Milan
Travel Guide

Milan is one of Italy’s most important cities. Although sometimes it’s overshadowed by cities of the same country like Rome, Venice or Florence, Milan hides amazing corners for those who visit for the first time. It’s known worldwide for being one of the capitals of fashion and design, cradle of big brands and world-renowned designers. On its streets, big shops become protagonists and are considered another monument... to visit. Milan has the attractions of a big city and the comfort of a small town, easy to visit by foot. Its historic center offers important constructions of great architectural beauty like its impressive cathedral, its ancient churches or the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. Besides, it has always been prominent for its commerce and culture, being the home of great artist of all ages like Verdi or Leonardo da Vinci, and the atmosphere of creativity and culture that Milan breathes is completely unique.

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Milan Overview

Language

Italia’s official language, and therefore Milan’s, is Italian. Thanks to the similarity in certain words and expressions with Spanish, it won’t be hard for you to understand at a restaurant or for you to ask for directions. You’ll see many restaurants no longer translate to Spanish for that reason. You’ll also be able to make yourself understood if you speak English.

Weather

Milan responds to the continental weather and it’s characterized by high temperatures in the summer and cold in the winter. During the months of June, July and August, the heat is suffocating. Temperatures can reach 104ºF (40°C) and if we also add the high level of humidity, they make it pretty hard to run away from sultriness.
In the winter, during the months of December to February, it’s normal to see thermometers show temperatures below zero and not go beyond 50ºF (10°C). Plus, the difference of temperatures between day and night is usually notorious but it’s also the season with the least rain. In both the fall and spring, the temperatures are much nicer and it’s during these seasons that there’s more life on the streets.

Money

Euro (EUR). Milan is one of Italy’s most touristic cities and therefore offers many amenities to its visitors. Hence, it’s not hard to find ATMs, banks and money exchanges around downtown.

When to go

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Milan is during the months of spring and fall. Temperatures are perfect and will allow you to comfortably go from one place to another within the city. In the spring the parks are filled with color and in the fall you can enjoy the precious change of foliage. If you plan to visit the city in the summer, try to avoid the month of August. High temperatures make the city sweltering, almost like a desert. During this time it’s better to escape the asphalt and visit the lakes.

Days

2 days: Milan is a very small city and you don’t need much time to see everything there is to see. Still, there are many activities like shopping or visiting the parks that are better not done in a hurry. If you’re organized and know what you want to do, two days will be enough to get an idea of the city’s rhythm.

Surroundings

Como Lake (lake with villages around)
Garda Lake (lake with villages around)
Bergamo (medieval city)
Pavia (city)
Modena (city)

Store Hours

Most shops around Milan’s downtown open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Malls usually close later, between 9 and 10 p.m. Shops furthest from downtown may close on Mondays or open only in the afternoon. It’s also normal to find that stores close during lunch time, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.