February 26, 2026
I just got back from an incredible trip to Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. We saw, we ate, we walked, and we shopped! Here is a distinct list of the top spots in Milan with my take (and hot tips).
Iconic Milan: The Must-See Sights
1. The Last Supper
Housed inside a former monastery’s refectory, Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece is truly a top Milan experience.
The guided tour here is exceptional — small groups, a knowledgeable guide, and time at the end for questions and thoughtful discussion. You’ll notice details you would never catch on your own.
🎟️ Pro tip: Tickets are notoriously difficult to secure. Book as far in advance as possible. I recommend booking this tour.
2. Duomo di Milano & Duomo Terraces
After seeing countless European churches, this one still feels different. It has the grandeur of Sagrada Família, yet its own dramatic Gothic personality.
The terraces are a must. Even on a rainy day, the marble wasn’t slippery — and the lighter crowds were a huge bonus.
🎟️ Pro tip: Book a skip-the-line tour with a guide…so you can truly understand the history and hidden details that make the Duomo so fascinating. I suggest this tour… be sure to select the option WITH terraces entrance.
3. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
Right next to the Duomo, this historic arcade is impossible to miss. It’s grand and lovely, but it will be crowded!
- Visit the original Prada store, originally a luggage artisan!
- Spin on the mosaic bull (heel down, three turns for good luck!) You can find it by watching people crowd around and queuing to do the spin.
- Stop where Campari was born and enjoy a Campari Spritz at Camparino
It’s shopping, history, and Milanese tradition all in one.
Where to Eat & Drink
Coffee Culture
Princi: A Milanese Classic Coffee Shop
Locations all over the city.
Do as the Milanese do: stand at the bar for a quick espresso. Fast, efficient, cultural. They also have fresh juices and excellent baked goods.
Marchesi 1824
Go to the original location on Via Santa Maria alla Porta, a short walk from The Last Supper.
Arrive early or prepare to wait midday. Order pastries — especially anything labeled limited time only.
✨ Hot tip: Walk behind the shop to find an archaeological site of historic Milan.
Lunch with a View
Lunch at Il Bar. Don’t be caught here without a reservation!
Il Bar at Rinascente (7th Floor)
Reserve ahead (OpenTable is essential — walk-ins were turned away).
Even in February, we dined al fresco with a stunning Duomo view. Great salads, surprisingly fast service (almost American speed). You might have time to shop after lunch… take the escalators down to check out each floor of the Rinascente department store.
✨ Insider tip: Skip the main entrance. Enter via Via Santa Radegonda and take the special elevator directly to the food hall.
Cesarino
A sandwich shop tucked behind the Duomo on a small street. We loved these sandwiches so much! I understand why it’s a hot commodity. Many people stand outside and have their sandwiches, others take them to walk & eat.
Long line, but it moves quickly. Great for a casual lunch — and reasonably priced spritzes.
Aperitivo & Milan Cool
10 Corso Como
Part boutique, part restaurant, part bar — created by a former editor of Elle.
We went for aperitivo (7–8:30pm), when drinks come with small bites. The courtyard is magical — especially in warmer months.
If timing allows, explore the high-fashion concept store before it closes.
Gourmet Stop
Peck
A historic Milanese food hall. You’ll be mixing with locals who are doing their shopping here at the grocery store or the fresh pasta deli (I was wishing we had this back in US). They also have an ice cream shop and desserts.
Perfect for:
- Gourmet souvenirs (pasta, chocolate, specialty goods)
- A pasta lab experience (if gluten isn’t an issue!)
- Building a picnic to enjoy at Parco Sempione
Fashion & Neighborhood Wandering
Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion District)
Enter via Via della Spiga, the pedestrian street, and wander through Milan’s most iconic fashion area. We did mostly window shopping in this area and you can also stop for a pastry or coffee at Cova. They have amazing pastries and also have a restaurant.
- Versace
- Armani
- Gucci
- Valentino
Via Montenapoleone is the most exclusive (and expensive) stretch.
Reminder: if you’re planning on shopping you will need to bring your passport. Purchases over 70EUR qualify for the VAT refund. You can keep track of it all easily on the Global Blue App.
Tip: Despite it being the fashion district of Milan, you might want to skip your fashionable shoes and opt for some cute sneakers. Many of the streets are cobblestone. Plus, the sheer distance can be a lot when walking in Milan.
Brera Neighborhood
Start with coffee or drinks at Bar Brera, then wander.
Brera is charming and artistic — filled with boutiques, cafés, museums, and a botanical garden (which unfortunately wasn’t open during our visit). Brera can be another area perfect for having an Aperitivo, in addition to the Navigli (waterway) neighborhood. If you’re here at the right time, consider stopping at the rooftop bar Etereo at hotel Casa Brera.
It’s the perfect place to slow down and simply enjoy Milan.
Written by: Emily Petrak, Owner & Luxury Travel Advisor, EP Signature Travel
Learn more about my story here.
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