MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Milan

Getting Around Milan

Milan Lombardy, Italy Travel Guide

Milanese Culinary Traditions

Milanese cuisine, deeply rooted in The north of Italian traditions, favors rice, butter, and hearty meats. It stands apart from the the golden liquid and tomato-based dishes of the south. Engage with this rich gastronomic legacy by exploring local dishes plus the metropolis's famed aperitivo culture.

From saffron-infused risotto to slow-cooked ossobuco, each dish tells a story of the region's agricultural wealth and historical influences. Food in Milan is not just sustenance; it is a celebration of flavor, family, and community, experienced in bustling trattorias and elegant restaurants alike.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Risotto alla Milanese: Creamy saffron risotto, a true Milanese classic.
  • Ossobuco: Braised veal shanks, often served with risotto.
  • Cotoletta alla Milanese: Breaded and fried veal cutlet, resembling a schnitzel.
  • Gorgonzola: A renowned blue cheese from the Lombardy region.

Aperitivo Hour

Experience the Milanese tradition of pre-dinner drinks with complimentary snacks, a social highlight.

Coffee Culture

Enjoy espresso standing at the bar like a local, a quick and authentic Italian experience.

Gelato Delights

Indulge in artisanal gelato from local parlors, a sugary treat at any time of day.

Dining Etiquette & Local Tips

Restaurant Practices
  • Ordering: Italians typically eat pasta (primo) before a meat/fish dish (secondo). Do not expect to eat a main course pasta.
  • Wine: Order house wine (vino della casa) for a good and affordable option.
  • Dinner Time: Milanese dine later, often from 20:00 onwards.
Coffee & Drinks
  • Cappuccino: Enjoy cappuccino in the morning only. After lunch, an espresso is the norm.
  • Water: Ask for "acqua naturale" (still) or "acqua frizzante" (sparkling).
  • Spirtz: A popular aperitivo drink, especially the Aperol Spritz.

Local Markets & Food Tours

Mercato di Via Fauchè

Trendy market for fashion and vintage items.

Mercato di Viale Papiniano

Large open-air market for food, clothes, and more.

Navigli Antique Market

Monthly market along the canals for antiques and crafts.

Eataly Smeraldo

Gourmet food hall with restaurants plus specialized foods.

Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Milan's cultural calendar is packed year-round with world-class events, iconic institutions, and districts dedicated to art and performance. Explore its museums, opera houses, and contemporary art spaces.

Iconic Art & Museums

  • Pinacoteca di Brera: Home to masterpieces by Italian artists like Raphael, Caravaggio, and Bellini.
  • The Last Supper (Santa Maria delle Grazie): Leonardo da Vinci's iconic mural. Book tickets months in advance.
  • Castello Sforzesco: A grand fortress housing several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo.
  • Duomo di Milano: Explore the cathedral, crypt, and climb to the terraces for stunning city views.

Performing Arts & Districts

  • Teatro alla Scala: One of the world's leading opera houses. Book getting tickets long before for concerts or visit the museum.
  • Jazz Clubs: Milan has a thriving jazz scene with various clubs offering live music.
  • Brera District: Known as the artists' quarter, with charming streets, galleries, and bohemian vibes.
  • Fondazione Prada: A modern art and cultural institution with impressive architectural spaces and exhibitions.

Fashion & Design Insights

  • Quadrilatero della Moda: Milan's high-fashion district, home to luxury boutiques like Via Montenapoleone.
  • Salone del Mobile: World-renowned furniture fair in April, a must for design lovers.
  • Design Districts: Explore areas like Brera Design District and Tortona for creative showrooms.
  • Vintage Shopping: Discover hidden gems and designer finds in vintage stores around the city.
  • Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: A stunning 19th-century shopping arcade, architectural masterpiece.
  • Outlet Shopping: Outings to close-by outlets for designer discounts (e.g., Serravalle Designer Outlet).

Nightlife & Entertainment Venues

Navigli District

canal area with bars, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere for aperitivo and evening strolls.

Corso Como

A fashionable street known for its upscale clubs, bars, and trendy nightlife spots.

Isola District

A revitalized neighborhood with a bohemian feel, offering craft breweries and modern bars.

Festivals & Events

Milan's calendar is full of events celebrating its fashion, design, and cultural heritage throughout the year.

Fashion & Design Events

  • Milan Fashion Week (Settimana della Moda): Held in February (autumn/winter collections) and September (spring/summer collections).
  • Salone del Mobile (Milan Design Week): The world's largest furniture fair and design event, taking over the city in April.
  • Fuorisalone: Off-site events during Design Week, transforming entire districts into design showcases.
  • White Show: A leading international fashion trade show, showcasing contemporary clothing collections.

Cultural & Seasonal Festivals

  • Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Market: Traditional Christmas market around Castello Sforzesco in early December.
  • Sant'Ambrogio: Feast day of Milan's patron saint (December 7th), marks the start of the opera season.
  • Milano Film Festival: Independent film festival held annually, typically in September/October.
  • MITO SettembreMusica: A classical music festival shared with Turin, throughout September.

Tips for Attending Events

Book Early

Especially for Fashion Week or Salone del Mobile, accommodations and flights fill up fast.

Plan months ahead.

Check Schedules

Verify event dates and locations, as they can change annually.

Use official websites.

Public Transport

Expect crowds and use public transport to reach event venues efficiently.

Buy multi-day passes.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Social Interactions
  • Greetings: A firm handshake for formal introductions. Close friends may exchange kisses on both cheeks.
  • Basic Italian: Learning a few Italian phrases (e.g., Ciao, Grazie, Prego) is appreciated.
  • Personal Space: Italians tend to stand closer than some other cultures; do not interpret this as pushiness.
Public Behavior
  • Noise Levels: Keep voices down in quiet places like churches and museums.
  • Mobile Phones: Use phones discreetly, especially in public transport or restaurants.
  • Smoking: Prohibited in all indoor public spaces. Follow outdoor regulations.

Common Misconceptions to Avoid

  • Don't order a cappuccino after midday: Italians drink milk-based coffees only in the morning.
  • Don't expect free bread in restaurants: A "coperto" (cover charge) may appear on the bill, which covers bread and table service.
  • Don't flag down taxis: Use designated taxi kiosks or apps like A Mobility service provider.
  • Don't dress too casually for dinner: Milan values style; smart casual is a good baseline for evening outings.
  • Don't rush meals: Dining is a public event; take your time.
  • Don't touch produce at markets: Point to what you want, and the vendor will select it for you.
  • Don't assume everyone speaks English: While common in tourist areas, learning some Italian phrases is helpful.
  • Don't forget cash: While cards are widely accepted, small businesses and markets may prefer cash.

Embrace Local Life

Engaging with Milan's local customs and culinary scene will enrich your trip. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of the city, from leisurely aperitivos to world-class opera.

These experiences forge lasting memories of Italy's sophisticated and passionate culture.