4 days in Milan: what to do and see?

Do you want to go to Milan for 4 days?

Excellent idea!

In order to help you organize your trip, I have prepared an itinerary for you to visit Milan in 4 days.

I start first with my tips for not queuing in front of the main tourist attractions and continue with my optimized program of visits for each day.

In addition to all these tips and advice to make the most of your stay, I also give you my selection of the best hotels in town, as well as ideas for activities for a family trip.

So what to do in Milan in 4 days? 

Visit Milan in 4 days: the best itinerary

Discover now my 4-day Milan itinerary with the detail of the recommended sightseeing route for each day.

For this program, I count on the fact that you have purchased the Milan Pass, your Milan Digital Pass  or the skip-the-line tickets in advance in order to optimize these 4 full days in Milan.

If after reading this article you have any further questions, or need a little help planning your vacation, please don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section at the very end.

So what to visit in Milan in 4 days?

Day 1: The Historic Center

The visits of day 1:

A. Duomo of Milan
B. Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery
C. La Scala
D. Sforza Castle
E. Sempione Park
F. Chinatown

A. The Duomo of Milan

To start this 4-day stay in Milan, the Duomo (also called Milan Cathedral) is the ideal starting point.

Dubbed the third largest cathedral in the world, the Duomo is the city’s most iconic landmark . You will find it in the center of Milan, in Piazza del Duomo (accessible on foot or by metro).

The Dome is as impressive inside as it is outside.

You can start by admiring its facade made up of 2000 marble statues and 136 arrows pointing to the sky, before entering the monument and discovering the 5 naves, the sarcophagi and the tombs of archbishops.

Inside, you can also see a crucifix created by none other than Leonardo da Vinci.

The terrace of the Dome with its breathtaking view of the city is also one of the things not to be missed during your visit.

The Dome attracts millions of visitors all year round, so I strongly advise you to book a skip-the-line ticket or a guided tour to avoid the hours in line.

You can access the Duomo with  the Milan Pass, the Milan Digital Pass or this skip-the-line ticket (click here).

B. The Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery

Just a few steps from the Duomo, the Vittorio Emanuele II gallery awaits you for the rest of this 4-day visit to Milan.

It is one of the most beautiful galleries in Europe. Its entrance is directly in Piazza del Duomo, to the right as you leave the cathedral.

You will immediately recognize this magnificent neo-classical and baroque gallery thanks to its arcades and its superb glass dome.

After visiting the Dome, I therefore suggest that you cross this luxury gallery while admiring its upscale shops and restaurants but also the play of light created by the glass ceiling.

C. The Scala

I suggest you continue your discovery of the city by heading now to La Scala, just a 5-minute walk from the gallery.

All you have to do is exit through the northern corridor, cross Piazza della Scala (in the center of which you can admire the statue of Leonardo da Vinci) and then continue straight for a few meters.

La Scala is home to the Milan Opera, one of the 3 most prestigious halls in Italy. It is here in particular that mythical works were born, including “Otello” by Verdi. Maria Callas has also sung there several times.

From the outside, La Scala is not particularly dreamy, but I strongly advise you to visit the interior, which is truly sumptuous. For this, you must book your tickets directly here!

Otherwise, access is included with the Milan Pass.

You will also find next to the opera house a museum exhibiting various musical instruments, opera costumes and historical documents on the monument.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

Visiting Milan in 4 days is also of course the opportunity to attend an opera or a ballet at La Scala. If you want to give yourself this beautiful gift for a romantic evening, you can book your tickets here.

D. Sforza Castle

After this first morning in Milan, it will be time for lunch. Taste a good little Italian dish to regain energy then continue the visit, direction the Sforza castle. Locally it is called the Castello Sforzesco.

You can easily walk there since it is only 1 km from La Scala.

This 14th century castle once served to protect Milan against the army of Venice. Sforza Castle also housed the workshops of Leonardo da Vinci.

Today, there are various museums installed in several rooms:

• The Museum of Ancient Art 
• The museum of prehistory
• The Museum of Decorative Arts
• The Egyptian Museum
• The art gallery
• The Museum of Musical Instruments
• The furniture museum.

To book your ticket to visit Sforza Castle + audio guide

The inner courtyard is open to the public free of charge and often hosts cultural events.

E. Sempione Park

It’s time to take a stroll in the great outdoors in the city’s largest green space : Sempione Park. It is behind the castle.

