to Renaissance masterpieces, followed by a peaceful break in the nearby Orto Botanico di Brera, a tranquil botanical garden in the heart of the city.
Day Trips from Milan by Train
Milan makes a great base for day trips. From Milano Centrale, you can take fast and affordable trains to places like Turin, Lake Como, Bergamo, or even Verona. Trains are reliable, frequent, and perfect for spontaneous travel.
Solo Travel in Milan: Why It Works
Milan is one of the best cities in Italy for solo travellers in my opinion. You can stay centrally in areas like Brera, Navigli, or Porta Venezia and walk nearly everywhere. The public transport system is easy to use, and the city feels safe and welcoming. Restaurants and cafes cater well to solo diners, and museums offer space to reflect and wander at your own pace.
People may automatically think of cities like Florence and Venice as the go to places for art and culture, but Milan is filled with amazing galleries and museums.
When to Visit Milan & How to Get There Cheaply
The best time to visit Milan is in spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and vibrant local events. In the height of Summer most locals desert the oppressive heat of the city and heads for the lakes or countryside.
Milan is also easy to reach from the UK with budget flights from London and other major cities into Linate or Malpensa Airport. Airlines like Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air often offer great deals, especially when booked in advance. You can fly to Milan from Bristol for as little as £35 return with just hand luggage.
Why Choose Milan for a Long Weekend?
There’s so much to see and do in Milan, it’s hard to feel lonely.
Milan combines culture, food, history, and fashion with a laid-back local rhythm that’s ideal for a three-day getaway. Whether you’re travelling solo or planning a last-minute escape, this northern Italian gem is both stylish and soulful.
Ready to plan your Milan city break? Pack light, stay central, and let the city unfold one piazza, gallery, and aperitivo at a time.
Happy Solo Travelling,
Beara x