It looks like most people fly into and out of Milan. Has anyone stayed in Milan for several days or more? This coming October we have an unexpected 4 days between our stay in Rome and needing to be in Paris. We like walking, museums, theater and music (yes, MIlan has La Scala!) Is there enough to keep us busy for 4 days? We will not have a car, but are comfortable with public transportation for days trips. In past years we have been to Florence and Sienna, so no need to return to either. Our plan would be to take the train from Rome to Milan, then train again to Paris.
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Stay in Milan?
- Thread starter dayhiker
- Start date
Ian Sutton
1000+ Posts
It's a big city, so I'm sure 4 days will only scratch the surface.
Alternatives:
- If flying into Malpensa, you'll be closer to Lago Maggiore, than you will be Milano when you land.
- Novara also as close as Milano, and I really liked it as a relaxed but well to do city, with fine architecture.
- We've yet to visit it, but Parco Ticino even closer, and walking / cycling trails along the river sounds appealing
- Torino. My favourite city in Italy and possibly my favourite big city. Easy connections to Malpensa, but also opens up the option of fast train direct into Paris (about 7 hours from memory). Easy to navigate grid road layout, plenty of (at times quirky) museums, decent for theatre / opera (and also more cutting edge music down at the river). Walking options include Parco Valentino (and through borgo mediovale and across the river towards La Collina as a circuit), plus Basilica di Superga, but it's also an easy city centre to stroll. There are day trip options, but it's also a big city, so 4 days ought to occupy you fully there.
Alternatives:
- If flying into Malpensa, you'll be closer to Lago Maggiore, than you will be Milano when you land.
- Novara also as close as Milano, and I really liked it as a relaxed but well to do city, with fine architecture.
- We've yet to visit it, but Parco Ticino even closer, and walking / cycling trails along the river sounds appealing
- Torino. My favourite city in Italy and possibly my favourite big city. Easy connections to Malpensa, but also opens up the option of fast train direct into Paris (about 7 hours from memory). Easy to navigate grid road layout, plenty of (at times quirky) museums, decent for theatre / opera (and also more cutting edge music down at the river). Walking options include Parco Valentino (and through borgo mediovale and across the river towards La Collina as a circuit), plus Basilica di Superga, but it's also an easy city centre to stroll. There are day trip options, but it's also a big city, so 4 days ought to occupy you fully there.
Tina
100+ Posts
There's a lot to see and do in Milan. We live not far away so occasionally have a day trip. The first day we saw il Duomo, Pinactoteca Brera and Museo del Novecento. This is what we did on the second day trip, but still loads of 'big' things to see - Castello Sforzesco just an example https://slowtravelitalyspain.blogspot.com/2024/08/a-day-in-milan-in-august.html
I’ve stayed in Milan several times for multiple days. It’s overlooked because it’s not as picturesque as places like Venice,Florence, or other cities. But there are many great things to do. If you want suggestions let me know. Also, it is a great base for day trips to many great small towns in the region.
IF you stay in Milan, make sure you reserve in advance for The Last Supper. We stayed for 3 days quite a few years ago and got to see it and a performance at La Scala. Worth the stay on their own. However, although it is an interesting city, I'd agree with Ian and consider alternatives. Parma comes to mind. So does Lyon.
Ian Sutton
1000+ Posts
and housed in the iconic building of the city.