In this park, enjoy a pleasant walk and do not miss:

• La Triennale: a small museum highlighting Italian arts and architecture
• The Arena Civica: a stadium hosting athletic competitions
• The Arco della Pace: Milan’s triumphal arch.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

In the Sempione park you can also visit the aquarium. If you have decided to go to Milan for 4 days with your children, it is a good idea to visit.

F. Milan’s Chinatown

I suggest you end this first day of your 4-day Milan itinerary in the city’s Chinatown .

It is a 10 minute walk north of the Arco della Pace.

The Chinatown of Milan is certainly very small but very pleasant to walk, dine and spend a nice evening. It’s sure it’s not Italian but don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy pasta or pizza the other nights!

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

To book a hotel for this stay, you will find my selection of the best accommodations at the end of the article.

Day 2: What to do and see in Milan?

The visits of day 2:

A. The monumental cemetery
B. The Leonardo da Vinci science and technology museum
C. The Basilica of Saint Ambrose
D. The Navigli district

A. The Monumental Cemetery

After a good night’s sleep, let’s go for this second day in Milan.

I suggest you leave in the morning for the Monumental Cemetery, an unusual place not to be missed. Don’t imagine a gloomy and sad classic cemetery: the Monumental Cemetery of Milan is a real open-air museum.

Here you can admire a multitude of artistic and original tombs, like you have never seen elsewhere: in the shape of a pyramid, marble canopy beds and other amazing sculptures.

It is very easy to get there by bus or metro in about twenty minutes from Piazza del Duomo. The “Monumental” metro stop is right in front of the entrance to the cemetery.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

Don’t forget to get the map of the cemetery at the entrance so you don’t risk missing the most incredible works.

The cemetery is open every day, except Mondays, and the visit lasts approximately 1 hour.

B. The Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum

Continue this 4-day Milan itinerary with an unmissable cultural visit : that of the Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum.

You can get there by metro from the Monumental Cemetery by getting off at the Garibaldi stop and then taking line 2 again to S Ambrosio. The trip takes about 15-20 minutes.

If you prefer to walk, you can go through the Arco della Pace, towards Sempione Park, to reach the museum in 40 minutes on foot.

The Leonard de Vinci museum is really huge. The collections and models are installed on several levels and classified according to different themes: aviation, rail and naval transport, automobile, space, etc.

It takes at least half a day of visit to see everything, or about 3 hours to do the complete tour quickly.

The museum is a very good idea for an outing for families with children.

Entrance to the museum is included in the Milan Pass, the Milan Digital Pass or you can also buy a skip-the-line ticket by clicking here.

C. The Basilica of Saint Ambrose

If you were wondering what to do in 4 days in Milan, know that the Basilica of Saint Ambrose is also a must see. So I suggest you go there after lunch.

The basilica is just a 3-minute walk from the Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

The Basilica di Sant’Ambrogio, from its local name, was built in 379. It is one of the oldest churches in the city. It is also a great symbol of Lombard Romanesque art although several times destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries.

You will recognize it by its unusual architecture, in particular with its two asymmetrical brick towers.

To see inside:

• Beautiful pieces of goldsmithery 
• Stilicho’s sarcophagus
• The crypt containing relics of Italian saints, including Saint Ambrose, the city’s Patron Saint
• The ceiling and the nave.

The basilica is located in a nice quiet and pleasant area. Do not hesitate to take the time to walk there, without failing to admire the Castello Cova and its original architecture.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

As an option after the Basilica of Saint Ambrose, you can reach the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan in 10 minutes, where one of the most beautiful masterpieces of painting is exhibited: “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci.

But beware, visits are by reservation only, for certain days and specific times. It’s up to you to see if it can fit into your program for the day or if it’s better to do it the next day. Tickets are on sale here.

It is also possible to take this visit with a certified guide who can give you all the necessary explanations and technical details of this magnificent painting.

Right next to the church, you can also pass by Leonardo’s vineyard. Tickets are on sale here!

D. The Navigli District

To end the day in style, now head to the Navigli district to discover Milan’s nightlife.

This very picturesque neighborhood is a 15-minute metro ride from the Basilica of St. Ambrose. It is crossed by a network of canals which gives it all its charm.

The Navigli district is perfect for strolling along the water’s edge, admiring the sunset, enjoying the lively streets, having a drink and dining on the terrace.

Fiesta lovers will end the evening in one of the bars, pubs or nightclubs in the area.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

Vicolo Lavandai on Alzaia Naviglio Grande is for me one of the most beautiful places in the Navigli district, not to be missed.

Day 3: Places of Interest

The visits of day 3:

A. The Pinacoteca
B. The Royal Palace
C. Shopping session

A. The Pinacoteca de Brera

For this third day in Milan, I suggest you go to the Pinacoteca de Brera.

In other words, it is the Museum of Fine Arts in Milan and it exhibits one of the richest art collections in all of Italy, including famous paintings by Caravaggio and Raphael.

The art gallery is housed in the Palazzo de Brera. It was once a cultural center run by monks with a library and an astronomical observatory.

Today, the collection of exhibited works occupies some forty rooms.

It takes about 2 hours to visit. The art gallery is open every day except Monday, from 8:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m.

B. The Royal Palace of Milan

After this breath of culture, continue your 4-day Milan itinerary with the Royal Palace.

It is a 15 minute walk south of the Pinacoteca. It is still a high place of interest in Milan.

The Royal Palace was the seat of Milan’s government for a long time before being transformed into a cultural center. You can admire very beautiful collections of art, fashion and design.

There is also a museum on the history of Milan over the ages.

Stroll also in the pretty courtyard of the Palace and admire the view of the Duomo of Milan.

Please note that the Royal Palace is closed on Mondays.

C. Shopping in Milan

You couldn’t imagine spending 4 days in Milan without doing a bit of shopping?

The fashion capital calls you for a little window-shopping session in its shopping streets.

Those who want to heat up the blue card or simply dream in front of the luxury boutiques will go to the Via Montenapoleone sector, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea and Via Manzoni.

You can find the big Italian brands like Gucci and Versace here and it’s where the Milan fashion weeks take place.

You can also stroll and shop in The Highline Outlet gallery. You will find more accessible brands for more modest budgets.

Then end the day with a nice dinner in town before heading back to the hotel and regaining your strength for the very last day of this 4 day stay in Milan!

D. Optional – San Siro Stadium + Casa Milan Museum

If you like football, you can also visit the San Siro stadium and the Casa Milan museum. 

Of course, AC Milan fans know what I’m talking about!

You will be able to discover the players’ locker rooms, the stands, etc. during the guided tour of the stadium and continue through the museum to admire in particular the trophy room and the Ballons d’Or room. 

Day 4: Day around Milan

• Lake Como
• Bergamo

For this last day in the Milan region, I suggest you leave the city and explore the surroundings a bit.

I recommend two excursions to choose from, which for my part I loved one as much as the other: Lake Como or the visit to Bergamo.

Option 1 – Lake Como

It really is a must outing for a 4 day itinerary in and around Milan.

You have several options to get there:

• By car – 1 hour drive
• By train – 1 hour journey for less than €10 return. Do not hesitate to consult the timetables and prices for your dates by clicking here!

You can also choose an organized excursion, which includes not only round-trip transport but also a guide. To do this, go to the Place du Dôme after your reservation and let yourself be carried away.

With this guided tour, you will not only visit the city center of Como and the village of Bellagio (small cruise on the program!) but also that of Varenna.

To book your Lake Como excursion from Milan, just click here.

If you go to Lake Como on your own, I advise you to start by visiting the village of the same name which is located on the edge of the lake.

It has a very pretty historic center and you can also embark, from Piazza Caviour, for a 2-hour mini-cruise on the lake. The boat then drops you off at the village of Bellagio where you can continue the tour.

To return to Como then, you can take the boat or take a bus (45 minutes journey).

Back in Como, take the funicular to climb to the top of Brunate Hill. It dominates the village and offers a splendid view of the lake and the magnificent villages and villas that surround it.

And if you are lucky enough to be there at sunset, you will be amazed.

Option 2 – Bergamo

Bergamo is also a visit to do when you come to spend a few days in Milan.

The city is an hour’s drive from Milan by car, but you can also get there by train (just over an hour’s journey).

And again, you can also choose an organized excursion with transport included.

If you are wondering what there is to see in Bergamo, here is a small anthology of things not to miss:

• The San Michele al Pozzo Bianco church and its beautiful frescoes
• The Piazza Vecchia where you can admire the Palazzo Nuovo and the Palazzo della Ragione 
• The Piazza del Duomo where the Cathedral of Bergamo is located as well as its baptistery
• The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and its magnificent vaults
• The castle of San Vigilio which offers superb views of the city and the surrounding area.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

All these sites of tourist interest are located in the old town of Bergamo, called the Città Alta, which is high up and accessible by going up Viale Roma or by taking the funicular.

Accommodation in Milan

Now you know how to visit Milan in 4 days!

We move on to the next step to prepare your stay: book your hotel.

Well here too, I make it easy for you with my selection of the best hotels to stay in Milan according to your budget:

• Ostello Bello Grande: Youth hostel, located not far from Milan Central Station. Bed in dormitory from 60€, breakfast included. Most: the welcome, the atmosphere, the cleanliness.
• Hotel Da Vinci : Located away from the city center but only 10 minutes walk from a metro station. Huge double room with modern and bright decoration from €90 per night, breakfast included. Most: quiet, spacious rooms, free parking, very generous buffet breakfast. Our big favorite for its performance / price ratio!
• 43 Station Hotel : 2 steps from Milan Central Station. Modern and spacious room from €130 per night, breakfast at €9. Most: brand new and well-equipped hotel, hearty breakfast, ideal location.
• Hotel Folen: Also located next to the train station. Spacious room with comfortable bedding, from €190, breakfast included. Most: the location, the friendliness of the staff, the full breakfast.
• Rosa Grand Milano – Starhotels Collezione: Located 2 minutes walk from the Duomo. Modern and warm room with some views of Milan Cathedral from €300, breakfast included. Most: the location in the heart of Milan, the wellness center, the friendliness of the staff. An excellent choice where to sleep in Milan for an upscale stay!
• Suite Milano Duomo:  5 star hotel located 5 minutes from Milan Cathedral. Spacious and design room from 325€ per night. Most: location, hospitality, staff. This is our recommendation for a romantic stay in Milan.

Tips for your Milan itinerary:

If these hotels are already full or do not suit your tastes, I advise you to read my other article including a wider selection of hotels, classified by neighborhoods and according to your budget.

You’ll find it here: The best hotels to stay in Milan.

Visit Milan in 4 days with the family

If you plan to visit Milan for 4 days with your children, know that there are many activities to do that are suitable for children of all ages.

In addition, everything is easily done on foot and the sites are very close to each other, which makes visiting the city fluid and pleasant. Public transport also serves all the main sites very well.

During this 4-day family vacation in Milan, you can focus the route more on the visits that they will love for sure such as:

• The Leonardo da Vinci Museum: this is THE museum to visit with the family in Milan. It is very playful and interactive, children love it. A breakfast room allows you to eat on site.
• The Duomo of Milan: its presence and its impressive architecture fascinate young and old alike. Take the opportunity to climb to the rooftops to enjoy the magnificent view of the whole city.
• Sforza Castle: a medieval castle that appeals to children with mysterious underground passages to visit and several fun museums where you can admire unusual musical instruments, mummies, sarcophagi…
• The monumental cemetery: it is also a very interesting place to discover with children who will appreciate the unusual and unique nature of this visit.
• And of course the mini-cruise on Lake Como.
• If your children are football fans, they will be delighted to visit the mythical Giuseppe Meazza stadium which regularly hosts the AC Milan and Inter Milan teams. It is also the biggest stadium in Italy. It is open to visitors by reservation, so buy your tickets by clicking here!

If you want other ideas for visits to do in 4 days with the family in Milan, here are some:

• The Natural History Museum: a visit that I advise you to do if the weather is not ideal during your stay. This museum dedicated to the evolution of species, fossils, fauna and flora allows you to avoid the rain while having a good time with your family. The Natural History Museum of Milan is located in the east of the city, 4 minutes by metro from Piazza Duomo. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
• The Idroscalo park: it is a leisure base located a little outside the city. You can do many activities there such as pedal boating, swimming or climbing. It takes 1 hour by public transport from the center of Milan to get there, so plan a big half or full day for this outing.
• The Acquatica Park : a water park with swimming pools and slides. Tickets on sale here!
• Acquaworld, another water park, indoors and outdoors, 20 km from Milan.
• Leolandia (tickets on sale here!), an amusement park located 40 minutes from Milan. Super clean, well maintained and with lots of rides and shows. A great choice for a family day out around Milan!

Even more things to do and see in Milan in 4 days?

If you want to make your own plan to visit Milan in four days, I advise you to read my complete tourist guide.

You will find all the things to do there and can organize your trip as you wish. To read by clicking right here: What to do and see in Milan?

Map of your 4-day itinerary in Milan

To help you visualize your itineraries during these 4 days in Milan, I made you a map listing the places to visit day by day. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow. You will then be able to view the routes for each day.

Need help planning your 4-day Milan itinerary? Do not hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments.

Are you going to Milan? Also read

• Discover all our articles about Italy: all Tips for your Milan itinerary: articles about Italy are listed here
• Milan: Top 15 must-do things
• 2 Days in Milan: Itinerary for 2 Days
• 3 Days in Milan: 3-Day Itinerary
• Where to stay in Milan? The guide to the best accommodations for all budgets